A network analyst is in charge of assessing, planning, ordering, and installing any communication equipment required by a company. This includes computer hardware and software, as well as telephone systems and other communication equipment.
The first task of a network analyst is to assess the company’s requirements. When it comes to establishing networks, the size of the company — small, medium, or large — has different requirements. A small business, for example, may only need to set up a network for two computers, whereas a large corporation may need to set up or connect hundreds of computers.
After the analyst has assessed the company’s needs, he or she can make recommendations for the type of equipment the company should consider. The analyst not only recommends the type of equipment the company needs to become more effective and efficient, but also explains why the equipment is needed or how the equipment will meet the company’s goals and needs to the business owner or executives.
The network analyst devises a strategy for setting up the network. The plan also specifies the location of each piece of technology. Finally, the plan includes an ongoing evaluation to determine when systems need to be updated or replaced, ensuring that the company network keeps up with the demands of the business.
The analyst typically orders all of the equipment required for the installation after all of the planning is completed. If the installation requires additional manpower, the network analyst may be involved in identifying and hiring the skilled workers required. This, too, is typically dependent on the network’s complexity and the size of the company.
The analyst is then in charge of overseeing the installation of the networking equipment once it arrives. It’s possible that the analyst installs the equipment themselves or simply supervises those who are hired to do so. Following the installation of the network, the network analyst will test the equipment to ensure that everything is working properly. The analyst may even ask the employees to conduct some beta testing with the equipment in order to identify any bugs or issues.
Finally, the network analyst will evaluate the current company network on a regular basis. During these evaluations, the analyst will identify any network issues or replacements that are required.