Computer network architects
SOC Code: 15-1241Also known as:
Cloud Architect, Cloud Network Engineer, Computer Network Analyst, Computer Network Engineer, Computer Network Technologist
Median Annual Salary
$130,390
+11.9% growth (2024-2034)
11K
Openings/Year
179K
Current Jobs
What Computer network architects Do
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.
💰 Salary
$130,390
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
+11.9%
Much faster than average
🎓 Education
Bachelor's degree
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
11K
Projected average per year
👔 Work Experience
5 years or more
Required before entry
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
179,200
Projected Employment (2034)
200,600
Related Careers
Computer network support specialists
$73,340 •
+1.8% growth
Computer network architects
$130,390 •
+11.9% growth
Network and computer systems administrators
$96,800 •
-4.2% growth
Computer occupations, all other
$108,970 •
+8.2% growth
Top Skills Required
Critical Thinking
Reading Comprehension
Complex Problem Solving
Programming
Systems Evaluation
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
- 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.
Technology & Tools
📚 Entry-Level Education
Bachelor's degree
Most common requirement
🎯 Recommended Education
Bachelor's Degree
O*NET recommended level
Degree Programs for Computer network architects
These degree programs can prepare you for a career as a computer network architects:
Computer and Information Sciences, General
67,926 degrees awarded •
882 colleges offer this program
Information Technology
42,322 degrees awarded •
668 colleges offer this program
Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance
38,088 degrees awarded •
841 colleges offer this program
Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications
13,753 degrees awarded •
475 colleges offer this program
Computer Engineering, General
13,508 degrees awarded •
303 colleges offer this program
Network and System Administration/Administrator
4,755 degrees awarded •
206 colleges offer this program
Computer Systems Analysis/Analyst
3,034 degrees awarded •
81 colleges offer this program
Cloud Computing
1,229 degrees awarded •
50 colleges offer this program
Computer Engineering, Other
404 degrees awarded •
20 colleges offer this program
Best Colleges for Becoming a Computer network architects
Ranked by Repit grade, then by degrees in related programs. These are the top-rated colleges that prepare students to become computer network architects.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much do computer network architects make?
The median annual salary for computer network architects is $130,390.
What education do computer network architects need?
Most computer network architects positions require a bachelor's degree.
Common degree programs include Computer and Information Sciences, General, Information Technology, Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance.
Is becoming computer network architects a good career choice?
Computer network architects is projected to see +11.9% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which is much faster than average for all occupations. With approximately 11,200 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for computer network architects?
Top colleges for aspiring computer network architects include
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus, New York University, The University of Texas at Austin, University of Florida.
These schools are ranked based on their Repit grade and the number of graduates in related programs.
What other job titles are similar to computer network architects?
Computer network architects may also be known as: Cloud Architect, Cloud Network Engineer, Computer Network Analyst, Computer Network Engineer, Computer Network Technologist, Data Communications Analyst, Enterprise Architect, Internetworking Technician (Internetworking Tech), IT Analyst (Information Technology Analyst), IT Network Engineer (Information Technology Network Engineer), Network Analyst, Network Architect, Network Computer Consultant, Network Consultant, Network Control Analyst, Network Control Analyst Assistant, Network Designer, Network Developer, Network Operations Analyst (Network Ops Analyst), Network Operations Specialist (Network Ops Specialist).
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.