What Is a Network Administrator? A Complete Career Guide to Skills, Jobs, and Salaries

Ever wondered how Amazon handles vast amounts of customer data or how Google keeps millions of servers running smoothly? It’s all made possible by a dedicated team of network administrators. These professionals ensure that networks are properly configured, maintained, and secured, serving as the backbone of modern enterprises.

The global spending on cybersecurity has exceeded USD 1 trillion between 2017 and 2021. This highlights the critical importance businesses place on protecting their IT systems and the role of network administrators. 

If you want to know what is a network administrator and how you can step into this field, you’ve landed the right article. You’ll learn about the essential skills needed and the steps to become one. Dive in!

What is a Network Administrator and How Does it Differ from a Systems Administrator?

A network administrator manages and maintains an organization's network infrastructure to ensure that the network is smooth, secure, and meets the needs of the organization.

The focus is on connectivity between devices, servers, and other systems so that data flows efficiently across the network. 

A network administrator’s functions are similar to that of a systems administrator. However, there are some key differences in their roles, mentioned in the following section.

Network Administrator vs. Systems Administrator

Here’s how a network administrator differs from a systems administrator.

Also Read: Top 20 System Administrator Skills To Master in 2024

After a brief overview of what is a network administrator, let’s understand the responsibilities of this role.

What are the Responsibilities of a Network Administrator?

The main responsibility of a network administrator is to carry out tasks that help maintain the stability and efficiency of an organization’s network. It includes managing hardware, overseeing network services, and protecting the network from threats.

Here are the key responsibilities of a network administrator.

1. Network Design and Configuration

• Designing the architecture of the network based on organizational needs.
• Setting up networks such as LANs (Local Area Networks), WANs (Wide Area Networks), and VPNs (Virtual Private Networks).
• Implementing network topologies, VLANs, and subnets.

2. Network Maintenance

• Monitoring performance of the network performance to ensure optimal function.
• Performing regular maintenance, updates, and upgrades to network systems.
• Configuring services such as DNS (Domain Name System), FTP (File Transfer Protocol), and DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol).

3. Security Management

• Ensuring the security of the network by setting up firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems (IDS/IPS), and implementing VPNs for secure remote access.
• Regularly perform security audits to detect vulnerabilities.
• Respond to security incidents and solve them. 

4. Resolving Problems

• Resolve connectivity problems, slow performance, and hardware malfunctions.
• Carry out network diagnostics using tools like Tracert, Ping, and Wireshark.
• Troubleshoot failure of hardware or software by working with vendors.

5. Network Documentation

• Maintain detailed records of network changes, and incidents.
• Creating network diagrams and architecture plans for better understanding and troubleshooting.
• Documenting network protocols and policies to ensure compliance.

6. Bandwidth Management

• Monitor network bandwidth to ensure there are no bottlenecks and the network can manage peak traffic loads.
• Implement Quality of Service (QoS) policies to prioritize critical traffic, such as video conferencing.

7. User Management

• Manage access permissions for users.
• Configure network access for new devices and remote users.
• Assist employees with networking issues, such as Wi-Fi connectivity issues.

Also Read: 50 Networking Interview Questions & Answers

After understanding what is a network administrator and their key responsibilities, let's now explore the steps involved in becoming one.

What are the Steps Required to Become a Network Administrator?

To become a network administrator, you’ll have to follow several key steps that range from obtaining an educational degree to gaining certifications and securing your first job interview.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to becoming a network administrator.

Step 1: Earn a Degree in an IT-Related Field

While not mandatory, a degree in an IT-related field can give you an edge over other competitors. A degree in technology provides you with the theoretical and practical knowledge required to understand complex network systems.

Here are the degrees that you can pursue.

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or Information Technology (IT)
• Bachelor’s degree in Network Engineering or Cybersecurity

Step 2: Obtain Industry-Recognized Certifications for Networking

A certificate from a reputed organization validates your expertise and skills in networking. The right certifications can help you get better job opportunities and higher salaries.

Here are some of the key certificates you can explore.

Step 3: Consider Advanced Education, Such as a Master’s Degree

An advanced degree, such as a Master’s in Network Engineering or Cybersecurity, can help you stand out for managerial or specialized roles in larger organizations.

The in-depth knowledge of complex networking concepts, security, and advanced networking protocols gained during a Master’s degree makes you suitable for specialized roles like network manager.

Step 4: Begin with Entry-Level Roles in Networking

Before starting as a network administrator, you need to gain hands-on experience in an entry-level networking role. Here are a few positions you can apply to gain experience.

• Network Support Technician: This role focuses on troubleshooting and supporting network devices and systems.
• Help Desk Technician: In this role, you’ll provide support for network-related issues and troubleshooting.
• IT Technician: You’ll handle general network maintenance, hardware configuration, and software installation.

Step 5: Prepare for Network Administrator Job Interviews

After completing the necessary certifications, gaining some hands-on experience, and refining your skills, you’ll have to start applying for a network administrator role.

Here’s how you can prepare for the interview.

