Tuesday, November 9, 2004

Carve a niche in networking
Amrit

In large or medium-sized offices, banks or research institutions, almost every employee nowadays is provided with a desktop PC. This has been made necessary because the speed and accuracy of data processing is much higher with computers as compared to manual processing. However, with the increase in the number of computing systems, there is always a need to maintain uniformity between them i.e. the application software and to some extent hardware configuration should be similar for all installed systems.

The inter-linking of computers so that resources may be shared between the users is broadly termed as networking. Networking becomes more complex when hardware equipment having separate standards installed at different locations is linked together.

Network analyst

The professionals who design the software for computer networking are called network analysts. They define standards, design applications and explore safety tools for installation on the networked computer so as to make the network effective for communication and data transfer. Several business enterprises are opting for manufacturing, marketing or finance functions based on tools like ERP or CRM, for which networking of computers is essential.

Work profile

Network analysts design and develop software programme or scripts that help in network analysis. They also specialise in evaluating third -party products and integrating new software technologies into an existing network environment to suit the desired application. These professionals analyse problems, explore solutions to meet the networking requirement of the organisation design, development and implementation of the relevant software applications. They plan and develop new hardware systems and resources for additional networking operations.

The task of these analysts also includes designing, testing and evaluating systems such as local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), VSAT, Wireless radio, Internet and other data communication systems. These professionals perform network modeling, analysis and planning and are also involved in research related products. Their work also includes making recommendations to higher management on network-related hardware and software products.

Eligibility

The eligibility required for this job includes sufficient hardware and software skills, experience in using Window NT/2003, Solaris or Unix/Linux, experience with secure or multiple communications platforms and expertise in using and writing test procedures for functional and security testing.

The qualification desired in a network analyst might vary with organisation, depending upon the application and experience. However, mostly professionals with B.Tech/ MCA/M.Tech, science graduates or people with a degree in telecommunication with MCSE certification in Windows NT or Sun OS/Solaris certification or CCNA from Cisco are preferred. They should also have sufficient programming experience in C++, Java, Pearl, TCP/IP skill and object-oriented design and programming. Irrespective of educational background, a network analyst needs to have sufficient knowledge of technologies like IP and TCP/IP, the OSI model, Ethernet, Exchange Server/ SQL 2000, VOIP technology and networking. Considering that network technology changes quite fast, a professional has to continuously update himself with the latest developments in the server or software products and certifications.

Expertise needed

Those desirous of career in networking must have extensive expertise in Novell Netware or related server and software products. Individuals proficient in TCP/IP Internet working, environment, management, and troubleshooting can also opt for these careers. The job requires proficiency in installation, administration, and tuning of servers, LAN/WAN, client PCs, wiring, bridge, routers, hub, switches, modems and effective communication with clients and other technical professionals.

They also need to have knowledge of Inter process Communication, IPv6, Mobile IP, VoIP Gateway development.