What is Internetworking?

<h3 id="section---InternetworkingOverview">Internetworking Overview</h3> <p>Connecting computer networks to additional networks using gateways and routers is commonly known as internetworking. These interconnected networks are called internetworks. The most common example of this is the Internet itself. Wide area networks (WANs), local area networks (LANs) and personal area networks (PANs) are other types of internetworks, but most internetworking is done through Internet routers. </p> <p>Internetworking involves using applications like Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) to provide a reliable stream of data transfer between networks. You might also utilize a User Datagram Protocol (UDP), which is used to send messages in applications that don't require a constant real-time service. </p> <h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutInternetworkingCareers">Important Facts About Internetworking Careers</h3> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><td> </td><th> Network Architecture </th><th> Computer System Administration </th><th> Database Administration</th></tr> <tr><td> Job Outlook (2021-2031)* </td><td> 4% growth </td><td> 3% growth </td><td> 9% growth</td></tr> <tr><td> Key Skills </td><td> Analytical, leadership, and organizational skills </td><td> Multitasking, problem-solving, and analytical skills </td><td> Logical thinking, detail oriented, and communication skills</td></tr> <tr><td> Similar Occupations </td><td> Computer Hardware Engineer, Computer Research Scientist, Computer Support Specialist </td><td> Computer Systems Analyst, Information Security Analyst, Software Developer </td><td> Computer Systems Manager, Web Developer, Computer Programmer</td></tr> <tr><td> Professional Certification </td><td> Available typically through software and product vendors; sometimes required, depending on your place of employment </td><td> Certifications from Microsoft and Cisco are commonly offered/required </td><td> Available typically through software vendors; sometimes required, depending on your place of employment</td></tr> </table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i> </p> <h3 id="section---CareerOpportunities">Career Opportunities</h3> <p>Several career choices are available to you if you're interested in internetworking. Network architects, for example, design computer networks. This is a direct use of internetworking to help computer systems connect for business use. You'll work with routers, hubs, cables, software, network drives, adapters and wireless devices in this career. </p> <p>Computer system administrators support the computer systems used by businesses. You'll use your internetworking skills to make sure all the network systems are properly functioning. When problems occur with the network, you'll examine the issue and fix it. Additionally, you'll conduct performance checks as well as talking to employers and co-workers to determine the users' needs for the network and how best to meet those demands. </p> <h3 id="section---SalaryInformation">Salary Information</h3> <p>The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that network and computer systems administrators earned a mean annual wage of $91,250 as of May 2021 (<i>www.bls.gov</i>). In the same time frame, database administrators brought in a mean annual wage of $96,550. </p> <p>The highest paid people were employed computer and peripheral equipment manufacturing industry, who made nearly $139,910 in May 2021, the BLS reported. In the same year, database administrators hired in the monetary authorities-central bank were paid the most, with an average income of $138,800. </p> <h3 id="section---EducationRequirements">Education Requirements</h3> <p>The exact educational requirements for internetworking careers usually vary. Generally, these professionals hold bachelor's degrees related to computer science. Additionally, some schools offer certificate or degree programs specifically geared toward internetworking technology professionals.</p>