Why Grad Talent is a Smart Investment for Filling Networking Jobs

Leveraging graduate talent for your networking jobs represents a sensible and long-term investment for your organisation. Graduates are digital natives. They’re familiar with the cutting-edge tech that can take businesses up a gear, they have expert knowledge, and they can be easily trained. 

Have a read of our guide to gain further insight into how graduate talent can help your business achieve its goals. 

Adept with the latest tech and have up-to-date knowledge 

Students who complete relevant courses and obtain certifications have the latest theoretical knowledge and familiarity with cutting-edge tools, sufficiently preparing them for entry level networking jobs. Here are some examples of the routes graduates may take to gain expertise: 

• Cisco Networking Academy: This programme has courses covering networking, network automation, cyber security, the Internet of Things, and digital literacy. Since its inception, Cisco Networking Academy has provided training for millions of people worldwide. 
  
  
• Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate: Prepares students for graduate cyber security jobs by covering network security, Python programming, Linux and cloud computing. 
  
  
• University of Maryland’s Cybersecurity for Everyone: Equips students with skills in network security, security engineering, and risk management. 
  
  
• QA's Cyber Security Courses: Offering training resources in cyber security training, these programmes are tailored for the industry and include certifications and apprenticeships. 
  
  
• NCSC Certified Training: With the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre, students can get access to exceptional cyber security training courses.

Graduates completing such courses get experience and skills in several networking areas, meaning they can be an invaluable addition to organisations. We’ll discuss in more detail the areas in which they excel. 

Theoretical Knowledge

Theoretical knowledge in networking roles involves several critical concepts that make up the foundation for understanding and working with computer networks. This insight is key for network engineers, architects, and several other professionals in the industry. Let’s take a look at the core theoretical elements.

Network Theory 

Network theory provides a framework for understanding intricate systems by studying the relationships between interconnected elements. With reference to networking roles, it’s particularly useful for learning how individuals or entities interact within a system and how said interactions impact the network’s structure and functionality. Here are the key points of network theory: 

• Nodes and Edges: Nodes represent individual elements like people and organisations, while edges are their connections. 
  
  
• Connectivity: A network's connectivity level impacts the speed at which information or events can travel through the system. 
  
  
• Path Length: The average path length reflects the distance between nodes in a network, impacting the efficiency of communication and resource flow.
  
  
• Network Structures: In distributed networks, connections are evenly spread across nodes. Whereas decentralised or small-world networks are comprised of local clusters with distant connections. 

Network Architecture 

Computer network architecture defines the conceptual framework of a computer network. It includes design principles and communications protocols. The main types of network architectures are as follows:

• Peer-To-Peer (P2P) Architectures: In P2P architecture, two or several connected computers are called ‘peers,’ representing equal power on the network. With this type of network, there’s no need for a central server for coordination. Rather, each computer acts as a client and a server. Each peer on the network shares a portion of its resources with other network devices, including storage, memory, bandwidth, and processing power. 
  
  
• Client-Server Architectures: In this type of network, a central server, or group of servers, manages resources and delivers services to client devices. In this model, clients don’t share their resources and communicate through the server. Because of its multiple layers, this type of architecture is often known as a ‘tiered architecture.’ 
  
  
• Hybrid Architectures: These architectures consist of elements from P2P and client-server models. 

Network Topology 

Topology refers to the practical application of a network. Network topology outlines the physical and logical layout of nodes and links, including hardware (routers, switches, cables), software (applications, operating systems), and transmission media (wired or wireless connections). 

Generally, common topologies encompass ring, star and mesh. Here’s an overview of each: 

• Bus Topology: Network nodes are directly connected to a main cable. 
  
  
• Ring Topology: Nodes are arranged in a loop, with each device connected to exactly two neighbours. Adjacent pairs are linked directly, while non-adjacent pairs communicate indirectly through intermediary nodes.
  
  
• Star Topology: Has a single hub to which all nodes are indirectly connected. 
  
  
• Mesh Topology: There are two types of mesh networks: full and partial. In a full mesh topology, every network node connects to all other network nodes, creating the strongest level of network resilience. In a partial mesh topology, only a few network nodes connect, and they tend to be those that exchange data most regularly.  

Network Communication Protocols 

Every computer network follows communication protocols. Whether it’s the Internet Protocol (IP) suite, Ethernet, wireless LAN (WLAN) or cellular communication standards. In essence, these are sets of rules that every node on the network must adhere to for data to be received and shared. Protocols depend on gateways to allow incompatible devices to communicate. For example, when a Windows computer is trying to access Linux servers. 

