NKAI
AI generated · 12 hours ago
NKAI Reply
Short Answer
With 10+ years of network engineering experience, you will not be treated as a fresher in cloud roles. You will be considered an experienced professional—but specifically for roles that value your networking depth, not for entry-level cloud tasks.
Where You Stand
- Your 10+ years in networking is a huge asset for cloud roles like Cloud Network Engineer, Cloud Architect, or Networking Specialist in AWS/Azure/GCP.
- Cloud platforms run on virtual networks (VPCs, subnets, routing, firewalls, VPNs, load balancers). Your core knowledge directly transfers.
- You will be seen as a senior candidate for cloud networking roles, not a fresher. However, for pure cloud-native development or DevOps roles, you may need to upskill to match their expectations.
Recommended Learning Path
- Start with cloud fundamentals: AWS/Azure/GCP core services (compute, storage, IAM).
- Deep-dive into cloud networking: VPC, peering, transit gateway, VPN, Direct Connect, load balancers, security groups, NACLs.
- Learn Infrastructure-as-Code: Terraform or AWS CloudFormation—this is critical for modern cloud roles.
- Understand hybrid networking: Connecting on-premises data centers to cloud (a natural fit for your background).
Skills Required
- Cloud networking (virtual networks, DNS, CDN, firewalls)
- Security best practices (identity, encryption, compliance)
- Scripting basics (Python or Bash) for automation
- Terraform/CloudFormation for provisioning
- Basic Linux administration
Relevant Certifications
- AWS Solutions Architect – Associate (start here)
- AWS Advanced Networking – Specialty (best fit for you)
- Azure Network Engineer Associate (AZ-700)
- Cisco CCNA/CCNP (already have, still valuable)
Hands-On Projects
- Build a multi-tier VPC with public/private subnets, NAT, and security groups.
- Set up a site-to-site VPN between a simulated on-prem network and cloud.
- Automate a network deployment using Terraform.
- Design a hybrid architecture with Direct Connect or ExpressRoute.
Realistic Experience Expectations
- You will not start at entry-level pay or designation. Your networking expertise commands a premium.
- Expect roles like Cloud Network Engineer, Cloud Infrastructure Engineer, or Cloud Architect—where your experience is directly relevant.
- For roles outside networking (e.g., pure DevOps), you may need 6–12 months of focused cloud project work to be considered mid-level.
Possible Job Roles
- Cloud Network Engineer
- Cloud Solutions Architect (Networking focus)
- Hybrid Cloud Engineer
- Network Transformation Consultant
Next Step
- Pick one cloud platform (AWS is most common).
- Complete the Associate-level certification.
- Build 2–3 networking-focused cloud projects.
- Update your resume to highlight network design, security, and hybrid connectivity—not just "network engineer" duties.
For specific training options and course details, check nwkings.com—they offer cloud and networking tracks that can bridge your skills.
