What this book covers
Chapter 1, Understanding the Network Architect’s Role, explains how the network architect has many facets, from understanding network concepts to communication up to, and including, CXO. Network architects are responsible for designing and managing data communication, networks for organizations and/or clients. They must also be forward thinkers to ensure these systems are in line with business outcomes and goals. The network architect is one of many under the IT architect umbrella.
Chapter 2, Network Architect in an Organization, focuses on the roles and responsibilities that come with being a network architect.
Chapter 3, Roadmap to Becoming a Network Architect, introduces you to the roadmap toward becoming a network architect, from being a technician to a senior network engineer. Each role possesses key skills required, as well as responsibilities to move toward a career as a network architect. We will also look at the challenges that are faced in becoming a network architect.
Chapter 4, Attributes of a Network Architect, describes some of the qualities a network architect should obtain and possess. Though network architects are one of many “architects” and professionals in an organization, overlapping skill sets can and do occur with respect to the business. This chapter will introduce those overlapping skill sets.
Chapter 5, The Mindset of the Network Architect – the Principles of Design, goes into the mindset a network architect should have in order to be successful. It starts with the principles of network architecting, reading IT blogs and whitepapers, and reading the WSJ to listen to a company’s earnings report. Attributes are one part, but bringing it all together is the mindset.
Chapter 6, Foundations of Network Architecture – Part 1: Route/Switch, begins with the foundational knowledge and skills necessary to advance into a network architect role and looks at the physical infrastructure (cabling, routers, and switches). Routing and switching are vital for any network to be sustainable. These are the building blocks upon which databases, compute and storage, and applications rely. Having a complete understanding of what is used to build a network is key to any network architect’s success. This chapter is not intended to go into a deep dive on any one topic.
Chapter 7, Foundations of Network Architecture – Part 2: Network Services, describes the network services used to build the extensive network infrastructure companies rely on to support their business endeavors. ACLs, firewall rules, load balancing, and more play a critical role in supporting these endeavors.
Chapter 8, Foundations of Network Automation, discusses how, in the evolving landscape of network architecture, the shift toward automation is not just a trend but a fundamental transformation. Network automation stands at the forefront of this change, offering unprecedented efficiency, agility, and reliability. This chapter delves into the essential building blocks of network automation, laying a solid foundation for those seeking to harness its full potential.
Chapter 9, Paradigm Shift to Cloud Computing, introduces you to a paradigm shift to cloud and cloud technologies that can further aid a network architect’s growth to next-generation IT infrastructure and services. You will learn about the different “as a Service” models, the key cloud providers, and their services, as well as understand private cloud, hybrid cloud, and multi-cloud.
Chapter 10, Preparing for Certifications and Cracking the Job Interview, describes IT certifications that a person who is looking to move into a network architect’s role/position should obtain and how to prepare for those interview questions. There is no silver bullet on this topic. It takes hard work, commitment, and practice, practice, practice.
Chapter 11, The Skills to Become a Better Network Architect and Overcome Daily Challenges, covers how, in the journey to becoming a proficient network architect, technical skills are just one part of the equation. Equally vital are the interpersonal skills that enable you to navigate the complexities of a collaborative work environment. This chapter delves into the essential interpersonal competencies that will not only enhance your role as a network architect but also help you overcome daily challenges effectively.
Chapter 12, Additional Information and Recommended Books, shows how, while this book provides a comprehensive guide to becoming a network architect, the journey of learning and professional development is an ongoing one. To aid you in this continuous pursuit, we have compiled a selection of recommended books and other resources. These materials have been carefully chosen to complement the topics covered in this book and to provide deeper insights into specific areas of network architecture and related fields.