A Career in System – Network Administration

Network Administration is a field of employment that combines both computers and technology.   This field of computer systems is a fun, fast changing world - behind each computer network is a Network Administrator who keeps things running smoothly.

A Network Administrator is responsible for keeping an organization’s computer network up to date and functioning effectively.  Administrators are needed at any company that uses multiple computers or software platforms.

Depending on a company's size and location the job duties of a Network Administer are quite broad.

Common job responsibilities may be:

• Installing hardware (such as wireless access points, network printers, servers, and videoconferencing systems)
• Providing training to the organization's employee base and handle user support calls
• Monitoring network traffic for performance bottlenecks and suspicious activity (either security breaches, or inappropriate uses of the network by employees)
• Negotiating and managing service contracts with outside vendors
• Organization planning and managing of other admins (as a person progresses in their career)
• Maintaining, repairing and upgrading network and computer systems
• Diagnosing and fixing problems or potential problems with the network and its hardware, software and systems
• Evaluate and optimize network or system performance
• Add users to a network, and assign and update security permissions on the network
• Interpret and solve problems when a user or an automated monitoring system alerts them that a problem exists

With the variety of situations that Network Administrators encounter a combination of problem-solving skills are needed. There are a few common skills that employers look for when hiring Network Admins.

• Analyzing and Critical Thinking;  Administrators need to be able to solve problems logically and consistently - via much exploration of the issues.  Concepts that they have learned in school will need to be taken into consideration on how they will affect other concepts when implemented.  This ability is the bread and butter of being an Admins.
• Time Management;  In this career you will juggle several projects, people and problems simultaneously.  It is essential to be organized in the present and preparing for the next step.  Many times you work alone on a project and must be able to adhere to deadlines
• Interpersonal Skills; The ability to deal with a range of people, from network engineers, help desk employees and end users is essential
• Lifelong Learning; The technology field is constantly evolving which means Network Admins must be willing to learn and expand their knowledge.   They will face new techniques and technologies throughout their careers
• Adaptability; There is never a “typical day” for a networker.  Many situation are reactive, unexpected disruptions to service, or service improvements.

Currently employment for Network Administrators is rising at a higher rate than the national average for employment. The Network Admin outlook is at 13%.  With such a diverse job description there is a large variety of employment  that may be found in this field.

The top areas of industry that employee Network Administrators are:

• Professional, scientific and technical services
• Insurance
• Education
• Hospitals
• Transportation equipment manufacturing.

Formal training is typically needed in this field.  Many employers prefer you to have a technical degree.  Technical degrees offer a  more hands on approach to learning. If  you possess a high interest in computers and technology, the Networking Administration field may be a perfect fit for you.   Learn how you can launch your Networking Administration  career at Morrison Tech.