What does a network security engineer do?
Plan and maintain
Network security engineers configure network monitoring tools, like routers, switches, and firewalls against intrusions. They maintain the hardware and software that act as the first line of defense in the case of an attack. They devise comprehensive network security policies and take a lead role in putting together business continuity and disaster recovery plans.
Monitor and test
Network security engineers monitor the effectiveness of security controls and compliance policies. They ensure that changes do not affect the integrity of network security. They test hardware and software for potential vulnerabilities and monitor backup and disaster recovery systems.
Incident response
Network security engineers track and respond to security incidents. They identify security measures to improve incident response and address security issues. They coordinate incident response across teams and ensure that noncompliance issues are resolved in a timely manner.
Top network security engineering tasks
Network configuration
Network maintenance
Troubleshooting
Incident response
Why become a network security engineer?
Network security engineers create a significant impact at any company. Their efforts help safeguard an organization’s systems, data, profits, and reputation. Because they work in an evolving environment where new threats emerge regularly, this can be an exciting option if you enjoy a challenge and love to learn.
It might be the role for you if . . .
You enjoy:
- Researching emerging trends
- Enforcing policies
- Collaborative problem solving
You excel at:
- Understanding security systems
- Identifying security vulnerabilities
- Disaster recovery planning
Meet a Cisco Certified tech professional
Popular certifications for network security engineers
CCNP Enterprise certification
The CCNP Enterprise certification can help you prove your skills in the ever-changing landscape of the enterprise network technologies. The certification covers core technologies and an enterprise focus area of your choice.
CCNP Security certification
Earning the CCNP Security certification proves that you can step into the cybersecurity environment and protect the networks and data that clients rely on. CCNP Security tests your knowledge of enterprise infrastructure, virtualization, assurance, and more.