Network Architect's Handbook: An expert-led journey to building a successful career as a network architect

Follow a step-by-step roadmap to developing essential competencies in network architecture design, relationship management, systems, and services, coupled with certification guidance and expert tips
Key Features

Grasp the big picture of information technology infrastructure to become a successful network architect
Overcome challenges in network performance and configuration management
Enhance your skills for career advancement using real-life examples and tips
Purchase of the print or Kindle book includes a free PDF eBook

Book Description

Becoming a network architect is challenging-it demands hands-on engineering skills, encompassing hardware installation, configuration, and fabric layout design. Equally crucial, it involves collaboration with internal teams and C-Suite stakeholders, and adeptly managing external entities like vendors and service providers. The Network Architect's Handbook comprehensively covers these vital aspects, guiding you to evolve into an effective network architect within an organization, fostering seamless communication with leadership teams and other stakeholders.

Starting with a clear definition of a network architect's role, this book lays out a roadmap and delves into the attributes and mindset for success. You'll then explore network architect design, physical infrastructure routing and switching, and network services such as DNS, MLAG, and service insertion. As you progress, you'll gain insights into the necessary skills and typical daily challenges faced by network architects. And to thoroughly prepare you to advance in your career, this handbook covers certifications and associated training for maintaining relevance in an organization, along with common interview questions for a network architect's position.

Armed with essential concepts, techniques, and your newfound skills, you'll be well-prepared to pursue a career as a network architect.
What you will learn

Examine the role of a network architect
Understand the key design makers in an organization
Choose the best strategies to meet stakeholder needs
Be well-versed with networking concepts
Prepare for a network architect position interview
Distinguish the different IT architects in an organization
Identify relevant certification for network architects
Understand the various de facto network/fabric architect models used today

Who this book is for

This book is for network engineers and technicians aspiring to transition into the role of a network architect. Whether you are at the beginning of your journey or seeking guidance along the path, this book will support you with its deep coverage of key aspects such as design concepts, architectural requirements, relevant experience, certifications, and advanced education with a special emphasis on cloud best practices. A practical understanding of IT networking is necessary to get the most out of this book.
Table of Contents

Understanding the Network Architect's Role
Network Architect in an Organization
Roadmap to Becoming a Network Architect
Attributes of a Network Architect
The Mindset of the Network Architect - the Principles of Design
Foundations of Network Architect - Part 1: Route/Switch
Foundations of Network Architecture - Part 2: Network Services
Foundations of Network Automation
Paradigm Shift to Cloud Computing
Preparing for Certifications and Cracking the Job Interview
The Skills to Become a Better Network Architect and Overcome Daily Challenges
Additional Information and Recommended Books