Talent Acquisition

7 Tech and IT Interview Questions to Ask a Network Engineer

By Advanced Resources on May 19, 2017

If you work in information technology, you already know the tech landscape is vast and the skills needed for Project Managers are very different from those needed by Systems Analysts. In this series we present seven interview questions specific to a position or functional area. In this post we focus on interview questions to ask a network engineer.

What is a network engineer?

A network engineer is responsible for the establishment and maintenance of network performance. A network engineer leverages technology to build a company’s computer and information network. Network engineers leverage analytical and technical skills to develop and maintain local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), intranets and extranets. This role requires a wide breadth of skills and have a major impact on the security and success of modern businesses.

Additional certifications for a network engineer that may be necessary:
  • Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)
  • Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE)
  • Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
  • CompTIA Network+

7 Important Interview Questions for Network Engineers

  1. What is your strongest area: network support or design?
  2. Describe a specific network building experience. How big was the network? Number of nodes/servers?
  3. Describe your server experience. Did you build servers? If so, what type of servers have you built?
  4. Describe your experience with routers, switches, hubs, and bridges. How much experience and what types?
  5. Explain your network security experience and challenges you’ve overcome in this area. What are the greatest threats to network security?
  6. Have you worked with any Network Management Tools? Please describe how an in what context.
  7. Do you have any mobile device and/or VOIP experience?

Interview Questions to Ask a Network EngineerThese questions are a starting point for assessing the skills and expertise required of a network engineer. Make sure to augment this list with questions specific to your company’s needs to find the right fit for your team, including questions for culture fit.

Read: Ultimate List of Interview Questions To Screen For Culture Fit

For additional resources on how to interview for culture fit, download Hire Better: A Guide to Interviewing for Culture Fit

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