Communication networks are necessary for businesses and organizations so that staff members may connect to the internet and communicate with one another. They rely on a combination of cloud-based, wide-area, and local-area network-based systems.
The professional responsible for building this essential infrastructure is a computer network architect.
You can check the article: 6 Solution To Fix Apex Legends Infinite Loading Screen
A Computer Network Architect: What Is It?
An organization’s IT and communication infrastructures are designed by a computer network architect. The term “network architecture” describes the software, hardware, transmission devices, and other elements that enable users to connect continuously.
To succeed in their position, computer network architects must acquire a variety of skill sets, just like those in other information technology-related fields. Gaining expertise in these several fields will help you get paid IT work.
- Network system design, modeling, testing, and troubleshooting.
- Examining and testing current networks
- Network upgrades (hardware and software)
- identifying and addressing security flaws in a brand-new or established network
- creating, composing, and distributing technical documentation for an existing or proposed network
- installing and maintaining the network’s hardware, which includes the routers, hubs, adapters, and cables that link them.
Differences between a network architect, network administrator, and network engineer. It’s common to use these three terms interchangeably. They do, however, differ greatly from one another. An established network must be managed and supported by a network administrator.
- A network engineer follows a design to construct a network and fixes problems as they occur. The network architect develops the blueprint that other network experts adhere to.
- A network architect may occasionally handle network construction and maintenance as well.
- A network architect needs a solid educational basis upon which to build their career, as they may need to wear multiple hats based on the demands of their business.
What Is the Work of a Computer Network Architect?
Despite their wide range of work environments, computer network architects typically do the same tasks. These are some of the regular jobs that a lot of network architects do.
- creating the network’s design. Network architects may create connections with pre-existing networks, but they typically create networks from the ground up. When doing this, they consider several factors, such as security, network infrastructure, and bandwidth requirements. Additionally, they guarantee that the network is scalable, meaning that it may expand or contract in response to changing demands.
- creating a network model. The network architect builds a model to test their idea after designing it. This portion of the task is forecasting the network’s expansion and getting data on the amount of traffic it will receive. Numerous things, including additional branch offices, new apps, an increase in users, and shifting demands, might contribute to such expansion. When modeling, you also need to consider potential upgrades and new equipment.
- Securing the network. One of the most crucial facets of a network architect’s job is this. Network architects use content filters and firewalls to protect their networks. Software, methods, and designs that safeguard all data and communications without degrading network performance must be devised. In certain positions, a network architect is in charge of implementing security measures in reaction to certain online dangers.
- Recording the network. After a network is completely designed, it must be thoroughly documented so that other users and network architects in the future may comprehend how it operates. A clear picture of the network, comprising all of its essential parts and techniques for resolving frequent problems, can be obtained via well-written documentation.
Where Do Architects of Computer Networks Work?
Due to the necessity of internet access and a communications infrastructure for every firm, including small businesses, computer network architects are in great demand. These are some of the most typical industries in which such individuals find work, even though they can work practically anywhere:
- Services for cloud computing
- providers of financial services
- insurance providers
- Businesses
- telecom operators
- Academic establishments
- medical facilities
- Governmental organizations
- manufacturing sectors
Some network architects are employed by outside service providers that establish and manage networks for businesses.
How to Work as an Architect for Computer Networks?
Building and customizing communication, internet, and intranet infrastructures for a customer or enterprise is the training of a computer network architect. Working with a range of tools, you will build a safe and smooth network in this line of work.
Because every company, regardless of size, organization, and institution needs a safe and dependable network, this is one of the top IT occupations available today. The need for skilled computer network architects will grow as the globe grows increasingly interconnected.
Network architects are typically required by businesses to hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. There are numerous choices for study programs. A bachelor’s degree in network engineering and security is an option. You can follow a more specialized program, such as getting a bachelor’s degree in cloud computing if you have a more specific professional aim.
Given that this is a practical profession, prior expertise in the industry is also required. Participating is the finest approach to getting exposure in the workplace.
