Prepare for your Network Engineer interview. Understand the required skills and qualifications, anticipate the questions you may be asked, and study well-prepared answers using our sample responses.
The OSI model is a framework for understanding how networks work. It’s a common question for network engineers because it shows your understanding of how networks function. Your answer should show that you understand what each layer of the OSI model does and how they relate to each other.
Answer Example: "The OSI model is a useful tool for network engineers because it allows us to break down a network’s components into distinct layers. This allows us to focus on one layer at a time, ensuring that each component is configured properly before moving onto the next. I am very familiar with the OSI model and have used it many times when troubleshooting network issues."
This question is a basic knowledge test that many interviewers use to gauge your understanding of networking. The TCP/IP model is a foundational model for understanding how computers communicate over networks, so it’s important to be able to identify the four layers of this model.
Answer Example: "The four layers of the TCP/IP model are the application layer, the transport layer, the internet layer and the network access layer. The application layer is where applications such as web browsers and email clients communicate with servers. The transport layer handles communication between applications on different servers. The internet layer is where IP addresses are assigned to devices and data is routed across networks. Finally, the network access layer deals with the physical connection between devices."
This question can help the interviewer assess your problem-solving skills and ability to work independently. Use examples from past experiences where you diagnosed a network problem, identified the cause and solved it.
Answer Example: "I would first check the logs to see if there were any errors or warnings that could help me identify the source of the problem. If there were no errors, I would then check the network infrastructure to make sure everything is configured correctly. This includes checking the configuration of routers, switches, firewalls, and other devices on the network."
This question is an example of an interviewer trying to test your knowledge of networking terminology. Switch and hub are both types of network devices that allow computers to communicate with each other, but they have some key differences.
Answer Example: "A switch is a device that allows computers to communicate with each other via Ethernet cables. It is able to send data packets from one computer to another without any loss of information. Switches also have the ability to “switch” or transfer data from one computer to another based on its destination address. Hubs are similar to switches, but they do not have the ability to “switch” data based on destination addresses. Instead, all data sent through a hub is broadcast out to all other devices connected to it."
Troubleshooting is a key skill for network engineers. Employers ask this question to see if you have experience solving problems and how you approach them. In your answer, describe a time when you troubleshot a network issue. Explain what steps you took to solve it and what the outcome was.
Answer Example: "I recently had to troubleshoot a network problem for a client. The company had recently upgraded their servers, but the new servers weren’t working properly. I used my troubleshooting skills to investigate the issue. After speaking with the client, I discovered that they hadn’t configured the new servers properly. I then walked them through the steps to configure the servers properly. Once they did so, the issue was resolved."
This question is a great way to assess your problem-solving skills and ability to work as part of a team. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe the steps you would take in designing a new network and explain why you would take those steps.
Answer Example: "When designing a new network, I would first determine what the company’s goals are for the network. This includes determining what services they want to provide, how many users they expect to have and any other relevant information. Then, I would create a network diagram showing all of the components of the network and how they connect. After that, I would create a list of all the hardware and software needed to build the network. Finally, I would implement the network and ensure that it meets the company’s needs."
This question can help the interviewer determine how you would handle a situation that could potentially be challenging. Your answer should show that you are willing to speak up when necessary and have a positive attitude about helping others improve their behavior.
Answer Example: "If I noticed a coworker using a network resource inappropriately, I would first try to educate them on how to use it properly. If they were still not able to follow proper protocol, I would take steps to limit their access to the resource until they could learn how to properly use it."
IPv6 is the next-generation Internet Protocol (IP) that replaces IPv4. It’s important for network engineers to have a strong understanding of both protocols and their differences. An interviewer may ask this question to assess your knowledge of IPv6 and how you would implement it in a network. In your answer, explain the differences between IPv4 and IPv6 and why they are important.
Answer Example: "I have a strong understanding of IPv6 due to my previous experience as a Network Engineer. During my time at my previous job, I was responsible for implementing and managing the company’s IPv6 network. I understand the differences between IPv4 and IPv6, including how to configure routers and switches for both protocols."
This question can help the interviewer determine your experience level with a specific type of network technology. If you have previous experience working with remote access protocols, share what types of systems you’ve used them on and how you benefited from them.
Answer Example: "Yes, I have extensive experience working with remote access protocols. Throughout my career, I have implemented various types of remote access solutions including VPNs, SSL tunnels, and IPsec. I am familiar with the different security features available in each protocol, such as authentication, encryption, and authentication. In addition, I have successfully configured these protocols to meet organizational requirements and compliance standards."
This question can help the interviewer determine your knowledge of network switching and how it can be used in different scenarios. Use examples from past experiences where you used layer 2 switching and why it was beneficial for the organization.
Answer Example: "When it comes to layer 2 switching, there are many different situations where it’s appropriate to use this technology. In general, layer 2 switching is used when you need to connect two devices at the same physical level. For example, if I have two computers that need to communicate with each other, I would use layer 2 switching to connect them together."
