Computer Network Architects
Human Advantage 68%
Significant human skills needed
AI Automation Risk Moderate Risk
3.1 / 10
Some tasks in this role may be augmented by AI, but human oversight and interpersonal skills remain important.
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.
Also Known As: Cloud Architect, Cloud Network Engineer, Computer Network Analyst, Computer Network Engineer, Computer Network Technologist, Data Communications Analyst, Enterprise Architect, IT Analyst (Information Technology Analyst) +35 more
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.
- Develop and write procedures for installation, use, or troubleshooting of communications hardware or software.
- Participate in network technology upgrade or expansion projects, including installation of hardware and software and integration testing.
- Design, build, or operate equipment configuration prototypes, including network hardware, software, servers, or server operation systems.
- Adjust network sizes to meet volume or capacity demands.
- Communicate with system users to ensure accounts are set up properly or to diagnose and solve operational problems.
- Develop conceptual, logical, or physical network designs.
- Evaluate network designs to determine whether customer requirements are met efficiently and effectively.
- Communicate with vendors to gather information about products, alert them to future needs, resolve problems, or address system maintenance issues.
- Develop plans or budgets for network equipment replacement.
- Communicate with customers, sales staff, or marketing staff to determine customer needs.
- Determine specific network hardware or software requirements, such as platforms, interfaces, bandwidths, or routine schemas.
- Prepare detailed network specifications, including diagrams, charts, equipment configurations, or recommended technologies.
- Supervise engineers or other staff in the design or implementation of network solutions.
- Research and test new or modified hardware or software products to determine performance and interoperability.
- Estimate time and materials needed to complete projects.
- Design, organize, and deliver product awareness, skills transfer, or product education sessions for staff or suppliers.
- Explain design specifications to integration or test engineers.
- Develop procedures to track, project, or report network availability, reliability, capacity, or utilization.
- Coordinate network or design activities with designers of associated networks.
- Prepare or monitor project schedules, budgets, or cost control systems.
- Prepare design presentations and proposals for staff or customers.
- Use network computer-aided design (CAD) software packages to optimize network designs.
Supplemental Tasks (3)
- Visit vendors, attend conferences or training sessions, or study technical journals to keep up with changes in technology.
- Develop or maintain project reporting systems.
- Maintain or coordinate the maintenance of network peripherals, such as printers.
Education & Training
Job Zone 4 Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed
Education: Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.
Experience: A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.
On-the-Job Training: Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.
Education Level Distribution
Percentage of workers in this occupation with each education level.
Technology & Tools
Hot Technologies
Software (284)
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Where This Career Leads
Career progression organized by specialty track and experience level.
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Zone 4
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Zone 4
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Zone 5
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