Computers and math
Computer network architect
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, including analysis of capacity needs for network infrastructures. May also design network and computer security measures. May research and recommend network and data communications hardware and software.
Median pay
$134,050
Growth to 2035
+8%
faster than average
Openings a year
9,600
Time to qualify*
5 years
* From a bachelor's degree in an unrelated field.
Pay
Computer network architect
Getting in
- Typical entry education
- Bachelor's degree
- On-the-job training
- None
- Prior experience
- 5 years or more
What the work is like
Dealing with the public
Unpleasant or angry people
Time pressure
Cost of a mistake
Freedom to make decisions
Repeating the same tasks
Time sitting
Time standing
Outdoors in all weather
Hazardous conditions
Computer network architect: 60% usually work over 40 hours a week
Core tasks
- Develop disaster recovery plans.
- Develop or recommend network security measures, such as firewalls, network security audits, or automated security probes.
- Develop and implement solutions for network problems.
- Maintain networks by performing activities such as file addition, deletion, or backup.
- Coordinate network operations, maintenance, repairs, or upgrades.
- Coordinate installation of new equipment.
- Monitor and analyze network performance and reports on data input or output to detect problems, identify inefficient use of computer resources, or perform capacity planning.
- Develop network-related documentation.
Also called: Computer Network Technologist · Network Analyst · Network Consultant · Network Systems Consultant · Networking Systems Engineer · Solutions Architect · System Programmer · Systems Engineer
Outlook and AI
Computer network architects held 181,800 jobs in 2025. BLS projects 195,800 by 2035 (+8%, faster than average; all jobs: +3.5%).
Compare with
- Computer network architect vs. Computer network support specialist
- Computer network architect vs. Network and computer systems administrators
- Computer network architect vs. Computer occupations, all other
- Computer network architect vs. Computer systems analyst
- Computer network architect vs. Software engineer
- Computer network architect vs. Database administrator
- Computer network architect vs. Database architect
- Computer network architect vs. Computer hardware engineer