How to become A Computer Network Architect

• Network Architect
• Network Design Engineer 
• Computer Network Designer 
• Network Designer
• Computer System Analyst
• Information Security Specialist 
• Network Administrator 
• System Architect 
• Network Engineer

What do ​​Computer Network Architects do?

A Computer Network Architect would typically need to:

• Use their technical and business skills to manage the communication, internet and intranet infrastructures of a company or client’s computer networks, including hardware and software, ensuring that efficient and effective network operations help achieve enterprise goals 
• Meet with their senior management or clients to discuss and understand enterprise objectives and data communication needs to generate optimal solutions
• Evaluate existing networks in terms of security protocols, data flow, scalability, quality of service (QoS), performance level, reliability, fault tolerance, and compatibility with hardware and software components 
• Lead the design process, developing layouts and plans to build new and improved networks or update current systems; prepare budgets and cost analysis sheets
• Present plans to management or clients with a justification of why moving ahead with them is in the organisation's best interest
• Build network models that describe in detail the network architecture, components and design to be used to set up communication between a source and its destination system
• Project network growth based on information derived from monitoring existing network traffic
• Decide which hardware components, including modems, routers, adaptors and network drivers, are required to support computer networks, how cables will be laid out and where other hardware components will be placed
• Factor critical security information and measures into network designs 
• Build the networks, factoring in bandwidth and infrastructure requirements 
• Design servers, configure components and resolve as many issues as possible before implementation
• Lead the implementation of network equipment and structures and placement of security measures in collaboration with software and hardware teams, network engineers and administrators, and other setup and configuration professionals
• Implement necessary software and hardware upgrades; suggest how to leverage the strengths of network installations and lower their operational expenses 
• Test newly installed or upgraded systems for performance and evaluate them for security and scalability to make the required modifications and improvements
• Maintain and update documentation of network drawings, text descriptions and equipment configurations to help resolve issues that may arise in the future and carry out disaster recovery
• Manage, monitor and maintain networks; make necessary adjustments and conduct minor repairs; ensure scheduled maintenance to minimise downtime
• Train IT personnel and other colleagues; promptly address their concerns and those of clients
• Research emerging networking technologies and industry trends to find those that would best serve their firm or client in the future
• Study the impact of the latest technologies on the performance of competitors

​​Computer Network Architects primarily work in offices but may be required to work occasionally in server rooms to access computer hardware.

Travel to meet clients or attend conferences and workshops may be required.

Computer Network Architects typically have full-time jobs and work about 40 hours a week. You may need to put in extended hours to meet tight deadlines.

If you work on a contractual basis, you may have some flexibility to schedule your work timings.

Research suggests that flexible hours and generous telework policies appeal more than salary to the younger generation. There has been an incremental increase in employers willing to give promising employees a chance to adjust their schedules per the job demands.

Finding a new job might seem challenging. Computer Network Architects can boost their job search by asking their network for referrals, contacting companies directly, using job search platforms, going to job fairs, leveraging social media, and inquiring at staffing agencies.

Computer Network Architects are generally employed by: 

• Computer Systems Design Services
• Cloud Computing Services 
• Financial Service Providers
• Insurance Carriers
• Telecommunications Providers
• Management of Companies 
• Government Institutions 
• Cloud Computing Services
• Insurance Companies
• Healthcare Centres
• Manufacturing Industries
• Corporations
• Educational Institutions

Professional associations and organisations are crucial for Computer Network Architects interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation. Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications.

• Dealing with network speed and data integrity loss as a result of performance degradation, particularly in larger networks
• Safeguarding network integrity by defending networks against various cyberattacks and restricting unauthorised users from accessing systems
• Ensuring accurate host identification before establishing network communication
• Dealing with configuration conflicts and network congestion brought on by increased traffic
• Increasing the capacity of networks to handle growing volumes of data from diverse sources
• The need for faster network connectivity as sluggish connectivity can be frustrating
• Keeping track of traffic volume and maintaining networks, particularly those on a global scale

Any academic programme a prospective Computer Network Architect enrols in often calls for periods of supervised experience or internships.

