1
Network Engineers design networks; Administrators maintain them.
2
Network Administrators handle daily operations; Engineers plan strategy.
3
Network Admins are entry-level; Network Engineers require advanced skills.
Two male IT network professionals, a junior Network Administrator and a more experienced Network Engineer, discuss a project

While they both fall under the umbrella of networking, there are many differences when you compare the roles of Network Administrator vs Network Engineer. Their responsibilities, skill sets, and career paths differ significantly. Whether you’re a candidate wondering which of these tech roles suits you best or an employer trying to determine which professional you need, this guide will help you understand the differences and similarities between Network Administrator vs Network Engineer careers.

What Does a Network Engineer Do?

Let’s start with the Network Engineer, the architect of the networking world. The primary job of a Network Engineer is to design, implement, and optimise network infrastructure. Network Engineers focus on the big picture, ensuring that systems are scalable, secure, and aligned with an organisation’s long-term needs.

Here are some of the responsibilities you can often read in a job spec for a Network Engineer job:

  • Designing networks: Creating the blueprint for local and wide area networks (LANs and WANs).
  • Implementing solutions: Configuring routers, switches, firewalls, and other hardware.
  • Upgrading infrastructure: Working on projects to expand or modernise the network.
  • Enhancing security: Developing protocols to safeguard data and prevent breaches.
  • Troubleshooting high-level issues: Addressing complex performance problems.
An experienced Network Administrator in a suit troubleshoots a networking issue
Network Engineers are the strategic planners in networking. They tackle long-term projects and often collaborate with other IT specialists to build systems from the ground up.

What Does a Network Administrator Do?

While Network Engineers design and build. Companies hire Network Administrators to ensure everything runs smoothly in their day-to-day operations. So, you could say that they’re the operational backbone of any IT network, handling routine maintenance and ensuring users have seamless access to systems.

Some of the most common responsibilities of a Network Administrator might include:

  • Monitoring performance: Ensuring the network runs efficiently and spot issues before they escalate.
  • User management: Setting up access, permissions and troubleshooting connectivity problems.
  • Maintaining systems: Performing updates, patches, and backups.
  • Troubleshooting operational issues: Addressing immediate problems with connectivity or hardware.
  • Supporting end-users: Helping staff resolve network-related queries.
A young Network Administrator fixes a network connection issue with his laptop
In many ways, Network Administrators are the first line of defence. Their hands-on work keeps the organisation’s network functional and responsive.

Differences Between a Network Administrator and a Network Engineer

Although both roles revolve around networks, they differ in their focus. To use an analogy, Network Engineers build the house, and then Network Administrators keep it clean, fix the plumbing, and make sure the lights stay on.

  • Network Engineers concentrate on design and implementation, while Network Administrators focus on maintenance and operation.
  • Network Engineers handle high-level projects like designing new systems, while Network Administrators focus on everyday functionality.
  • Network Engineers often require deeper expertise in architecture and security, while Network Administrators excel in troubleshooting and managing.

Starting a Career: Network Administrator or Network Engineer?

If you’re looking to start a career in networking but feel torn between these roles, consider your interests and long-term goals. Network Administration is often seen as a great entry point into IT because it provides hands-on experience with troubleshooting and day-to-day operations. Many professionals use it as a stepping stone to more advanced roles, like Network Engineering.

On the other hand, if you enjoy planning, designing, and solving big-picture challenges, pursuing a career as a Network Engineer might be the better fit. Keep in mind, though, that Network Engineer roles often require additional certifications, advanced skills, and years of experience in networking.

What About System Administrators?

Another question we’ve been asked is the difference between a system administrator and a network engineer, as both roles fall within the broader spectrum of network and IT jobs. While Network Engineers focus specifically on networking infrastructure (designing, implementing, and securing systems), System Administrators have a broader role in managing an organisation’s IT environment. This includes maintaining servers, operating systems, and storage systems.

While there are plenty of opportunities in both areas of technology, we’d say that if you’re more interested in working with a variety of technologies beyond networking, the System Administrator path might be a better fit. However, if networking infrastructure and connectivity excite you, Network Engineering could be your ideal career choice.

Employers: Hiring Network Administrator vs Network Engineer?

If you’re an employer deciding between hiring a Network Administrator or a Network Engineer, the answer depends on your current and future talent needs. A Network Administrator is your go-to person for day-to-day network support, user management, and troubleshooting. However, if you’re planning to upgrade, redesign, or secure your network infrastructure, then it looks to us that you likely need the expertise of a Network Engineer.

Two male IT network professionals, a junior Network Administrator and a more experienced Network Engineer, discuss a project
One IT professional might handle both roles in some cases, especially in smaller organisations. But as your organisation grows, it’s common to separate the responsibilities of both roles.

We hope our article has helped you understand better the difference between a Network Administrator and a Network Engineer, helping you make informed career decisions. After reading our article, if you are unsure whether you need an experienced Network Administrator or a more Senior Network Engineer or want to discuss average salaries and compensation packages, feel free to fill out the form below to contact our team.

Marta Rodriguez

Marta Rodriguez

Digital Marketing Manager

Marta Rodriguez is a Digital Marketing Manager with 15 years of experience in Content Creation, Social Media management, Marketing Strategy, SEO and Communication. Marta has provided expert commentary for The Guardian, The Independent, Computer World, The AllBright collective, The Expertise Circle, and UK Recruiter.

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