How to Be Network System Administrator - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

The role of a Network System Administrator is essential in any organization for the efficient functioning of the computer networks. A Network System Administrator is responsible for the installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of computer networks. They ensure that the network hardware, software, and security systems are up-to-date and working properly.

As a result, organizations are able to improve their communication and collaboration, while avoiding costly downtime. Furthermore, System Administrators are responsible for providing technical support to internal and external users, as well as monitoring and managing system performance. Without the expertise of a Network System Administrator, an organization would be unable to take advantage of the latest technology and would be at risk of security breaches and data loss.

Steps How to Become

1. Obtain a Bachelor's Degree. The first step to becoming a network system administrator is to earn a bachelor's degree in information technology, computer science, networking, or a related field.
2. Earn Certification. Network system administrators should have certifications in multiple areas of networking such as Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) and Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA).
3. Get Practical Experience. Practical experience working with networks is essential for becoming a network system administrator. Consider taking an internship or entry-level position at an IT company or department to gain hands-on experience.
4. Develop Your Skills. Continue to develop your skills and stay up to date on new technologies and trends in the industry. Pursue further certifications and attend networking events to stay connected with the networking community.
5. Find a Job. Once you have the necessary qualifications and experience, start searching for a job as a network system administrator. Make sure to highlight your certifications and practical experience on your resume and in job interviews.

To ensure a network system administrator keeps updated and efficient, it is important to invest in learning new technologies and keeping up with the latest industry trends. Regularly attending conferences and seminars can provide valuable insights and help the administrator stay knowledgeable. staying organized by creating a well-structured network infrastructure and keeping on top of security protocols will help maintain an efficient system.

Furthermore, performing frequent preventive maintenance checks and providing prompt customer service can help increase productivity and minimize downtime. By following these steps, a network system administrator can remain up-to-date and efficient.

You may want to check Network Operations Analyst, Wireless Network Engineer, and Computer Network Analyst for alternative.

Job Description

1. Install, configure, troubleshoot, and maintain computer hardware and software.
2. Monitor and manage network performance and security.
3. Design and implement network infrastructure, such as LANs, WANs, and wireless networks.
4. Ensure network connectivity of all workstations, servers, and other network devices.
5. Develop and maintain system security policies and procedures.
6. Monitor and troubleshoot server performance issues.
7. Perform data backups and restore operations as needed.
8. Monitor system performance and capacity planning.
9. Create and maintain user accounts and manage access control.
10. Research and recommend new technologies to enhance system capabilities.

Skills and Competencies to Have

1. Network architecture and design
2. Network troubleshooting and maintenance
3. Firewall, VPN and intrusion detection systems
4. Network performance optimization and scalability
5. Server installation, configuration and management
6. Windows, Linux and UNIX administration
7. Network security measures and protocols
8. DNS, DHCP and IP address management
9. Knowledge of scripting languages (e. g. , Perl, Python, PowerShell)
10. Knowledge of virtualization technologies (e. g. , VMware, Hyper-V)
11. Knowledge of cloud technologies (e. g. , AWS, Azure)
12. Expertise in network protocols such as TCP/IP, HTTP, and FTP
13. Experience with network monitoring and management tools
14. Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented environment
15. Excellent communication, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills

A Network System Administrator is a key component in any organization’s IT department. The most important skill they should possess is troubleshooting and problem-solving. This involves researching the issue and making sure the system is functioning properly, as well as identifying potential issues that could occur in the future.

Network System Administrators must also have a solid understanding of network architecture and systems, as well as a deep knowledge of the hardware and software involved. They must also be able to work with other members of the IT team, such as computer scientists, engineers, and designers, in order to develop solutions to technical problems. Having an eye for detail is also important, as they need to stay current with the latest technologies and ensure that all systems are running optimally.

Without this skill, system administrators would not be able to identify and solve issues quickly and efficiently, leading to costly downtime and a decrease in productivity.

Network Quality Assurance Analyst, Senior Network Engineer, and Telecom Network Engineer are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

• What experience do you have in network architecture and design?
• Describe your experience with network troubleshooting.
• How do you ensure that the network is secure and up to date with the latest security patches?
• What techniques have you used to optimize network performance?
• How have you managed and documented changes to the network?
• What is your experience with administering active directory and its associated services?
• How have you administered networks of various sizes and complexities?
• What steps have you taken to maintain availability of network resources?
• How would you go about diagnosing and resolving network issues?
• What tools have you used to monitor and analyze network traffic?

Common Tools in Industry

1. Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP). A protocol used to connect to a remote computer in order to access and manage its resources from a different location. (eg: connecting to an on-premises server).
2. Network Monitoring Tools. Software used to monitor and analyze the performance of a network and its components. (eg: SolarWinds Network Performance Monitor).
3. Virtualization Software. Software used to create virtualized computing environments. (eg: VMware or Hyper-V).
4. Firewall Software. Software used to protect a network from malicious activity by controlling incoming and outgoing network traffic. (eg: Check Point Firewall).
5. Backup and Recovery Tools. Software used to create backups of important data and files, and restore them in the event of data loss. (eg: Acronis Backup and Recovery).
6. Troubleshooting Tools. Software used to identify and solve problems with computer hardware and software. (eg: SolarWinds Diagnostics Toolset).

Professional Organizations to Know

1. Association for Computing Machinery (ACM)
2. Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
3. American Society for Information Science and Technology (ASIS&T)
4. Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF)
5. Internet Society (ISOC)
6. Network Professional Association (NPA)
7. International Council of Systems Engineers (INCOSE)
8. Cloud Security Alliance (CSA)
9. Usenix Association
10. Open Source Initiative (OSI)

We also have Network Project Manager, Voice Network Engineer, and Senior Network Administrator jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

1. Network Security. The practice of protecting a network from unauthorized access and the potential damage it can cause.
2. Firewall. A security system that acts as a barrier between two networks and inspects the traffic between them.
3. Network Infrastructure. A collection of hardware and software components necessary to build and maintain a network.
4. Virtual Private Network (VPN). A secure, encrypted connection that allows users to access a private network over the internet.
5. Protocols. Rules that govern how data is sent and received over a network.
6. Network Management. The process of managing a network and its resources, including monitoring, configuration, and maintenance.
7. Network Diagnostics. The process of troubleshooting a network to identify and fix any problems.
8. Network Administration. The process of managing a network and its resources, including monitoring, configuration, and maintenance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Network System Administrator?

A Network System Administrator is a professional responsible for the maintenance and performance of computer networks, including hardware, software and security systems.

What skills are required of a Network System Administrator?

A Network System Administrator should possess strong technical skills, including knowledge of networking protocols, operating systems and hardware configurations. They must also have excellent problem-solving and communication skills.

What qualifications are necessary to become a Network System Administrator?

To become a Network System Administrator, it's usually necessary to have a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. Additional certifications, such as Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), can also be beneficial.

What duties does a Network System Administrator perform?

The primary duties of a Network System Administrator include installing, configuring and troubleshooting networks; monitoring system performance; maintaining network security; and providing technical support.

How much does a Network System Administrator earn?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for Network System Administrators in 2020 was $87,070 per year, or $41.80 per hour.

What are jobs related with Network System Administrator?

• Network Solutions Engineer

Web Resources

• Network Systems Administrator | Northern New Mexico College nnmc.edu
• Network and System Administration Program at CWI cwi.edu
• What Does a Network Administrator Do? A Behind-the-Scenes Look www.rasmussen.edu