Network Administrator Job Description
Network Administrator Job Description:
Network administrators design, manage, and maintain technological networks. They work within organizations and government agencies to oversee local area networks, wide area networks, network segments, and other data communication systems as needed.
Network administrators provide support and oversight alike, working closely with colleagues to explain how to use data storage and communication networks and ensure efficiency. Often part of a larger, computer-related operational staff, network administrators may supervise computer support and computer systems specialists.
Network administrators connect different devices together to form fast and efficient networks.
Network administrators are responsible for maintaining computer networks and solving any problems that may occur with them.
Typical responsibilities of the job include:
installing and configuring computer networks and systems
identifying and solving any problems that arise with computer networks and systems
consulting with clients to specify system requirements and design solutions
budgeting for equipment and assembly costs
assembling new systems
maintaining existing software and hardware and upgrading any that have become obsolete
monitoring computer networks and systems to identify how performance can be improved
working with IT support personnel
providing network administration and support
Typical employers of network administrators
Since almost all industries are now heavily computer-dependent, network administrators are needed in most companies, including:
software developers
the government
the finance industry
manufacturers
retailers
utilities companies
schools
universities
hospitals
publishers
You can look for vacancies in specialist publications such as TARGET jobs IT & Technology. Vacancies are also advertised online and by careers services and specialist recruitment agencies.
Daily Tasks
Network administrators employ both soft and hard skills as they carry out daily tasks and responsibilities. Effective communication allows network administrators to exchange ideas with colleagues, assessing overall technological needs. Network administrators also train users in hardware and software, communicating complex ideas in clear, concise ways.
Network administrators install, oversee, upgrade, and troubleshoot network hardware and software. They implement techniques to optimize network performance, provide access to new users, and monitor security and safety of a network, as well.
Key skills for network administrators
Patience
IT and technical skills
Problem-solving skills
Interpersonal skills
Enthusiasm
Team working skills
Initiative
Attention to detail
Key Hard Skills
Network administrators acquire hard skills through educational programs and practical experience. With knowledge of network types and functions, these professionals build competencies in programming languages, software and hardware management, and network security. These essential skills allow network administrators to carry out best practices as reliable professionals.
Local Area Network: Local area networks (LAN) connect computers within limited areas, such as rooms, buildings, or collections of buildings. LANs serve anywhere from two to hundreds of users, allowing for connection, communication, and collaboration. Network administrators understand and implement LAN software and hardware requirements while maintaining and updating their functions.
Wide Area Network: A wide area network, or WAN, covers a large geographic radius, connecting computers for private telecommunications. WANs incorporate LANs, often bringing together groups in distant cities, states, or countries. Network administrators supervise 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 carry out private communication, data sharing, and related activities. Network administrators install and oversee VPNs. Most often employed over the internet, VPNs encrypt connections to ensure safe transmission of electronic information. VPNs also restrict outside access, allowing only authorized users to work remotely without interference.
Cisco Networking: Cisco, the company responsible for creating and manufacturing a great deal of networking hardware, offers certifications for network administrators. Most network administrators work with Cisco products and systems on a daily basis. For this reason, network administrators should understand these systems, their functions, and how to maintain and troubleshoot them.
Microsoft Active Directory: Companies that utilize Microsoft operating systems make use of an 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 system access.