Computer Network Architects
Additional Information
Duties
Architects of computer networks generally perform the following:
- Initiate the design and architecture of data networks.
- Explain to management why you believe your ideas are in the best interests of the company.
- When constructing a network, think about information security.
- Computer networks can benefit from upgrades to hardware, such as routers and adaptors, as well as software, such as network drivers.
- Research new networking technologies to find out what would be ideal for the future of their firm.
A computer network architect, or network engineer, is responsible for designing and implementing computer systems and information networks, such as the Internet. For those who have already been deployed, they may also be responsible for maintaining and troubleshooting the network infrastructure. By assessing existing data traffic and predicting how expansion would affect the network, network architects may anticipate future demands.
IT professionals such as network and computer system administrators and computer and information systems managers collaborate with some computer network architects to meet the networking requirements of both employees and clients. In order to manage updates and maintain networks, they must also interact with equipment and software providers.
Education
The majority of computer network architects hold a bachelor's degree in computer and information technology or a closely related subject. It is possible to learn about network security and database architecture through a computer-related degree program. These programs train network architects to deal with a wide range of technologies.
If you want to work as a network architect, you may want to acquire an MBA in information systems. A two-year post-baccalaureate MBA program often includes both business and computer-related coursework.
Working Knowledge of a Related Field
In order to become a network architect, one needs have at least five to ten years of experience dealing with IT systems. A database administrator or computer systems analyst is another job title for someone with a background in networking and computer systems administration.
Registration, Certification, and Licenses.
In the majority of cases, certification programs are supplied by product manufacturers or software developers. In order to assure that network architects can operate in specific networking settings, vendor-specific certifications verify a set of abilities. Certification in the products that a company uses by its network architects may be required by that company.
Advancement
Others become computer and information systems administrators as a result of their employment as network architects.
Characteristics of Critical Importance
Analytical abilities. " Based on the goals and resources of the company, computer network architects must assess data networks and determine how to effectively link them.
Focused on specifics. As part of the process of designing a computer network, network architects produce detailed blueprints of the network's components and their interactions.
The ability to interact with others. In order to build and execute computer and information networks properly, these professionals must collaborate with a variety of other individuals.
Pay
The median annual wage for computer network architects was $130,390 in May 2024. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $79,520, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $198,030.
Job Projections
Employment of computer network architects is projected to grow 13 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.