What is a network?
Theme: Networking Fundamentals Role: Network Engineer Function: Technology
Interview Question for Network Engineer: See sample answers, motivations & red flags for this common interview question. About Network Engineer: Designs and maintains computer networks. This role falls within the Technology function of a firm. See other interview questions & further information for this role here
Sample Answer
Example response for question delving into Networking Fundamentals with the key points that need to be covered in an effective response. Customize this to your own experience with concrete examples and evidence
- Definition: A network is a collection of interconnected devices, such as computers, servers, routers, switches, and other hardware components, that are linked together to facilitate communication and data sharing
- Purpose: The primary purpose of a network is to enable the sharing of resources and information between devices and users. It allows for efficient communication, data transfer, and collaboration
- Components: A network consists of various components, including: - Devices: Computers, servers, routers, switches, printers, etc. - Cables: Ethernet cables, fiber optic cables, etc. - Network protocols: TCP/IP, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, etc. - Network interfaces: Network cards, wireless adapters, etc
- Types of Networks: There are several types of networks, including: - Local Area Network (LAN): Covers a small geographical area, such as an office or building. - Wide Area Network (WAN): Spans large distances, connecting multiple LANs or remote locations. - Metropolitan Area Network (MAN): Covers a city or metropolitan area. - Wireless Network: Utilizes wireless technology, such as Wi-Fi, to connect devices without physical cables. - Virtual Private Network (VPN): Provides secure remote access to a private network over the internet
- Network Topologies: Networks can be structured in different topologies, including: - Bus: All devices are connected to a central cable, called a bus. - Star: Devices are connected to a central hub or switch. - Ring: Devices are connected in a circular loop. - Mesh: Each device is connected to every other device in the network. - Hybrid: Combination of two or more topologies
- Network Layers: Networks are often organized into layers, such as the OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model or the TCP/IP model. These layers include: - Physical Layer: Deals with the physical transmission of data through cables, connectors, and network interfaces. - Data Link Layer: Ensures reliable transmission of data over a physical link. - Network Layer: Handles routing and addressing of data packets. - Transport Layer: Provides end-to-end communication between devices. - Application Layer: Supports specific applications and services
- Network Security: Network security involves protecting the network and its resources from unauthorized access, attacks, and data breaches. It includes measures such as firewalls, encryption, access control, and intrusion detection systems
- Network Management: Network management involves monitoring, configuring, and maintaining the network infrastructure to ensure its optimal performance. It includes tasks such as network monitoring, troubleshooting, capacity planning, and implementing updates or patches
- Emerging Technologies: Networks are constantly evolving, and emerging technologies are shaping their future. Some of these technologies include software-defined networking (SDN), network virtualization, Internet of Things (IoT), and 5G wireless networks
- Importance of Network Engineers: Network engineers play a crucial role in designing, implementing, and maintaining networks. They ensure the network's reliability, security, and performance, troubleshoot issues, and keep up with technological advancements to optimize network infrastructure
Underlying Motivations
What the Interviewer is trying to find out about you and your experiences through this question
- Technical Knowledge: Assessing the candidate's understanding of network fundamentals and concepts
- Communication Skills: Evaluating the candidate's ability to explain complex technical concepts in a clear and concise manner
- Problem-Solving Skills: Determining the candidate's capability to troubleshoot and resolve network issues effectively
- Experience & Expertise: Assessing the depth of the candidate's experience and expertise in designing, implementing, and managing networks
- Adaptability: Evaluating the candidate's ability to adapt to evolving network technologies and industry trends
Potential Minefields
How to avoid some common minefields when answering this question in order to not raise any red flags
- Lack of basic understanding: Not being able to provide a clear and concise definition of a network
- Overcomplicating the answer: Using technical jargon or complex explanations that the interviewer may not understand
- Focusing only on hardware: Neglecting to mention the importance of software, protocols, and data transmission in a network
- Ignoring security: Not mentioning the need for network security measures and protocols
- Lack of scalability: Not discussing the ability of a network to grow and adapt to changing needs
- Not mentioning different types of networks: Forgetting to mention local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and other types of networks
- Not discussing network troubleshooting: Neglecting to mention the importance of network monitoring, diagnostics, and problem-solving
- Not mentioning network protocols: Forgetting to mention TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, or other important network protocols
- Lack of understanding of network components: Not being able to explain the role of routers, switches, firewalls, and other network devices
- Not discussing network performance: Neglecting to mention bandwidth, latency, and other factors that affect network performance