Learn about the major duties of network designers and the actions required to go into the field.
Image: iStock/klmax The flow of information throughout an internet-connected computer system network is the fuel that powers the engine of contemporary organization. Without a consistently reputable and fast computer network, companies will lose their competitive advantages and bottom lines will suffer over time. This is why the job of the network architect is so crucial to the business, regardless of its size or stature.
What does a network designer do?
Networking: Must-read protection
In basic, a network designer is accountable for creating computer system networks, including regional location networks (LANs), large location networks (WANs), internet connections, intranets and other information communications systems. Individuals in this position examine the present network requirements of business or organization and identify how those needs might alter in the future. The network architect then establishes a strategy to meet those future needs.
SEE: Hiring set: Network Designer (TechRepublic Premium)
For the many part, network architects fall into department management functions supervising teams of network engineers, system administrators, and maybe application designers. The goal of a network designer is to design effective, reliable, cost-effective network facilities that satisfy the long-term information technology and organization goals of a company. The trick is to achieve those long-term goals while likewise allowing the company to satisfy its short-term business goals and monetary responsibilities.
While designing networks may be their main role, network architects and their groups may also be asked to keep an eye on, test and troubleshoot service networks. In addition to other factors to consider, network architects will generally be asked to keep track of, adapt and adopt network security to meet and overturn ever-changing cybersecurity issues. This might include replacing outdated hardware and retooling susceptible software application.
Job description for a network architect
These are some of the crucial responsibilities and duties of a network architect, which are excerpts from the TechRepublic Premium Network Architect working with set.
A network designer is responsible for these type of occupational activities:
- Create plans and designs for data communication networks.
- Evaluate the quality and versatility of current systems.
- Assess current security protocols.
- Present interaction network prepares to management and describe why they remain in the company’s best interest.
- Upgrade hardware, such as routers or adaptors, and software, such as network chauffeurs, as needed to support computer system networks.
- Research study new networking technologies to determine what would best support our organization in the future.
- Draft system spending plans and network cost analysis sheets.
Successful candidates for network designer will have:
- Numerous years of related industry experience as a network architect, network engineer or system administration.
- Comprehensive understanding of WAN and LAN networking systems and software.
- Mutual understanding of software application engineering principles.
- Efficiency with computer and networking design software application consisting of eDraw, LanFlow and Microsoft Visio.
- Vendor-specific certifications including VMware Qualified Expert (VCP).
- Familiarity with programs languages and their capabilities and restrictions.
- Efficiency in working with all kinds of running systems.
SEE: 5 shows languages network architects should learn (free PDF) (TechRepublic)
What sort of character produces a great network architect?
Effective network architects must be able to see the huge picture relating to existing and future infotech facilities, not just for the organization but for the market and general company environment too. Individuals satisfying the task function need to be able to produce a documented vision of network infrastructure now and in the future.
Documents is very important due to the fact that a network designer must have the ability to provide their vision of current and future network requirements and objectives to C-level management, workers and other stakeholders. They must have the ability to communicate why their vision is appropriate, and why those stakeholders must supply the resources necessary to bring that vision into fruition. Those amazing communication abilities frequently come with extensive experience as a system administrator or network engineer.
SEE: 20 excellent habits network administrators require– and 10 practices to break (totally free PDF) (TechRepublic)
Beyond the technical know-how to visualize computer network needs of the future and the communication skills to persuade stakeholders to devote resources to that vision, a network designer should likewise be able to thrive under the pressure of making impactful decisions daily. As a high-level supervisor, the network architect will be called upon by engineers and technical personnel for guidance and direction. The pressure of making everyday decisions is not a workplace everybody can flourish in.
The actions to becoming a network architect
Education requirements for network designers
At the bare minimum, a network architect will have a bachelor’s degree. The area of study will likely be technical such as information technology, computer science, or information systems management. Nevertheless, bachelor’s degrees with specialization in organization administration or other areas might be thought about, if accompanied by substantial experience. Additional courses or training in business interaction are suggested.
Mentioning experience, since network architect is a high-level management position, long-lasting experience (5+ years) as a system administrator, network engineer, or network architect is going to be top priority for any human resources employer. Expert certifications and higher-level degrees will be considered as a plus, and prospects with those qualifications will receive favoritism.
Certifications for network architects
Possible expert certifications that could help land a network designer job include:
CompTIA provides the following accreditations:
- CompTIA A+ Certification
- CompTIA Security+ Certification
- CompTIA Network+ Certification
VMware offers the following certification:
- VMware Certified Expert (VCP)
Cisco provides the following accreditations:
- CCT (Cisco Licensed Service Technician)
- DevNet Partner
- CCNA (Cisco Licensed Network Associate)
- CyberOps Associate
- DevNet Professional
- CCNP (Cisco Certified Network Specialist) Enterprise, CCNP Collaboration, CCNP Data Center, CCNP Security, CCNP Company
- CCDE (Cisco Licensed Style Specialist)
- CCIE Enterprise Facilities, CCIE Business Wireless, CCIE Cooperation, CCIE Data Center, CCIE Security, CCIE Service Provider
- CCAr (Cisco Qualified Architect)
Other professional accreditations:
- Salesforce Certified Technical Architect (CTA)
- ITIL Master
- Red Hat Qualified Designer (RHCA)
- The Open Group TOGAF 9
- Zachman Qualified– Business Designer
What is the possible salary of a network designer?
According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the typical annual income of a computer system network designer in 2021 was $120,520. The number of people working as a network architect was 165,200 and the development rate was reported to be 5% annually, which is above average. Other work websites like Salary.comand Glassdoorreport slightly different annual typical wage amounts for network architects.