Computer Network Architects will benefit from tasks outside of the classroom that line up perfectly with lessons inside it. One may hear countless stories from more experienced professionals and obtain valuable hands-on experience when they turn seemingly routine incidents into unique learning moments.

Internships, part-time work at an entry-level position, or short-term paid/voluntary work offer a taste of the career, give valuable insight into how a company or institution operates, help build useful contacts, and improve one’s prospects of getting a permanent job. For instance, individuals may work as network engineers, administrators, computer systems analysts or database administrators.

The experience may also help determine whether the public, private, or voluntary sector is best suited to realise one’s ambitions. Your educational provider’s career service department can provide information about viable opportunities for work placements, internships and voluntary work in diverse sectors.

Employers often seek candidates with at least five to ten years of professional experience working with IT systems and in related roles, such as network engineer, network or computer systems administrator, database administrator, computer systems analyst and help desk manager.

After acquiring your degree and credentials, you may gain professional IT experience in full-time entry-level jobs to practise designing networks, developing solutions for technology and tackling various computer systems. Refining critical skills in creating project timelines, writing product specifications and using programming languages will equip you to apply for the role of a Computer Network Architect.

While in high school, you can check with a teacher or counsellor about relevant work-based learning opportunities available in your school or community to help you develop your IT skills and connect your school experiences with real-life work. Join clubs or societies to further your knowledge and skills or volunteer to help them with their IT needs. Read about the profession and interview or job shadow experts working in computer network architecture to prove your commitment to course providers and prospective employers. 

The minimum academic qualification for an aspiring Computer Network Architect is a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, computer engineering, network engineering & security, cloud computing, electrical engineering or a related discipline. Through coursework in network security or database design, computer-related degree programs prepare you with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to work with a wide array of network technologies.

Employers may require or give weightage to an IT-related master’s degree or a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree in information systems. An MBA allows you to take courses in both business and computer-related subjects. You may pursue a PhD if you wish to enter academia or research.

Aspiring Computer Network Architects would do well to study mathematics during high school and also take computer-related courses, such as information technology (IT), computer science, computer applications, computer programming and network technology.

Certification, often offered by software firms or product vendors, demonstrates a Computer Network Architect’s competence in a skill set, typically through work experience, training, and passing an examination. Your company may mandate that you obtain vendor-specific certification in the products they use, as it confirms that you possess the requisite competencies to operate in particular networking environments. 

Candidates may begin learning fundamental networking concepts through Network 5 certification. 

The first level of Cisco Career certification, the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), covers the basics of networking, IP services, security, automation and programmability. Your career can progress in any direction with the foundation the CCNA training programme and exam provide and the agility and versatility they equip you with. A Cisco certification demonstrates the calibre and rigour that companies expect from candidates to design, install, configure and run advanced network systems, including LAN and WAN, and an array of technologies and protocols.

The Cisco CCIE Routing and Switching credentials signify expertise in diverse LAN and WAN interfaces and various routers and switches. The CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure certification requires a written exam that tests your knowledge of integral enterprise infrastructure technologies and a lab exam that examines your grasp of the network lifecycle, from its design and deployment to operations and optimisation. Candidates must pass two examinations to become certified in CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure, including a qualifying exam covering fundamental enterprise infrastructure technologies and a lab exam covering enterprise networks throughout the whole network lifecycle, from building and deploying to operating and optimising.

Candidates for the Certified Information Systems Security Professional - Architecture (CISSP-ISSAP) certification must verify they have at least two years of relevant professional experience. CISSP is a suitable certification for chief security architects and analysts, who may become independent consultants. CISSP certification indicates to prospective employers and clients that you can successfully plan, execute and oversee a top-notch cybersecurity program.

