Computer Network Architect

← All careers
Technology

Computer Network Architect

$134,050 · BLS median

Designs the backbone networks that cloud, AI, and remote work all depend on. A senior track built on years of hands-on networking.

NETWORK ARCHITECT 1 IT / networking 2 CCNA 3 Network engineer 4 Architect · $134K 5 Senior / cloud net
Gold = credential gate. Each turn: more skill → more pay → the next step.
  1. 1
    Start in IT / networking
    A bachelor's + hands-on networking is the usual base.
    ◆ GMA Academy — IT foundations
  2. 2
    Earn networking certs (CCNA)
    Vendor certs — Cisco CCNA → CCNP — prove the skills.
    ◆ GMA jobs + mentor
  3. 3
    Work as a network engineer (5–10 yrs)
    Run and troubleshoot networks; build depth.
  4. 4
    Design networks · $134K
    Design the backbone; +8% growth.
  5. 5
    Senior / cloud networking
    CCIE or cloud-networking specialization.

The flywheel: vendor certs + years of hands-on networking compound into the seniority to design (not just run) the networks — and that design authority is what pays.

Ready to move on this? Find a job in this field Train up in the Academy