Computer Network Architects
Computer Network Architects is the O*NET name for people who design and implement computer and information networks, such as local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), intranets, extranets, and other data communications networks. With a code of ICR, this is mostly a job for people drawn to research, analysis and working through hard problems. Conventional interests also help, rated 5.1 out of 7. The preparation level is considerable preparation, typically a bachelor’s degree plus a period of work experience. O*NET’s skill data points to critical thinking, reading comprehension, and systems evaluation as the ones to build. You may also need to develop disaster recovery plans. People who want research, analysis and working through hard problems usually fit better here than those who need helping, teaching or caring for people.
What they do
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.
Main tasks
- 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.
Skills
- Critical Thinking
- Reading Comprehension
- Systems Evaluation
- Programming
- Complex Problem Solving
- Systems Analysis
Who this career fits
May suit you if
- You enjoy working out why something happens, not just what happened.
- You like clear rules and getting the details right.
- You are ready to spend around four years on a degree, then build experience.
- You are comfortable relying on critical thinking and reading comprehension.
May not suit you if
- You lose interest when a job asks for long stretches of analysis.
- You want helping people to be at the center of your work. Social rates 2.2 out of 7 here.
- You want to avoid a four-year degree or its equivalent.
Interest profile
O*NET rates each occupation from 1 to 7 on six interest types. The code ICR takes the three highest, and Investigative comes first here.
Preparation
Considerable preparation. Most jobs here ask for a bachelor’s degree, and employers usually expect a few years of related experience as well.
Most-reported requirement in the O*NET survey: Bachelor's Degree. This reflects what workers reported most often and is not a legal minimum. Licensing rules can differ by state or industry, so confirm what applies where you plan to work.
Also called
- Computer Network Technologist
- Network Analyst
- Network Consultant
- Network Systems Consultant
- Networking Systems Engineer
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This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.