A Cisco Certified Voice Professional (CCVP) certification allows IT specialists to incorporate voice technology into underlying network systems by developing scalable, transparent and manageable telephony solutions. Certified professionals are skilled in configuring, implementing, operating and troubleshooting converged IP networks (those which can support multimedia (voice and video), telephone and data on a single network). Along with Cisco Systems CallManager, certification topics include voice apps, utilities on Cisco routers and Cisco Catalyst switches, gateways, gatekeepers, IP phones and quality of service (QoS).

Computer Network Architects may also need to undergo an employment background check, including but not limited to a person’s work history, education, credit history, motor vehicle reports (MVRs), criminal record, medical history, use of social media, and drug screening.

Performance, experience, and the acquisition of professional qualifications drive career progression. Employees with consistently high levels of performance may be eligible for promotion every two to three years. 

The role of Computer Network Architects is typically earned mid-career, allowing you several opportunities for career progression. You may begin as a Junior Computer Network Architect, helping develop, maintain and adapt a network’s hardware, software and virtual components, applying your network technology skills and knowledge. With experience, you could progress to Senior Computer Network Architect, responsible for designing and reviewing their company or client’s network requirements and approving the designs. 

Within the computer networking field, you could take on specific roles, such as a Computer Systems Analyst, to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses in a company’s current systems and identify what to improve. Or you could take on the role of an Information Security Specialist to safeguard organisational networks and computer systems by putting security measures in place. As a Network Administrator, you would lead the installation and configuration of computer networks and systems and oversee troubleshooting and resolution of issues. Your work as a Systems Architect would entail designing, developing and deploying the core systems of an enterprise.  

Additionally, you could progress to Senior Network Architect, Cisco Network Architect or Enterprise Architect. Or you could become a Computer and Information Systems Manager and head to the senior management role of IT Director or Chief Information Officer. 

If you wish to enter research or academia, you must pursue your PhD. Keep in mind that a background in computer network architecture qualifies you for numerous IT roles by using your transferable skills or acquiring additional ones. 

The desire to accelerate career growth and personal development has an increasing number of millennials choosing to job hop and build a scattershot resume that showcases ambition, motivation, and the desire to learn a broad range of skills.

Studies prove that job hopping, earlier dismissed as “flaky” behaviour, can lead to greater job fulfilment. Employees searching for a positive culture and interesting work are willing to try out various roles and workplaces and learn valuable, transferable skills along the way.

Candidates with the necessary skills, experience, certifications and education have the best job prospects.

Continuing professional development (CPD) will help an active Computer Network Architect build personal skills and proficiency through work-based learning, a professional activity, formal education, or self-directed learning. It allows you to continually upskill regardless of age, job, or level of knowledge and may lead to pay hikes, promotions and enhanced job opportunities.

You must engage in ongoing education and skill development to stay current with the latest technologies, processes and trends in the industry. A popular way to demonstrate your lifelong dedication to professional development is to obtain online certifications. If you have clarified your intention to continue working for your employer, they will likely fund your CPD programs. Furthermore, most courses are self-paced, allowing you flexibility and convenience to complete them.

By undertaking accredited training at colleges and universities, you can advance your skills in related areas, such as cloud computing, technical writing, software engineering, information security, network design and network modelling, and information systems management. Computer Network Architects may also enrol in short business courses to strengthen their knowledge of technology and business.

You may pursue a master’s degree, particularly an MBA (Master of Business Administration) in information systems, to gain a competitive edge in the job market. A PhD is required to enter academia or research.

Computer Network Architecture

A computer network's design or structural and logical layout is called computer network architecture. It serves as a framework for defining a network's physical components, their functional organisation and configuration, as well as the guiding principles and practices to connect network devices, run the system, establish and follow communication protocols and rules for data transfer, and put security measures in place. Network architecture design can be approached in various ways, depending on the network's size and objective.

A Computer Network Architect, with expertise in computer engineering and thorough knowledge of their company or client’s business plan, is in charge of developing, building and deploying a variety of data communication networks, from small to extensive, for their companies or clients. In addition, these trained professionals oversee the installation of routers, cables, modems, and other required hardware and software, as well as troubleshoot any problems that may emerge to ensure that computer networks are operationally sound.

