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How to become a Network Engineer in South Africa

Designs, configures and maintains business networks, connectivity, routing and security infrastructure.

Step-by-step path

STEP 1
Education
IT networking diploma, degree or vendor certification route
1–6 yrs
STEP 2
Entry job
First role: Junior Network Technician
0–2 yrs
STEP 3
Mid-level growth
Move into: Network Engineer
3–6 yrs
STEP 4
Senior transition
Reach: Senior Network Engineer
7+ yrs

Time estimate

Total typical time to senior level

~ 7–10 years

Education it networking diploma, degree or vendor certification route, then practical experience.

Salary growth timeline

Year 1

R28 000

/month

Year 5

R58 000

/month

Year 10

R90 000

/month

Required skills by stage

FOUNDATIONAL

Routing / switchingHigh
FirewallsHigh

MID-CAREER

FirewallsHigh
Network securityHigh

SENIOR

Network securityHigh
Cisco / FortinetMedium

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