Computer Network Architects

Computer network architects design and implement data communication networks, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and intranets. These networks range from small connections between two offices to virtual capabilities such as a cloud infrastructure that serves multiple customers.

Duties

Computer network architects typically do the following:

• Create plans and layouts for data communication networks
• Present designs to management, customers, and staff
• Deploy planned networks, testing to ensure proper implementation
• Document processes for posterity
• Upgrade hardware, such as routers or adaptors, and software, such as network drivers, as needed to support computer networks
• Research and recommend new technologies for network performance

Computer network architects, or network engineers, design and deploy computer and information networks. They consider an organization’s specific needs and requirements, such as information security, when planning networks. As part of the implementation process, network architects deploy and configure network equipment. They test the equipment and the network during all stages of implementation to check for slowdowns, blackouts, or points of failure.

Network architects create documentation throughout the design and deployment process as a reference for future network enhancements or maintenance. After deployment, they also may manage the networks and troubleshoot any issues that arise. They analyze data traffic and system performance to determine future upgrades.

Some computer network architects work with other IT workers, such as network and computer system administrators and computer and information systems managers, to ensure that an organization’s networking needs are being met. They also work with equipment and software vendors to manage upgrades and support the networks.

Computer network architects held about 179,200 jobs in 2024. The largest employers of computer network architects were as follows:

Computer network architects spend most of their time in office settings. They occasionally work in server rooms, where they have access to the hardware that makes up an organization’s computer and information network.

Work Schedules

Most computer network architects work full time, and some work more than 40 hours per week.

Computer network architects typically need a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field and experience in a related occupation, such as network and computer systems administrators.

The median annual wage for computer network architects was $130,390 in May 2024.

Employment of computer network architects is projected to grow 12 percent from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations.

About 11,200 openings for computer network architects are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.