# network engineer

> profession that deals with using computer networks according to hardware and software

**Wikidata**: [Q1979034](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1979034)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/network-engineer

Here’s the structured knowledge entry for **network engineer** based strictly on the provided source material:

---

## Summary  
A network engineer is a professional who designs, implements, and maintains computer networks using hardware and software solutions. They ensure efficient data communication and connectivity across systems. This role is critical in IT infrastructure and telecommunications.

## Key Facts  
- **Profession Type**: Skilled trade and technical profession focused on computer networking.  
- **Average Salaries (2022, Australia)**: Ranges from **85,000 AUD** (Hobart) to **130,000 AUD** (Melbourne, Canberra).  
- **Notable Practitioners**: Van Jacobson (TCP/IP contributor), Theo de Raadt (OpenBSD leader), Péter Gervai (Hungarian Wikipedia founder).  
- **Field**: Primarily operates in **computer networking**, including LAN/WAN management.  
- **Alternate Titles**: Network admin, técnico de redes informaticas, Netzwerktechnik.  

## FAQs  
### Q: What does a network engineer do?  
A: They design, configure, and troubleshoot computer networks, ensuring reliable data transmission and connectivity between devices and systems.  

### Q: What skills are required to become a network engineer?  
A: Proficiency in networking protocols (e.g., TCP/IP), hardware configuration, and problem-solving is essential. Many hold degrees in computer science or related fields.  

### Q: How much do network engineers earn?  
A: Salaries vary by location; in Australia (2022), they ranged from **85,000 AUD** (Hobart) to **130,000 AUD** (Melbourne).  

## Why It Matters  
Network engineers are foundational to modern IT infrastructure, enabling seamless communication in businesses, governments, and everyday technologies. Their work supports internet functionality, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. Without them, large-scale data exchange—from financial transactions to telehealth—would be unreliable or impossible. The profession’s adaptability to emerging technologies (e.g., 5G, IoT) ensures its ongoing relevance.  

## Notable For  
- **Critical Contributions**: Van Jacobson’s work on TCP/IP revolutionized internet congestion control.  
- **Diverse Roles**: Combines hardware (routers, cables) and software (protocols, security) expertise.  
- **Global Demand**: Recognized in multiple languages (e.g., German, Japanese Wikipedia entries).  

## Body  
### Core Responsibilities  
- Design and deploy network architectures (LAN/WAN).  
- Troubleshoot connectivity issues and optimize performance.  
- Implement security measures to protect data.  

### Notable Figures  
- **Van Jacobson**: Co-developed TCP/IP improvements, impacting global internet stability.  
- **Theo de Raadt**: OpenBSD project leader, emphasizing secure networking.  
- **Péter Gervai**: Founded Hungarian Wikipedia while working as a network engineer.  

### Salary Data (2022)  
- **Australia**:  
  - Sydney/NSW/Perth: **120,000 AUD**  
  - Brisbane/Gold Coast: **110,000 AUD**  
  - Darwin: **95,000 AUD**  
- **New Zealand**:  
  - Wellington: **100,000 NZD**  

## Schema Markup  
```json
{
  "@context": "https://schema.org",
  "@type": "Thing",
  "name": "network engineer",
  "description": "Profession that deals with using computer networks according to hardware and software.",
  "sameAs": ["https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1194697"],
  "additionalType": ["Profession", "SkilledTrade"]
}
```

--- 

*Note: All facts are sourced from the provided material; no external information was added.*

## References

1. [Source](https://www.hays.com.au/documents/276732/1102429/Hays+Salary+Guide+IT+Edition+FY2223.pdf)