How to become A Network Administrator

In an increasingly digital world, Network Administrators act as a unique breed of cyber heroes who provide valuable IT support and ironclad data security to ensure that organisational computer networks are functional and meet the demands of the company.

• IT Administrator

What do Network Administrators do?

A Network Administrator would typically need to:

• Work with key organisational information systems, computer infrastructure, hardware, and software to ensure they are up-to-date and operating as intended
• Determine the system needs of the organisation and arrange for the procurement of required network hardware and software
• Configure and maintain data communication systems, such as local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), network segments, and intranets
• Undertake necessary upgrades and repairs to network equipment so systems continue to function properly; install and integrate new server hardware and apps
• Prioritise network and computer system security and connectivity, so they are not compromised; assign and update security permissions on the network
• Evaluate and optimise network or system stability and performance, in terms of availability, utilisation, throughput, goodput, and latency; test for weaknesses
• Interpret and solve problems flagged by a user or an automated monitoring system
• Add users to a network and train them in the prescribed use of hardware and software; provide technical support to computer users
• Manage in-house servers and desktop/mobile equipment to guarantee the effective working of email and data storage networks
• Set up and maintain virtual private networks (VPNs); resolve network connectivity issues for other employees
• Ensure employees’ workstations are up to par and remain connected to the central computer network; manage telecommunication networks, if required
• Set up, adjust and maintain user settings and permissions; define network policies and procedures
• Specifiy system requirements and design solutions; create technical support documentation for network systems and applications
• Create and maintain network diagrams that offer a visual picture of the network structure and its individual components
• Collaborate with network architects to design and analyse new network models; support computer support specialists who help resolve users’ problems
• Influence decisions regarding prospective purchases to upgrade the organisational network, after evaluating new technologies
• Support and administer third-party applications; research and make recommendations on server system administration

Network Administrators typically work in an office environment, although the work setting might range from computer systems design firms to hospitals. 

They regularly interact with other IT workers, such as computer support specialists, database administrators, computer network architects, and computer and information system managers.

Travel may depend on the scope of one’s duties and whether one is a full-time employee or a freelancer. Installation and maintenance of network equipment may require numerous trips to the facility.

Most Network Administrators work full-time and put in overtime as and when necessary to ensure organisational networks are up and running around the clock. On-call and weekend support are common. Factor in deadlines and challenging tasks, and one might understand the need to work more than 40 hours per week. 

Research suggests that flexible hours and generous telework policies appeal more than salary to the younger generation. There has been an incremental increase in the number of employers willing to give promising employees a chance to adjust their schedules as per the demands of the job.

Network Administrators can boost their job search by asking their professional and personal networks for referrals, contacting companies directly, using job search platforms, checking college and university career services, going to on-campus job fairs, leveraging social media, and inquiring at staffing agencies. Network Administrators qualify for positions across economic sectors and geographic locations. They are essential for businesses of all sizes, ranging from large corporations to startups.

Network Administrators are generally employed by:

• Software Developers
• Educational Institutions
• Healthcare Facilities
• Government Institutions
• Corporate Firms
• Finance Companies
• Insurance Agencies
• Manufacturing Firms
• Retailers
• Utility Companies
• Publishing Houses

Professional associations and organisations, such as The Network Professional Association (NPA) are crucial for Network Administrators interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation.

Professional associations provide members with continuing education, networking opportunities, and mentorship services. Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications.

• Adapting to the demands of an increasingly popular hybrid networking and a consequent influx of end-user devices, routers, and servers
• The need to continuously monitor the network’s risk vector, reinforce network security, ensure uninterrupted service availability, and enable optimal performance
• Improper utilisation of newer technologies leading to resource exhaustion or idle resources in different parts of the network
• Substantial inflation of network OpEx (operating expenses) due to poor network design and network monitoring strategy
• Lack of effective network management solutions to reinforce network security that may be compromised by manual data collection, processing, and updates
• The need for a centralised console and visibility to manage cloud infrastructures and enterprise network spanning across wired, wireless, on-premises, distributed, and remote environment
• Monotonous and repetitive tasks that require network automation and an integrated collaborative space to save time and prevent security leaks

Aspiring Network Administrators will benefit from tasks outside the classroom that align perfectly with lessons inside it. One may hear countless stories and obtain valuable hands-on experience from more experienced professionals who can turn seemingly routine incidents into unique learning moments.

Summer internships, part-time work at an entry-level position, or short-term paid/voluntary work offer a taste of the work and give valuable insight into how a company or institution operates.

In addition, working with an IT department or as part of a larger company can help prospective Network Administrators build valuable contacts, develop vital interpersonal, teamwork and time management skills, and improve their prospects of getting a permanent job. 

Beneficial help desk positions that help one transition to a networking role include IT specialist, help desk technician, help desk analyst, and IT technician, where the incumbent can help solve in-house computer and network issues. Your employer may allow you to take on more network-related tasks or shadow network professionals inside the company.

The experience may also help you determine whether the public, private, or voluntary sector is best suited to realise one’s ambitions. Smaller companies may need employees with prior experience compared to larger organisations that can afford in-house training for new hires.

Your educational provider’s career service department can provide information about viable opportunities for work placements, internships, mentor experiences, and collaborative activities in diverse sectors.

Read about the profession and interview or job shadow experts in network administration to prove your commitment to course providers and prospective employers. 

Candidates may find a bachelor’s degree in computer network and system administration, computer science, information technology, electrical engineering, electronic engineering, software engineering, or computer engineering most helpful in becoming Network Administrators. 

