Computer Network Architects

Career summary

Computer network architects set up security systems for computer networks. They install firewall software and perform network security audits to make sure the network is safe. They maintain networks by adding, deleting, and backing up files from the network. 

Computer network architects do research to keep up to date with current technology. They adjust the size of networks to match storage demands and create records and diagrams of their work. If there are problems in the network, they find solutions and create action plans. They estimate time and materials needed for network projects.

They also work on developing network systems that are: 

• Conceptual
• Logical
• Physical

Computer network architects also maintain hardware and software requirements such as:

• Platforms
• Interfaces
• Bandwidths
• Routine schemas

Related careers

This career is part of the Information Technology cluster of careers.

Related careers include:

• Computer and Information Research Scientists
• Computer and Information Systems Managers
• Computer Engineers
• Computer Network Support Specialists
• Computer Programmers
• Computer Systems Administrators
• Computer Systems Analysts
• Database Administrators
• Electrical and Electronics Engineers
• Energy Engineers
• Geographic Information Systems Specialists
• Geospatial Information Scientists and Technologists
• Information Security Analysts
• Validation Engineers
• Web Developers

Military careers

• Computer Systems Officers
• Computer Systems Specialists
• Intelligence Specialists

Job duties

Task list

The following list of tasks is specific to computer network architects.

• Make sure networks are safe by installing firewall software and running security audits.
• Develop plans for network emergencies.
• Maintain networks by adding, deleting, and backing up files.
• Work on designing conceptual, logical, and physical networks.
• Identify network issues and create plans to troubleshoot.
• Keep records and diagrams of work.
• Create timelines for network projects.
• Estimate time and resources needed for network maintenance.
• Maintain network requirements such as platforms, interfaces, bandwidths, or routine schemas.
• Do research and attend trainings to learn about current technology.
• Help system users set up accounts.

Common work activities

Computer network architects perform the following tasks. These tasks are common to many careers.

• Use computers
• Analyze data or information
• Make decisions and solve problems
• Update and use job-related knowledge
• Identify objects, actions, and events
• Get information needed to do the job
• Process information
• Communicate with supervisors, peers, or subordinates
• Explain the meaning of information to others
• Think creatively
• Document and record information
• Evaluate information against standards
• Provide advice and consultation to others
• Organize, plan, and prioritize work
• Estimate sizes, quantities, time, cost, or materials needed
• Communicate with people outside the organization
• Develop goals and strategies
• Monitor events, materials, and surroundings
• Develop and build teams
• Judge the value of objects, services, or people
• Provide information or drawings about devices, equipment, or structures
• Establish and maintain relationships
• Guide, direct, and motivate others
• Teach others
• Coach others
• Coordinate the work and activities of others
• Resolve conflicts and negotiate with others

Work requirements

Working conditions

In a typical work setting, computer network architects:

Interpersonal relationships

• Are in contact with others each day by phone, e-mail, and in person.
• Have a medium level of social contact.
• Work with coworkers on a team.
• Often lead the work of others.
• Are responsible for their work and the work of others.
• Sometimes are placed in conflict situations.

Physical work conditions

• Always work indoors.
• May occasionally share work space with others.
• Sit for long periods of time.
• See nearby objects clearly.

Work performance

• Cause serious errors if they make a mistake.
• Make decisions that have a major impact on others.
• Make most decisions on their own.
• Must be very exact in their work.

Hours/travel

• Work a regular schedule.
• Work full-time.

Physical demands

Computer network architects frequently:

• Sit for long periods of time.

It is important for computer network architects to be able to:

• See details of objects that are less than a few feet away.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
• Understand the speech of another person.

It is not as important, but still necessary, for computer network architects to be able to:

• See details of objects that are more than a few feet away.
• See differences between colors, shades, and brightness.
• Use fingers to grasp, move, or assemble very small objects.
• Make quick, precise adjustments to machine controls.
• Use stomach and lower back muscles to support the body for long periods without getting tired.
• Determine the distance between objects.
• Hear sounds and recognize the difference between them.
• Use one or two hands to grasp, move, or assemble objects.
• Make fast, repeated movements of fingers, hands, and wrists.
• Hold the arm and hand in one position or hold the hand steady while moving the arm.

Skills and abilities

Computer network architects need to:

Communicate

• Understand written information.
• Understand spoken information.
• Write clearly so other people can understand.
• Listen to others and ask questions.
• Read and understand work-related materials.
• Speak clearly so listeners can understand.

Reason and problem solve

• Follow guidelines to arrange objects or actions in a certain order.
• Use reasoning to discover answers to problems.
• Analyze ideas and use logic to determine their strengths and weaknesses.
• Recognize the nature of a problem.
• Combine several pieces of information and draw conclusions.
• Notice when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong.
• Judge the costs and benefits of a possible action.
• Develop rules that group items in various ways.
• Recognize when important changes happen or are likely to happen in a system.
• Identify what must be changed to reach goals.
• Understand new information or materials by studying and working with them.
• Think of new ideas about a topic.
• Think of original, unusual, or creative ways to solve problems.
• Concentrate and not be distracted while performing a task.

Use math and science

• Use math skills to solve problems.
• Choose a mathematical method or formula to solve problems.

Manage oneself, people, time, and things

• Manage the time of self and others.
• Check how well one is learning or doing something.

