Did you know that the average total cost of data breaches in 2022 was $4.35 million, with breaches in the US being the most costly at $9.44 million? Organizations are working harder to maintain a vigilant approach to protect their systems and data as cyberattacks become more sophisticated and difficult. Network security engineers play a critical role in this process.

Choosing a career in this area can advance your career as companies scramble to improve their network security systems. Here is what you should know about the roles and responsibilities of a network security engineer.

What Does a Network Security Engineer Do?

A network security engineer’s responsibilities include network security design, implementation, and upkeep. The duties include identifying potential network threats and taking action to stop them from happening. They devise and implement security measures to safeguard the system against cyberattacks, hacking attacks, intrusions, and infiltrations.

To make sure that the network offers sufficient security for all users, the job entails close collaboration with network administrators, system administrators, and engineers.

Duties and Responsibilities of a Network Security Engineer

The duties of a network security engineer are varied, and they include making sure that all the systems are as secure as possible. Here are a few job responsibilities.

Network Security

Network security engineers plan, design, and monitor security arrangements for network system protection. They outline the specifications for comprehensive system security and keep coming up with fresh solutions to address current security threats.

Additionally, they configure and put intrusion detection systems and firewalls into place, monitor networks for any suspicious activity, and develop preventive protocols to deal with viruses, malware, and cyberattacks.

Network Maintenance

Engineers in network security make sure that all security hardware and software are operational and follow the organization’s network security protocols. As well as ensuring that all systems, including firewalls, virtual private networks, web protocols, and email security are properly maintained, network engineers use network maintenance to minimize downtime and disruptions.

Additionally, they must maintain thorough records of security measures and system weaknesses, as well as keep up with the most recent technologies and systems that can enhance overall system security.

Security Analysis

Network engineers investigate network vulnerabilities by identifying threat patterns and potential security breaches. They examine the system for flaws in both software and hardware. Additionally, they carry out forensic investigations and gather incident responses as they look into intrusion and hacking incidents.

A network security engineer may also be in charge of overseeing the installation of new software and hardware, creating and maintaining company security policies, and, when necessary, informing the company of security incidents in addition to the responsibilities listed above. The job involves thinking one step ahead of the cybercriminals and doing whatever it takes to strengthen system security.

While the roles and responsibilities of a network security engineer are broadly the same, they may differ slightly across industries due to the different types of threats and vulnerabilities.

The career path of a network security engineer is highly promising. You can kickstart your journey into information security with the online Computer Network and Cybersecurity Engineer course from Computek College. We have 30 years of experience training students to become highly skilled professionals. Enroll today!

We also offer fantastic alumni opportunities and financial support to those that need it.