How to Become a Network Security Engineer in 2025

[@nad3058]

Give this man more subscribers, views and likes.. Because he deserves it with all values he is sharing.. A small request, can you do a video showing a roadmap for cybersecurity, ways to build a free/cheap home lab with demo videos, that would be great. Thanks

[@SohailErshadi]

Hey Nad, Thank you very much for your comment. I'm glad you find these contents useful. Sure, I'll add it to my content calendar. Keep an eye out!

[@PinoyDiskubreChannel]

Thank you. I noticed everybody now jumps to Cybersecurity and Cloud studies without going thru Basic Networking which I think is not that bad but not that good also, means, it'll hamper your way to dig deep into overall Network and Cloud Cybersecurity.

[@SohailErshadi]

That's exactly right. People will struggle without the fundamentals and basic networking knowledge, and they will have to learn all of that and go through a difficult process. People in roles such as cybersecurity and cloud computing won't have to face a lot of struggle and hardship if they have a strong foundation.

[@antoniomayen6884]

I’m in the process of studying for the CompTIA Sec + but have realized that it wasn’t really necessary for me to go through a bootcamp. That it would have been more important to take the CompTIA A+ then the networking + and lastly the sec +. A lot is based on hands on experience. This’s the part that I greatly lack. I’ve decided to move into the networking path and then into cybersecurity. Your channel has been very helpful and I thank you for that and the insight to a clearer path. Look forward to seeing more of you.

[@SohailErshadi]

Thanks for the kind words.

[@allisonb9072]

I completely agree with getting a strong understanding of networking. I've seen a lot of comments and videos on various social media platforms where people are talking about going into Cybersecurity cloud, and various specialized fields with no experience. I am new to information technology and decided that I wanted a degree. I am in school for network engineering and security, because I felt that it was more practical to have a strong foundation in networking. I can easily pivot to a specialty after that. Great video, Thank you.

[@SohailErshadi]

Appreciate it Allison. Thanks for taking the time to comment. You'll get there in no time and you are on the right path!

[@deepakjoshi1984]

Great knowledge you shared with thanks Bro :)

[@SohailErshadi]

Appreciate the comment.

[@navinsingh0542]

Good information about current networking domain trend. Thank you for sharing information.

[@SohailErshadi]

Many thanks for the support Navin.

[@eustinpasquallie4592]

Thanks for the info dude👍

[@SohailErshadi]

Happy to help

[@vipinkumarjha6018]

I use this concept.

[@SohailErshadi]

Glqd you liked it

[@migdadNoor]

Good job, thank you for your time and effort. 👍🏾

[@SohailErshadi]

Thanks Migdad. Appreciate it!

[@arianamiri1021]

Barikalla affarin!

[@SohailErshadi]

Chakerim

[@aungsaw30]

thanksyousomuchsir

[@SohailErshadi]

No worries at all

[@muratsomuncu8051]

Hi Sohail, I hope you are well. I want to ask something to you and the friends watching this video. I just graduated from Electrical and Electronics Engineering. I did 3 internships in the field of network engineering. I have network knowledge at CCNA level. The company where I did my internship offered me a job as a network security engineer and I accepted. My career plan was to be a network engineer for 2-3 years and then switch to network security. I'm currently trying to improve myself on the Fortinet firewall device. I plan to obtain both CCNA and NSE4 certification in the next 6-8 months. Do you think I made the right decision? If it were you, what path would you follow, or what advice would you give me in this field?

[@SohailErshadi]

Of course you made the right choice man! Being a network security engineer is I what I would prefer. Why go the network engineering path, where you are doing security right now? Try to learn as much as you can in this position, learn automation, learn broadly about other stuff in cyber. You should be fine my friend.

[@adeelsindhu11]

nice work. recommended

[@SohailErshadi]

Many thanks Adel.

[@AdrianL.Earning15]

My goal is to be a cybersecurity engineer, I am just starting out but I do see the impprtance of learning about networks before going deeper into cybersecurity, so where should I start?

[@SohailErshadi]

Networking foundation is really key! To answer your question it depends on which role in engineering you're referring to. Let's say for a Dev Secops engineer who's not working on network firewalls or loadbalancers you don't need much networking knowledge apart only the foundations.

[@rouellmamaril2436]

After PCNSE and F5, what's next?. and what specific topic in F5 you recommend?.