Work with people

• Change behavior in relation to others' actions.
• Be aware of others' reactions and understand the possible causes.
• Persuade others to approach things differently.
• Solve problems by bringing others together to discuss differences.
• Teach others how to do something.

Work with things

• Write computer programs.
• Inspect and evaluate the quality of products.
• Design equipment and technology to meet user needs.
• Watch gauges, dials, and output to make sure a machine is working properly.

Perceive and visualize

• Identify a pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in distracting material.

Education and training

Educational programs

The programs of study listed below will help you prepare for the occupation or career cluster you are exploring.

Programs of study directly related to this occupation

• Computer Engineering
• Computer Science
• Information Technology

Other programs of study to consider

• Computer Systems Analysis
• Computer Systems Networking and Administration

Training

To work as a computer network architect, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• have a bachelor's degree; and
• have at least five years or more of related work experience.

Education after high school

Most computer network architects have a bachelor’s degree or higher in computer science, information systems, engineering, or a related field.

Some jobs prefer applicants who have a master’s of business administration (MBA) in information systems.

Work experience

Network architects typically need at least 5 years of experience working with information technology (IT) systems. You should consider participating in an internship while in college. An internship is usually part of a four-year degree program. It offers you a chance to apply what you have learned in the classroom to a work situation. It also allows you to build skills and make contacts with people in the field.

On-the-job training

Because of rapid changes in technology, employers often provide training or pay for college course work. This is so you can update your technical skills or expand your administrative skills.

Military training

Some branches of the military train people to be computer systems specialists. Training lasts from seven to 13 weeks, depending on your specialty. Additional training occurs on the job.

Some branches of the military train people to be computer systems officers. Training lasts from five to 18 weeks, depending on your specialty. You need at least a bachelor's degree to enter this military occupation.

Some branches of the military train people to be intelligence specialists. Training lasts from nine to 24 weeks of classroom instruction, including practice in intelligence gathering. Training length varies depending on specialty.

Helpful high school courses

In high school, take classes that prepare you for college. A college preparatory curriculum  may be different from your state's graduation requirements .

You should also consider taking some advanced courses in high school. This includes Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses if they are available in your school. If you do well in these courses, you may receive college credit for them. Advanced courses can also strengthen your college application.

Helpful electives to take in high school that prepare you for this career include:

• Computer Applications
• Computer Programming
• Computer Science
• Network Technology

The courses listed above are meant to help you create your high school plan. If you have not already done so, talk to a school counselor or parent about the courses you are considering taking.

You should also check with a teacher or counselor to see if work-based learning opportunities are available in your school and community. These might include field trips, job shadowing, internships, and actual work experience. The goal of these activities is to help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.

Join some groups, try some hobbies, or volunteer with an organization that interests you. By participating in activities you can have fun, make new friends, and learn about yourself. Maybe one of them will help direct you to a future career. Here are examples of activities and groups  that may be available in your high school or community.

Things to know

Licensing/certification

Computer network architects can get voluntary certifications from product vendors and software firms. Certification is occasionally required for employment.

Wages

Wages vary by employer and area of the country.

Computer network architects who work full time usually receive benefits. Typical benefits include sick leave, paid vacation, and health insurance. Some employers also provide a retirement plan

Employment and outlook

The table below provides information about the number of workers in this career in various regions. It also provides information about the expected growth rate and future job openings.

National employment

Major employers:

• Computer system designers
• Telecommunicators
• Company and enterprise managers

National outlook

Demand for computer network architects will be about average as firms continue to expand their information technology networks. Designing and building new networks, as well as upgrading existing ones, will create opportunities. The expansion of healthcare information technology will also contribute to employment growth.

However, increasing use of cloud computing will cause a decline in demand for computer network architects at smaller firms. Those with relevant certifications will have better prospects.

Other resources

Association for Computing Machinery 
1601 Broadway, 10th Floor1
New York, NY 10019-7434
800.342.6626
212.626.0500

Association for Women in Computing - Puget Sound Chapter 
3743 S. 170th Street
Sea-Tac, WA 98188

Center of Excellence for Information & Computing Technology 

Computing Research Association 
1828 L Street, NW, Suite 800
Washington, DC 20036-4632

Computing Technology Industry Association 
3500 Lacey Road, Suite 100
Downers Grove, IL 60515
630.678.8300

Engineer Girl! 
National Academy of Engineering

IEEE Computer Society 
2001 L Street NW, Suite 700
Washington, DC 20036
202.371.0101

Information Technology Industry Council 
1101 K Street NW, Suite 610
Washington, DC 20005
202.737.8888

Institute for Certification of Computing Professionals (ICCP) 
244 S Randall Road #116
Elgin, IL 60123
847.299.4227

International Association for Computer Information Systems 
405.744.8632

NaSPA: the Network and System Professionals Association 

Telecommunications Industry Association 
1320 North Courthouse Road, Suite 200
Arlington, VA 22201
703.907.7700

References

Career cluster

• Information Technology

Career path

• Investigative (Science)

O*Net  occupation

• Computer Network Architects (15-1143.00) 

O*Net job zone 

• Job Zone 4 - Considerable preparation needed. A minimum of two to four years of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations.

DOT occupation

• Data Communications Analyst (031.262-010) 

Strong Interest Inventory

• Computer Scientists

Holland occupational cluster

• Investigative/Conventional/Enterprising

COPSystem

• Technology Professional