L2/L3 Protocol Job Prospects: Skills, Companies, and Salary

layer 2/3 protocol
wireless communication
embedded system
job prospect
career

L2 (Layer-2) and L3 (Layer-3) fall under OSI layer-2/3. Various wireless technologies adopt different protocols at these layers based on system specifications, but the basic function remains the same.

As we know, L2 (Layer 2) handles error detection using CRC, flow control, retransmission of erroneous packets, and resource assignment. L3 (Layer 3) takes care of routing, logical addressing, packet sequencing, and provides interfacing with TCP or UDP.

L2 and L3 jobs require a basic understanding of the L2 and L3 protocols. However, specific protocol knowledge/experience is a must. Different wireless standards/technologies have different protocols and syntax at these layers. Hence, working experience makes the difference in performing the roles and responsibilities with respect to the job. Expertise in programming languages such as C/C++ will be necessary for these jobs. Basic knowledge of L1 is also sometimes required to analyze the root causes in failure cases or understand the problem from a system perspective.

Demand Across Industries

  • Wireless telecommunication industry
  • Test and Measurement industry
  • Embedded industry

Skills

  • Layer-2 (L2) protocols, Layer-3 protocols (RLC, MAC, PDCP, RRC, IP, SIGTRAN, TCP, UDP)
  • C/C++ language with emphasis on data structures and algorithms
  • Perl or Shell scripting (will be a plus)
  • GSM, WCDMA, LTE, WiMAX standards
  • Code Composer / Code Composer emulator and debugging tools
  • Linux / VxWorks software platforms/Operating systems
  • Multi-Core DSPs, GPP or processor porting/troubleshooting/debugging
  • Design Methodologies: OOD / UML
  • Architecture-level implementation including point-control plane, data plane, or user plane experience

Companies Hiring for L2/L3 Jobs

  • Wipro
  • Infosys
  • Mindtek
  • Ericsson
  • Cisco
  • NSN
  • Juniper
  • Arista networks
  • Huawei Technologies
  • Radisys

Expected Salary Range

ExperiencePayscale
Entry-levelRs. 225,500 to Rs. 352,000 per year
Mid-careerRs. 425,500 to Rs. 1,550,000 per year

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