Computer Network Architects
Computer network architects design and implement data communication networks, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and intranets.
Is computer network architects a good career?
It scores 43/100 and ranks #56 of 825 occupations on pay, growth, employment and openings. Here's what the federal data says, with no editorializing.
Advantages
- Pays well above the U.S. median wage ($134,050 vs $61,390)
- Faster-than-average projected growth (+11.9% through 2034)
Possible tradeoffs
- Typically requires a bachelor's degree
- Often needs prior experience (5 years or more)
What computer network architects earn
Wages: BLS OEWS May 2025Pay is a range, not a number. Half of U.S. computer network architects earn between $104,620 and $168,200 a year.
Best-paying states
Best-paying metros
Live computer network architects jobs
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- Typical education
- Bachelor's degree
- Work experience
- 5 years or more
- On-the-job training
- None
- Outlook
- Employment is projected to grow much faster than average through 2034.
Education
Computer network architects typically need a bachelor’s degree in computer and information technology, 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 be able to work with the wide array of technologies used in networks.
However, education requirements may vary. Some employers consider candidates who do not have a bachelor's degree, and others express no preference. Still others prefer to hire candidates who have a master’s degree.
Licenses, certifications & registrations
Employers may require or prefer that their network architects be certified in the products they use. Certification programs usually are offered directly from vendors or from vendor-neutral certification providers. Certification validates the knowledge and the use of best practices that are required of network architects.
Advancement
Experienced network architects may advance into management positions, such as computer and information systems managers (sometimes called chief technology officers).
Important qualities
Analytical skills. Computer network architects examine data networks and decide how to connect the networks based on an organization’s needs and resources.
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 collaborate with others to successfully design and implement computer and information networks.
Leadership skills. Many computer network architects direct teams of workers to help design, build, and maintain networks.
Organizational skills. Computer network architects may need to coordinate many different types of communication networks to make sure they work well together.
Problem-solving skills. These workers must be able to resolve issues that arise with computer networks.
Related occupations
How much do computer network architects make?
The national median wage is $134,050 a year, with the middle half earning between $104,620 and $168,200 (BLS OEWS May 2025).
Is computer network architects a good career?
On the Jobs.best index it scores 43 of 100 and ranks #56 of 825 occupations, weighing pay, growth, employment and openings. Employment is projected to change +11.9% through 2034.
What education do you need to become a computer network architect?
The typical entry-level education is bachelor's degree, usually with 5 years or more.
Where do computer network architects earn the most?
Among states, Washington pays the highest median ($168,070). Local pay for every state and metro is below.