How to Get Started
as a Network Administrator

Network administrators are professionals who manage computer network systems. They work with communication networks, network hardware, and systems of wide area networks. With the right skills and experience, there are plenty of opportunities available in this field.

The demand for network administrators is increasing, due to the need to secure data and computer networks. Firms want to invest in network systems and technologies that are better, faster, and more secure, and they look to network administrators to implement those upgrades.

A network administrator monitors the daily operation of networks, network hardware, and communication systems. Their job primarily consists of ensuring smooth operation, improving performance, and tightening network security.

Network administrators rely on an understanding of data science for many of their duties. Things like machine learning, data mining, and data visualization are all areas of data science that network administrators need to be familiar with.

Typically, it takes between two and five years to become a network administrator. However, the amount of time varies depending on the program that you choose. Generally, employers prefer either a bachelor’s degree or an associate degree with additional training.

There are many colleges and universities that offer programs for network administration. As employers typically require either a bachelor’s degree or an associate degree, it would be a good idea to choose an institution that offers programs in information technology, computer science, or other network-related fields.

It’s important to remember that different companies have different educational requirements. So, if there is a specific company that you’re interested in working with, it might be helpful to become aware of their requirements and make sure you’re enrolled in a program that is acceptable to the employer.

The requirements for positions as a network administrator may vary from company to company. Generally, a network administrator position requires you to have a working knowledge of networks. It’s important to be adaptable and ready to learn how to use the network system that your hiring company uses.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for a network administrator is $84,810. The average salary is $52,830 for entry-level positions and $134,970 for senior positions.

BLS estimates that employment within the field will rise five percent from 2020 to 2030. However, IT positions in general are rapidly increasing as technology continues to advance.

Network administrators are responsible for ensuring smooth operation, maintaining security, keeping networks current, and fixing network-related issues. Learn more details about the responsibilities of network administrators below.

Data administrators monitor network systems and make sure that everything is operating as it should. They keep the system components coordinated and connected, install and configure software on the networks, and manage the hardware.

Data administrators manage telecommunication networks, as well as monitor the performance and speed of the network, performing tests to identify issues and provide solutions. Responsibilities will vary to an extent, depending on the company.

Network administrators oversee the security of the network. They are responsible for installing security patches, anti-malware, and security permissions. Due to the challenges of cyber security, securing the network is an important role of network administrators. They also regularly back up data and create disaster recovery plans.

Network administrators troubleshoot issues related to networking hardware, software, servers, and cloud services. They fix problems in the network system, which requires excellent analytical skills and critical thinking skills. They also resolve the broad range of network problems faced by users of the network.

Network administrators make the upgrades to the network system. They install updates and inform employees or users of the changes, as needed. Staff often need additional training after new installations so they can adapt to the changes. This is also part of network administrators’ responsibility to ensure smooth operation.

Employers are always looking for skilled IT professionals to join their teams. Candidates need to be knowledgeable about the industry and equipped with the skills needed, but it’s also important to be a team player, think critically, and communicate well. We have compiled a list of essential skills and common certifications for network administration, below.

Certifications will help you stand out in job openings for a network administrator role. They further substantiate your field experience if you have any. You can expect higher salaries and consideration for promotion to systems manager, data center manager, network engineer, or IT director.

There are many great reasons to become a network administrator in 2021. Not only are businesses growing, but many are creating fully remote positions that solely rely on technological networks to operate. Many universities and colleges are also now offering associate and bachelor’s degree programs exclusively online, increasing the demand for network administrators.

Additionally, tons of establishments and businesses have made their services available online like banking, shopping, as well as medical, mental, and legal services. Network administrators will only continue to be in high demand, as different aspects of life continue to transition online.