What Does a Network Architect Do?

Network ArchitectIf you are interested in pursuing a career within the fields of computer science and or information systems, you may have at some point asked yourself: “What does a network architect do?” Below you can obtain an answer to this question and several others that pertain to the network architecture sector.

Network Architect – A Brief Overview

Although the term network architect can be applied broadly, it generally references an individual who designs computer networks. This work can include networks such as wide area networks (WANs), local area networks (LANs), intranets, various data communications systems, and the internet. The network architect is also responsible for creating, testing, and evaluating networks.

The Network Architect – Roles and Responsibilities

While the network architect will be responsible for fulfilling various roles based on the needs and requirements of the employer, there are several tasks that she or he will almost always be held responsible for. Some of them include:

  •  Analyzing business requirements in order to devise and implement technical network solutions as well as the frameworks necessary to support them
  • Installing hardware such as hubs, cables, wireless adapters, and routers
  • Performing network analysis, planning, and modeling
  • Developing technology road maps
  • Designing, testing, and inspecting data communications systems
  • Configuring network drivers
  • Engineering and executing software functions
  • Managing technology vendors
  • Developing test and implementation plans as well as project timelines for projects
  • Remaining up-to-date on contemporary ideologies and practices within the field
  • Recognizing how various technological infrastructures are currently driving competitor behavior
  • Determining production direction
  • Writing functional specifications documents
  • Assessing vendor development strategies
  • Solving complex problems
  • Performing network troubleshooting in order to facilitate the isolation and diagnosing common network issues
  • Upgrading network software and hardware components as necessary

Educational Requirements

There are no universal educational requirements for individuals who wish to pursue a career as a network architect. In some cases, an employer may require that job candidates possess a bachelor’s degree or higher in a related field such as computer science or information technology. In other cases, sufficient experience in the field is enough to qualify a candidate for hire.

Network Architect-Salary

According to Indeed, a network architect can expect to earn an average annual salary of $112,000. However, this salary is subject to change based on a variety of factors including, but not limited to, education, experience, expertise, and location. For example, a network architect who works in the state of California can bring in $120,000 annually. On the other hand, a network architect employed in Mississippi will likely earn about $117,000 each year.

Other Career Options

Individuals interested in learning about other career options within the field of network architecture should note that several exist. Two such options include work as a systems administrator or a computer security specialist.

Related Resource: Master’s in Software Engineering

Conclusion

If you have given any consideration to pursuing a career in the field of network architecture, you should know that doing so can provide you with a variety of benefits. Now that you know what a network architect does, you can determine whether the job duties indigenous to this sector will be conducive to the development and/or accomplishment of your personal and professional objectives.