What is an IT Network Manager Job?
An IT network manager job is a position that involves managing a company's computer network infrastructure. This includes designing, maintaining, and troubleshooting the network to ensure that it is running efficiently. IT network managers are responsible for the security, performance, and reliability of the network, and they work closely with other IT professionals to ensure that the network meets the needs of the organization.
What Usually Do in this Position?
IT network managers have a range of responsibilities, including:
1. Designing and implementing network infrastructure: IT network managers are responsible for designing and implementing network infrastructure, including hardware, software, and protocols. They work with other IT professionals to ensure that the network is scalable, secure, and reliable.
2. Managing network security: IT network managers are responsible for ensuring that the network is secure from external threats, such as hackers and viruses. They implement security measures, such as firewalls and encryption, and monitor the network for any unusual activity.
3. Monitoring network performance: IT network managers monitor the performance of the network to ensure that it is running efficiently. They use tools to measure network traffic and identify bottlenecks or other issues that could impact performance.
4. Troubleshooting network issues: When problems arise with the network, IT network managers are responsible for identifying and resolving them. They use diagnostic tools to identify the root cause of the issue and implement solutions to fix it.
5. Managing network upgrades: As technology evolves, IT network managers are responsible for managing upgrades to the network infrastructure. This includes evaluating new technologies and implementing them as needed.
Top 5 Skills for the Position
To be successful in an IT network manager job, there are several key skills that are essential. These include:
1. Technical expertise: IT network managers must have a deep understanding of networking technologies, including hardware, software, and protocols.
2. Problem-solving skills: When issues arise with the network, IT network managers must be able to identify the root cause of the problem and implement solutions to fix it.
3. Communication skills: IT network managers must be able to communicate effectively with other IT professionals, as well as with non-technical stakeholders in the organization.
4. Project management skills: IT network managers are often responsible for managing complex projects, such as network upgrades or reconfigurations. They must be able to manage resources and ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget.
5. Leadership skills: IT network managers must be able to lead a team of IT professionals, providing guidance and support to ensure that the network is running efficiently and effectively.
How to Become This Type of Specialist
To become an IT network manager, there are several steps you can take:
1. Earn a degree: Most IT network managers have a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field.
2. Gain experience: IT network managers typically have several years of experience working in IT roles, such as network administrator or IT support specialist.
3. Obtain certifications: There are several certifications that can be helpful for IT network managers, including the Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) and the CompTIA Network+.
4. Develop key skills: To be successful as an IT network manager, you will need to develop the key skills mentioned above, including technical expertise, problem-solving skills, communication skills, project management skills, and leadership skills.
Average Salary
The average salary for an IT network manager in the United States is around $88,000 per year. However, salaries can vary widely depending on factors such as location, experience, and industry.
Roles and Types
There are several different types of IT network manager roles, including:
1. Network Administrator: This role involves managing a company's computer network infrastructure, including hardware, software, and protocols.
2. Network Engineer: This role involves designing and implementing network infrastructure, as well as troubleshooting issues and managing upgrades.
3. Network Security Manager: This role involves ensuring that the network is secure from external threats, such as hackers and viruses.
Locations with the Most Popular Jobs in USA
Some of the locations with the most popular IT network manager jobs in the United States include:
1. San Francisco, CA
2. New York, NY
3. Chicago, IL
4. Houston, TX
5. Atlanta, GA
What are the Typical Tools
IT network managers use a range of tools to manage and maintain the network infrastructure, including:
1. Network monitoring tools: These tools are used to monitor network traffic and identify any issues or bottlenecks.
2. Security tools: These tools are used to implement and manage network security measures, such as firewalls and encryption.
3. Configuration management tools: These tools are used to manage network configuration changes and ensure that they are implemented consistently across the network.
4. Diagnostic tools: These tools are used to identify and diagnose network issues, such as packet loss or latency.
In Conclusion
IT network manager jobs are essential for ensuring that a company's computer network infrastructure is running efficiently and securely. To be successful in this position, you will need to have technical expertise, problem-solving skills, communication skills, project management skills, and leadership skills. With dedication and hard work, you can build a successful career as an IT network manager.