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What is a network architect and how to become one
A network architect designs and implements computer networks. They analyze business requirements to determine the type of network needed and work with a team to select the appropriate hardware, software and protocols to ensure optimal network performance. They stay up to date with emerging technologies and industry trends to make recommendations for network improvements. A network architect collaborates with other IT professionals to ensure the network is integrated with other systems in the organization.
What general advice would you give to a Network Architect?
Michael Brazley Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Architecture, Southern Illinois University Carbondale
Avg. Salary $105,375
Avg. Salary $59,228
Growth Rate 5%
Growth Rate 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 0.31%
Asian 12.28%
Black or African American 8.72%
Hispanic or Latino 12.41%
Unknown 5.07%
White 61.21%
Genderfemale 7.32%
male 92.68%
Age - 42American Indian and Alaska Native 3.00%
Asian 7.00%
Black or African American 14.00%
Hispanic or Latino 19.00%
White 57.00%
Genderfemale 47.00%
male 53.00%
Age - 42Stress level is manageable
7.1 - high
Complexity Level is challenging
7 - challenging
Work Life balance is good
6.4 - fair
What are the pros and cons of being a Network Architect?
Pros
High demand
Opportunities for career growth and advancement
Possibility of remote work or flexible hours
Opportunity to solve complex problems and design innovative solutions
Importance in the overall functioning of businesses and organizations
Cons
High levels of stress and pressure to meet deadlines and deliver results
Need for continuous learning and keeping up with new technology trends
High level of responsibility for the security and reliability of networks
Need for strong communication skills to work with clients, colleagues, and stakeholders
Risk of job instability due to economic downturns or outsourcing/offshoring trends
Network Architect career paths
Key steps to become a network architect
Explore network architect education requirements
Start to develop specific network architect skills
Skills 
Percentages Architecture 7.98% BGP 4.49% Network Infrastructure 4.38% Firewall 4.10% Switches 3.98% Complete relevant network architect training and internships
Accountants spend an average of 3-6 months on post-employment, on-the-job training. New network architects learn the skills and techniques required for their job and employer during this time. The chart below shows how long it takes to gain competency as a network architect based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data and data from real network architect resumes.Gain additional network architect certifications
More About CertificationsNetwork architect certifications can show employers you have a baseline of knowledge expected for the position. Certifications can also make you a more competitive candidate. Even if employers don't require a specific network architect certification, having one may help you stand out relative to other applicants.
The most common certifications for network architects include CCIE Routing & Switching (CCIE) and Certified Information Systems Security Professional - Architecture (CISSP).
Research network architect duties and responsibilities
- Design, manage and troubleshoot EIGRP and BGP routing environment.
- Manage Linux base systems in private cloud with emphasis on LinuxHA, and security.
- Manage and maintain servers running various flavors of Linux including RHEL, CentOS, and Ubuntu.
- Design the OU hierarchy, manage DNS naming schemes, and create forests' for efficient domain management.
Get network architect experience
Generally, it takes 1-2 years to become a network architect. The most common roles before becoming a network architect include network engineer, senior network engineer team lead and systems engineer.Prepare your network architect resume
When your background is strong enough, you can start writing your network architect resume.
You can use Zippia's AI resume builder to make the resume writing process easier while also making sure that you include key information that hiring managers expect to see on a network architect resume. You'll find resume tips and examples of skills, responsibilities, and summaries, all provided by Zippi, your career sidekick.
Choose From 10+ Customizable Network Architect Resume templates
Build a professional Network Architect resume in minutes. Browse through our resume examples to identify the best way to word your resume. Then choose from 10+ resume templates to create your Network Architect resume.
Apply for network architect jobs
Now it's time to start searching for a network architect job. Consider the tips below for a successful job search:
- Browse job boards for relevant postings
- Consult your professional network
- Reach out to companies you're interested in working for directly
- Watch out for job scams
How Did You Land Your First Network Architect Job
Are you a Network Architect?
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Average network architect salary
The average Network Architect salary in the United States is $105,375 per year or $51 per hour. Network architect salaries range between $75,000 and $146,000 per year.
What Am I Worth?
How do network architects rate their job?
Network Architect reviews
I love the fact that I have self taught myself by trouble shooting issues for fifteen years while working in corrections as the Video court officer with no prior experince or degree
talking to people
outside weather, I work as a network technician and the main problem I always encounter is the cold weather.
Updated January 8, 2025
