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How to Become A Network Analyst

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Career outcome icon – Network Analyst
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What is a Network Analyst

A Network Analyst is an IT professional who keeps computer networks healthy, fast, and secure. They study how networks are built, find weak spots, and push for improvements that keep data flowing without interruption. It is a hands-on, problem-solving career at the heart of modern technology.

Network Analysts work in a range of industries, including tech companies, banks, telcos, and government agencies. On any given day, you might monitor network traffic, configure hardware, plan an upgrade, or troubleshoot a connection issue. No two days are the same.

Most Network Analysts work full-time, and 94% are in permanent roles (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2021 Census data). About 1,600 people work in the field across Australia, mostly in New South Wales and Victoria. The median age is 42, so there is plenty of room for fresh talent to make an impact.

To break into the role, you will typically need a bachelor’s degree in IT or computer science. Industry certifications like the CCNA or CompTIA Network+ show employers you are ready to hit the ground running. Search for IT courses to find the right starting point.

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Career Outlook for Network Analyst

Network Analysts have a solid place in Australia’s IT workforce. About 1,600 are employed nationally, and most are in permanent full-time roles (94%), working around 41 hours a week (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2021 Census data). The median age is 42, which means there is plenty of room for new talent to make their mark.

Salaries are competitive. The average is around $120,000 a year, with entry-level roles starting near $75,000 and senior roles reaching $155,000 or more (source: yourcareer.gov.au, 2025). More cyber threats and the shift to cloud networks are driving demand for Network Analysts. This is set to keep the field active for years to come.

Most Network Analysts work in IT firms, telcos, and finance. New South Wales and Victoria account for over 70% of jobs in the field (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2021 Census data). Those who earn certifications and keep their skills fresh can move up quickly. Senior analyst and network architect roles are very achievable career targets.

On this Article

Introduction

Average Salaries

Resources

Steps to Become a Network Analyst

Step 1: Complete a bachelor’s degree in information technology

Enrol in a Bachelor of Information Technology or Bachelor of Computer Science at a university. This takes 3 years full-time and covers networking, systems administration, data communications, and cybersecurity. Most employers list a bachelor’s degree as the minimum entry requirement. The Australian Computer Society (ACS) recognises degrees with an ICT major for professional membership and skills assessment.

Step 2: Build hands-on experience in entry-level IT roles

Start your career in roles such as IT support officer, network technician, or systems administrator. These positions let you work on real networks, configure hardware, and troubleshoot problems. Aim to spend 1 to 2 years in entry-level work before moving into a network analyst position. Internships during your degree are a fast way to build this experience early.

Step 3: Earn industry certifications

Gain the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification. It is one of the most valued credentials for network roles in Australia. The CompTIA Network+ certification is also widely recognised and suits those new to networking. These certifications take 3 to 6 months of study and cover network setup, troubleshooting, and security. Confirm current exam details at cisco.com or comptia.org.

Step 4: Join the Australian Computer Society

Apply for membership with the Australian Computer Society (ACS) at acs.org.au. ACS membership gives you access to events, industry news, and a national network of IT professionals. If you hold an overseas qualification, ACS provides a skills assessment recognised by the Australian government. Keeping your ACS membership current maintains your CPD record.

Step 5: Progress to senior or specialist roles

After 3 to 5 years in the field, you can move into senior roles. Network architect and IT management are common next steps. Consider a Master of Information Technology (1.5 to 2 years full-time) to build leadership and advanced technical skills. Specialising in cloud networking or cybersecurity can also lift your earning potential.

What does a Network Analyst do?

A Network Analyst spends their day keeping networks fast and secure. They check traffic and system health, and fix issues as they come up. They also look at how networks are built to find better ways to run them. They plan upgrades and advise on the best gear and systems to buy. Every task connects back to one goal: a reliable network that works for the whole organisation.

Tasks

Network Analysts wear a lot of hats. From analysing network design to troubleshooting faults, their work keeps the digital infrastructure of an organisation running day and night.

  • Analyse and check system design and network specs to support IT development
  • Research and monitor network systems to keep them running at full speed
  • Check and recommend improvements to hardware, software, and communications systems
  • Monitor network traffic, usage, and capacity to maintain speed and data quality
  • Troubleshoot network problems quickly and put fixes in place
  • Plan and run data networks, including cable work and system testing
  • Check vendor products and recommend the right ones to buy

Skills for Success

Network Analysts need a solid mix of technical and people skills. On the technical side, you will work with network design, protocols, monitoring tools, and hardware and software setups every day.

Problem-solving is the other core skill. Networks break at the worst times. Analysts need to think fast, find the cause, and fix the problem. Attention to detail helps you catch issues before they grow into bigger ones.

Communication is key too. You will explain technical situations to non-technical managers, write reports, and brief your team. The better you can translate tech into plain language, the more valuable you become.

Keeping your skills fresh matters in a fast-moving field. Certifications like the CCNA and CompTIA Network+ help you stand out. Joining the ACS gives you access to events and a professional community to grow with.

Skills & Attributes

  • Network design and architecture
  • Network monitoring and performance analysis
  • Troubleshooting and fault diagnosis
  • Knowledge of network protocols (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP)
  • Hardware and software configuration
  • Cybersecurity awareness
  • Data analysis and reporting
  • Project planning and management
  • Clear written and verbal communication
  • Attention to detail
  • Team collaboration
  • Ability to adapt to new technologies
  • Vendor evaluation and procurement advice

Average Salaries

The average salary for a Network Analyst in Australia is around $120,000 a year, or about $2,308 a week (source: yourcareer.gov.au, 2025). Entry-level roles typically start around $75,000. Senior Network Analysts with strong experience can earn $155,000 or more.

min $75 K

max $155 K

av $120 K

About the author

Laura Atkinson - Course Finder Groups
Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.