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What Do Computer Network Consultants Do?
Computer network consultants are information technology (IT) professionals who provide specialized expertise to help organizations design, build, and maintain computer networks and other aspects of digital infrastructure.
Their responsibilities typically include:
Assess Current Network Infrastructure
Consultants begin by thoroughly evaluating a company’s existing network environment. This includes examining the network architecture, hardware/software inventory, bandwidth capacity, and security protocols.
They use this assessment to identify strengths as well as vulnerabilities or inefficiencies in the current setup.
Identify Areas for Improvement
By mapping the current network infrastructure against the organization’s goals and needs, consultants can pinpoint areas for improvement.
This may include upgrading outdated hardware/software, increasing bandwidth, implementing new security measures, or reconfiguring the network design for greater efficiency.
Develop Network Strategies and Solutions
Consultants use their technical expertise to develop strategies and solutions to address the vulnerabilities found during the assessment process. This involves designing network architecture enhancements, developing security plans, planning bandwidth expansion, outlining IT infrastructure upgrades, etc.
Implement New Technologies
Consultants also oversee and manage the implementation of new network technologies and systems. This includes the acquisition and installation of new hardware/software, migrating data/applications, configuring systems, testing functionality, and rolling out changes to end users.
Provide Ongoing Support
Many consultants establish long-term relationships with clients to provide continuous monitoring and support after initial network implementations. This sustained involvement allows them to fine-tune networks and ensure optimal uptime and peak performance.
Why Hire a Computer Network Consultant?
There are many advantages to bringing in an outside computer network consulting firm rather than attempting to manage IT infrastructure with only internal resources:
Expertise and Experience
Consultants devote their careers to specializing in network technologies and best practices. This real-world experience allows them to expertly evaluate current infrastructure and implement appropriate solutions.
Cost Savings
While consultants charge fees, their guidance and expertise can save money by avoiding the purchase of unnecessary hardware/software, reducing downtime from network outages, consolidating infrastructure, and optimizing licensing agreements.
Access to New Technologies
Consultants stay up-to-date on the latest network technologies and solutions as they emerge. They can provide invaluable guidance for integrating new tech like AI, automation, IoT, etc.
Better Network Security
With data breaches on the rise, consultants can audit networks from an unbiased perspective and bolster security based on best practices.
Improved Efficiency and Productivity
Optimized networks mean faster data transfers, quicker application response times, and less downtime. This boosts workforce productivity.
Qualities to Look for in a Consultant
When researching consultants, look for these valuable attributes:
Technical Expertise
Hands-on experience managing networks day-to-day is a must. Certifications and training on specific platforms demonstrate technical proficiency.
Project Management Skills
Strong consultants know how to keep implementation projects on time and within budget. They communicate well and coordinate team members.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills
Since consultants interface both with technology and people, strong communication skills are vital. They must explain technical issues clearly to non-technical stakeholders.
Industry Knowledge
Expertise within your specific industry can be extremely beneficial for understanding regulations, data requirements, and other unique challenges.
Certifications
Industry certifications like Cisco CCNA, Microsoft MCSE, CompTIA Security+, etc. validate technical capabilities on major platforms.
When Is the Right Time to Hire a Consultant?
Typical scenarios where organizations turn to network consultants include:
Switching to Remote Work
The pandemic caused many businesses to abruptly shift to remote work. Consultants can rapidly equip home offices with secure network access.
Opening New Offices
Expanding to new locations requires building out network infrastructure from the ground up. Consultants can handle planning and implementation.
Mergers and Acquisitions
Integrating networks is crucial when merging companies. Consultants can unify systems, migrate data, and optimize connections.
Major Security Breach
If your network is compromised, specialized incident response firms can conduct forensics, restore data, and improve security.
Expanding Bandwidth Needs
Bandwidth often needs to scale up to support more users, applications, and larger data volumes. Consultants can forecast needs.
Conclusion
Computer network consultants offer invaluable expertise that organizations often lack internally. By leveraging their technical skills and real-world experience, companies can optimize their network infrastructure to achieve security, efficiency, and competitive advantage.
As networks become more complex and business needs evolve, partnering with a trusted consultant can be a wise investment.
FAQs
What are the day-to-day responsibilities of a computer network consultant?
Consultants typically assess existing networks, identify issues, develop solutions, oversee implementations, provide recommendations, monitor performance, troubleshoot problems, and offer ongoing support and maintenance.
What experience and education do you need to become a consultant?
Most have a bachelor’s degree in information technology, computer science, or a related field, as well as 5+ years of hands-on experience. Vendor-specific certifications are highly recommended.
How much do computer network consultants cost?
Fees vary based on experience, certifications, and geographic region. Average rates range from $75-$150 per hour, with enterprise consultants charging over $200/hr. Managed services agreements offer monthly billing.
When should you hire an outside consultant vs. using in-house IT staff?
Consultants are best for major initiatives like office expansions, technology refreshes, and security audits where unbiased outside expertise is needed. Everyday tasks are typically handled in-house.
What questions should you ask when interviewing consultants?
Ask about their experience, certifications, specializations, communication skills, project methodology, industries served, and client references. Get specifics on how they approach assessments, charges, contracts, and ongoing support.