This question is an opportunity to show your knowledge of network security and how you can improve it. When answering this question, explain the steps you would take to improve security in a company’s network.
Answer Example: "I would start by assessing the current security measures in place. I would then evaluate whether or not they are effective at preventing unauthorized access to the network. If not, I would implement new security measures such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems and VPNs. I would also ensure that all users have strong passwords and are required to use two-factor authentication when logging in."
This question is an opportunity to show your knowledge of Cisco routers and how you use them in your work. You can describe the type of router you’re most familiar with, what its functions are and how you use it in your daily tasks as a network engineer.
Answer Example: "I have extensive experience working with Cisco routers. I have been working as a Network Engineer for the past five years, and during that time I have worked with many different models of Cisco routers. I am familiar with their features and capabilities, as well as how to configure them for different functions."
This question is a great way to test your knowledge of Ethernet and how it differs from other communication protocols. You can answer this question by explaining what makes Ethernet unique, including its advantages and disadvantages.
Answer Example: "Ethernet is a communication protocol that uses a physical layer to transmit data across a network. It is different from other protocols because it uses a shared medium, which means that all devices on the network can access the same physical cable. This makes it easier to set up and manage networks compared to other protocols, such as Token Ring, which requires dedicated cabling for each device."
This question can help the interviewer determine your level of expertise in the field. Use your answer to highlight any other concepts you’re familiar with, such as routing, switching or wireless networking.
Answer Example: "I am also familiar with network topology, which is the layout of a network’s physical location, such as star, bus and ring. I have experience designing and implementing network topologies based on the organization’s needs. I also understand the importance of network security and have experience designing secure networks. Finally, I am familiar with network protocols such as TCP/IP, IPX/SPX, NetBIOS, and Ethernet."
This question is a great way to see how your skills and experience align with the company’s vision. It also shows your creativity and ability to think outside the box. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention some of the trends in networking right now and how they might change in the future.
Answer Example: "I believe that the future of networking will be focused on automation. As businesses become more digital, they need to be able to scale quickly and efficiently. This means that networks need to be able to adapt to new devices and applications quickly without requiring human intervention. I’ve seen this already happening in some organizations where they’re using automation tools like SDN and NFV to manage their networks."
Monitoring networks for problems is an important part of being a network engineer. The interviewer may ask this question to learn about your monitoring practices and how often you perform them. Use your answer to explain when you monitor networks, why you do so and what tools you use for the process.
Answer Example: "I believe that networks should be monitored for problems at all times. I recommend setting up automated alerts that notify me when there is any kind of issue with the network. These alerts should be set up for any type of problem, such as dropped connections or slow speeds. I also regularly check the network myself to make sure everything is working properly."
This question is a great way to test your problem-solving skills and ability to react quickly. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe the steps you would take to solve the issue and highlight any specific skills or experience that would help you in this situation.
Answer Example: "When I encounter a problem with a critical network device, my first step is to assess the situation and determine the severity of the issue. If it is a critical issue, such as a hardware failure or software bug, I will immediately notify my team so they can start working on a solution. In the meantime, I will start troubleshooting the problem myself by checking for any obvious issues such as misconfigured settings or connectivity issues. Once my team has arrived with the solution, we will work together to resolve the issue as quickly as possible."
This question can help the interviewer understand your experience level and how you might fit into their organization. Use your answer to highlight any specific skills or knowledge that you have that are relevant to this role, such as:
Answer Example: "I have extensive experience with network administration. I have been working as a Network Engineer for the past five years, during which time I have developed a deep understanding of the tools and technologies used in network administration. My experience includes designing and implementing secure and reliable network infrastructures, managing network security, troubleshooting network issues, and managing network resources."
This question can help the interviewer understand how you approach problems and whether you have experience solving challenging issues. Use examples from previous work experiences to highlight your problem-solving skills, communication abilities and attention to detail.
Answer Example: "I recently had to troubleshoot a network problem that was difficult to solve. The network consisted of multiple servers and routers, and the issue was that some users were unable to access certain websites. After examining the configuration of the routers and servers, I determined that the problem lay with the DNS server configuration. After making some changes to the DNS settings, the issue was resolved."
This question can help the interviewer understand how you use your skills to ensure that a company’s network is running smoothly. Use examples from past experiences where you used your knowledge of different components and systems to ensure their smooth operation.
Answer Example: "I use several methods to ensure that all of the components of a network are running smoothly. First, I regularly monitor network traffic and performance metrics to identify any potential issues before they become major problems. This includes monitoring network traffic, analyzing traffic patterns, and checking for any unusual activity. Second, I regularly check the configuration of all servers, routers, switches, and other devices to ensure that they are configured correctly and operating efficiently. Finally, I also use automation tools such as scripting languages to help me perform these tasks more efficiently."
