What Does a Network Administrator Do?

First, get your high school degree or equivalent. If you’re still in high school, take computer science and math classes. 

Next, decide on a training path. Some employers require an associate degree or certificate in computer science, information technology or network systems administration; others look for candidates with a bachelor's degree. 

Programs will cover coding languages, such as HTML, Python, Javascript or Ruby. Hands-on work will include learning how to set up and troubleshoot network systems, IPs, wireless modems and routers, cloud services and cybersecurity systems. Programs may go in-depth on one specific system or provide an overview that includes Microsoft, Linux and Cisco. 

Get experience in an entry-level role and gain as many different experiences as you can. Most network administrators have several years of IT experience, typically in user-facing roles such as IT support specialist. 

Once you become a network systems administrator, you'll have plenty of options for career growth. This could include being an administrator in a different industry or advancing into a job in data security management or becoming a systems architect who designs computer systems. 

Certification requirements vary by employer. Earning certifications is a good idea because they are one of the best ways to stay up to date with the latest techniques. They also serve as proof to future employers that you know your stuff. 

There are many options, but the most common are CompTIA, Microsoft and Cisco.

CompTIA credentials run the gamut, from the fundamental, such as CompTIA Network+ and A+, to the specific, such as Cisco Certified Network Professional Enterprise. 

Most network administrators work on Microsoft systems. There are many certifications to consider, including the Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) or the Microsoft Certified Solution Architect.

For those who focus on Cisco systems, consider the Cisco Certified Entry Network Technician (CCENT) or Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP).

There are dozens of others, including certifications for Amazon cloud services (AWS) and Linux.

Earning a certificate will take from six months to a year. An associate degree will take two years. 

Continuing education is ongoing. The technology changes quickly, and you’ll want to keep up!

These titles are often used interchangeably, but they focus on two different tasks. Network administrators focus on the network and ensuring components work together. Systems administrators focus on specific components of the network and how they function, including hardware and software. 

In smaller organizations, these tasks are handled by the same person. In larger organizations, these duties may fall to different people. 

Growth is expected to be steady, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The BLS estimates 23,900 job openings each year from 2021 to 2031.
 

Successful network administrators often possess these traits: 

• Excellent listening skills
• Good at multitasking
• Strong communication skills
• Innovative problem-solving abilities
• Strong customer service skills
• Attention to detail
• Good working knowledge of different computer operating systems
• Excellent analytical skills