Computer Network Architects
SOC code 15-1241 · O*NET-SOC 15-1241.00 · Considerable preparation needed · Computer and IT
Bright Outlook — O*NET expects rapid growth for this occupation
Computer Network Architects pay
U.S. national figures, May 2025 BLS survey · How we got this number
Median pay
$134,050
a year
Hourly
$64.45
per hour
The solid band is the middle 50% of workers; the bar spans the 10th to 90th percentile.
Average pay
$139,580
$67.11 per hour
Middle 50%
$104,620 – $168,200
25th to 75th percentile
Full spread
$79,900 – $202,680
10th to 90th percentile
People employed
179,740
nationwide
National U.S. figure, May 2025. Local pay can be higher or lower.
- 10th percentile
- $79,900
- $38.42/hr
- 25th percentile
- $104,620
- $50.30/hr
- Median percentile
- $134,050
- $64.45/hr
- 75th percentile
- $168,200
- $80.86/hr
- 90th percentile
- $202,680
- $97.44/hr
Job outlook · federal projection 2024–34
+12%
Growing much faster than average
179,200
jobs in 2024
200,600
projected for 2034
About 21,400 more jobs
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics employment projections, 2024–34. Projections describe the broader occupation group and are estimates, not guarantees.
What does a computer network architect 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.
The tasks that matter most day to day
- 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.
- Monitor and analyze network performance and reports on data input or output to detect problems, identify inefficient use of computer resources, or perform capacity planning.
- Develop network-related documentation.
How to become a computer network architect
Most people in this role hold bachelor's degree — 55% of workers surveyed reported it as their level of education.
Preparation level: zone 4 — Considerable preparation needed
- Education
- Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.
- Experience
- A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.
- Training
- Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.
Education reported by people doing this job
- Bachelor's Degree55%
- Post-Secondary Certificate15%
- Associate's Degree or other 2-year degree15%
- Less than a High School Diploma5%
Common questions
How much does a computer network architect earn?
The national median is $134,050 a year. The full range runs from $79,900 at the 10th percentile to $202,680 at the 90th — entry pay sits closer to the lower figure, and experience, licensing and specialisation move you up the range.
Can you become a computer network architect without a degree?
Not usually — this occupation sits in preparation zone 4, where the typical entry route is most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not. The education breakdown above shows what people in the role actually reported.
Is computer network architect in demand?
Federal projections expect employment to grow by about 12% between 2024 and 2034 — growing much faster than average. Openings also come from people retiring or changing jobs, which the growth figure does not count.
Skills and knowledge you need
Core skills
- Critical Thinking4.1/5
- Reading Comprehension4.0/5
- Active Listening3.8/5
- Writing3.6/5
- Speaking3.5/5
Knowledge areas
- Computers and Electronics4.7/5
- Engineering and Technology4.3/5
- Telecommunications4.3/5
- English Language3.8/5
- Education and Training3.3/5
- Design3.2/5
- Customer and Personal Service3.1/5
- Mathematics3.0/5
Transferable strengths: Complex Problem Solving, Programming, Systems Evaluation, Judgment and Decision Making, Systems Analysis.