What Does a Network Manager Do?

What is a network manager?

A network manager is in charge of an organization’s computer systems. Network managers typically work on a team as part of an organization's IT department. In this role, you would be responsible for setting up and maintaining an organization’s computer network infrastructure.

A network manager's responsibilities include installing and configuring computer systems, installing software updates and hardware upgrades, providing technical support to employees when needed, and more.

Below, you can learn more about a network manager and the skills you’ll need to succeed.

What does a network manager do?

Network managers, also referred to as network systems administrators, ensure the smooth operation of an organization’s computer systems. A day in the life of a network manager includes a range of tasks aimed at keeping all components of an organization’s network infrastructure safe, secure, and operational. Network managers often train employees on properly using network systems and act as the go-to contact if problems occur.

Some of the components a network manager handles include switches, cables, and routers that support an organization’s local area network (LAN) and wide area network (WAN). They may evaluate a system’s performance and report findings and suggestions for improvement to other IT professionals or decision-makers within an organization. Network managers often offer insights into the design of new network models and analysis of existing network models. 

Network manager tasks and responsibilities

Organizations depend on network managers to keep their computer systems safe and secure, up-to-date, efficient, and operational at all times. Common responsibilities of a network manager include: 

• Installation of computer systems: Network managers install and configure an organization’s computer systems, including various hardware and software systems. Network managers may work with both LANs and WANs. 

• Network security: Network managers establish, maintain, and optimize an organization’s network security plan to protect against unauthorized access. This process may involve administering firewalls and maintaining antivirus and antispam systems. Network managers also define network security policies, enforce policies, and train staff on network operating procedures. 

• Troubleshooting: Network managers use automated monitoring systems and user feedback to diagnose, identify, and resolve problems. An important role in troubleshooting is providing technical support to users within an organization.

• Maintenance of computer systems: An organization’s computer systems must be operational. An important part of a network manager’s job is maintaining computer networks by performing necessary software and hardware upgrades. 

Network manager skills

To become a successful network manager, it's important to be confident in your analytical and problem-solving skills and proficient in computer programming, computer software, and hardware systems. Network management requires a healthy mix of both technical skills and workplace skills. 

Technical skills

Many technical skills required of a network manager are relevant to multiple industries, while some technical skills are specific to certain employers or industries. Some commonly used technical skills for network managers include expertise in: 

• Fault management 

• Network infrastructure 

• Windows XP

• Storage area network (SAN)

• Switches 

• VPN

• Routers 

• Network security 

• Network architecture/design 

• Telecommunications 

• Cisco networking 

• IT management 

• Project management 

Workplace skills

While many of the skills of a network manager are considered technical, interpersonal workplace skills like good communication and attention to detail are also very important. Some of the most sought out workplace skills for a network manager are:

• Problem-solving 

• Communication 

• Analytical skills

• Creativity

• Multitasking 

• Critical thinking 

How much do network managers earn?

According to Glassdoor, the estimated total pay for a network manager in the US is $157,673 per year. This figure includes an average base salary of $116,692 and $40,981 in additional pay [1]. Additional pay may represent profit-sharing, commissions, or bonuses.

Location, industry, employer, education, and years of experience are all factors that impact your salary as a network manager.  

Read more: 6 Network Certifications for Your IT Career

Network manager career path

It’s common for employers to require one to two years of professional experience when considering candidates for a network manager position. To gain professional experience as an aspiring network manager, you may work as a network technician, network administrator, or network engineer prior to moving into the position of network manager.

Network managers who have been in the profession for several years or have advanced degrees or credentials may aspire to move into advanced-level jobs. Network managers may pursue higher-paying positions with more responsibilities, such as:

• IT director

• Network administrator

• IT manager

• Computer network architect

Education

The most common level of education for a network manager is a bachelor’s degree in a field such as computer science, information technology, business, or engineering, though some employers may hire network managers with an associate degree or high school diploma. While not required, a small percentage of network managers hold advanced degrees. 

The breakdown of educational degrees held by network managers, as reported by Zippia, is as follows [4]: 

• Bachelor's degree: 63 percent

• Associate degree: 20 percent

• Master's degree: 11 percent

• High school diploma: 2 percent

• Other degrees: 4 percent

Certifications

Certifications are important since network managers work with specific products and computer systems. Employers will likely require network managers to earn certification in specific types of software or hardware their organization uses. Common certifications held by network managers include Microsoft, Cisco, and CompTIA. 

Earning advanced degrees or additional certifications often equates to higher earnings and increased opportunities for better-paying positions.

Getting started in network management with Coursera

Network managers can find work in various fields to help companies protect, manage, and maintain their computer networks and systems. To begin a career as a network manager, you’ll need to gain the skills required to succeed in the field, such as network infrastructure, network security, and telecommunications.

Learn more about network management or build key skills needed as a network manager by enrolling in an online course. If you’re pursuing the career path of network manager, consider gaining entry-level job-ready skills with the Google IT Support Professional Certificate on Coursera.