What is a Computer Network Architect?
Computer Network Architect Definition 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: What Do They Do?
- Design, organize, and deliver product awareness, skills transfer, or product education sessions for staff or suppliers.
- Determine specific network hardware or software requirements, such as platforms, interfaces, bandwidths, or routine schemas.
- Develop or recommend network security measures, such as firewalls, network security audits, or automated security probes.
- Develop procedures to track, project, or report network availability, reliability, capacity, or utilization.
- Visit vendors, attend conferences or training sessions, or study technical journals to keep up with changes in technology.
- Prepare detailed network specifications, including diagrams, charts, equipment configurations, or recommended technologies.
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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.
Types of Computer Network Architect
- Wireless Engineer
- Network Operations Analyst
- Communications Consultant
- Personal Computer Network Engineer
- NOC Engineer (Network Operations Center (NOC) Engineer)
What Kind of Computer Network Architect Job Opportunities Are There?
In the United States, there were 162,700 jobs for Computer Network Architect in 2016. 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.

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.
How Much Does a Computer Network Architect Make?
The salary for Computer Network Architects ranges between about $60,310 and $164,280 a year.

Computer Network Architects who work in Delaware, Maryland, or New Jersey, make the highest salaries.
How much do Computer Network Architects make in each U.S. state?
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 |
Tools & Technologies Used by Computer Network Architects
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
How do I Become a Computer Network Architect?
Learn what Computer Network Architect education requirements there are.

How many years of work experience do I need?

Who Employs Computer Network Architects?

Computer Network Architects work in the following industries:

Related Careers
Those thinking about becoming a Computer Network Architect might also be interested in the following careers:
Career changers with experience as a Computer Network Architect sometimes find work in one of the following fields:
References:
Image Credit: U.S. Army graphic via Public domain
More about our data sources and methodologies.
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