Explore a possible path

Computer Network Architects

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.

How does this connect to your interests? →

A look at the work

  • 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.

A selection of source-listed tasks; duties vary by role and employer.

Interests involved in this work

These source scores describe occupational work activities. They are separate from your personal test results.

Hands-on

2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert

4.0 / 7

Investigative

2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert

5.3 / 7

Creative

2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert

2.3 / 7

Helping people

2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert

2.2 / 7

Enterprising

2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert

3.2 / 7

Organizing

2026-02 · Machine Learning/Expert

5.1 / 7

Skills to explore

Source-reported importance on a 1–5 scale. Try a course, project or conversation to learn what these skills involve.

Critical Thinking

Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.

2024-08

4.1 / 5

Reading Comprehension

Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work-related documents.

2024-08

4.0 / 5

Programming

Writing computer programs for various purposes.

2024-08

3.9 / 5

Systems Evaluation

Identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system.

2024-08

3.9 / 5

Complex Problem Solving

Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.

2024-08

3.9 / 5

Active Listening

Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

2024-08

3.8 / 5

Judgment and Decision Making

Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.

2024-08

3.8 / 5

Systems Analysis

Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.

2024-08

3.8 / 5

Writing

Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

2024-08

3.6 / 5

Speaking

Talking to others to convey information effectively.

2024-08

3.5 / 5

Plan a small next step

Talk to someone doing this work, look for a supervised activity, and explore the subjects that interest you. Admission, licensing and current program requirements should be confirmed with the relevant institutions.

Source preparation category: Job Zone 4 of 5 · 2024-08. This category describes typical preparation, not your eligibility.

Related study fields

Source crosswalk connections are research leads, not required qualifications.

Computer and Information Sciences, General →

Information Technology →

Computer Systems Analysis/Analyst →

Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications →

Cloud Computing →

Network and System Administration/Administrator →

Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance →

Computer Engineering, General →

Computer Engineering, Other →

Explore all related study fields →

Source & methodology

O*NET-SOC code 15-1241.00 · Database 31.0 · Retrieved Oct 14, 2026. Dates on individual observations describe their source periods.

How interest exploration matching works →

Data: O*NET® 31.0 Database, U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration. Used under CC BY 4.0. StudyIndex normalizes the presentation and adds exploration features; USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed or tested these additions.