If you have a serious interest in computers and their general administration, you can definitely pursue a career as a network administrator. In today’s competitive working conditions, it is important for an organization to maintain a safe, reliable and uninterrupted computer network and it is here that network administrators fit in. They provide a continuous and problem free network service to organizations. They design and set up computer networks and even look after the maintenance of the various hardware and software involved. Network administrators do not interact directly with the users or the employees. They work on with the connectivity, security, server deployment and overall health of the computer network. They concentrate on all technical deliberations of the organization and are considered as senior tier-3 support professionals. Thus, they only look into those issues which cannot be rectified by either the help desk or the network technicians. This article explains the eligibility, courses and skills needed and also the roles, responsibilities and career prospects of a career in network administration. Scroll down and read on!
Becoming A Network Administrator
Requirements
Eligibility
To become a network administrator, you need to complete a Bachelor’s degree with computer science or other IT subjects as major. Once done with graduation, you can register for certification. There are many certification programs in which you can enroll yourself to get certified to work as a network administrator. Certification courses are mentioned below:
Courses
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Network Citified Internet Associate: Deals with Junos, routing and switching.
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Network Technician Certification Program: Deals with deployment of juniper network, junos-based routers.
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Certified Entry Network Technician: Deals with routing protocols, secure access system etc.
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Certified Network Associate: Trains in installing, configuring, operating and troubleshooting switched networks and medium sized networks.
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Certified Internet Work Professional: Trains in managing service provider infrastructures.
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Certified Network Professional: Deals with planning, troubleshooting and implementing both local area and wide area networks.
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Certified Internet Expert: This is the most prestigious network certification and trains in tools and methodologies to ensure quality networks.
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Certified System Administrator: Covers windows Extra, Windows XP and Windows server 2003 and all other Microsoft tools etc.
Skills Required
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Ability to diagnose and monitor problems in the server.
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Knowledge of web application server network.
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Good knowledge of system configuration types and a good background in processing.
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Sound knowledge of rules regarding passwords and knowledge in software logistic concepts is essential.
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Good communication and customer service skills.
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Ability to work under pressure is mandatory in this field.
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Dexterity in the various documentations required is expected of a network administrator.
Roles And Responsibilities
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Ensuring smooth functioning of a computer network by setting up required infrastructure, supervising periodic maintenance works and providing solutions for network interruptions in the administrative infrastructure.
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Customizing the network according to the organization’s need by connecting all the essential hardware and software.
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Controlling user’s access to the network depending on the rules of the organization.
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Listing the system processes and services.
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Describing the query-flow using database interface.
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Configuring SAP, describing the use of logon groups and also about logon process. Also included are the configurations of the SAP system using profile parameters and operation modes.
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Administration of network workstations using Transmission Control Protocol or Internet Protocol (TCP/IP).
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Inspecting the stock and purchase systems, software, hardware, peripheral equipment etc.
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Installing and upgrading software and performing application development and troubleshooting system application and network to identify operational difficulties.
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Arranging and coordinating training sessions for the system and software users to help them maximize their productivity.
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Scheduling maintenance program following organizational standards.
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Installing enhancements and operating procedures to modify and optimize the network ability.
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Maintain the confidentiality of the stored information by maintaining effective password system
Career Prospects
Network administrators are an integral part of organizations with intranet and internet usages. The duty of a network administrator varies with the nature and size of the organization and also with the size of the network which he/she is responsible for. The role would be more generalist if the administrator is dealing with a small network while more specific and detailed in a larger network. The need for network administrator is increasing sharply because computer networks are becoming an integral part of every organization. Network administrators can advance to network engineering which is a higher profile.
Hope this article helped you learn about the career of a network administrator. With hard work and experience you are sure to scale the slopes of success. All the best!
