Becoming an infrastructure architect requires experience in IT and computer science, as well as a deep understanding of business telecommunications needs. A college degree in computer engineering or network management and a certificate in infrastructure architecture are usually required. Training occurs in the field of computer science, and certification courses are available. Architects work on optimizing technology skills, managing network security, and designing web systems. Different career paths are available, including working for a single company, contract companies, or alongside building architects.
Becoming an infrastructure architect requires extensive experience in information technology and computer science, as well as a deep understanding of business telecommunications needs. Landing this job usually requires a college degree in computer engineering or network management, as well as a certificate in infrastructure architecture from a reputable leader in the computer industry. The “architecture” aspect of this work refers to systems architecture, which is the linking of computers and information technology systems. It is usually related to structural architecture, but a regular level of architecture is usually not a requirement to become an infrastructure architect.
Infrastructure architect training occurs almost exclusively in the field of computer science. Most universities, as well as many community colleges and technical schools, offer courses and degree programs in these disciplines. However, it is rare to find rigorous infrastructure architecture courses. For the most part, computer-savvy individuals apply the most general education from any information technology program to become an infrastructure architect.
The infrastructure architect’s core duties cover most aspects of helping businesses and organizations optimize their technology skills. This includes technical specifications such as laying the groundwork for wires, jacks and ports, as well as actual network configuration and management. Architects work day in and day out managing network security, optimizing data transfers, and designing web systems to run at peak efficiency.
There are many different ways to gain experience in infrastructure architecture, as many infrastructure architect training takes place on the job. Many large companies or design firms hire computer scientists directly out of school to join architecture teams, although this is more common in large companies. Experienced architects are often able to bring new recruits under their wings, training them from the inside out.
Getting certified is another good way to get the hands-on training you need to become an infrastructure architect. Many different information technology groups offer infrastructure architect certification courses. These are generally not university courses; rather, they are industry-specific training courses that culminate in a credential that many employers find valuable. Getting certified is a good way to become an infrastructure architect, as it allows you to demonstrate that you not only have knowledge, but have demonstrated core networking competencies in an enterprise context. A large number of companies require their architects to maintain certification as a way to stay current with technology and industry practices.
Deciding what kind of work you want to do is also an important part of your journey to becoming an information architect. Not all infrastructure architecture careers are created equal. Some work internally for a single company, designing and maintaining existing network structures. Others work for contract companies, often handling multiple clients at once. These types of architects focus almost exclusively on configuration, although they may be called upon to perform maintenance or troubleshoot issues when necessary.
It is also possible to become an infrastructure architect who works alongside building architects to plan efficient network infrastructure hardware in new construction. It is also possible to work as a freelancer on a project basis, especially for professionals with some experience already under their belts. Choosing your path often requires an honest balance of what you love to do and how you see your career unfolding.
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