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
- Communicate with vendors to gather information about products, alert them to future needs, resolve problems, or address system maintenance issues.
- Adjust network sizes to meet volume or capacity demands.
- Communicate with system users to ensure accounts are set up properly or to diagnose and solve operational problems.
- Develop or recommend network security measures, such as firewalls, network security audits, or automated security probes.
- Develop conceptual, logical, or physical network designs.
- Coordinate installation of new equipment.
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Qualities of a Computer Network Architect
When polled, Computer Network Architects say the following skills are most frequently used in their jobs:
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 Analyst
- Wireless Engineer
- Networking Engineer
- Personal Computer Network Engineer
- Network Systems Integrator
Is There Job Demand for Computer Network Architects?
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. The BLS estimates 11,700 yearly job openings in this field.
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.
Average Computer Network Architects Salary
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.
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 |
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
Becoming a Computer Network Architect
Are there Computer Network Architects education requirements?
How many years of work experience do I need?
Who Employs Computer Network Architects?
Computer Network Architects work in the following industries:
Other Jobs You May 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
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