How much does a Network Security Engineer make?
Network Security Engineers play a crucial role in protecting an organization's data and networks. They earn a competitive salary that reflects their importance. The average yearly salary for a Network Security Engineer is around $131,184. This means that, on average, these professionals make a solid income.
The salary range for Network Security Engineers can vary. Some earn as little as $67,500, while others make over $225,000. The distribution of salaries shows that most engineers fall between $96,136 and $153,409. This range highlights the potential for growth and higher earnings with experience and expertise. Factors like location, company size, and specific skills can also affect salary.
What are the highest paying cities for a Network Security Engineer?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $194,893
In San Francisco, tech giants like Cisco and Palo Alto Networks offer exciting opportunities. Network security experts here protect cutting-edge technologies. The competitive salary makes it an attractive choice for professionals.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $163,170
Seattle is home to tech leaders like Amazon and Microsoft. Network security engineers play a key role in safeguarding their vast networks. The city's vibrant tech scene offers many growth opportunities.
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Atlanta, GA
Average Salary: $161,253
Atlanta's growing tech industry provides many roles for network security experts. Companies like Cox Communications and Delta Airlines need skilled professionals. The cost of living is reasonable, making it a good option.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $159,377
Austin's tech boom brings many jobs for network security engineers. Companies like Dell and IBM are always looking for talent. The city's friendly atmosphere and lower cost of living add to its appeal.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $146,060
San Diego offers a mix of tech and defense opportunities for network security experts. Companies like Qualcomm and General Dynamics need skilled professionals. The beautiful weather and quality of life also attract many.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $141,111
Chicago's diverse economy offers many roles for network security engineers. Companies like Boeing and Accenture need experts to protect their networks. The city's rich culture and history add to its charm.
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Charlotte, NC
Average Salary: $137,159
Charlotte's banking and tech sectors provide many jobs for network security experts. Companies like Bank of America and IBM need skilled professionals. The city's growing economy and affordable living make it a great choice.
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Dallas, TX
Average Salary: $134,162
Dallas's booming tech industry offers many roles for network security engineers. Companies like AT&T and Texas Instruments need experts. The city's warm climate and lower cost of living make it attractive.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $128,588
Washington, DC, offers many opportunities for network security experts in government and tech. Companies like Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman need skilled professionals. The city's rich history and culture add to its appeal.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $124,973
Houston's energy and tech sectors provide many roles for network security engineers. Companies like ExxonMobil and Schlumberger need experts. The city's affordable living and warm climate make it a good option.
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What are the best companies a Network Security Engineer can work for?

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Inferno Systems, Inc.
Average Salary: $212,500
Inferno Systems, Inc. offers competitive salaries for Network Security Engineers. They focus on creating a secure environment for their clients. This company operates in various locations, including New York, California, and Texas.
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Deloitte
Average Salary: $206,200
Deloitte provides excellent opportunities for Network Security Engineers. They work on protecting client data and networks. Deloitte has offices in major cities like Chicago, San Francisco, and Washington, D.C.
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PwC
Average Salary: $155,778
PwC offers rewarding positions for Network Security Engineers. They focus on enhancing the security of their clients' networks. PwC operates in many locations, including London, Sydney, and New York.
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Motion Recruitment
Average Salary: $132,300
Motion Recruitment provides good salaries for Network Security Engineers. They work on securing client networks and data. This company operates in several locations, including Manchester, London, and Birmingham.
How to earn more as a Network Security Engineer?
A Network Security Engineer can increase their earning potential by focusing on several key areas. Gaining specialized certifications can open up higher-paying job opportunities. Certifications such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) are highly valued in the industry. These credentials demonstrate a deeper understanding of network security and can lead to more advanced roles.
Experience plays a crucial role in salary negotiations. Engineers with several years of hands-on experience in network security are more likely to command higher salaries. Working on diverse projects and gaining exposure to different security tools and technologies can make a candidate more attractive to employers. Networking with other professionals in the field can also lead to job opportunities that offer better compensation.
Continuous learning and skill development are essential. Staying updated with the latest trends and technologies in network security can make a significant difference. Engineers who invest time in learning new skills, such as cloud security or advanced threat detection, can position themselves for higher-paying roles. Attending workshops, webinars, and conferences can also provide valuable insights and networking opportunities.
Specializing in high-demand areas can lead to better pay. For example, expertise in areas like penetration testing, incident response, or security architecture can make an engineer more valuable. Employers often seek specialists who can address specific security challenges and enhance their overall security posture.
Negotiating salary effectively can also lead to higher earnings. Researching market rates and understanding the value one brings to a company can help in salary negotiations. Being prepared with data and examples of past achievements can strengthen the negotiation position.



