JOB REPORT / 15-1241 · 59 TASKS

Computer Network Architects.

Can AI do the work of Computer Network Architects?

Mostly it works alongside you. Here is what shifts, task by task.

YOUR EXPERIENCE MATTERS

How does this fit your work?

How many tasks do you use AI to assist with at work?

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The mark shows what’s typical for this job.

The parts of your job AI can already do most of:

Prepare system activity and performance reports
Monitor and analyze system performance
Monitor and analyze network performance and reports on data…

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A guided certificate program in AI-assisted Computer Network Architects work. It covers the 57 AI-affected parts of your job and ends in a capstone a person reviews.

WHAT WE LOOKED AT

Your job, task by task.

57 of 59 tasks reviewed

This job has 59 core tasks. We went through 57 of them, one at a time.

Task by task, from the work Computer Network Architects actually do. How we describe AI use in each task is our own read of it, not a measurement of whether AI can replace the job.

TASK 01
Prepare system activity and performance reports.
AI DOES
Collects metrics, flags anomalies, and generates draft reports from system logs
YOU DO
Interpret findings in context and decide what actions to recommend
TASK 02
Monitor and analyze system performance, such as network traffic, security, and capacity.
AI DOES
Watches traffic data, spots unusual patterns, and generates performance reports automatically
YOU DO
Interpret context, set priorities, and make judgment calls about real network risks
TASK 03
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.
AI DOES
Watches live network data, spots unusual patterns, and generates performance reports automatically
YOU DO
Judge which alerts matter most and decide how to fix root causes
TASK 04
Prepare purchase requisitions for computer hardware and software, networking and telecommunications equipment, test equipment, cabling, or tools.
AI DOES
Drafts requisition forms, looks up equipment specs and pricing, and fills in standard fields
YOU DO
Verify real inventory gaps, confirm vendor choices, and sign off on budget fit
TASK 05
Document user support activity, such as system problems, corrective actions, resolution status, and completed equipment installations.
AI DOES
Drafts support tickets, auto-fills resolution templates, and organizes log entries from notes or voice input
YOU DO
Verify technical details and decide what context is important for future troubleshooting
TASK 06
Estimate costs for system or component implementation and operation.
AI DOES
Pulls component pricing, runs cost formulas, and drafts estimate spreadsheets
YOU DO
Apply site-specific knowledge and validate assumptions against real project conditions
TASK 07
Develop plans or budgets for network equipment replacement.
AI DOES
Generates draft replacement schedules, pulls equipment lifecycle data, and compares vendor pricing
YOU DO
Judge business risk, negotiate vendors, and align plans with leadership goals
TASK 08
Determine specific network hardware or software requirements, such as platforms, interfaces, bandwidths, or routine schemas.
AI DOES
Pulls hardware specs, compares vendor options, and drafts requirement checklists
YOU DO
Judge which tradeoffs fit your actual network, budget, and growth plans
TASK 09
Estimate time and materials needed to complete projects.
AI DOES
Drafts cost and time estimates using historical data and project templates
YOU DO
Apply hands-on experience with real teams, vendors, and site conditions
TASK 10
Develop procedures to track, project, or report network availability, reliability, capacity, or utilization.
AI DOES
Drafts procedure templates, suggests metrics to track, and formats reports
YOU DO
Match procedures to your specific network environment and business needs
TASK 11
Test and evaluate hardware and software to determine efficiency, reliability, or compatibility with existing systems.
AI DOES
Generates test scripts, analyzes logs, and flags anomalies in test data
YOU DO
Connect physical equipment, interpret unusual failures, and make final compatibility calls
TASK 12
Use computer-aided design (CAD) software to prepare or evaluate network diagrams, floor plans, or site configurations for existing facilities, renovations, or new systems.
AI DOES
Generates draft diagrams, flags errors, and suggests cable routes or component placements
YOU DO
Apply real-world site constraints, safety codes, and client requirements to finalize designs
TASK 13
Review and evaluate requests from engineers, managers, and technicians for system modifications.
AI DOES
Drafts checklists, flags missing info, and cross-checks requests against known specs or standards
YOU DO
Weigh real-world risk, system dependencies, and team context before approving changes
TASK 14
Assess existing facilities' needs for new or modified telecommunications systems.
AI DOES
Reviews usage data, flags gaps, and drafts needs assessments from existing records
YOU DO
Walk the facility, ask the right questions, and judge what the data misses
TASK 15
Develop, maintain, or implement telecommunications disaster recovery plans to ensure business continuity.
AI DOES
Drafts plan templates, summarizes best practices, flags missing steps, and generates checklists
YOU DO
Validate plans against your actual network topology, equipment, and local regulations
TASK 16
Adjust network sizes to meet volume or capacity demands.
AI DOES
Analyzes traffic data and flags capacity bottlenecks in real time
YOU DO
Weigh trade-offs between cost, risk, and business goals before committing to changes
TASK 17
Communicate with vendors to gather information about products, alert them to future needs, resolve problems, or address system maintenance issues.
AI DOES
Drafts vendor emails, summarizes product specs, and flags maintenance issues from logs
YOU DO
Build trust with vendors and make final calls on technical fit and negotiation
TASK 18
Order or maintain inventory of telecommunications equipment for customer premises equipment (CPE), facilities, access networks, or backbone networks.
AI DOES
