How to Make Money as a Network Engineer
With the rise of remote work, cloud computing, and cybersecurity threats, skilled network engineers are more valuable than ever. If you have a strong foundation in networking, you’re sitting on multiple opportunities to earn both actively and passively.
In this blog, we’ll break down how to make money as a network engineer through full-time roles, freelancing, consulting, content creation, and even starting your own business.
1. Work a Full-Time Network Engineering Job
The most common way to make money is through a traditional full-time position. Companies across industries need network engineers to design, maintain, and secure their IT infrastructure.
Popular job titles include:
- Network Administrator
- Network Support Engineer
- Systems Engineer
- Cloud Network Engineer
- Network Security Analyst
With certifications like CCNA, CCNP, or CompTIA Network+, you can earn anywhere from $70,000 to over $150,000/year, depending on your experience and location.
- Offer Freelance Services
Freelancing gives you the freedom to choose your own schedule and work on a variety of hands-on projects, such as:
- Configuring routers and switches
- Setting up secure remote access (VPNs)
- Troubleshooting network issues
- Designing small business networks
You can find freelance gigs on sites like Upwork, Freelancer, Fiverr, and FieldEngineer. Experienced freelancers often charge $40–$100+ per hour depending on their niche.
3. Provide Remote IT Support
Thanks to remote desktop tools like AnyDesk and TeamViewer, you can support clients from anywhere. Small businesses frequently need:
- Network monitoring
- Firewall updates
- Bandwidth optimization
- VoIP troubleshooting
Offering monthly retainers for ongoing support is a great way to build recurring income.
4. Become a Network Consultant
If you’ve gained years of hands-on experience, companies will pay for your expert advice. Consultants are hired to:
- Design scalable networks
- Improve performance and uptime
- Ensure network security compliance
- Transition to cloud infrastructure
You can charge per project or hourly and clients will happily pay a premium for specialized knowledge.
5. Teach Networking Online
You can turn your expertise into income by creating and selling online courses, tutorials, or training programs. You can:
- Create certification prep courses (e.g., CCNA, CCNP)
- Offer 1-on-1 mentoring
- Launch a YouTube channel or podcast
Platforms like Udemy, Skillshare, Teachable, and YouTube make it easy to monetize your content. It’s a great way to grow your personal brand while earning passive income from content you create once and sell repeatedly.
6. Start a Blog or YouTube Channel
Share tutorials, troubleshooting tips, and career advice through a blog or YouTube channel. This helps you:
- Build authority in your niche
- Grow an audience
- Earn through ads, affiliate links, and sponsorships
Recommend tools you actually use—like routers, firewalls, or network analyzers—and earn commissions through affiliate programs (Amazon Associates, Cisco, etc.).
7. Build and Sell Networking Tools
If you’re technically inclined, create simple SaaS tools like:
- IP address calculators
- Network monitoring dashboards
- Firewall configuration templates
You can sell these as digital products on Gumroad or your own website, offering a recurring or one-time pricing model.
8. Start Your Own IT Support Business
Once you’ve built a client base, consider launching your own IT consulting or support firm. Offer services like:
- Network installation for offices
- Cybersecurity audits
- Cloud migration support
- Managed IT services
With the right team, you can scale your income well beyond solo freelancing.
Final Thoughts
Being a network engineer isn’t just about working behind the scenes, it’s a high-demand role with countless ways to earn money. Whether you’re looking for job stability, side income, or entrepreneurial freedom, your technical skills can open the door.