What Purposes Do Computer Networks Serve?

The range and means of interpersonal communication have received an enormous boost from computer networks. Networking uses diverse technologies to facilitate electronic communication via email, instant messaging, online chat, video calls and video conferencing. Authorised users can access information stored on other networked computers due to a network's capacity to allow the sharing of files, data and other forms of information. Distributed computing takes advantage of computing resources spread over a network to complete tasks. Users may also access and use shared resources and devices on the network, such as a printer or storage device.

Why Become a Computer Network Architect

The following are a few justifications for pursuing a career in computer network architecture:

• Competitive pay
• Positive employment outlook
• Challenging yet innovative work

Some Essential Characteristics of Computer Network Architects

In addition to the technical skills related to computer operations, wireless systems and security that Computer Network Architects acquire through education, training programs and on-the-job experience, certain other characteristics help them perform their work efficiently and effectively. 

• Analytical Abilities: Network analysis is a necessary step for Computer Network Architects to troubleshoot networks and identify or develop optimal solutions to connect them, choosing the most suitable hardware, software and other tools, guided by organisational goals, needs and resources. 
• Attention to Detail: Computer Network Architects must consider several factors when creating complex data communication networks. Paying close attention to detail ensures that they provide thorough and accurate designs to enable building networks that perform optimally.
• Human Skills: Computer Network Architects must collaborate with other IT specialists and organisational employees, also presenting plans and providing guidance to them, for which they need accurate and effective oral and writing skills and excellent interpersonal abilities.
• Leadership Capabilities: Once they have designed the network, Computer Network Architects may need to guide or lead a group of IT experts and computer hardware engineers through the process of building the network and other relevant activities, assigning them responsibilities and ensuring that the network functions properly.
• Organising Abilities: Computer Network Architects may oversee several and varied networks within a company and ensure their compatibility. Time management and strategic planning are two organisational abilities that help them keep projects on track and within the budget.

Types of Networks

• PAN (Personal Area Network): A personal area network connects personal computing devices, typically laptops, mobile phones, media players and play stations, across a range of about 30 feet or 10 metres. Personal area networks may be wired and use a USB or wireless running on WiFi and Bluetooth.
• LAN (Local Area Network): A local area network connects multiple network devices and systems within a defined and limited geographic area, such as a building or office. Numerous protocols are put in place to regulate the systematic, reliable and efficient exchange of data and services. Using less expensive components, such as hubs, network adapters and Ethernet cables, reduces the cost of a LAN. Data transfer is fast and relatively secure.
• MAN (Metropolitan Area Network): A metropolitan area network connects various LANs via a wired network, such as data cables, to create a larger network that serves a more extensive geographic area, such as a city. Therefore, the range of a MAN is greater than that of a LAN. Government organisations use a MAN to communicate with the public and business sector. RS-232, Frame Relay, ATM, ISDN, OC-3 and ADSL are some protocols frequently used in a MAN. 
• WAN (Wide Area Network): A wide area network links devices over extended geographical areas, including states and nations. Much more extensive than a LAN or MAN, WAN links are wireless and depend on Ethernet cable, coaxial cable or a cellular radio signal. One of the largest WANs in the world is the internet. Businesses, governments, and educational institutions frequently use wide area networks.

IP (Internet Protocol) Address

A series of numbers separated by periods identifies the user’s city and state but does not reveal their actual address. Each address comprises a set of four numbers, with each number ranging from 0 to 255. Therefore, the range of IP addresses extends through all possible combinations from 0.0.0.0 to 255.255.255.255.

A series of numbers separated by periods identifies the user’s city and state but does not reveal their actual address. Each address comprises a set of four numbers, with each number ranging from 0 to 255. Therefore, the range of IP addresses extends through the various combinations possible from 0.0.0.0 to 255.255.255.255.