[@SohailErshadi]

Just get your foot in the door. Become really good at networking, firewalls and automating tasks using python and ansible. With regard to F5, focus on the Load balancing and ASM module.

[@AlastorDarkAngel]

Should I get the A+ first or jump straight into the CCNA I'm starting from 0

[@SohailErshadi]

Depends on your goal. Honestly, if you have zero IT knowledge, it would be good to just go through the contents of A+ not the exak itself. If you're ultimate goal is to become a network security engineer or network engineer, CCNA is a must and it helps a lot!

[@suspendedboy2945]

Hi boss It's Mahin From Bangladesh I have completed the CCNA course and certificate and started teaching youtube hacking and network as the first priority but nobody wants to watch it I gs. Love from Bangladesh

[@SohailErshadi]

Hey Mahin, I guess that's part of the process. Just keep pushing and enjoy the process. Cheers Sohail

[@sepidofpersia]

Thanks for the video. Is Cyber Security really hard for someone with no background? I heard it is...

[@SohailErshadi]

Cybersecurity can be challenging for those with no prior background or experience in the field. It requires a strong understanding of various technologies, as well as an in-depth knowledge of security protocols and best practices. However, with dedication and a willingness to learn, it is possible for someone with no background in cybersecurity to develop the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the field. There are many resources available, such as online tutorials, books, and certification programs, that can help beginners learn the basics and advance their knowledge.

[@rutvimaster6832]

Hey sohail, recently I got an admission in network security course at one of the colleges in Canada.and i find your video very informative and helpful. Can you guide me what are the steps I have to follow and which skills and certificates I need before I start this course? My ultimate goal is I want a better career in cyber security

[@SohailErshadi]

Cybersecurity is a vast field with numerous areas to explore. To determine the right path for you, it's important to understand each area of cybersecurity and decide which one interests you. Are you drawn to the technical side of cybersecurity or the non-technical side? If you're interested in the technical side, you'll need to narrow down which areas you want to focus on. For instance, if you're interested in security engineering, you might focus on implementing and deploying security products for customers. This could involve configuring and deploying firewalls, SIEM tools, EDR, vulnerability management tools, and more. Once you've identified the path you want to pursue, it's essential to reverse engineer what you need to learn and acquire to achieve that role. With a clear understanding of your goals and a solid plan in place, you can take the steps necessary to build a successful career in cybersecurity.

[@JT-qt5fl]

how do you feel about the CCNP security track?

[@SohailErshadi]

Thanks for reaching out JT. It really depends on whether your employee needs it. Personally, I won't spend money on Cisco Security certifications. While I did go through the training and materials to learn how to manage FirePower firewalls, Cisco ISE and Automation, I did not take the exam.

[@allwynmasc1]

Waste of money and time. Fortinet and Palo products are way better and easier to learn and plenty of jobs for both of them

[@anandnandakumar5863]

Hi Sohail, I'm working as a Network Engineer now, handling routers, switches, and WLCs. We also handle Palo Alto Firewalls (we have Prsima cloud as well). As an early professional, I'm doing only L1 (sometimes L2) stuff among the above devices. As you mentioned, I'm currently focusing on firewalls in order to enter network security and then gradually transition into cyber security. I have a doubt, since I got into Networking without CCNA, do I want to spend my time taking CCNA to strengthen my networking knowledge, or can I go with PCNSA/PCNSE from this point into Network Security.

[@SohailErshadi]

Hi there Anan, 1. Thank you for watching the video. Since you are already in the networking field, I don't think you need to spend your time studying for CCNA exam. Just have a look at the topics, and make sure you are across the important topics in CCNA. It depends on you to be honest, if you have the time and resources, CCNA is good to have. 2. I would suggest instead focus on PCNSE and try to get the cert. It will open many doors for you if you like to become a cybersecurity engineer specializing in network security. You should also avoid focusing on one vendor only. Consider learning about Fortinet's products. 3. After you are comfortable with Fortinet firewalls, I would suggest increasing your knowledge in cloud networking and apply the same knowledge you have right now in the cloud. 4. in addition, don't forget to learn automation and python. This is going to make a beast in the field. You will have a bright future if you devote time to learning all the topics I mentioned above. Feel free to ask any questions you have.

