Computer Network Architect

Anonymous

National (OA)

Documents

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Work Process Schedule

Work Process Content

On the Job Training

Anonymous

Skills

Designs, deploys, upgrades, and models network systems

Designs, builds, and operates equipment configuration prototypes, including network hardware, software, and servers
Designs and documents scalable network architecture incorporating Virtual Local Area Networks (VLANs), firewalls, load balancers, and cloud-based resources that meet specified throughput and latency metrics
Develops conceptual, logical, or physical network designs
Determines specific network hardware or software requirements, such as platforms, interfaces, bandwidths, or routing protocols
Applies fundamentals of wireless networking and cloud networking configuration for large providers
Adjusts network configuration and topology to meet volume or capacity demands
Prepares detailed network specifications, including diagrams, charts, equipment configurations, or recommended technologies
Optimizes and scales network using appropriate technology and best practices
Uses network computer-aided design (CAD) software packages to document and optimize network designs
Produces network diagrams using standard visualization tools and communicates architectural decisions effectively to stakeholders
Coordinates installation of new equipment
Assures compliance with standards and policies
Demonstrates familiarity with network disaster plans
Explains how the network configuration relates to compliance

Tests, maintains, and troubleshoots existing networks

Monitors and analyzes network performance and reports on data input or output to detect problems, identifies inefficient use of computer resources, and performs capacity planning
Diagnoses and solves operational problems
Works in and with data center teams to resolve issues
Troubleshoots availability and performance issues
Retrieves and manipulates data files such as logs to monitor performance
Troubleshoots core network issues and escalated tickets
Adjusts network sizes to meet volume or capacity demands
Understands basic physical network tools: (e.g., cable tester, cable crimper, loopback tester)
Conducts performance and bottleneck evaluations testing as needed
Conducts regular performance checks and analyses to determine bottlenecks and trends
Designs and executes network performance tests using established tools, interprets results, and implements adjustments to improve throughput, latency, and reliability
Conducts research and tests new or modified hardware or software products to determine performance and interoperability
Develops procedures to track, project, or report network availability, reliability, capacity, or utilization

Addresses security vulnerabilities in existing networks

Discovers, evaluates, and stays current with network vulnerabilities
Implements network security measures through patches, updates, and other mitigations
Understands the concepts of penetration testing and remediation
Assesses vulnerabilities related to ports, services, and protocols
Understands basic principles of zero-trust networking
Identifies private vs. public subnetting to identify the level of risk
Explains how the core network participates in and is impacted by defense-in-depth
Implements redundancy protocols, failover mechanisms, and regularly tests disaster recovery plans to ensure network resilience
Configures security policies, intrusion prevention systems, and network access control

Installs and maintains the networks

Develops and writes procedures for installation, use, or troubleshooting of communications hardware or software
Explains network topology and concepts to others in technology (server administrators, user support specialists, individuals, etc.)
Performs installation and changes for physical and logical cloud network components
Understands how network peripherals are configured and served on the network, including physical security, IoT (Internet of Things), etc.
Shows familiarity with network automation technologies, including scripts and configuration backup and management
Possesses familiarity with building code and construction practices that apply to the physical network
Participates in network upgrades and changes, including installation of hardware and software and integration testing
Relays basic cloud concepts and configurations
Understands relative cost of network components and differences in costs compared to performance plans or budgets for network equipment replacement
Collaborates with network and other infrastructure peers to resolve and plan for changes
Works with internet service providers, data centers, and electrical contractors to develop and implement changes in the physical or logical network

Demonstrates leadership, teamwork, communication, and task management skills

Demonstrates professional communication etiquette when interacting with colleagues and other business stakeholders, including responding in a timely manner
Respects deadline and time commitments by showing up on time, attending meetings and keeping to agendas
Visits vendors, attends conferences or training sessions, and/or studies technical journals to keep up with changes in technology
Identifies functional groups, troubleshooting groups, and understanding appropriate stakeholders and making an intentional effort to stay in touch
Demonstrates capacity to prioritize tasks according to order, urgency, or other contextual needs
Demonstrates ability to communicate across career levels
Estimates time and materials needed to complete projects
Appropriately engages with project reporting systems, including task assignments and recordkeeping

Related Instruction Outline

Computer Network Architect

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