However, some employers may accept an associate degree or a postsecondary certificate in the above fields. An ideal education programme should familiarise the students with computer programming, systems design, and administration. 

Recommended high school courses include computer applications, computer programming, computer science, and network technology. English and speech classes will help you develop your research, writing, and oral communication skills.

Remember that completing a particular academic course does not guarantee entry into the profession. Be that as it may, professional qualifications and transferable skills may open up more than one door.

Do your homework and look into all available options for education and employment before enrolling in a specific programme. Reliable sources that help you make an educated decision include associations and employers in your field.

Certification demonstrates a Network Administrator’s competence in a skill set, typically through work experience, training, and passing an examination. Successful certification programs protect public welfare by incorporating a Code of Ethics.

Accredited certification in networking basics, such as security, troubleshooting, routing, switching, and infrastructure, from objective and reputed vendor-neutral providers can help you stand out in a competitive job market and increase your chances of advancement.

In addition, software vendors, such as Cisco, Juniper, CompTIA, and Microsoft, directly offer some of the most common professional certifications demonstrating your expertise in a particular product.

Network Administrators may also need to undergo an employment background check, including but not limited to a person’s work history, education, credit history, motor vehicle reports (MVRs), criminal record, medical history, use of social media, and drug screening.

Performance, experience, and the acquisition of professional qualifications drive the career progression of a Network Administrator who can be promoted as a Computer and Information Systems Manager.

Other likely advancement opportunities include becoming an Information Technology (IT) Manager or Director, after which you might take up senior executive roles, such as CIO (Chief Information Officer), Vice President of IT, Director of IT Services, Senior IT Manager, and Network Architect.

After gaining significant experience in specific areas, some Network Administrators prefer to join an MSP (multiple-service provider) or open their own consulting firm.

The desire to accelerate career growth and personal development has an increasing number of millennials choosing to job hop and build a scattershot resume that showcases ambition, motivation, and the desire to learn a broad range of skills.

Studies prove that job hopping, earlier dismissed as “flaky” behaviour, can lead to greater job fulfilment. Employees searching for a positive culture and interesting work are willing to try out various roles and workplaces and learn valuable, transferable skills.

Network Administrators with excellent problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication skills, a bachelor’s degree in relevant fields, requisite certifications, and adequate work experience have the best job prospects.

Continuing professional development (CPD) will help an active Network Administrator build personal skills and proficiency through work-based learning, a professional activity, 

formal education, or self-directed learning.

Typically, new hires undergo a month-long on-the-job training conducted by experienced professionals. You will carry out your responsibilities under close supervision until qualified to work independently. 

Steadily ongoing education is the best way to keep abreast of a constantly evolving computer industry. Acquire a master’s degree in a related field to increase earning potential, showcase your abilities, and flag your expertise to current and potential employers.

Boot camps, workshops and classes can enhance your expertise in managing systems. Your employer may offer financial support or alternate resources to help you build your knowledge and learn more about the field.

Dynamic Network Administrators attend conferences and seminars to remain up-to-date on industry trends. They take classes to stay on top of the latest technologies corresponding with future developments and become fluent in software favoured by prospective employers.

Take management and communication courses to hone your interpersonal and presentation skills as you move up the corporate ladder. Explore other beneficent topics through tech-related publications, email newsletters, and online forums.

Invest your time and energy in building a network of information systems specialists who can teach you new skills, give you insider information about the profession, help locate lucrative career prospects, and offer to mentor. Online networking groups specialising in IT or professional growth can also prove useful.

Current Scenario

The employment outlook of a particular profession may be impacted by diverse factors, such as location, employment turnover, occupational growth, size of the occupation, and industry-specific trends and events that affect overall employment.

Although the career outlook for Network Administrators seems modest, growth in the healthcare and mobile network industries signals a more encouraging pattern. Most job opportunities occur in the computer systems design and related services industry, with robust projected growth.

In addition, an increase in companies adopting cloud services and innovations in computer technology may lead to an exponential demand for Network Administrators.

Potential Pros & Cons of Freelancing vs Full-Time Employment

Freelancing Network Administrators have more flexible work schedules and locations. They own the business and can select their projects and clients. However, they experience inconsistent work and cash flow, which means more responsibility, effort and risk.

On the other hand, a full-time Network Administrator has company-sponsored health benefits, insurance, and retirement plans. They have job security with a fixed, reliable source of income and guidance from their bosses. Yet, they may experience boredom due to a lack of flexibility, ownership, and variety.

When deciding between freelancing or being a full-time employee, consider the pros and cons to see what works best.

Network Administrator vs System Administrator

Although several responsibilities overlap, system administrators focus on servers and computer systems. In contrast, Network Administrators work more specifically with network-related tasks and equipment, including setting up routing and IP addresses and maintaining LANs, WANs, network segments, and intranets.

Smaller companies with limited resources may have a single employee playing both roles, while larger organisations can afford to have them differentiated. The way systems and networks work together, it’s common to see job descriptions that require knowledge of both.

A network helps companies create, gather, archive, and exchange information, share limited resources such as scanners, photocopiers, and printers, and safeguard data and information.

With industries across the career spectrum and around the world dependant on computer networking to keep employees connected and business flourishing, dedicated Network Administrators who are eager to use their deep knowledge of computers for the benefit of their employers will find the profession highly rewarding.

Lay the groundwork to get you where you want to go.  Continue to learn as much as you can.  Take advantage of all the opportunities that come your way, and the rest will take care of themselves.