The Best Degrees for Computer Network Architects?
1. Network Engineering and Security – B.S.
For experts in network engineering and security seeking a vendor-neutral or Cisco-neutral experience.
- Time: In 39 months or less, 70% of graduates complete comparable programs.
- Tuition and fees: $3,735 in tuition and fees for six months.
- Two focus areas: Students can select between a general program and a Cisco program, allowing them to learn and develop expertise in two distinct areas of focus.
- Certifications: LPI Linux Foundations, ITIL®*^ Foundation Certification, CompTIA A+, CompTIA Project+, CompTIA Cloud+
- The Cisco program also includes: Cisco DevNet, Cisco CyberOps, and Cisco CyberOps are further components of the Cisco program.
- The general program also includes: CompTIA Security+, CompTIA Network+, CompTIA IT Operations Specialist (Stacked), CompTIA Secure Infrastructure Specialist (Stacked), CompTIA Cloud Admin Professional (Stacked), and CompTIA Secure Cloud Professional (Stacked) are additional certifications included in the general program.
You will get solid skills in network operations, security management, and design with this program.
2. Cloud Computing – B.S.
a three-track program created to give you the qualifications and certifications required for a job in systems administration, computer systems analysis, cloud support, AWS support administration, and other fields.
- 3 Tracks: Three Tracks Select a track that focuses on AWS, Azure, or multi-cloud computing to get specialized software knowledge.
- Time: 18 months is how long 84% of grads take to finish.
- Fees and tuition for a six-month term total $3,985.
- Transfer: You may be able to complete even more quickly if some course requirements are waived due to your prior college study and current qualifications.
Free certifications available, such as:
- Amazon AWS Cloud Expert
- Azure Fundamentals: Associate Amazon AWS SysOps Administration Creating Microsoft Azure Solutions
- LPI Linux Fundamentals
- A+ CompTIA
- Cloud+ CompTIA
- Obtain CompTIA Security+
- Project+ from CompTIA
Getting certified along the road to your degree will provide you with credentials that immediately improve your resume, even before you finish your online degree program.
What Are the Necessary Skills for a Computer Network Architect?
To succeed in their careers, computer network architects need to possess both hard and soft talents. The following traits are necessary for success in this field:
- Design and modeling: To guarantee performance, this line of work entails developing systems, drafting schematics, and modeling the network.
- Cybersecurity: All network access points must be kept safe, and emerging threats must be countered with additional layers of security.
- Technical knowledge of equipment: Modems, servers, routers, and adapters will be necessary for your systems. You must understand how to include these elements in your design in a technically sound manner.
- Soft skills: Workplace skills are also necessary for success in this field. For instance, a network architect must be able to solve problems to get over the difficulties that inevitably crop up in any big network.
Additionally, effective communication is needed in this position to collaborate with other network and IT specialists and, in certain situations, to train managers and staff members who utilize the systems.
FQA
- What Is the Salary of a Computer Network Architect?
In May 2020, the average income for computer network architects was $116,780, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labour Statistics. The salary of a network architect was determined by several factors, including education, experience, industry, location, and professional certification. Specialists in some fields, like the profitable industry of cloud computer networking, may earn greater salaries.
- How Much Job Growth Is Expected?
The U.S. Bureau of Labour Statistics projects that employment in this industry will increase by 5% between 2020 and 2030. Organizations will require specialists to plan and construct new networks to handle this growth as they continue to use information technology. To connect to, protect, and use cloud-based tools and systems, businesses require specialists.
- Are Credentials Required for Computer Network Architects?
You might need to get accredited as a network architect according to certain employers. This is particularly true if you are using a certain product or system, or if you are working on a specific framework.
The following is a list of choices to think about:
-A+ Certification from CompTIA
- Certification for CompTIA Network+
-AWS Accredited Advanced Routing
Accredited Network Professional (CCNP) by Cisco
- Certified Architect for Cisco (CCAr)
This article is very helpful if you want to become a computer network architect. If you have any questions about this article then contact us on our Twitter and Facebook pages
