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Network And Systems Administrator Job Description
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Computers and the networks that connect them must be set up and maintained properly in order to work well for their users. Network and systems administrators establish computer systems for organizations -- designing, installing and supporting each component. They may work for small businesses, large corporations or the government.
The responsibilities of network and systems administrators include:
- Determining the needs of clients, documenting requirements and planning implementation.
- Designing and setting up Local Area Networks (LANs) and Wide Area Networks (WANs) or segments within them.
- Designing and setting up Internet connectivity and intranets.
- Expanding and integrating networks.
- Testing to make sure computers, software and networks are all working together efficiently, and performing repairs and upgrades.
- Troubleshooting current problems and anticipating future problems.
- Securing data on networks and testing for vulnerabilities.
- Working with wireless technology, databases and e-commerce.
Network and systems administrators work in offices or computer labs as full-time employees or self-employed consultants. Their work often involves telecommuting.
Degrees and Schools
Most employers who hire network and systems administrators require a bachelor's degree from a college or university, preferring degrees in information technology or computer science. Some, however, will hire candidates with an associate's degree from a vocational or technical school, and/or who are qualified through work experience and certifications. Regardless of education level, certifications in specific network technologies and software are considered the industry standard by most employers, and employees are frequently expected to have them or be actively pursuing them. Some employers offer cost reimbursement for courses and tests related to certification or degree programs.
Classes
The course load for students in two-year or four-year degree computer science programs is usually divided between classes and computer lab work. In addition to independent assignments, group projects allow students to apply what they're learning by creating actual networks. Students also study:
- Installation of computer and network hardware including configuration of routers, hubs, switches, servers, networking protocols and transmission media
- Introduction to networks including LANs, WANs and wireless
- Internet and intranet administration
- Principles of telecommunications
- Wiring (topology)
- Specific network software products
- User account setup and management
- Monitoring of network performance, analysis and troubleshooting
- Terminology and design theory
- Network security and risk analysis
- E-commerce and database management
- Programming languages, platforms and operating systems
Keeping up-to-date on emerging technologies is essential for network and systems administrators. As part of their jobs, they may occasionally attend conferences, take certification courses for specific hardware or software products, and join user groups.
Online Classes and Programs
Aspiring network and systems administrators will find many options to chose from when comparing online degree programs in computer science or information systems. Selecting programs that have been accredited by organizations such as ABET helps ensure that credits will be accepted at other schools in the future.
Employment Requirements
A combination of work experience and certifications in specific in-demand products or a two-year associate's degree in computer science may be sufficient for some employers. However, many consider a bachelor's degree to be a minimum requirement for network and systems administrators.
How to Evaluate Schools
Those seeking to become network and systems administrators should ask the following questions when comparing degree programs:
- Accreditation - Has the school been accredited by a governing body in computer science / information technology? What, if any, direct-learning oversight organizations have accredited an online program? Are these organizations recognized by the US Department of Education?
- Relevant courses - Are the courses offered addressing important emerging technologies, providing comprehensive training on in-demand software and hardware?
- Practical experience - How much computer lab time is required? Are there plenty of opportunities for internships or other practical experience?
- Tuition and financial assistance - What options are available for tuition assistance? How much guidance is offered when it comes to scholarships, loans and work study programs? Will there be other expenses in addition to textbooks and fees, such as the purchase of expensive software programs and manuals, or lab time?
- School and class size - Is the student-faculty ratio well suited for interactive learning with teachers? When comparing the sizes of schools, what kinds of facilities and learning options are available? For example are online courses offered and if so can they be blended with on-campus studies? What about advanced degree options – for instance can a student readily apply his/her previous studies towards a degree such as a Master's?
- Career assistance- What services does the program offer at graduation? Are there well attended career fairs? Is a job placement program available, and does it have a good success rate?
