Tikona Digital Networks Solution Architect Interview: Rounds, Questions and Preparation

What the job involves

A Solution Architect in telecom and internet designs end-to-end network and connectivity solutions for business and residential clients, translating requirements into cost-effective, scalable architectures. Day to day, they work with sales, engineering, and operations to create proposals, validate designs, and ensure smooth deployment of services like leased lines, MPLS, and broadband. At fast-growing firms like Tikona Digital Networks, they often handle multiple projects, balancing technical depth with customer-facing communication.

Role and technical knowledge

1. 1

   Explain the OSI model and how it applies to designing a broadband internet solution for a multi-floor office.

   Cover each layer briefly, then map physical (cabling, wireless APs), data link (switching, VLANs), network (IP addressing, routing), and transport (TCP/UDP) to the office setup.

2. 2

   What is the difference between a leased line and an MPLS connection? When would you recommend each to a customer?

   Leased line is a dedicated point-to-point link; MPLS is a private network for multi-site connectivity with QoS. Recommend leased line for single-site high reliability, MPLS for multiple branches needing any-to-any communication.

3. 3

   How does BGP work, and why is it important in an ISP network?

   Explain path-vector protocol, AS numbers, and route selection. Emphasise its role in exchanging routes between ISPs and ensuring reachability and redundancy.

4. 4

   What are the key considerations when designing a wireless backhaul for a campus?

   Mention line-of-sight, frequency bands (2.4/5 GHz, licensed vs unlicensed), interference, capacity, distance, and redundancy. Link to point-to-point vs point-to-multipoint.

Practical scenarios and design

1. 5

   A customer wants to connect 10 branch offices across India with secure, reliable internet and inter-branch communication. Propose a high-level solution.

   Suggest MPLS VPN or SD-WAN with dual ISPs, central firewall, and QoS. Discuss redundancy, scalability, and cost.

2. 6

   You need to provide internet to a rural area with no fiber availability. What technologies would you consider?

   Consider wireless (PtP/PtMP), satellite, or 4G/5G fixed wireless. Compare cost, latency, and scalability.

3. 7

   During deployment, you find that the actual cable length exceeds the Ethernet limit. How do you resolve this?

   Suggest using fiber with media converters, or adding a switch/repeater. Discuss Ethernet distance limits (100m for copper).

4. 8

   How would you troubleshoot intermittent connectivity complaints from a business customer?

   Outline a systematic approach: check physical layer, logs, interface errors, routing, and interference. Mention tools like ping, traceroute, and spectrum analyzer.

Behavioural and situational

1. 9

   Describe a time you had to explain a technical concept to a non-technical person. How did you ensure understanding?

   Use a simple analogy, avoid jargon, and check for comprehension. Highlight patience and clarity.

2. 10

   Tell me about a project where you had to meet a tight deadline. How did you prioritise?

   Show structured planning, use of tools like Gantt charts, and communication with stakeholders. Emphasise flexibility and results.

3. 11

   How would you handle a situation where a customer insists on a solution that you know is not technically feasible?

   Listen to their needs, explain constraints clearly, and offer alternative solutions that meet their core requirements. Focus on trust and education.

4. 12

   Give an example of a time you worked in a team to solve a complex problem. What was your role?

   Highlight collaboration, your specific contribution, and the outcome. Show willingness to learn from others.

HR and company fit

1. 13

   Why do you want to work as a Solution Architect in the telecom and internet sector?

   Connect your interest in networking and problem-solving to the dynamic nature of telecom. Mention eagerness to design impactful solutions.

2. 14

   What do you know about Tikona Digital Networks and its role in the Indian telecom market?

   Research their services (broadband, enterprise solutions) and mention their focus on emerging markets. Show enthusiasm for their growth story.

3. 15

   Where do you see yourself in five years in this role?

   Show ambition to grow into a senior architect or technical lead, deepening expertise in network design and emerging technologies like SDN/NFV.

4. 16

   Are you comfortable travelling to customer sites and working in a fast-paced environment?

   Answer positively, giving examples of adaptability. Emphasise willingness to learn and handle field challenges.