Network Administrator

The position of network administrator is sometimes advertised as systems administrator, LAN administrator, network operations analyst, network technician or information systems administrator, but no matter what the exact job title, this IT professional is responsible for the day to day operations of the network infrastructure of the organization. Depending on the organization, this network infrastructure will consist of such elements as individual desktop PCs, specially designed thin clients or workstations, file servers, mail servers, application servers, backup servers and more.

The many duties of the network administrator include installing and configuring new equipment, including desktop PCs and servers, troubleshooting day to day problems and unusual issues with networked equipment, and evaluating the need for upgrades or replacements of current computer hardware and software solutions.

The successful network administrator will need to be able to install, configure, maintain and troubleshoot a wide variety of computer equipment, from PCs and servers to printers and standalone devices. The network administrator will also require strong interpersonal skills, as the position generally requires the worker to interface with vendors, suppliers, front line employees, and management personnel.

Career paths for network administrators can include moves into positions of greater responsibility, including management roles and other leadership positions. While salaries for such positions varies, experienced network administrators often earn $50,000 per year or more.

Microsoft Certifications:

• MCSA
• MCSE

Linux Certifications:

• Linux+
• LPIC Level 1
• LPIC Level 2
• RHCE
• SCNA

Cisco Certification:

• CCNA

Citrix Certification:

• CCA

CompTIA Certifications:

• A+
• Network+

CIW Certification:

• Master CIW Administrator

CWNP Certifications:

• CWNA
• CWSP

Novell Certification:

• NetWare CNA

TruSecure Certification:

• TICSA