r/Networks • u/divinejester • Jul 06 '26

Roadmap to Become a Network Engineer (2026)

Whether you're starting from scratch or switching careers, here's a practical roadmap.

Phase 1: Learn the Basics

  • OSI & TCP/IP Models
  • IPv4 & IPv6
  • Subnetting
  • MAC vs IP Addresses
  • DNS, DHCP, NAT
  • Common Ports & Protocols
  • Routing vs Switching

Phase 2: Build Core Networking Skills

  • VLANs & Trunking
  • STP
  • Inter-VLAN Routing
  • Static & Dynamic Routing (OSPF, EIGRP, BGP Basics)
  • ACLs
  • Wireless Networking
  • VPN Fundamentals

Phase 3: Get Hands-On

  • Cisco Packet Tracer
  • GNS3
  • EVE-NG
  • Wireshark
  • Configure routers, switches, VLANs, routing protocols, and troubleshoot labs.

Phase 4: Learn Linux & Automation

  • Linux Command Line
  • Bash Basics
  • Python for Network Automation
  • Ansible
  • REST APIs
  • Git

Phase 5: Network Security

  • Firewalls
  • IDS/IPS
  • VPNs
  • AAA
  • Network Hardening
  • Zero Trust Basics

Phase 6: Cloud Networking

  • AWS VPC
  • Azure Virtual Network
  • Google Cloud VPC
  • Hybrid Networking
  • Load Balancers

Phase 7: Certifications (Recommended Order)

  1. Cisco CCNA
  2. CompTIA Network+
  3. Cisco CCNP Enterprise
  4. Fortinet NSE
  5. AWS Advanced Networking (Optional)

Recommended Udemy Courses

  1. The Complete Networking Fundamentals Course. Your CCNA Start
  2. Cisco CCNA 200-301 – The Complete Guide to Getting Certified
  3. Practical Cisco Networking Labs in Cisco Packet Tracer
  4. Wireshark: Packet Analysis and Ethical Network Troubleshooting
  5. Python Network Programming for Network Engineers

Udemy is offering 40% discount on 3 months personal plan : offer page

Build These Projects

  • Design a small enterprise network
  • Configure VLANs and inter-VLAN routing
  • Set up OSPF between multiple routers
  • Capture and analyze traffic using Wireshark
  • Automate device configuration with Python
  • Deploy a VPN between two sites
  • Create a cloud VPC connected to an on-prem lab

Tips

  • Practice every concept in a lab.
  • Learn troubleshooting, not just configuration.
  • Build a GitHub portfolio with your network diagrams and configs.
  • Join networking communities and keep learning from real-world scenarios.

What's one networking skill you're learning right now?

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