Network Security Engineer → Network Architect

A realistic transition from Network Security Engineer to Network Architect: transferable skills, the gaps to close, a step-by-step learning plan and alternative routes. Estimated skill overlap 25%. Difficulty: Hard.

Difficulty: Hard7 stepsDuration: 16 to 20 monthsOverlap: 25%

Transition from Network Security Engineer to Network Architect.

Transferable skills

  • Cloud networking

Skills to learn

  • Routing & switching
  • Security
  • SD-WAN
  • Automation
  • Vendor strategy
  • Cost modelling

Step-by-step learning plan

  1. 1. Build on your Network Security Engineer experience

    2–4 weeks

    Leverage

    • Cloud networking

    Map transferable skills — Cloud networking — against what a Network Architect needs.

  2. 2. Close the partial gaps toward Network Architect

    3–6 weeks

    Improve

    • Network architecture

    Raise Network architecture to the level a Network Architect relies on.

  3. 3. Learn the core of the Network Architect role

    6–10 weeks

    Learn

    • Routing & switching
    • Security
    • Vendor strategy

    Technologies

    JuniperAristaBGP

    Cover the biggest gaps first: Routing & switching, Security, Vendor strategy.

  4. 4. Master advanced Network Architect skills

    6–10 weeks

    Learn

    • SD-WAN
    • Automation
    • Cost modelling

    Technologies

    OSPFVXLANAWS VPC

    Handle the advanced topics: SD-WAN, Automation, Cost modelling.

  5. 5. Get productive with the Network Architect toolchain

    4–8 weeks

    Technologies

    JuniperAristaBGPOSPFVXLANAWS VPCAzure VNetTerraform

    Be hands-on with Juniper, Arista, BGP and the rest of the target stack.

  6. 6. Practise Network Architect work in real conditions

    4–8 weeks

    Ship a portfolio project or take on Network Architect tasks at work.

  7. 7. Get certified and position yourself as a Network Architect

    4–8 weeks

    Technologies

    CCIECisco Certified ArchitectAWS Advanced Networking

    Update your CV and LinkedIn around Network Architect, then apply to target roles.

Alternative routes