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Network Administrator
A Network administrator is a professional who oversees and maintains a computer network. Networks vary in size from the smallest LAN to the global internet. Most businesses and organizations use some kind of a computer network to operate day to day. Accordingly, administrators are in high demand all around the world. America alone employs well over 200,000 administrators who work for private consulting firms, businesses, and government organizations. Network administrators possess skills that are critical for firms of all kinds.
Most firms use a multi-tiered system of technical administration, in which network administrators are the final tier. This usually means that administrators are not responsible for direct user support. Instead, they concentrate on the overall integrity of the server. They are also responsible for upgrading software, troubleshooting problems, maintaining a backup system, fixing network crashes, assigning routing protocols, establishing network security, and maintenance of network facilities. In some firms, a network administration may include the creation of the network.
Network administration requires technical knowledgeable. Administrators are required to be experts in a variety of technical areas, including Cisco, Linux, Unix, Java, Oracle, and Novell. They keep their systems up-to-date with the latest technology and functionality. They effectively keep the company connected. Your primary responsibility as an administrator is to educate people. This includes employees and managers who come to you for your expert advice.
Will I Enjoy Working as a network administrator
As an administrator, you will find your work to be challenging. Some thrive in such an environment; others find the job to be stressful and difficult. The nature of a network is such that it will constantly need upgrading and fixing. Because of this, you will often work long, irregular hours. Additionally, the network is an essential part of any organization or business, thus you are responsible for fixing the crash immediately, despite the time of day.
Being a network administrator is a stable, secure job, with generally good pay. Some companies use an in-house administrator, while others contract out to firms that serve multiple clients. Therefore, there is significant flexibility in your choice of workplace and workload. Administrators work in an office environment, and usually work alone rather than as a member of a team. If you are a person who enjoys constantly learning on the job and who works efficiently, then this is a favorable working environment for you.
How Do I Become a Network Administrator?
Education is the first step in any good career, and being a network administrator is no exception. While it is possible to get an associate’s degree from a technical school, it is better to get a BS in Computer Information Systems or a related field. Most companies will pass over an associate’s degree in favor of an undergraduate degree. Your degree should provide you with a strong background in math and computer science, and you should have experience working with computers. Most companies prefer job candidate who have experience managing networks, but some companies provide their own training and certification in network administration.
You can find network administrator jobs online, in newspapers, in computer industry magazines, and by networking. It is also possible that a company will hire current employees and then train them to be an administrator. Current employees make good candidates, because they are already familiar with the company culture. In order to become an administrator, you must also have good reasoning, organizational, and communication skills. If you fit these criteria, then you may be a good candidate for this position.
