Find Grad Schools

Study Area & Zipcode

Computer Network Architect

Find Schools Near

What Do Computer Network Architect Do?

Computer Network Architect Job Description 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. May also design network and computer security measures. May research and recommend network and data communications hardware and software.

Life As a Computer Network Architect

  • Maintain or coordinate the maintenance of network peripherals, such as printers.
  • Design, build, or operate equipment configuration prototypes, including network hardware, software, servers, or server operation systems.
  • Visit vendors, attend conferences or training sessions, or study technical journals to keep up with changes in technology.
  • Develop and implement solutions for network problems.
  • Prepare or monitor project schedules, budgets, or cost control systems.
  • Adjust network sizes to meet volume or capacity demands.

Skills Needed to be a Computer Network Architect

Below is a list of the skills most Computer Network Architects say are important on the job.

Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Complex Problem Solving: Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Judgment and Decision Making: Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.

Other Computer Network Architect Job Titles

  • Network Systems Integrator
  • Solutions Architect
  • Wireless Engineer
  • Network Systems Analyst
  • Server Engineer

Computer Network Architect Job Outlook

There were about 162,700 jobs for Computer Network Architect in 2016 (in the United States). New jobs are being produced at a rate of 6.5% which is above the national average. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts 10,500 new jobs for Computer Network Architect by 2026. Due to new job openings and attrition, there will be an average of 11,700 job openings in this field each year.

undefined

The states with the most job growth for Computer Network Architect are Utah, Tennessee, and Washington. Watch out if you plan on working in New Jersey, Ohio, or Alaska. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.

Computer Network Architect Salary

The average yearly salary of a Computer Network Architect ranges between $60,310 and $164,280.

undefined

Computer Network Architects who work in Delaware, Maryland, or New Jersey, make the highest salaries.

Below is a list of the median annual salaries for Computer Network Architects in different U.S. states.

State Annual Mean Salary
Alabama $104,580
Alaska $94,250
Arizona $101,750
Arkansas $89,840
California $127,500
Colorado $115,300
Connecticut $122,200
Delaware $126,990
District of Columbia $123,200
Florida $91,180
Georgia $114,240
Hawaii $98,880
Illinois $114,780
Indiana $88,210
Iowa $119,590
Kansas $93,670
Kentucky $77,950
Louisiana $79,560
Maine $97,890
Maryland $121,720
Massachusetts $121,700
Michigan $100,710
Minnesota $110,330
Mississippi $89,550
Missouri $99,880
Montana $88,520
Nebraska $98,430
Nevada $104,350
New Hampshire $123,310
New Jersey $124,310
New Mexico $111,210
New York $113,300
North Carolina $108,040
North Dakota $94,750
Ohio $97,250
Oklahoma $87,160
Oregon $108,990
Pennsylvania $101,090
Rhode Island $117,650
South Carolina $85,450
South Dakota $100,330
Tennessee $102,030
Texas $119,340
Utah $114,900
Vermont $85,930
Virginia $123,050
Washington $111,960
West Virginia $92,060
Wisconsin $97,110

What Tools & Technology do Computer Network Architects Use?

Although they’re not necessarily needed for all jobs, the following technologies are used by many Computer Network Architects:

  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Word
  • Microsoft Office
  • Hypertext markup language HTML
  • JavaScript
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Git
  • Web browser software
  • Python
  • jQuery
  • Microsoft Access
  • Node.js
  • MySQL
  • Data entry software
  • MongoDB
  • SAP
  • Microsoft Windows
  • Microsoft Project
  • Autodesk AutoCAD
  • Microsoft SharePoint

Becoming a Computer Network Architect

What education or degrees do I need to become a Computer Network Architect?

undefined

How Long Does it Take to Become a Computer Network Architect?

undefined

Computer Network Architects Sector

undefined

Computer Network Architects work in the following industries:

undefined

You May Also Be Interested In…

Those thinking about becoming a Computer Network Architect might also be interested in the following careers:

Are you already one of the many Computer Network Architect in the United States? If you’re thinking about changing careers, these fields are worth exploring:

References:

Image Credit: U.S. Army graphic via Public domain

More about our data sources and methodologies.

Featured Schools

Find Graduate Schools Near You

Our free school finder matches students with accredited graduate schools across the U.S.