What Does a Network Administrator Do?

What does a network administrator do?

Companies and organizations that use more than one computer to perform the necessary functions generally employ network administrators. Network administrators ensure that software and operating systems work properly and are kept up to date. These professionals oversee information technology within an organization, acting as access people for important technical or IT problems.

Network administrators can have specialized or university or graduate certifications. Professionals in this field earn a generous average annual salary of $ 82,050 and the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. UU. (BLS) plans to experience a steady 5% job growth rate in the coming years.

KEY HARD SKILLS

Network administrators acquire difficult skills through educational programs and practical experience. Knowledge of the types and functions of the network, these professionals develop skills in programming languages, in software and hardware management and in network security. These essential skills allow network administrators to perform best practices as reliable professionals.

Local area network: Local area networks (LANs) connect computers in limited areas, such as rooms, buildings or building collections. LANs serve two to hundreds of users, allowing connection, communication and collaboration. Network administrators understand and implement LAN hardware and software requirements while maintaining and updating their functions.

Wide area network: a large area, or WAN, covers a large geographic area, connecting computers for private telecommunications. WANs incorporate LAN, often bringing together groups in cities, states or distant countries. Network administrators control the installation and maintenance of WANs from a designated central location or by visiting remote locations.

Virtual private network: A virtual private network or VPN uses public networks to perform private communications, share data and related activities. Network administrators install and monitor VPN. Used more frequently on the Internet, VPNs encrypt connections to ensure the secure transmission of electronic information. VPNs also limit external access, allowing only authorized users to work remotely without interference.

Cisco Networking: Cisco, the company responsible for creating and manufacturing a large amount of network hardware, offers certifications for network administrators. Most network administrators work daily with Cisco products and systems. For this reason, network administrators must understand these systems, their functions and how to manage and resolve them.

Microsoft Active Directory: Companies that use Microsoft operating systems use Active Directory, which creates and maintains various security policies for the entire computer network. Network administrators use this directory to authenticate users and allow employees different levels of access to the system.

SOFT KEY SKILLS

Transversal skills, which do not necessarily come from formal training, but which are still essential for personal and professional success, include patience, time management, communication and detailed guidance. Network administrators should know how to prioritize, analyze and evaluate individual and institutional needs, expressing their ideas in written and verbal form.

Teamwork: Teamwork requires adaptation, open-mindedness and task orientation. Network administrators work with other technology professionals and colleagues to identify a common need and work together to resolve it. As part of a team, network administrators need interpersonal skills to listen and be receptive to ideas and suggestions.

Communication: verbal and written communication skills are essential for network administrators. As individuals who install and monitor complex technology networks, network administrators need to explain the concepts and use them for others. Network administrators must be clear, concise and respectful when interacting with colleagues.

Critical thinking: critical thinking involves analyzing, interpreting and evaluating evidence with an open mind. It also allows people to objectively explain problems and problems. By thinking critically about problems, concerns and suggestions, network administrators solve problems and make rational and well-informed decisions.

System Administration: Network administrators need to understand the nuances of all types of software and operating systems to troubleshoot and maintain the systems used within an organization. System administration involves managing these software systems and ensuring that different systems, software, hardware and other technologies work efficiently and are up to date.

Network support: Networks within a company or organization generally include Internet and Web-based operating network and system administrators ensure that these systems function properly. Network support involves helping users solve connectivity problems and helping with configuration processes.