Network engineers are professional technical analysts that specialize in computer networks. They are responsible for implementing high-level computer network infrastructures, troubleshooting problems, and applying suitable security for computer networks. To qualify as a network engineer you need to have a connection with computer systems.
Most network engineers prefer to be freelanced rather than working for a specific company. However, freelance network engineers are network engineers that independently offer their networking services hourly or weekly to clients rather than working under an employer.
Freelance network engineers in the USA have become a fast-growing field due to the boost in USA technology. The USA remains the world’s leading technology center and thus is like a home to computer network engineers around the world.
Roles of a Freelance Network Engineer in the USA
There are certain functions to be carried out as a freelance network engineer in the USA and they are as follows
- Freelance network engineers offer support to their clients when they experience network issues by managing and maintaining the computer network they use.
- They design network solutions
- They optimize the network according to the needs of their clients
- As engineers, they are strict in adhering to security protocols
- They have to troubleshoot and fix any problem that arises.
- Freelancers provide support to their client’s on-site engineers.
- They suggest and implement solutions to their client’s computer network.
- They manage firewalls and update the firmware to ensure security for safety against cyber attacks.
- These engineers investigate and fix network issues.
- They provide front-line support to their clients for faults or advice
- Network engineers work on enhancing existing network systems.
- They must enforce policies and strategies for effective and efficient working of the network systems.
- Network engineers replace faulty and old systems with new technologies.
Tips for Building Your Network as a Freelance Network Engineer
To build your freelance network you need a few tips to make it work as freelancing is a whole new career from the usual network engineering.
- Firstly, you’d need to state your goals so you can work with them and know where exactly you are headed.
- You’d need to stay committed to freelancing no matter what arises.
- Have the right mind-set.
- Start your business close to home or at home to reduce costs.
- Volunteer to help clients for free.
- Make use of social media to promote your business.
- Contact past clients you worked with while you were under your employer.
- Attend training for your upgrade.
- Take on courses asides from networking courses to broaden your perspective.
- Try formulating new networking concepts on your own
- Hang around people of your kind and discuss networking issues. With this new perspectives and ideas are formed.
- Make sure to stay up-to-date with the latest technologies
Related: Computer Engineer CV Example for Mid-Level Professional
How to Become a Freelance Network Engineer in the USA
Before you can be a freelancer you must begin as an on-site network engineer for a company. Furthermore, certain requirements are necessary before you can become a freelance network engineer in the USA. These requirements may vary per person but there are basic requirements for everyone aiming to become freelance network engineers in the USA. However, below are the requirements for becoming a freelance network engineer in the USA
- A bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer engineering, information system, or other relevant fields.
- You’d need professional experience in working with a wide range of networks and computing systems.
- Although most clients require a bachelor’s degree, pursuing an MBA is highly recommended for senior network engineer jobs.
- A clean criminal record.
- A health declaration.
As a foreigner;
- You need your legal visa documents.
- Fluency in English is necessary.
Having a degree or an insight on some other relevant qualifications can help in your freelancing networking. Other relevant qualifications include
- Computer software/computer systems engineering.
- Computer systems and network.
- Electrical/electronic engineering.
- Mathematics.
- Network security management.
- Physics.
However, it is possible to become a freelance network engineer via apprenticeship.
Benefits of Being a Freelance Network Engineer in the USA
There are varieties of benefits that freelance network engineers in the USA enjoy. These benefits are as follows
- Being a freelancer, you can work with and for multiple clients.
- You get to work on your schedule.
- Freelancing broadens your horizon.
- As a freelancer, you work with clients of your choice.
- Lastly, you choose your workload.
Skills Needed as a Freelance Network Engineer in the USA
There are certain skills needed as a freelance network engineer in the USA that will enhance your networking career and they are as follows
Knowledge of Programming Language
Knowing how to read and write a networking code with a comprehensive understanding of network engineering boosts your efficiency as an engineer. This knowledge makes your work productive and easy-going.
Fundamentals of Operating System
As a freelance network engineer, it is your responsibility to create, maintain, and manage your computer network; understanding your operating system will benefit you.
Cloud Computing Skills
Cloud Computing Skills is the act of using a network of remote servers over the internet to store, manage, and process data to offer faster innovation. It increases the efficiency, speed, and security of important data.
Firewalls and Security
As a freelance network engineer, you should have the necessary knowledge about security protocols and be able to avoid cyber attacks or virus infections.
Troubleshooting Skills
This is the process of analyzing the problem and finding solutions for them.
Networking Skills
This is the understanding of the different network infrastructure that allows users to connect and communicate with other computer users within a location.
Soft Skills
Soft skills are skills based on your personality as a person such as communication skills, analytical skills, time management skills, creative skills, multi-tasking skills, organizational skills, and teamwork skills.
Skills Learnt as a Freelance Network Engineer in the USA
As a freelance network engineer in the USA, there are certain skills learned in the process that benefits you and your networking career
- You learn to analyse and solve problems
- You learn proper organizations.
- Balancing technical requirements with business needs and objectives.
Conclusion
In this overview, we give you a run-down on freelance network engineers, their roles and benefits, how to become a freelance network engineer in the USA, and all the skills that can be learned as a freelance network engineer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I become a Network Engineer without a degree?
Yes, you can. With an apprenticeship, you can.
Are Network Engineers in demand in the USA?
Yes, they are.
Why are Network Engineers in demand in the USA
They are in demand as they have a valuable position as the backbone of the computer networks of various companies. Moreover, they are conversant with the latest technologies that ease the workload of their clients.
How much a Network Engineer earns in the USA?
According to Glassdoor, the average annual salary for a freelance network engineer in the USA is $88,484.
How do I become a freelance network engineer?
It has been clearly explained in the article above.
Can I Become a Network Engineer from Home
Yes, you can. You just have to connect the computer network of your employees to your cloud network. With it, you can monitor, optimize and troubleshoot problems from home.
Are Network Engineers Real Engineers
Yes, they are.
Are Network Engineers in Demand
Yes, they are.
Is network engineering difficult?
It can only be difficult if you have no knowledge or passion for it. However, for professionals and experienced network engineers, It is an easy task.
