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kenneth
Student
Sedro-Woolley, Washington
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work context for a computer network architect?
what does a typical day as a network architect look like?
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1 answer
Biplab Panda
Engagement Director
116
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Biplab’s Answer
Hi Kenneth,
Here is what a typical day in the life as a network architect involves technical tasks, planning, and collaboration and may look something like this:
Planning and Strategic Work
1. Review Project Goals
- Begin by assessing network architecture projects in progress.
- Check emails and updates from team members or stakeholders about network performance or ongoing deployments.
2. Designing Network Solutions
- Work on creating detailed designs for new networks or upgrades to existing systems.
- Consider factors like scalability, security, and cost-effectiveness.
- Use tools like Cisco DNA Center, Visio, or network simulation software to map out network infrastructure.
3. Meeting with Stakeholders
- Collaborate with IT managers, business leaders, or clients to understand network requirements and align with business objectives.
- Present proposals for network designs or upgrades, highlighting technical benefits and cost implications.
Hands-On Technical Work
4. Configuring and Testing Network Components
- Configure switches, routers, firewalls, or VPNs to meet the needs of a specific project.
- Test network performance using tools like Wireshark, SolarWinds, or NetFlow Analyzer to ensure efficiency and security.
5. Monitoring and Troubleshooting
- Review network performance dashboards to identify potential issues.
- Troubleshoot problems reported by the network operations team, such as bandwidth bottlenecks or connectivity issues.
6. Research and Development
- Explore emerging technologies, like SD-WAN, 5G, or cloud networking tools, to evaluate how they could improve the organization's architecture.
Collaboration and Documentation
7. Collaborate with Teams
- Work closely with:
- Network Engineers: Discuss deployment and maintenance plans.
- Cybersecurity Teams: Ensure the network design adheres to security policies.
- Cloud Teams: Plan integrations with cloud platforms like AWS or Azure.
8. Update Documentation
- Document network designs, configurations, and security protocols.
- Maintain detailed diagrams and records for compliance and future reference.
9. Project Management
- Track project timelines and budgets, ensuring deadlines are met.
- Coordinate with vendors for hardware or software procurement.
Review and Plan Ahead
10. Evaluate Network Performance
- Analyze reports on traffic flow, system uptime, and latency.
- Identify areas for improvement in the network infrastructure.
11. Plan for Future Work
- Outline tasks for the next day, such as implementing specific components or scheduling meetings with clients or technical teams.
Recurring Responsibilities
- Design & Implementation: Creating robust, scalable, and secure networks.
- Upgrades: Proactively upgrading hardware, software, or network configurations.
- Security: Constantly assessing and mitigating risks to ensure a secure network.
- Cloud Integration: Designing hybrid or fully cloud-based networks as businesses migrate to the cloud.
Hope this helps!
Here is what a typical day in the life as a network architect involves technical tasks, planning, and collaboration and may look something like this:
Planning and Strategic Work
1. Review Project Goals
- Begin by assessing network architecture projects in progress.
- Check emails and updates from team members or stakeholders about network performance or ongoing deployments.
2. Designing Network Solutions
- Work on creating detailed designs for new networks or upgrades to existing systems.
- Consider factors like scalability, security, and cost-effectiveness.
- Use tools like Cisco DNA Center, Visio, or network simulation software to map out network infrastructure.
3. Meeting with Stakeholders
- Collaborate with IT managers, business leaders, or clients to understand network requirements and align with business objectives.
- Present proposals for network designs or upgrades, highlighting technical benefits and cost implications.
Hands-On Technical Work
4. Configuring and Testing Network Components
- Configure switches, routers, firewalls, or VPNs to meet the needs of a specific project.
- Test network performance using tools like Wireshark, SolarWinds, or NetFlow Analyzer to ensure efficiency and security.
5. Monitoring and Troubleshooting
- Review network performance dashboards to identify potential issues.
- Troubleshoot problems reported by the network operations team, such as bandwidth bottlenecks or connectivity issues.
6. Research and Development
- Explore emerging technologies, like SD-WAN, 5G, or cloud networking tools, to evaluate how they could improve the organization's architecture.
Collaboration and Documentation
7. Collaborate with Teams
- Work closely with:
- Network Engineers: Discuss deployment and maintenance plans.
- Cybersecurity Teams: Ensure the network design adheres to security policies.
- Cloud Teams: Plan integrations with cloud platforms like AWS or Azure.
8. Update Documentation
- Document network designs, configurations, and security protocols.
- Maintain detailed diagrams and records for compliance and future reference.
9. Project Management
- Track project timelines and budgets, ensuring deadlines are met.
- Coordinate with vendors for hardware or software procurement.
Review and Plan Ahead
10. Evaluate Network Performance
- Analyze reports on traffic flow, system uptime, and latency.
- Identify areas for improvement in the network infrastructure.
11. Plan for Future Work
- Outline tasks for the next day, such as implementing specific components or scheduling meetings with clients or technical teams.
Recurring Responsibilities
- Design & Implementation: Creating robust, scalable, and secure networks.
- Upgrades: Proactively upgrading hardware, software, or network configurations.
- Security: Constantly assessing and mitigating risks to ensure a secure network.
- Cloud Integration: Designing hybrid or fully cloud-based networks as businesses migrate to the cloud.
Hope this helps!