How to Become a Network Architect

by Danielle Antosz | Published on March 06, 2025

A network architect is the mastermind behind an organization’s network infrastructure. Think of them as the city planners of IT. They design roads (networks), traffic signals (security protocols), and bridges (connections between different systems) to keep data flowing smoothly. Their job is to ensure that networks are scalable, secure, and efficient, allowing seamless communication between devices, applications, and users.

As businesses increasingly use cloud computing and have ever-growing data needs, a well-designed network keeps everything running smoothly. Without one, performance slows, security risks skyrocket, and business continuity is at stake.

Every company, from local businesses to global enterprises, needs a robust and future-proof network. Network architects strategize, design, and implement high-performing network environments that keep businesses running smoothly. 

If you're considering a career as a network architect, here's what you need to know. 

What Does a Network Architect Do? 

A network architect is responsible for designing and building an organization's IT infrastructure. They map how data flows between devices, offices, and cloud environments, ensuring networks can scale as a company grows. Their job isn’t just about setting up routers—it’s about optimizing performance, preventing bottlenecks, and safeguarding against cyber threats.

Key responsibilities for network architects often include:  

• Designing and planning network architecture (LAN, WAN, cloud, etc.).

• Managing installation and configuration of network systems.

• Collaborating with other IT professionals to integrate systems.

• Monitoring network performance, troubleshooting, and optimizing capacity.

• Ensuring network security and compliance with industry standards.

To excel as a network architect, you need a strong foundation in networking technologies and a deep understanding of security and cloud environments. Here are some of the core skills you’ll need to succeed: 

• Networking Protocols: Master TCP/IP, DNS, border gateway protocol (BGP), open shortest path first (OSPF), and MPLS. These are the fundamental building blocks of network communication.

• Routing and Switching: For designing efficient networks, hands-on experience with Cisco, Juniper, or Arista equipment is essential.

• Network Security: Firewalls, VPNs, intrusion detection, and mitigation strategies to protect data and prevent breaches.

• Cloud Networking: Familiarity with cloud technologies, including AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud—many modern networks extend beyond on-premises infrastructure.

• Network Monitoring Tools: Tools like SolarWinds, Thousand Eyes, and Wireshark, help network architects monitor metrics, track performance, and proactively troubleshoot.

Day In the Life of a Network Architect

No two days are exactly the same for a network architect, but here’s what a typical day might look like:

• 8:30 AM Morning Briefing & Network Health Check: Start the day by reviewing network performance dashboards and security alerts. If an issue arises—like a sluggish VPN connection or a misbehaving router—investigate before users start flooding IT with complaints.

• 10:00 AM Network Design & Planning: Design a new office network or optimize an existing one. This could involve mapping out LAN/WAN infrastructure, configuring BGP routes, or planning a cloud migration to AWS or Azure. Meet with stakeholders to align network needs with business goals.

• 12:30 PM Lunch (And Maybe a Side of Troubleshooting): Take a break—unless, of course, a critical outage or security breach decides to make an appearance. Then, it’s back to work, coordinating to diagnose and resolve the issue before it disrupts operations.

• 2:00 PM Security and Compliance Review: Evaluate firewalls, VPNs, and access controls to ensure they meet security and compliance standards. If a vulnerability is found, recommend patches or configuration changes.

• 4:00 PM Documentation & Future Planning: Document new configurations to ensure that the IT team isn't left guessing if changes need to be made later. Before logging off, complete a final check for any major issues—because the last thing anyone wants is a 2 AM call about a network failure.  

Industry Demand and Job Outlook for Network Architects

The demand for network architects continues to rise as businesses expand their IT infrastructure and move to cloud-based systems. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects demand for network-related roles to grow by 13% in the coming years, driven by increased cybersecurity needs and network complexity. This means if you're looking for a relatively secure, high-paying field, network architecture is a solid career option. 

