5 Computer Networking Roles Worth Pursuing in 2025
Whether you're plugging in cables or planning global networks, every role plays a part in keeping us all connected.
Ever been met with that blank stare when you mention you're studying computer networking? Like, people think all you do is fix Wi-Fi? The truth is that the field is massive, and it's only growing.
From hands-on troubleshooting to designing entire infrastructures that keep businesses online, networking roles are at the core of how everything runs today. So, whether you’re new to the game or looking to step up, here are five top networking roles worth pursuing in 2025.
/1. Network Support Specialist
This is the entry point for a lot of people, and it’s a smart place to start. Network support specialists are the ones helping coworkers (or customers) when they can’t connect to Wi-Fi, their apps aren’t working, or they’re getting weird error messages.
They also install software, monitor traffic, and generally keep things from catching fire. It’s a hands-on role that teaches you fast, and you’ll see the full range of what can go wrong in a network, which is exactly the kind of experience that opens doors later on.
Average salary: $86,952/year
/2. Network Administrator
Network admins are the ones keeping everything connected behind the scenes. They manage the day-to-day operation of local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and intranets.
This involves setting up routers and switches, managing access controls, monitoring traffic, troubleshooting outages, and maintaining the system's security and up-to-date status. They are not just reacting to problems; they are proactively watching for issues before they affect users.
It’s a solid mid-level role that gives you the tools to grow into network engineering, cloud management, or cybersecurity.
Average salary: $83,743/year
Louis Eriakha
/3. Network Technician
If you like gear, cables, and figuring out why something isn’t working, this role hits the sweet spot. Network technicians are out in the trenches—running wiring, setting up routers, installing switches, and fixing stuff when it breaks.
You’re not just sitting at a help desk; you’re out making sure everything’s physically connected and stable. You’ll work closely with engineers and admins, learning how things are built and maintained. It's a very learn-by-doing kind of job, and it's a great way to level up into more complex roles.
Average salary: $69,392/year
/4. Network Security Engineer
This role takes all the foundational knowledge of networking and focuses it on one thing: keeping systems secure. Network security engineers design and implement protections that defend against hackers, malware, and data breaches.
They set up firewalls, intrusion detection systems, VPNs, and encryption protocols, and constantly monitor for vulnerabilities. It’s part offense, part defense, and always evolving.
Average salary: $115,266/year
Kelechi Edeh
/5. Network Architect
This is one of the most senior roles in the field, and it’s exactly what it sounds like—you’re designing the blueprint for an entire network system. That means deciding how everything connects, what kind of hardware to use, how to handle growth, and how to lock it all down from a security standpoint.
It’s less about fixing issues day to day and more about long-term planning and major projects. You’ll need a deep understanding of both the technical side and the business needs. But once you're here, you’re at the top of the food chain.
Average salary: $138,686/year
Conclusion
Computer networking isn’t just about fixing things when they break. It’s about building the systems the world runs on, and keeping them fast, secure, and scalable. Whether you're plugging in cables or planning global networks, every role plays a part in keeping us all connected.
And the best part? The demand is real. If you're in this field or thinking about joining, you’re in the right place at the right time.
All salary data is from Indeed and Glassdoor.
