Network Administrator

Network Administrator Job Description

A network administrator’s role includes ensuring that the company's computers can communicate with each other and with all other data communication systems within the organization's network, including employees, customers, and suppliers. While their specific tasks may vary widely based on their situation, the commonality between all network administration roles is maintaining computer networks and supporting the hardware and software for the network’s computers. While some network administrator positions require hands-on tasks such as troubleshooting individual workstations, others are exclusively behind the scenes. Still other positions specialize in specific areas such as network security, network management, or network engineering.

Network administrator duties may be varied, including a variety of tasks such as network maintenance, network security, and network infrastructure management. They are responsible for LAN (local area networks) and WAN (wide area networks) operations, which include network protocols, software, and computer hardware, as well as network equipment, infrastructure, and service management. They install hardware, isolate issues, identify network problems, ensure security through intrusion detection systems, and maintain documentation.

Organizations that use more than one computer or software platform need network administrators to coordinate and connect all the different systems. This makes the position highly sought after by organizations worldwide, as skilled network administrators are needed to ensure network connectivity. The demand for network administrators is continuing to increase as companies invest more and more in the latest technologies. 

The typical day for a network admin may include monitoring and maintaining LAN (local area networks), WAN (wide area networks), and Internet systems as well as installing and configuring software. In contrast, the main tasks of the system administrator are backend service and application maintenance. Whereas computer systems administrators focus on introducing new software, maintaining network infrastructure, and network management and operation, network administrators focus on computer infrastructure and network resilience. This requires a high level of technical knowledge and experience in the areas of network security, network management, and operation, as well as a good understanding of network infrastructure.  

To maintain the most efficient systems for their business, the network admin must keep pace with the latest technological changes. They must decide how and when to upgrade the network and which new hardware, software, and devices to buy. They also must have in-depth knowledge in the areas of network management, network infrastructure, and network security in order to effectively manage an organization's network and troubleshoot problems. A bachelor's degree in computer science, computer technology, or a related subject, and a master's degree are also helpful. 

Depending on the level of education and the professional experience of the administrator, there may be opportunities to move to a management position. Most employers look for network administrators who possess not only the right educational background, but a diverse range of skills. Network administrator skills should include the ability to install hardware, identify problems, work with systems such as Windows Server, and maintain their organization's network and computer systems. In addition to technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, communication skills, and leadership skills are essential. 

In addition to these skills, most employers are looking for network administrators with industry experience. Employers expect the network admin to stay up-to-date with new technologies, and one effective way to do this is to earn multiple certifications. Multiple certifications are a great way to expand skills and qualifications, especially for those without a bachelor's degree or master's degree in an IT related field.

A diploma or degree in management will give network administrators an advantage in the labor market while helping them develop their leadership skills and equipping them with the skills needed for a job in network administration. IT certifications from Cisco, Microsoft, and others are desirable. Those interested in specializing in cybersecurity and privacy may want to take courses for the CompTIA Security Certificate. Training or courses in computer science, computer technology, or electrical engineering are also beneficial.

 The hourly wage of a network administrator can range from $21 to $60 per hour, depending on the technology used. Network administrators often need to have a high level of technical knowledge and experience in network security, network management, and network operations.