What Does a Network Administrator Do?
Do your friends or family members constantly come to you to solve their computer problems? Do you have a strong interest in the world of information technology? A career as a network administrator might be right for you.
Network administrators oversee an organization’s computer systems and database networks. They work with other IT staff and employees to ensure computer systems are maintained properly and securely. Since nearly every organization relies on computer networks and the internet to operate, you can find network administrators in various industries, including government, financing, higher education, technical consulting, manufacturing, retail, utilities companies, hospitals, and more.
Network Administrator Job Responsibilities
Network administrators have a range of duties and responsibilities, depending on where they work. Many of their tasks involve network monitoring, network management, and network security. Some typical duties may include:
- Maintaining computer networks, mainframes, VPNs, routers, and other hardware
- Installing network equipment to update or fix hardware and software issues
- Updating virus protection software
- Monitoring network performance
- Communicating networking issues to other employees and management
To be a successful network administrator, it’s important to have a good knowledge of networking and computer systems. There are other qualifications that are important in this career, too, including:
- Attention to detail
- Interpersonal communication skills
- Project management skills
- Time management skills
- Critical thinking skills
Network Administrator Qualifications
To become a network administrator, it is important to have the proper training and education. These professionals have either a bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science or a related field. An online technology degree from Excelsior University can help prepare you for a high-demand role in cybersecurity, electrical engineering technology, information technology, nanotechnology, nuclear engineering technology, power plants and renewable energy, and technology management.
Though not required, some certifications can be helpful if you are beginning your career. The Cisco Certified Network Associate validates your skills in Cisco network solutions, IP addressing, and other network fundamentals. The CompTIA Network+ certification covers all sorts of networking basics and is a smart choice for those just entering the field.
Network Administrator Job Outlook
Network administrators have an important role in an organization to maintain the network and computer systems. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average salary for a network administrator is $80,600 per year. The BLS also projects this field to grow 5 percent from 2020 to 2030, with about 24,900 openings for network and computer systems administrators. Most of these openings are projected to occur from the need to replace workers, such as due to retirement.
If you think network administration sounds like the career for you, consider earning a technology degree with Excelsior University today.
