How to Become a System Administrator

Learn about the requirements for becoming a system administrator. Learn more about job descriptions and responsibilities and read the step-by-step guide to start a career in systems administration.

Should I become a system administrator?

System administrators are responsible for supporting,installing, and designing the corporate network and IT systems. Local areasystems, large area systems, and Internet organizations are also succeeded bythe system administrator. Because many businesses rely so heavily on theircomputer network, system administrators should work for hours to ensure theyare working correctly.

careerrequirements

For this career entry, you need a bachelor’s degree incomputer science, computer science, information systems or any other relatedfield. Certification is available but usually voluntary. Key competencies forsystem administrators include problem-solving, communication, multitasking andanalysis, knowledge of relevant software, configuration management, networksecurity, and monitoring, and the ability to use tools such as networkanalyzers, cable accessories, and server load balances.

In 2015, the average annual salary for IT and networkadministrators, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), was $77,810.

Let’s take a look at the steps that are being taken toenter this career.

Become a system administrator

Step 1: Get the education you need

Multiple educational paths can lead to a career as a system administrator. According to BLS, many employers prefer a licensed system administrator. In some cases, a vocational certificate or an associate degree is acceptable if an applicant already has professional experience. A system administrator can choose from one of the most important computer problems, such as B. computer science or computer science. Common tasks for these programs are computer programming, system design and networking.

Take an internship

To make the most of your education, you will completean internship. Some undergraduate programs offer students the opportunity totake part in an internship program in order to acquire industry knowledge andskills at school. These positions typically include initial vocational trainingthat enables a potential system administrator to become familiar with computersin a work environment.

Step 2: Find a location for system administration

Emerging candidates who have completed a post-secondarytraining program will find that there are introductory positions in system administration.Some examples of tasks listed for entry-level positions include system designand development, as well as testing and troubleshooting network systemproblems.

After working in a system administration position, youhave additional career opportunities with additional experience and training.In large organizations, for example, supervisory and management positions areavailable. These advanced careers go beyond monitoring and maintaining ITsystems. Leadership and management positions determine when further changes orupgrades to the company’s IT systems are required.

Consider a professional certification

It is important to consider professional certification.System administrators have many certification and naming capabilities. Thesecertifications are usually valid for manufacturers of certain products. Forexample, Microsoft offers several certification programs for its computerproducts.

Stay up to date with the latest technology

In addition, given the rapid pace of the industry, theindustry is always state of the art. System administrators need to keep abreastof ongoing technological advancements and changes that can be made throughcontinuing education. Master’s programs in this area are also available andprovide advanced training in system administration.

Step 3: Join a professional organization

Aspiring system administrators who wish to develop their careers may consider joining a professional body, such as the National Association of System Administrators (NASA) and the Professional League of System Administrators (LOPSA), which provides members with access to professional development, continuing education and network programs offered opportunities and other resources for career advancement and development.

In summary, a system administrator with post-secondaryeducation, experience, and possibly certification, can earn about $ 78,000 tosupport, install and design the company’s network and computer systems.

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