According to the BLS, the median salary in the field is around $130,000, though other sources (like ZipRecruiter, which we mentioned earlier) suggest many in the industry make much more. 

Network Architect: Required Education and Training 

Most network architects start with a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. This provides a strong foundation in networking principles, security, and IT infrastructure. Some employers (especially large enterprises and government agencies) prefer candidates with a master’s degree in network engineering or IT management, particularly for senior-level roles

However, formal education alone isn’t enough. The networking landscape changes often, so certifications prove your expertise. Here are some of the most valuable certifications:

• Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP): This certification covers advanced routing, switching, and troubleshooting, making it essential for designing and managing enterprise networks. It's a must-have for networking professionals working with Cisco infrastructure. 

• CompTIA Network+: A solid entry-level certification that covers networking fundamentals, protocols, and security. While not as advanced as CCNP, it’s a good starting point for working your way up to architect-level roles.

• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): If you design networks with security in mind (which you should), the CISSP is highly regarded. It focuses on network security, risk management, and encryption.

• AWS Certified Solutions Architect: This certification shows you have expertise in designing scalable, high-performance cloud architectures on AWS. As more businesses migrate to the cloud, this cert can help set you apart.  

For those serious about becoming a network architect, you'll need a combination of formal education, hands-on experience, and certifications to land high-paying roles. 

Network Architect Career Path and Progression

Becoming a network architect isn't an overnight process—it requires years of hands-on experience. Most network architects start in entry-level roles as network engineers, systems administrators, or IT support specialists. 

These roles help develop key networking skills, such as configuring routers and switches, working with firewalls, and managing enterprise systems—all of which are crucial stepping stones to becoming a network architect.

With experience, you might move into more specialized roles like senior network engineer or network security specialist before reaching network architect status. Once in an architect role, career growth doesn’t stop—there are opportunities to move into high-level leadership positions, such as:

• Senior Network Architect: Takes on more complex network designs, cloud integrations, and large-scale IT infrastructure projects.

• Chief Technology Officer (CTO): Oversees the company’s IT strategy and makes decisions impacting network security, scalability, and operations.

• IT Director: Manages a company’s IT department, ensuring network infrastructure aligns with business goals.

A background in network architecture also opens doors to related IT careers, as many of the skills are transferable. Some professionals shift into roles focusing on cloud computing, security, or systems design.

Network Architect vs. Network Engineer: Differences Explained 

Network architects and engineers work together, but their roles are quite different. A network architect is a big-picture strategist who designs the overall network infrastructure to ensure it’s scalable, secure, and efficient. They focus on long-term planning, deciding how networks should be structured and what technologies will best support the business in the long term. 

A network engineer is more involved in implementing and maintaining the network. They configure routers, switches, firewalls, and cloud integrations and ensure everything runs smoothly. Engineers are also responsible for troubleshooting, optimizing performance, and responding to network issues as they arise.

In short, network architects design and plan, while network engineers build and maintain. Both are essential, but network architects take a higher-level, strategic approach, while network engineers focus on keeping everything running daily.

How Much Does a Network Architect Make?

Network architect salaries may vary widely based on experience, location, and industry demand. A seasoned architect working for a Fortune 500 company in a major tech hub like San Francisco will likely earn more than someone in a mid-sized firm in a smaller city. 

Factors like certifications, specialized skills (such as cloud networking), and the complexity of the networks being managed also play a role in determining salary. Here's an overview of salary based on experience: 

Source: Glassdoor, as of December 2024

Next Steps

Becoming a network architect takes a mix of education, technical expertise, and real-world experience. Starting in roles like network engineer or systems administrator helps build the hands-on skills needed to design and optimize complex networks. 

Certifications, especially in cloud and security, can boost credibility and open doors to higher-level positions. Network architects have strong earning potential, exciting challenges, and plenty of opportunities to advance— making it a perfect career for those who love solving problems and learning new things. 

Ready to take the next step to becoming a network architect? Start learning on CBT Nuggets with a free 7-day trial.