[@anandnandakumar5863]

​@@SohailErshadi Thank you very much, sir, for the opinion. I'm doing my best with my team to focus on firewalls and break into the world of network security. But because I'm on the Networking team, I'm spending my time on VPN troubleshooting, Routing, Switching and other Networking Stuff. I was confused about taking the CCNA, but in your opinion, it's better to go straight into the PCNSE certification because it will help me enter the network security domain faster. Also, I'm passionate about SOC, and can you please tell me how to join the SOC team from Firewall Engineering.

[@SohailErshadi]

​@@anandnandakumar5863 If your end goal is to get into SOC, then I would suggest ignoring focusing on becoming a network security engineer. Why not instead spend all your energy learning the skills required for a SOC analyst? Step-by-step plan for you to become a SOC analyst: 1. Obtain your eJPT certification while working full-time. Gain a deeper understanding of networking and firewalls. 2. Learn how to use SIEM tools such as Splunk. Some of their courses are free. 3. Get familiar with Wireshark and packet analysis. You will be able to make yourself stand out if you have this skill. 4. Get familiar with IDS/IPS and how they work.

[@danthamravi6318]

Hi Sir, 1week back i am completed my course of CCNA(routing & switching). I want to move Security side....so which career path is best to choose? & What to learn for that Best path???

[@SohailErshadi]

Hey Dantham, Thanks for watching the video. I would recommend first get yourself familiar with different domains of Cybersecurity. Then focus on what skills to learn for the target role. It's really hard to just recommend you something without knowing your background, skills and interests.

[@mdjiya4687]

@Sohail Earshad I'm a Completed Diploma In Network Administrator. And At The Time I'm Working Technical Support Engineer. But I'm Confused Which Course Is Best For My Carrier Grown in my Future

[@SohailErshadi]

Hello Md, Thanks for the comment. Your career as a Technical support engineer has started off great so far, great job! I started my career just like you. The best thing I can suggest is to find out what your passion is. Whether you're interested in cloud computing, cybersecurity, or network engineering, find your passion first, then increase your knowledge and develop unique skills. If you are interested in these topics, you can take some introductory online courses on them and see which one interests you the most. If you are in the cloud computing industry, gain deep level knowledge in the field and also make sure you have some knowledge in complimentary areas, such as security in the cloud, to make yourself stand out from the competition. Hope it helps. Please let me know if you have any questions.

[@mdjiya4687]

@@SohailErshadi Sir I have Not any Knowledge of Cloud Computing but sir I have a some basic knowledge of both suber security and Network Engineer.

[@mdjiya4687]

@@SohailErshadi sir which is best for me Syber security ya Network Engineer.

[@SohailErshadi]

@@mdjiya4687 both of them are great options. Like I said it depends on you only because you are going to do this for a long time so it should be something that you enjoy.

[@mdjiya4687]

@@SohailErshadi thanks sir i am thinking to complete network security course first then start cyber security.

[@ShreyaJadhav-o5s]

Doing a MS in network security will be Usefull?

[@SohailErshadi]

I would say no. I'm not really fan of universities and degrees.

[@danthamravi6318]

Which is Best for Long career....sir? 1) Network Security Engineer 2) Cloud Engineer 3) Cyber Security Engineer 4) Cloud Computing 5) Network Engineer

[@SohailErshadi]

There are a lot of opportunities in the market for cyber security and cloud computing. You will have a bright future if you learn a skill set that sets you apart. It might be a good idea to focus on cloud security.

[@deanchappell7957]

The link to your template CV doesn’t work.

[@SohailErshadi]

Thanks mate for bringing this to my attention. It's fixed now.

[@Leokev123]

Hi Sohail, Im currently working as a network security engineer with CCNA and CCSE cert. But now i not sure what to focus on? should i go for comptia Sec+ or cloud cert like AWS?

[@SohailErshadi]

Hi Kevin, Thank you for getting in touch. Happy to help out in any way I can. Your CCSE certification is well done. Working with CheckPoint products requires a lot of effort. In answer to your question, it depends on your goals. I've been in the field for 10 years and haven't needed a CompTIA Security+. My knowledge of the exam topics, however, is extensive. Security+ is actually required for most security positions in the USA. You may want to get it if you plan to work in government roles in the USA; if not, you do not need it. Study the topics covered in the exam. Regarding AWS, Azure, and cloud computing. Most organizations have already moved to the cloud, and having an understanding of AWS networking and security concepts will help you greatly and make you unique in the industry. As of right now, I'm studying for AZ-500 and want to expand my knowledge of cloud computing. If you have any further questions, please let me know.