Monitors stock levels, predicts reorder needs, drafts purchase orders, and flags low inventory
YOU DO
Weigh supplier relationships, budget trade-offs, and site-specific equipment decisions
TASK 19
Research and test new or modified hardware or software products to determine performance and interoperability.
AI DOES
Drafts test plans, summarizes product specs, and flags patterns in test data
YOU DO
Run the physical tests and judge real-world network behavior yourself
TASK 20
Coordinate network or design activities with designers of associated networks.
AI DOES
Drafts coordination documents, flags design conflicts, and summarizes meeting notes
YOU DO
Build trust with other designers and make real-time trade-off calls
TASK 21
Use network computer-aided design (CAD) software packages to optimize network designs.
AI DOES
Suggests optimized network layouts, checks for bottlenecks, and auto-generates design variations
YOU DO
Apply deep knowledge of business goals, budget limits, and real-world constraints to approve the final design
TASK 22
Provide user support by diagnosing network and device problems and implementing technical or procedural solutions.
AI DOES
Searches knowledge bases, suggests likely causes, and drafts step-by-step fixes
YOU DO
Listen to the user, test live equipment, and adapt when the problem is unusual
TASK 23
Consult with users, administrators, and engineers to identify business and technical requirements for proposed system modifications or technology purchases.
AI DOES
Drafts requirement questionnaires, summarizes meeting notes, and flags gaps in technical specs
YOU DO
Lead live conversations, build trust with stakeholders, and judge what people really need vs. what they say they need
TASK 24
Coordinate network operations, maintenance, repairs, or upgrades.
AI DOES
Monitors network health, drafts maintenance schedules, and summarizes incident logs
YOU DO
Make final calls on timing, team coordination, and risk trade-offs
TASK 25
Communicate with system users to ensure accounts are set up properly or to diagnose and solve operational problems.
AI DOES
Drafts clear replies, suggests common fixes, and summarizes ticket history
YOU DO
Listen carefully, adapt to each user's skill level, and make judgment calls on complex issues
TASK 26
Communicate with customers, sales staff, or marketing staff to determine customer needs.
AI DOES
Drafts discovery questions, summarizes meeting notes, and spots patterns in customer feedback
YOU DO
Lead live conversations and build trust with real people
TASK 27
Participate in network technology upgrade or expansion projects, including installation of hardware and software and integration testing.
AI DOES
Drafts upgrade plans, suggests configs, and flags compatibility issues
YOU DO
Show up, plug in hardware, and verify real systems work together
TASK 28
Visit vendors, attend conferences or training sessions, or study technical journals to keep up with changes in technology.
AI DOES
Summarizes technical articles, highlights key trends, and drafts questions to ask vendors
YOU DO
Show up in person, build trust with vendors, and judge which new tech fits your network's real needs
TASK 29
Implement system renovation projects in collaboration with technical staff, engineering consultants, installers, and vendors.
AI DOES
Drafts project plans, timelines, and technical documentation to support the team
YOU DO
Lead on-site coordination, make real-time decisions, and manage relationships with vendors and installers
TASK 30
Coordinate installation of new equipment.
AI DOES
Drafts installation schedules, checklists, and vendor communication templates
YOU DO
Show up on-site, make real-time calls, and manage people and surprises
TASK 31
Install, or coordinate installation of, new or modified hardware, software, or programming modules of telecommunications systems.
AI DOES
Drafts installation plans, generates config scripts, and suggests troubleshooting steps
YOU DO
Show up on-site, handle the physical equipment, and make real-time judgment calls
TASK 32
Supervise engineers or other staff in the design or implementation of network solutions.
AI DOES
Drafts meeting agendas, summarizes project status, flags bottlenecks in plans, and suggests design review checklists
YOU DO
Read your team, make judgment calls on people and priorities, and own accountability for outcomes
TASK 33SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Design, organize, and deliver product awareness, skills transfer, or product education sessions for staff or suppliers.
AI DOES
Creates presentation slides and training materials
YOU DO
Read the room and adapt on the fly
About this analysis
53% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 34SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Maintain networks by performing activities such as file addition, deletion, or backup.
AI DOES
Automates routine file operations and backup schedules
YOU DO
Decide priorities and troubleshoot failures
About this analysis
51% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 35SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Design, build, or operate equipment configuration prototypes, including network hardware, software, servers, or server operation systems.
AI DOES
Generates configs and automates basic setup tasks
YOU DO
Judge what works for real conditions
About this analysis
50% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 36
Supervise maintenance of telecommunications equipment.
AI DOES
Flags equipment alerts, logs maintenance records, and helps schedule work orders
YOU DO
Stay on-site to direct technicians and make safety calls
TASK 37SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Implement controls to provide security for operating systems, software, and data.
AI DOES
Scans for threats and applies standard patches
YOU DO
Design the strategy and handle exceptions
About this analysis
43% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 38SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Prepare detailed network specifications, including diagrams, charts, equipment configurations, or recommended technologies.
AI DOES
Generates network diagrams and equipment configuration templates
YOU DO