IP addresses are not randomly assigned. Instead, the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA), a division of the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), a nonprofit organisation in the US, mathematically produces and allocates them.

Data Packets

A data packet is a unit of data made into a single package to travel on a particular network path. Data packets find usage in IP (Internet Protocol) transmissions that allow data navigation on the Web and other networks.

Modems, Routers, Switches, Gateways & Access Points

• A modem (modulator-demodulator) connects devices to the internet. It is a box connecting home networks or personal area networks (PANs) to the relevant internet service provider (ISP). Its function is to convert digital information from a computer into analogue signals that can be transmitted over wires and vice versa. The conversion occurs through the modulation and demodulation of electrical impulses sent through phone lines, coaxial cables or other wires. 
• A router is located between a modem and a switch or hub and directs internet traffic to the correct networks. In other words, it joins networks and routes or directs the traffic between them. It is a box that allows wired and wireless devices to use an internet connection simultaneously and communicate directly with each other. It routes inter-device data and the data between the devices and the internet, using a packet’s IP address to route it to its destination.
• A switch connects devices within a single network. It transfers incoming and outgoing internet traffic between the devices connected on the network. An internet connection needs a router, but a switch is required only to connect devices. It sends data to the solitary device it is intended for (e.g., another switch, router or computer) but not to a network with multiple devices. A switch examines a data packet's MAC (media access control) address to identify the device it is meant to reach.
• A gateway is a device or node regulating traffic between two or more disparate networks. In other words, it translates communications or data packets from one protocol to another to connect dissimilar networks.
• A wireless access point (WAP) allows WiFi connectivity by sending and receiving data wirelessly over radio frequencies. In other words, it facilitates connecting wireless-capable devices to a wired network. WAPs offer a more convenient, secure, accessible and economical alternative to wires and cables and the flexibility to provide secure internet access to guest users via a password.

Current Scenario

The employment outlook of a particular profession may be impacted by diverse factors, such as the time of year (for seasonal jobs), location, employment turnover (when people leave current jobs), occupational growth (when new roles are created), size of the occupation, and industry-specific trends and events that affect overall employment.

The current demand for Computer Network Architects is high as businesses depend on internet connectivity and a communications infrastructure to function effectively and achieve their objectives. The demand for professionals who can design, build and upgrade network technologies is expected to rise as firms continue to expand or update their information technology networks. 

In addition to an overall increase in job openings, the future employment chances for women working in information technology are also expected to rise. According to PayScale, males currently make up 95% of Computer Network Architects, down from 97% a few years ago, a pattern highlighting the expanding prospects for women to work in this field and for businesses and organisations to hire them.

Potential Pros & Cons of Freelancing vs Full-Time Employment

Freelancing Computer Network Architects have more flexible work schedules and locations. They fully own the business and can select their projects and clients. However, they experience inconsistent work and cash flow, which means more responsibility, effort and risk.

On the other hand, a full-time Computer Network Architect has company-sponsored health benefits, insurance, and retirement plans. They have job security with a fixed, reliable source of income and guidance from their bosses. Yet, they may experience boredom due to a lack of flexibility, ownership, and variety.

When deciding between freelancing or being a full-time employee, consider the pros and cons to see what works best for you.

NASA and other space agencies are trying to create an interplanetary internet by extending wide area networks (WANs) beyond the earth to connect the International Space Station and ground stations.

Being a Computer Network Architect entails far more than just managing networks. Experts in the field must be highly analytical, have excellent leadership, interpersonal, and organisational abilities, be meticulous, pay attention to detail and have a unique mindset compared to their peers. Only then can they successfully oversee the operations of teams that work together to ensure optimal operations of diverse computer networks.

As you advance in your career, take on various tasks and experiences in diverse technologies and sectors to prevent stagnation. Doing so points not only to your broad knowledge base and technical expertise but also to your agility and dynamism in adapting and applying your knowledge in novel contexts. In other words, seek fresh challenges that take you outside your comfort zone.