Explore by Career/Computer and Mathematical
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, 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
- $130,390
- per year
- 10-year outlook
- +11.9%
- Growing
- Typical entry
- Bachelor's degree
Key skills
- Critical Thinking
- Reading Comprehension
- Complex Problem Solving
- Programming
- Systems Evaluation
- Active Listening
- Judgment and Decision Making
- Systems Analysis
What they do
- 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.
Majors that lead here
- 11.0902
- Computer Engineering, General
- Computer Engineering, Other
- Computer Systems Analysis/Analyst
- Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Computer and Information Systems Security/Information Assurance
- Information Technology
- Network and System Administration/Administrator
Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (OEWS, Employment Projections) and O*NET, used under CC BY 4.0.