Computer Network Architects

Also Called: Network Analyst, Network and Security Engineer, Network Consultant, Solutions Architect

What Computer Network Architects do

Design and implement computer and information networks, such as local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), intranets, extranets, and other data communications networks. Perform network modeling, analysis, and planning, including analysis of capacity needs for network infrastructures. May also design network and computer security measures. May research and recommend network and data communications hardware and software.

  • Develop or recommend network security measures, such as firewalls, network security audits, or automated security probes.
  • Develop disaster recovery plans.
  • Monitor and analyze network performance and reports on data input or output to detect problems, identify inefficient use of computer resources, or perform capacity planning.
Industry Areas:

Information Technology

Training Program Areas:

Computer Networking/CISCO • Computer Technician • OCT-Only Information Technology

Expand For Additional Details

Work Context

  • Electronic Mail
  • Indoors, Environmentally Controlled
  • Telephone
  • Face-to-Face Discussions
  • Spend Time Sitting

Tools

  • Network analyzers
  • Computer servers
  • Network switches
  • Network channel or data service units
  • Server load balancer

Technology

Web platform development software
Microsoft ASP.NET Core MVC
Spring Framework
Video conferencing software
Cisco Systems Webex
Videoconferencing software
Network monitoring software
Nagios
Wireshark

The Education & Training You Need

Skills

  • Critical Thinking
  • Active Listening
  • Complex Problem Solving
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Judgment and Decision Making

Knowledge

Engineering and Technology
computers and electronics
product and service development
Communications
telecommunications
Arts and Humanities
English language
Math and Science
arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, or statistics

Education

  • 36% Master's degree
  • 32% Bachelor's degree
  • 14% Post-baccalaureate certificate

Experience

A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.

What are your training options on the pathway to this occupation?

Are You a Good Fit?

Occupation Traits

  • Conventional (Organizer)
  • Enterprising (Persuader)
  • Investigative (Thinker)

Work Styles

  • Attention to Detail
  • Analytical Thinking
  • Dependability
  • Persistence
  • Integrity
  • Achievement/Effort

Values

  • Achievement
  • Working Conditions
  • Independence

Abilities

  • Verbal
  • Ideas and Logic
  • Math

This is what Computer Network Architects across the country typically make.

$37.48 / hour
$77,960 /year

Entry Level

$62.42 / hour
$129,840 /year

Median Level

$93.75 / hour
$195,000 /year

Experienced Level

Income information reflects a regional average.
Income information reflects a national average.

This career’s National Job Outlook is

Bright

Please be sure to verify the outlook of this occupation with your instructor.

Search Jobs