Network Security Engineer
Secure network infrastructure and communications. Design firewalls, VPNs, intrusion detection systems, and protect organizational networks from cyber threats.
What you need to know
Overview
Network Security Engineers protect organizational networks from intrusions, attacks, and unauthorized access. They design and implement network security architectures, configure firewalls and VPNs, monitor network traffic for threats, and ensure secure communications. This role requires deep understanding of both networking and security principles.
Ireland's tech sector relies heavily on network security engineers to protect infrastructure for companies serving European markets. With hybrid and remote work proliferation, securing network access has become increasingly critical.
Key responsibilities
- Design secure network architectures
- Configure and maintain firewalls
- Implement VPN solutions
- Deploy IDS/IPS systems
- Monitor network traffic for threats
- Perform security assessments
- Respond to network security incidents
- Implement network segmentation
- Manage security policies
- Document network security configurations
What skills are needed?
Network Security
- • Firewalls (Palo Alto, Cisco ASA)
- • VPN technologies
- • IDS/IPS (Snort, Suricata)
- • Network segmentation
- • Zero Trust architecture
Networking
- • TCP/IP protocols
- • Routing and switching
- • Network design
- • Cisco/Juniper equipment
- • WiFi security
Professional Skills
- • Problem-solving
- • Analytical thinking
- • Documentation
- • Communication
- • Attention to detail
What is the pay?
Average Salary in Ireland
€40,000 - €75,000
Junior network security engineers earn €40,000-€50,000, mid-level engineers earn €55,000-€68,000, while senior engineers command €70,000-€85,000.
Salaries reflect strong demand for network security expertise. Benefits include certification funding (CCNP Security, CISSP), professional development, health insurance, and flexible working arrangements.
What is the career outlook?
Job Growth
Strong demand for network security engineers in Ireland with over 500 positions advertised annually. Hybrid work and cloud adoption drive need for secure network access solutions.
Why the growth?
- • Remote work security needs
- • Cloud network security
- • Zero Trust adoption
- • Increasing network attacks
- • Regulatory compliance
- • SD-WAN security
What education is required?
Educational Pathways
Network + Security Background
Networking degree/certification plus security training. CCNA Security or CompTIA Security+ plus networking experience common path.
Cyber Security Degree
Cyber Security degree with networking focus from Irish universities. Professional certifications enhance employability.
Key Skills
- • Network protocols (TCP/IP)
- • Firewall configuration
- • VPN implementation
- • IDS/IPS deployment
- • Network monitoring
- • Security architecture
- • Cisco/Palo Alto technologies
- • Network troubleshooting
- • Security policy development
- • Incident response
Ready to Secure Networks?
Explore resources and discover network security engineering.
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