Design for real needs and constraints
About this analysis
40% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 39
Maintain or coordinate the maintenance of network peripherals, such as printers.
AI DOES
Helps look up error codes, troubleshooting steps, and vendor documentation fast
YOU DO
Show up in person to inspect, fix, and coordinate real hardware
TASK 40
Implement or perform preventive maintenance, backup, or recovery procedures.
AI DOES
Generates maintenance checklists, logs issues, and suggests backup schedules based on system data
YOU DO
Show up on-site and physically perform the hands-on work
TASK 41SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Manage user access to systems and equipment through account management and password administration.
AI DOES
Resets passwords and provisions standard accounts
YOU DO
Decide access levels and security exceptions
About this analysis
33% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 42SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Document procedures for hardware and software installation and use.
AI DOES
Generates step-by-step guides and screenshots
YOU DO
Test clarity and fix real gaps
About this analysis
29% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 43SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Develop and write procedures for installation, use, or troubleshooting of communications hardware or software.
AI DOES
Generates procedure templates and troubleshooting steps
YOU DO
Adapt for real systems and users
About this analysis
26% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 44SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Prepare or monitor project schedules, budgets, or cost control systems.
AI DOES
Tracks progress and flags budget variances automatically
YOU DO
Decide priorities when trade-offs arise
About this analysis
26% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 45SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Develop conceptual, logical, or physical network designs.
AI DOES
Generates network topology options and technical specs
YOU DO
Choose the right design for real needs
About this analysis
24% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 46SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Develop or recommend network security measures, such as firewalls, network security audits, or automated security probes.
AI DOES
Scans networks and suggests security configurations
YOU DO
Assess real threats and business needs
About this analysis
18% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 47SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Develop disaster recovery plans.
AI DOES
Generates templates and suggests recovery procedures
YOU DO
Assess real risks and customize priorities
About this analysis
0% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 48SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Develop and implement solutions for network problems.
AI DOES
Suggests fixes and runs diagnostics quickly
YOU DO
Decide which solution fits the situation
About this analysis
0% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 49SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Keep abreast of changes in industry practices and emerging telecommunications technology by reviewing current literature, talking with colleagues, participating in educational programs, attending meetings or workshops, or participating in professional organizations or conferences.
AI DOES
Curates relevant articles and summarizes key developments
YOU DO
Judge what's worth your time and energy
About this analysis
0% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 50SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Communicate with telecommunications vendors to obtain pricing and technical specifications for available hardware, software, or services.
AI DOES
Drafts vendor emails and compares spec sheets
YOU DO
Build relationships and negotiate the deal
About this analysis
0% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 51SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Develop network-related documentation.
AI DOES
Generates templates and drafts technical sections
YOU DO
Ensure accuracy and tailor for your audience
About this analysis
0% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 52SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Instruct in use of voice, video, and data communications systems.
AI DOES
Creates training materials and practice scenarios
YOU DO
Adapt teaching to each learner's pace
About this analysis
0% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 53SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Document technical specifications and operating standards for telecommunications equipment.
AI DOES
Generates technical documentation templates and standard formats
YOU DO
Ensure accuracy and compliance requirements
About this analysis
0% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 54SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Evaluate network designs to determine whether customer requirements are met efficiently and effectively.
AI DOES
Simulates network performance and flags potential issues
YOU DO
Judge trade-offs and customer priorities
About this analysis
0% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 55SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Explain design specifications to integration or test engineers.
AI DOES
Generates clear technical documentation and visual aids
YOU DO
Adapt explanations to each engineer's needs
About this analysis
0% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 56SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Prepare design presentations and proposals for staff or customers.
AI DOES
Generates slides, formats layouts, and drafts content
YOU DO
Shape the story and sell the vision
About this analysis
0% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium
TASK 57SOURCE-BACKED TASK
Develop or maintain project reporting systems.
AI DOES
Generates reports and tracks project metrics automatically
YOU DO
Design what to measure and why
About this analysis
0% · Methodology: exposure-v1 · Analysis date: unavailable · Confidence: medium