Several networks operate on TCP/IP models and include four network layers: 

1. Network Access Layer: Often referred to as the data link layer or physical layer, this element of a TCP/IP network consists of the infrastructure needed for interfacing with the network medium. By using Ethernet and protocols like the address resolution protocol (ARP), it manages physical data transmission between devices sharing a network. 
   
   
2. Internet Layer: This layer deals with logical addressing, routing, and packet forwarding. It relies on the IP protocol and the Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP). 
   
   
3. Transport Layer: The TCP/IP transport layer facilitates data transfer between the upper and lower layers of the network. Incorporating TCP and UDP protocols delivers mechanisms to mitigate errors and improve flow control. 
   
   
4. Application Layer: To provide network services to applications, TCP/IP’s application layer uses the following:

• HTTP 
• FTP
• Post Office Protocol 3 (POP3)
• Domain Name System (DNS)
• SSH Protocols

Cutting-Edge Tools

Networking graduates will be well-versed with the latest technologies. This means they’ll be furthering their own professional capabilities while improving the operations of their respective company. Below are some areas in which graduates will be proficient.

Network Mapping and Monitoring Tools 

These tools are critical for visualising, managing, and troubleshooting network infrastructure. These tools offer invaluable insights into network topology and performance and identify potential issues. Examples include the following: 

• Paessler PRTG Network Monitor: Offers an auto-discovery feature and interactive maps. This allows for a better visual representation of devices, statues, and connections, all in real-time. 
  
  
• Auvik: This tool automates network topology mapping and offers clear visual representations of connected devices and their relationships. 
  
  
• Datadog Live Network Mapping: Found in Datadog's Network Performance Monitoring package, this tool has auto-discovery and visualisation features, as well as traffic pattern analysis. 

Network Automation Tools 

Networking roles require streamlined operations and improved network reliability. These tools automate configuration management and troubleshooting across several network devices. Examples are: 

• Ansible: This is an open-source and Python-based platform that aids in automating configuration management, cloud provisioning, and application deployment. With Ansible, repetitive tasks are automated, and security policies can be enforced. 
  
  
• BackBox: This platform allows for the automation of daily tasks and large projects without the need for coding skills. It has features covering centralised management, automated security, and lifecycle management. Its popularity is such that it supports devices from over 180 vendors. 
  
  
• NetBrain: Concentrates on intent-based automation and delivers network topology in real-time. NetBrain has a Dynamic Map feature that offers end-to-end network visibility, simplifying intricate network environments. 

Networking graduates: Cost-effective and trainable 

Invariably, hiring a networking graduate is cheaper than recruiting a professional who’ll have much larger salary expectations. There may be the initial investment required for an individual going for an entry level networking job - for example, the cost incurred for training and development. 

However, this presents networking companies with an opportunity to mould graduates in a way that represents their organisation. As well as being a professional fit, graduates properly understand the culture and become an asset in a personal sense. 

As graduates grow, they grow with an organisation, meaning that they are a long-term investment. If there are avenues for progression and potential senior roles available, graduates could be at a business for a number of years. 

Another benefit is that businesses within the networking industry seen to be offering opportunities to graduates will be viewed as contemporary and forward-thinking. This helps build a strong brand image and increases the likelihood of other emerging talent wishing to join your organisation. 

Final say: Why grad talent is a smart move for networking roles

Graduates are an excellent hiring choice for networking companies. Why? Because they have the most recent theoretical knowledge and are adept with the latest technologies. They’re proficient with network theory, architecture, topology and communication protocols, meaning graduates can confidently manage complex systems. 

As there are many programs offering expertise, like the Cisco Networking Academy, Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate, and NCSC Certified Training, there’s no shortage of individuals primed for entry level networking jobs.  

Recruiting graduates can save businesses money, but more importantly, it allows them to shape young professionals to mirror their values and understand their mission. As individuals develop within the organisation, they offer long-term value, contributing professionally and culturally. 

We Secure The Best Networking Talent 

We hope you see the value of hiring a graduate for your networking jobs. If you want your business to enjoy the many benefits that they have to offer, then we’d love to help you in finding the finest emerging talent. 

Visit our networking recruitment page or contact us today to discover how we can support your hiring needs.