Computer network architecture jobs are some of the most sought after in the IT industry. Modern businesses need modern computer networks to maintain their competitive advantage, and a network architect can do just that. As a result, there are thousands of network architect job roles available in the job market. 

Network architecture seems to be quite relevant to today's world - it is all about our existence in the world today. The ease of communication with the network has led to all the convenience that we are experiencing these days. Ranging from convenience in enjoying the technologies to convenience in traveling places, perfect communication has helped make our lives easier.

The credit for our convenient life goes to computer network architects who design and build data communication networks. These can include local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), and intranets, which can range from a small connection to a multinational series of globally distributed communications systems.

If you are looking to delve into a career in computer architecture, consider both your level of education and specialized technical skills. In this article, we shall explore computer network architecture as a career.

The Roles and Duties of a Computer Network Architect 

A network architect, also called a network engineer, is an expert who manages the computer networking system of an organization. Computer networking links computers together and lets individuals share and receive information seamlessly. A network architect provides the infrastructure that supports software behind email, Internet browsers, memory, and more.

Organizations and businesses rely on network architects to design and maintain information sharing and business communication frameworks. For example, they create communication networks, cloud infrastructure, and networking technologies to meet the operational needs of businesses.

Computer network architects design and deploy computer and information networks. After deployment, they also may manage the networks and troubleshoot any issues as they arise. Network architects also predict future network needs by analyzing current data traffic and estimating how growth will affect the network.

Some computer network architects work with other IT workers, such as network and computer system administrators and computer and information systems managers to ensure workers’ and clients’ networking needs are being met. They also must work with equipment and software vendors to manage upgrades and support the networks.

Workplace of a Network Architect 

Most computer network architects are employed by computer systems design and related services, telecommunications, finance and insurance, and various companies and enterprises.

Computer network architects typically work full time and spend most of their time in offices. They occasionally work in server rooms where they have access to the hardware that makes up an organization’s computer and information network.

Eligibility Criteria

Computer network architects usually need at least a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information systems, engineering, or a related field. Degree programs in a computer-related field give prospective network architects hands-on experience in classes such as network security or database design. These programs prepare network architects to work with the wide array of technologies used in networks.

Employers of network architects sometimes prefer applicants to have a master’s of business administration (MBA) in information systems. MBA programs generally require 2 years of study beyond the undergraduate level and include both business and computer-related courses.

Further, network architects usually need to have at least 5 to 10 years of experience working with information technology (IT) systems. They often have experience as a network and computer system administrator but also may come from other computer-related occupations such as database administrator or computer systems analyst.

Important Qualities

Network engineers must possess a set of certain skills to excel at their job. The skills are listed below.

Analytical skills: Computer network architects have to examine data networks and decide how to best connect the networks based on the needs and resources of the organization.

Detail-oriented: Computer network architects create comprehensive plans of the networks they are creating with precise information describing how the network parts will work together.

Interpersonal skills: These workers must work with different types of employees to successfully design and implement computer and information networks.

Leadership skills: Many computer network architects direct teams of engineers, such as computer hardware engineers, who build the networks they have designed.

Organizational skills: Computer network architects who work for large firms must coordinate different types of communication networks and make sure they work well together.

If you are someone who is fascinated by the world of computers and interested in building communication networks, then a career as a computer network architect may be a good choice for you.