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There are 57 short lessons for this job, about 15 minutes each. Each one starts from a task above and teaches the part that stays with you.

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AT A GLANCE

Occupation: Computer Network Architects
SOC code: 15-1241
Tasks reviewed: 57 of 59

How we assess

PAY & OUTLOOK

Compare pay by state

Median pay (national): $134,050 · BLS OEWS 2025
Median pay (Colorado): $139,230 · BLS OEWS 2025
Employed (national): 179,740
Employed in Colorado: 16,380
Job outlook: +11.9% by 2034 · ~11,200 openings/yr

Wages from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. National figures cover the United States. Job outlook is national.

How does this fit your work?

Earn a certificate in your job

Your job, task by task.

Prepare system activity and performance reports.

Monitor and analyze system performance, such as network traffic, security, and capacity.

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.

Prepare purchase requisitions for computer hardware and software, networking and telecommunications equipment, test equipment, cabling, or tools.

Document user support activity, such as system problems, corrective actions, resolution status, and completed equipment installations.

Estimate costs for system or component implementation and operation.

Develop plans or budgets for network equipment replacement.

Determine specific network hardware or software requirements, such as platforms, interfaces, bandwidths, or routine schemas.

Estimate time and materials needed to complete projects.

Develop procedures to track, project, or report network availability, reliability, capacity, or utilization.

Test and evaluate hardware and software to determine efficiency, reliability, or compatibility with existing systems.

Use computer-aided design (CAD) software to prepare or evaluate network diagrams, floor plans, or site configurations for existing facilities, renovations, or new systems.

Review and evaluate requests from engineers, managers, and technicians for system modifications.

Assess existing facilities' needs for new or modified telecommunications systems.

Develop, maintain, or implement telecommunications disaster recovery plans to ensure business continuity.

Adjust network sizes to meet volume or capacity demands.

Communicate with vendors to gather information about products, alert them to future needs, resolve problems, or address system maintenance issues.

Order or maintain inventory of telecommunications equipment for customer premises equipment (CPE), facilities, access networks, or backbone networks.

Research and test new or modified hardware or software products to determine performance and interoperability.

Coordinate network or design activities with designers of associated networks.

Use network computer-aided design (CAD) software packages to optimize network designs.

Provide user support by diagnosing network and device problems and implementing technical or procedural solutions.

Consult with users, administrators, and engineers to identify business and technical requirements for proposed system modifications or technology purchases.

Coordinate network operations, maintenance, repairs, or upgrades.

Communicate with system users to ensure accounts are set up properly or to diagnose and solve operational problems.

Communicate with customers, sales staff, or marketing staff to determine customer needs.

Participate in network technology upgrade or expansion projects, including installation of hardware and software and integration testing.

Visit vendors, attend conferences or training sessions, or study technical journals to keep up with changes in technology.

Implement system renovation projects in collaboration with technical staff, engineering consultants, installers, and vendors.

Coordinate installation of new equipment.

Install, or coordinate installation of, new or modified hardware, software, or programming modules of telecommunications systems.

Supervise engineers or other staff in the design or implementation of network solutions.

Design, organize, and deliver product awareness, skills transfer, or product education sessions for staff or suppliers.

Maintain networks by performing activities such as file addition, deletion, or backup.

Design, build, or operate equipment configuration prototypes, including network hardware, software, servers, or server operation systems.

Supervise maintenance of telecommunications equipment.

Implement controls to provide security for operating systems, software, and data.

Prepare detailed network specifications, including diagrams, charts, equipment configurations, or recommended technologies.

Maintain or coordinate the maintenance of network peripherals, such as printers.

Implement or perform preventive maintenance, backup, or recovery procedures.

Manage user access to systems and equipment through account management and password administration.

Document procedures for hardware and software installation and use.

Develop and write procedures for installation, use, or troubleshooting of communications hardware or software.

Prepare or monitor project schedules, budgets, or cost control systems.

Develop conceptual, logical, or physical network designs.

Develop or recommend network security measures, such as firewalls, network security audits, or automated security probes.

Develop disaster recovery plans.

Develop and implement solutions for network problems.

Keep abreast of changes in industry practices and emerging telecommunications technology by reviewing current literature, talking with colleagues, participating in educational programs, attending meetings or workshops, or participating in professional organizations or conferences.

Communicate with telecommunications vendors to obtain pricing and technical specifications for available hardware, software, or services.

Develop network-related documentation.

Instruct in use of voice, video, and data communications systems.

Document technical specifications and operating standards for telecommunications equipment.

Evaluate network designs to determine whether customer requirements are met efficiently and effectively.

Explain design specifications to integration or test engineers.

Prepare design presentations and proposals for staff or customers.

Develop or maintain project reporting systems.

Practice AI.Use your judgment.

Practice AI.
Use your judgment.