How to Become a Network Architect

Network architects design, manage, and implement data communication networks for companies and organizations, ranging from small local networks (LANs) to large wide area networks (WANs) and cloud infrastructure. This in-demand career, with higher-than-average salary, is integral to supporting organizational goals and the effective management of data. 

Network architect roles come with high requirements relating to education, experience, and relevant certifications as well as a skill set focusing on technical, design, and analytical skills. 

Discover the role of computer network architect, explore what the role entails, and learn the steps to make a start in this exciting career.

Understanding the role of a network architect

As a network architect, you design and implement computer networks according to an organization’s specifications and needs. As part of this process you use network equipment to enable communication and digital sharing of data, which you maintain and test at all stages, troubleshoot any issues, and analyze data on traffic to ensure optimal performance. 

Network architecture includes small local area networks (LANs), which are all together in a single building such as an office, and wide area networks (WANs), which connect multiple customers, offices, and locations. A network architect looks at the needs for a company to decide whether a LAN or WAN is appropriate. 

Network architect duties and responsibilities

Network architects work in IT departments and industries with high levels of communication, such as insurance, telecommunications, and finance. Where you work will influence your duties and daily tasks, but in general, you can expect to be responsible for:

• Creating and developing plans for communication networks

• Working closely with management and teams to understand business needs

• Maintaining, troubleshooting, and testing computer networks

• Recommending and upgrading software and hardware

• Completing analysis on capacities of infrastructures 

• Managing network security systems

Network architect vs. network engineer

Network architects and network engineers have similar roles, but you’ll find some distinct differences. A network architect creates the initial design for networks to follow. While you may also troubleshoot in this role, it is a network engineer who generally has responsibility for repairing any issues that arise within the architecture.

Essential network architect skills

Working as a network architect requires a range of technical and workplace skills that you hone through a combination of education and experience. These include design skills, analytical ability, and effective communication skills. Technical skills include:

• Network technologies

• Network and security protocols 

• Network hardware (routers, servers, modems)

• Network infrastructures

• Wireless systems

• Analytical skills 

• Troubleshooting

• Design and modeling

Workplace skills may include:

• Communication

• Problem-solving

• Collaboration

• Leadership

• Detail-oriented thinking 

• Organizational skills

Steps to becoming a network architect

The job of network architect is a skilled position requiring steps to achieve a good level of experience, education to degree level as a minimum, and in some cases, certifications relating to relevant technical products.

1. Obtain relevant education.

The first step to becoming a network architect is to earn a degree in a relevant major, such as information technology, engineering, computer science, or cloud computing. Degree programs that include real-world experience are effective at helping you build the practical skills you need for this role. Look for a course that allows you to take an internship to further develop your skills and gain industry experience. 

Some network architects also hold master’s degrees as a way of engaging in more in-depth learning. Computer science or business subjects are good options.

2. Gain practical experience.

This is a complex technical role that requires experience before taking on the position. As well as looking at internships, you’re more likely to gain a job as a network architect if you have some entry-level experience in networking or IT in general. Network architects typically have five years of experience before applying for a role. Consider roles such as database manager or network administrator as a way of consolidating your skills. 

3. Pursue certifications.

In addition to a good educational grounding, you’ll find value in pursuing relevant certifications as a way of demonstrating your skills and knowledge to employers. Some employers ask for industry certifications or certifications relating to the products the company uses. 

Some possible certifications to look into include:

• Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)

• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

• CompTIA Network+

• Salesforce Certified Technical Architect (CTA)

• VMware Certified Professional (VCP)

4. Develop a professional network.

When you’re looking for a job, contacts in your industry can help, especially if you have worked with them personally and impressed them with your knowledge and skills. Build your professional contacts through industry experience, college, and networking websites like LinkedIn. 

Where does a network architect work?

Network architects have the opportunity to work across sectors, anywhere that has a network infrastructure connecting workers, offices, or organizations. This means that options are wide ranging. Examples of common employers and industries include:

• Computer systems and design services

• Telecommunications

• Education providers

• Financial services

• Cloud computing

• Health care

• Government agencies

• Manufacturing companies

• Insurance providers

Career advancement 

Working as a network architect is already an advanced position, but you’ll still find scope to progress in your career to more senior positions. Some network architects take on managerial roles, such as computer information systems manager.

Salary and job outlook for a network architect

The job outlook for a network architect is good, with a projected 13 percent increase in jobs between 2023 and 2033, which is much higher than average [1].

As a network architect, you can also expect higher-than-average salaries. The median annual salary for this position is $129,840 [1]. The exact salary you receive depends on factors such as your industry and experience; the highest 10 percent of earners take home an annual average of $195,000 [2]. Salary is also typically highest for those working in computer systems design. 

Learn more about network architecture with Coursera

Network architects are in high demand, providing you have the skills, experience, and education to succeed in this highly technical role. If you’d like a career in network architecture, consider taking an online course or earning a Professional Certificate to boost your knowledge and bolster your resume. Check out the IBM IT Support Professional Certificate, available on Coursera, which provides you with a foundation in areas like networking, cloud computing, hardware configuration, and troubleshooting.