Computer Network Architects
Computer Network Architects 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. May also design network and computer security measures. May research and recommend network and data communications hardware and software.
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Job description
Computer Network Architects 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. May also design network and computer security measures. May research and recommend network and data communications hardware and software.
- Develop or recommend network security measures, such as firewalls, network security audits, or automated security probes.
- Develop disaster recovery plans.
- 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.
- Coordinate network or design activities with designers of associated networks.
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Salary
Computer Network Architects with little to no experience tend to make between $60310 and $81960 while the more experienced ones can earn over $137820 per year.
Top 5 paying states | Hourly | Annual |
---|---|---|
CA | $61 | $127,500 |
DE | $61 | $126,990 |
NJ | $60 | $124,310 |
NH | $59 | $123,310 |
DC | $59 | $123,200 |
One of the easiest ways to increase your salary as a Computer Network Architect is to move to a higher paying state like CA. Right now, the highest paying states for Computer Network Architects are CA, DE, NJ, NH and DC.
However, a higher pay at CA doesn’t guarantee that you will make more because the living expenses at CA might be twice as high than where you are currently at now.
Three other factors that can increase your salary as a Computer Network Architect is the degree you hold, the industry you work in, and lastly the company you work for.
Requirements
We asked other Computer Network Architects what degree they had when they got the job and most of them said they had a Master’s Degree followed by a Bachelor’s Degree.
Other than that, we also asked them what did they major in and here are the most popular majors that came up.
Computer and Information Sciences, General |
Information Technology |
Computer Systems Analysis/Analyst |
Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications |
Network and System Administration/Administrator |
Pros and Cons
Here are some of the pros and cons of being a Computer Network Architect.
PROS |
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Suitable for people who likes to solve problems mentally |
Suitable for people who values achievements and are results-oriented |
One of the highest paid careers in the world |
CONS |
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Not suitable for people who likes to help and teach others |
It is hard to get into this career. A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for this career. |
Long working hours (More than 40 hours per week) |
What is the job like
70% of Computer Network Architects said they were satisfied with their job and 46% said they feel like their job is making other people’s lives better.
Is this right for me
You can read more about these career personality types here.
People who are suitable for this job tends to like working with ideas, and require an extensive amount of thinking. They like searching for facts and figuring out problems mentally..
They also like following set procedures and routines. They like working with data and details more than with ideas.
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