[@citadelarmor]

​@@SohailErshadibut Aws has more market than Azure,is there any specific reason to choose Azure over AWS

[@SohailErshadi]

​@@citadelarmor ou are definitely right when it comes to the market share AWS holds worldwide. However, in Australia specifically, Azure is present in all companies, as they use O365, Active Directory, and Intune to manage mobile devices. What I'm saying is that it's not a good idea to solely focus on one vendor, whether it's firewalls or networking devices. As a cloud engineer, it is expected to have knowledge in both vendors since they are both widely used.

[@citadelarmor]

@@SohailErshadi agreed,and I appreciate the effort you put in replying to every comment with great clarity 🙏🏻

[@SohailErshadi]

@@citadelarmor No worries at all. Happy that you are finding the contents valuable. I'm a small KZbinr right now so it's easy to answer to all the comments. :D

[@danthamravi6318]

Hello Sir, After having 2 years experience in Network Engineer, I can switch from Network Engineer to Cloud Security Engineer is it possible?????

[@SohailErshadi]

Anything is possible when your in IT. If you learn the right skills, and have good hands on experience, you'll be alright

[@sivamallesu]

Is it worth to start my career network security engineer than developer jobs of IT please suggest me

[@SohailErshadi]

Honestly your question is not really clear. If you could expand more, I maybe able to help.

[@AnkushKhare-r8b]

Hey Sohail, Thanks you the nice video. I have a question. I have 14 years of experience in Voice Contact Centre and IVR. However, I am getting an opportunity in the company to change the domain to network security engineer. ( Radware, F5, DNS, WAF, Cloud/Akamai, DDOs, etc.) Considering my 14 years experience in another area if I move to network security do you think in the long term it will be beneficial for me? In market I will be as good as fresher in network security so if I want to change job in future will I be able to get a good switch?

[@SohailErshadi]

Yeah, long term, Cybersecurity will be good for you. Network security is part of cybersecurity Engineering

[@SohailErshadi]

I made tons of money doing network security engineering. if you feel passionate about it, do it mate

[@muratsomuncu8051]

hi sohail. I am writing from Turkey. I will graduate from Electronics and Communication Engineering in 2 months. I have a job interview in a company in 2 days, I hope I will be successful. I have CCNA level knowledge, but I do not plan to get a certificate yet. I want to get at least 3-6 months of professional experience and then get a certificate . I want to start with NETWORK and move on to Network security after 2 3 years. What I want to ask you is this. I want to work in Australia but my English level is not good. Can a network engineer with 1 year experience in Turkey find a job in Australia after improving my English in Australia for 6 months and 1 year? By the way, I sent a connection request from LinkedIn, please accept. Have a good day :)

[@SohailErshadi]

Hey Murat. I wish you the best of luck for your job interview. Make sure to let me know how it goes for you. We live in a good time to be honest, where you can improve and learn anything that you feel you are weak in. Let's say English, if you feel that need to improve it, after you took the job, take classes. Take action now! Don't waste time on this. While you are doing that look for Skilled worker visa requirements and conditions from Australia official web sites.

[@muratsomuncu8051]

@@SohailErshadi thank you sohail for your good wishes

[@allwynmasc1]

I'm a network security solution architect in Australia. Your chances of getting hired from here is zero. Sorry to break it to you. We have many people come here to do masters from Turkey. But getting a job and then sponsorship is still extremely hard. I suggest you do some labs in GNS3 for fortigate and Palo alto firewalls. You will easily find a good job.

[@muratsomuncu8051]

@@allwynmasc1 My goal is to get a job in Turkey, gain experience of 1 year, get a CCNA certificate and then come to Australia to do a master's degree or participate in a certificate program with cyber security. When I do these things, I have a residence and work permit for 2-3 years. If I want to find a job in this process, is it really difficult? Is it possible for me to contact you on LinkedIn? By the way, thank you for your suggestion.

[@allwynmasc1]

@@muratsomuncu8051 you can look me up as Austin mascarenhas Sydney

[@rezaaghapour4620]

🤍

[@SohailErshadi]

Thanks for watching Reza.