Network Administrator Job Description – Salary, Education and Career Guide for becoming a Network Administrator

What is a network administrator? A network administrator is responsible for an organization’s computer network, which can be a:
  • local area network (LAN),
  • wide area network (WAN) and Internet system.
 
A network is a grouping of computers that communicate with each other, or that work off a central computer, called a server.

Job Description

In addition to managing a computer network, a network administrator job involves:
  • maintaining the hardware and software
  • making sure that all computers needed on the network are running properly
  • performing maintenance to the network when problems arise.
 
Network administrators also develop and install backup systems to protect the network in the event of a crash, and install protective software such as firewalls and virus protection.
 
Network administrators are also responsible for controlling network use. This means developing passwords for each user based on his or her level of access or programs they need to use. They also help network users when they have trouble. Since many of those users may have little or no computer experience, the ability to communicate complex ideas in a simple way is necessary.
 
Working conditions for a network administrator are generally in an office, and can require long hours during high use periods or when problems occur.

Salary Guide

The median network administrator salary is $58,190 annually with a range of $39,970 to $101,520 depending on geographical location, type of organization, and experience.

Education and Training

Network administrators typically have a heavy background in math, sciences and computer science, plus experience working with computers. While a degree is not required for all network administrator positions, it can be difficult to advance in the field without a degree.
 
Familiarity with a variety of operating systems is useful for network administrators. Some of the major systems a network administrator should understand include:
  • Microsoft
  • Novell
  • Unix.
 
As with many high tech fields today, information changes quickly, so it is useful to upgrade knowledge regularly.

Prior Work Experience

Although network administrator jobs are growing rapidly, it can be difficult to get even an entry level job in this field without some experience. One way to gain experience is to take a “help desk” job while in college or get a summer internship in the networking field. Another way to learn about network administration is to try a "teach-yourself" method where you can experiment with network administration tools and scripts.
 
In addition to experience, strong communications skills, particularly when it comes with explaining technical material will be very helpful during a job interview for a network administrator position.

Career Advancement

A degree in a math, science or engineering field is very helpful for network administrators who would like to advance in their careers. Keeping up with the latest technologies and obtaining certifications in certain programs, such as Novell is also advantageous.
 
A qualified network administrator can advance into one of the following related fields:
  • computer programming
  • software engineering
  • systems analysis.
 

Related Associations and Groups

Here are some associations and groups for those in the network administration field:
  • Association for Computer Machinery
  • IEEE Computer Society
  • Systems Administrator Guild.
 
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