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What Does a Network Analyst Do?

Kristie Lorette
Kristie Lorette

A network analyst is responsible for evaluating, planning, ordering and installing any communication equipment that a business needs. This includes, but is not limited to the computer hardware and software, telephone systems and other communication machinery.

The first role of a network analyst is to evaluate the needs of the business. the size of the business — small medium, or large companies — have different needs when it comes to establishing their networks. For example, a small business may only need to establish a network for two computers, while a large company may need to create a network for or connect hundreds of computer systems.

Evaluating, planning and installing communications equipment are responsibilities of network analysts.
Evaluating, planning and installing communications equipment are responsibilities of network analysts.

Once the analyst evaluates the needs of the business, this person can then make some suggestions on the type of equipment that the company should consider. In addition to suggesting the type of equipment that the company needs to make it more effective and efficient, the analyst also explains to the business owner or executives why the equipment is needed or how the equipment will meet the company’s goals and needs.

A network analyst may use a network cable tester to test that the network cables are operating properly following the installation.
A network analyst may use a network cable tester to test that the network cables are operating properly following the installation.

The network analyst creates a plan on how the network will be set up. The plan also includes where each piece of technology will be installed. Finally, the plan includes an ongoing evaluation to determine when systems need updating or replacing so that the company network also stays consistent with the needs of the business operations.

After all of the planning is finished, the analyst typically orders all of the equipment required for the installation. If additional manpower is required for the installation, the network analyst may also be involved in identifying and hiring the experienced workers they need. Again, this typically depends on the complexity of the network and the size of the business.

A network analyst is responsible for ensuring that a company's network continues to meet the needs of business operations.
A network analyst is responsible for ensuring that a company's network continues to meet the needs of business operations.

When the networking equipment arrives, the analyst is then responsible for overseeing the installation of the equipment. It could be that the analyst installs it on their own or simply supervises the individuals hired to install the equipment. After the network is installed, the network analyst will also go through a testing phase of the equipment to ensure that everything is working properly. The analyst may even have the employees do some beta testing with the equipment to pinpoint any bugs or issues.

Finally, the network analyst will continuously evaluate the existing company network. During these evaluations, the analyst will identify any problems or replacements that need to be made to the network.

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    • Evaluating, planning and installing communications equipment are responsibilities of network analysts.
      By: Eimantas Buzas
      Evaluating, planning and installing communications equipment are responsibilities of network analysts.
    • A network analyst may use a network cable tester to test that the network cables are operating properly following the installation.
      By: rlat
      A network analyst may use a network cable tester to test that the network cables are operating properly following the installation.
    • A network analyst is responsible for ensuring that a company's network continues to meet the needs of business operations.
      By: sumos
      A network analyst is responsible for ensuring that a company's network continues to meet the needs of business operations.