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.
What it pays
Computer Network Architects earn a median of $64.45/hr — about $134,000 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn $38.42/hr; the top 10% earn $97.44/hr. (Annual figures are approximate: hourly × 2,080.)
Computer Network Architects earn a median of $64.45/hr — about $134,000 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn $38.42/hr; the top 10% earn $97.44/hr. (Annual figures are approximate: hourly × 2,080.)
What you'd actually 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.
How you get there
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree. Overall preparation: considerable preparation (Job Zone 4 of 5).
Working for yourself
About 0.4% of computer network architects are self-employed.
Who it tends to fit
This work tends to fit people who are organized and detail-focused, analytical and hands-on.
Work a simulated shift in this job — freeMake the real decisions this job involves, then see what your choices say about you.Related careers
- Software Developers
- Information Security Analysts
- Database Architects
- Computer and Information Research Scientists
- Data Scientists
- Computer Occupations, All Other
Quick questions
- How much does a computer network architect make?
- The median pay is $64.45 per hour — roughly $134,000 a year, with the real range running from about $38.42/hr (10th percentile) to $97.44/hr (90th percentile). Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Do you need a degree to be a computer network architect?
- The typical entry-level education is: Bachelor's degree. Overall preparation level: considerable preparation (Job Zone 4 of 5).
- What does a computer network architect actually do all day?
- 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.
Wages: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS. Tasks & interests: O*NET. Career pathways shown in the app are draft archetypes — verify before relying on them. Trailhead is a free career guide for students — honest numbers, no hype.
Trailhead is operated by FLEXVermont LLC. It is intended for high-school students age 13 and older, and the educators and families who support them, and is not directed to children under 13. Trailhead is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not offer professional, financial, or career advice, and its wage figures and pathways are estimates that may not fit your situation — they should not be relied on as the sole basis for any decision.
Trailhead is operated by FLEXVermont LLC. It is intended for high-school students age 13 and older, and the educators and families who support them, and is not directed to children under 13. Trailhead is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. It does not offer professional, financial, or career advice, and its wage figures and pathways are estimates that may not fit your situation — they should not be relied on as the sole basis for any decision.