In 2025, it will be essential to master a blend of technical and soft skills for success in routing and switching.

In 2025, it will be essential to master a blend of technical and soft skills for success in routing and switching. 

The primary technical domains encompass cloud networking, network automation, network programmability, and proficiency in contemporary protocols such as HTTP/3 and QUIC. Additionally, soft skills including project management, cross-functional collaboration, and effective documentation are equally important.

Below is a detailed list of 20 skills to concentrate on:

Technical Skills:

1. Cloud Networking: A solid grasp of SDN (Software-Defined Networking) and cloud-based network management is crucial.

2. Network Automation: Expertise in tools such as Ansible, Python, and various scripting languages for automating network operations.

3. Network Programmability: Proficiency in protocols like gRPC and NETCONF for the programmatic management and configuration of networks.

4. Modern Network Protocols: Familiarity with HTTP/3, QUIC, and segment routing (SRv6).

5. Routing Protocols: A comprehensive understanding of protocols including OSPF, BGP, and EIGRP.

6. Network Security: Skills in configuring firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and VPN technologies.

7. Troubleshooting: The ability to diagnose and resolve network problems using diagnostic tools and methodologies.

8. Network Monitoring: Employing tools to assess network performance and pinpoint bottlenecks.

9. Disaster Recovery: Developing strategies for network recovery and ensuring business continuity.

10. Virtualization Technologies: Knowledge of and experience with technologies such as VMware and Hyper-V.

11. Wireless Networking: Competence in configuring and troubleshooting wireless networks.

12. IPv6: Managing the transition to and administration of IPv6 networks.

13. Network Design: Crafting efficient and scalable network architectures.

14. Network Performance Optimization: Strategies for reducing latency and enhancing bandwidth.

15. Network Capacity Planning: Anticipating future network requirements.

Soft Skills:

1. Project Management:

The capability to efficiently oversee network projects, incorporating Agile methodologies.

2. Cross-functional Collaboration:

Cooperating with various teams (such as security and development) to reach shared objectives.

3. Clear Documentation:

Producing detailed documentation for network configurations and processes.

4. Communication Skills:

Effectively conveying technical information to both technical and non-technical audiences.

5. Business Acumen:

Grasping the business implications of network decisions and aligning network strategies with organizational goals.

By cultivating a blend of these technical and soft skills, network professionals can secure their ongoing relevance and success in 2025 and beyond.