Switch from Software Engineer to Junior Network Engineer

Follow this 8-week plan to build key networking skills and create a real project.

Weekly Hours: 10
Estimated Weeks: 8

Phases

Networking Basics

Start by learning how computer networks work, common devices, and key terms. Build your foundation for future network engineering tasks.

2 weeks

Understand what a computer network is
Identify common network hardware
Describe how data moves in networks
Learn network layers and protocols

Explaining network types (home vs office)
Naming networking equipment (router, switch)
Drawing simple data flows
Describing how web pages load

Intro to Networking course
Basic Networking textbook
Networking video series

Create a one-page summary of network types
Draw a labeled diagram of a small office network
Explain the path of a web page request in writing

Practical Networking Tools

Work with the essential tools real network engineers use daily. Get hands-on with software that helps diagnose and build networks.

2 weeks

Use basic network commands on your computer
Test connections and troubleshoot issues
Familiarize with network simulation tools
Explore how physical network setups work

Running ping and traceroute (Windows/Linux/Mac)
Reading output from ipconfig/ifconfig
Creating simple network topologies (Packet Tracer)
Testing connections between devices

Beginner Command Line guide
Packet Tracer software
Troubleshooting videos

Document using ping to check network status
Create a virtual network with two devices connected
List three common problems and solutions with screenshots

Switches, Routers, and Cabling

Focus on setting up and configuring basic network equipment and connections. Practice wiring and logical setups both virtually and, if possible, physically.

2 weeks

Set up a small virtual network with routing
Connect devices by creating logical or real cables
Configure a basic home or office router
Understand switch and router roles

Configuring a router interface (Packet Tracer)
Connecting devices with Ethernet cables (diagram/example)
Setting up DHCP on a router
Assigning IP addresses

Cisco Packet Tracer labs
Beginner hardware setup videos
Hands-on cabling guide

Configure and test a router with two networks in Packet Tracer
Submit a diagram showing cable types and connections
Write instructions for simple router setup with screenshots

Networking Project: Small Business Setup

Combine your knowledge by designing and simulating a network for a small business. This project will showcase your skills end-to-end.

2 weeks

Plan a network diagram for five devices and a printer
Set up the design in a simulation tool
Test connectivity between devices
Document your work clearly

Creating a network diagram (draw.io/visio)
Building a virtual network lab (Packet Tracer)
Testing with ping and sharing files
Writing setup and test instructions

Sample business network plans
Network documentation example
Packet Tracer advanced guide

Submit a clear network diagram and design plan
Demo working network simulation (video/screenshots)
Write a short test report with results and troubleshooting steps

Applying and Interview Prep

Focus on preparing your application materials and interview skills. Practice technical and common interview questions.

1 weeks

Update your resume with your new project
List your key networking skills
Practice explaining your project and decisions
Prepare for common junior network engineer questions

Writing a clear project summary
Practicing short project demos
Answering networking scenario questions
Revising resume content

Resume templates
Sample interview questions
Networking job boards

Share an updated resume including your project
Record a two-minute project explanation video
Answer five common interview questions in writing

Weekly Plan

Week	Focus	Why	Tasks	Deliverables
1	Network Foundations	You need strong basics to build further skills.	Read Networking Basics chapter (Intro to Networking course), Watch two videos on network types, Draw a simple home setup diagram (paper or online), Make flashcards of key terms	Completed network diagram, List of 10 networking terms
2	Packets and Protocols	Understanding how data travels is essential.	Write how data moves through the internet (one paragraph), Explain the steps from typing a web address to seeing a page, Research two main network protocols (like TCP, HTTP), Explain OSI model layers in your own words	Write-up: path of web page request, OSImodel summary sheet
3	Hands-on Network Tools	Using tools builds your practical confidence.	Install Packet Tracer on your computer, Use ping and traceroute on your own network, Practice finding your IP with ipconfig or ifconfig, List what each result tells you	Screenshot of packet tracer install, Command outputs with explanations
4	Troubleshooting and Diagnostics	Quick problem-solving is key as a network engineer.	Note three common network issues and solutions at home, Simulate disconnecting and fixing a device in Packet Tracer, Write why each issue happens, Capture before/after fix screenshots	Troubleshooting document, Three issue/fix screenshots
5	Switches and Routers	These are main devices in any network.	Configure a simple virtual router (Packet Tracer), Connect two virtual devices to the router, Assign different IP addresses to each device, Test what happens if you change a setting	Working router setup in Packet Tracer, Screenshot showing device connections
6	Cabling and Physical Setup	Connecting devices correctly is fundamental.	Draw cabling plan for a small office (diagram tool or paper), Label cable types in your diagram, Watch a video on cable making/management, Write setup steps in simple instructions	Cable diagram, One-page instruction guide
7	Networking Project Build	Projects show what you can really do.	Plan a small business network layout (5 devices + printer), Build this network in Packet Tracer, Test internet and print sharing between devices, Document your setup steps with screenshots	Complete Packet Tracer file, Project setup document
8	Project Demo and Job Prep	Showcase your results and get ready to apply.	Write or record a demo walkthrough (video or slides), Update your resume to include the project, Write answers to five technical interview questions, Send project to a peer or mentor for feedback	Project demo walkthrough, Updated resume with project