• Technical Proficiency: Increase your knowledge of networking protocols, hardware, and troubleshooting. 
• Practical Experience: Show your previous projects where you solved network-related issues or optimized network performance.
• Certifications: Highlight your certifications. These certifications show your commitment to professional development.
• Soft Skills: Strong interpersonal communication, problem-solving, and time-management skills will add value to your portfolio.

Looking to enhance your soft skills, like time management? Join the free course on Time and Productivity Management Techniques today!

 

Now that you understand the path to becoming a network administrator, let's take a look at the key skills you'll need to succeed in this role.

What are the Skills Required to Excel as a Network Administrator?

For the role of a network administrator, you’ll need a combination of technical expertise (ex, network configuration) and soft skills (ex, problem-solving). A combination of both these skills will help you excel in this role.

Here are the key technical and soft skills needed for the role of network administrator.

Technical Skills for Network Administrators

As a network administrator, your primary responsibility will be to set up, manage, and maintain network systems. The following skills are essential for maintaining a secure and efficient network infrastructure.

• Network Configuration and Management

You need to know network devices (ex, router and switch) network services (ex, DHCP) and must be able to design and implement network topologies like VLANs.

For example, configuring a router to manage traffic between internal and external networks.

• System Monitoring and Maintenance

You must be proficient in using monitoring tools to assess network performance, analyze traffic patterns, and implement patches to secure the system. For example, check the network when you observe unusual spikes in traffic.

• Troubleshooting and Problem-Solving

You must be able to identify the reasons for hardware and network failure. In addition, you must implement solutions to reduce the downtime of the network.

For example, identifying a faulty switch that is causing network disruption.

• Security Protocols and Best Practices

Knowledge of security protocols like firewalls is of utmost importance. You must be able to implement measures that can protect the network from internal and external threats. For example, configuring VPN for remote workers.

• Familiarity with Networking Tools

You must have experience working with network management tools like Wireshark and Nagios. In addition, you must be able to use simulators for testing configurations and troubleshooting. For example, using tools like Wireshark to analyze network data.

Soft Skills for Network Administrators

Effective soft skills will help you succeed in the workplace, especially when collaborating with other teams and managing multiple priorities. 

Here are some of the soft skills you need for the role of a network administrator.

• Communication Skills

You must be able to explain complex technical issues to non-technical staff and management. Effective communication will also help you collaborate with team members, vendors, and end-users to ensure smooth resolution of issues.

• Team Collaboration

You have to work with other IT staff, departments, and vendors to support the organization’s network needs. The collaboration will expedite troubleshooting efforts and resolve issues quickly.

• Adaptability

You must learn to adapt quickly to new technologies, network protocols, and security practices. Adaptability will also help you handle challenges and shift priorities in a dynamic IT environment.

• Analytical Thinking

You must develop the ability to analyze network issues, plan solutions, and foresee potential challenges. In addition, you need to analyze network performance and draw actionable conclusions for system improvements.

• Time Management

You must develop skills to manage multiple projects simultaneously. Balancing daily operational tasks with long-term network upgrades will help you meet deadlines and reduce system downtime.

Also Read: 15 Ways to Improve Your Time Management Skills

After a brief overview of this job role, let’s explore the network administrator salary.

Network Administrator Salary and Career Prospects

As a network administrator, you have strong earning potential and long-term job security, considering the increasing dependence on technology and the rise of remote work. The salary depends on factors such as experience level. Here is the network administrator salary based on their experience level.

Source: Ambitionbox

Career Opportunities in Network Administration

The skills you develop in network administration can help you transition into several high-paying and rewarding career paths. The technical knowledge and problem solving skills will help you secure roles from systems analysis and software development to management positions.

Here are some of the career opportunities in network administration.

1. Computer Systems Analyst 

Average Annual Salary: INR 2.4L

As a computer systems analyst, you'll evaluate and improve an organization’s systems and software, designing and optimizing network configurations for better efficiency.

Key Responsibilities:

• Analyzing system requirements and identifying areas for improvement.
• Designing new IT solutions and system upgrades.
• Working with IT teams to ensure compatibility across systems and networks.

2. Computer Programmer

Average Annual Salary: INR 3L

A computer programmer writes and maintains the code that enables software applications and systems to function.

Key Responsibilities:

• Writing, testing, and maintaining Java and Python code for software applications.
• Collaborating with systems analysts to create solutions based on client needs.
• Troubleshooting and debugging code to ensure program functionality.

3. Computer and Information Systems Manager

Average Annual Salary: INR 5.7L

A computer and information systems manager oversees an organization’s IT operations, including network infrastructure. Leadership experience can help you transition into this role. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Supervising IT department staff and ensuring projects meet deadlines.
• Developing IT strategies to align with organizational goals.
• Overseeing the management of network systems, security, and data storage

4. Software Developer 

Average Annual Salary: INR 6L

In this role, you’ll build and design applications or systems that improve network functionality and address IT challenges.

Key Responsibilities:

• Designing and developing software solutions for network management.
• Writing efficient and scalable code for applications.
• Collaborating with teams to integrate software with network systems.

Also Read: Top Software Developer Skills You Need to Have: How to Improve them.

5. Computer Network Architect 

Average Annual Salary: INR 21L

A computer network architect’s role is to design and build data communication networks, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and intranets.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and implement network systems to meet company needs.
• Ensure the network is scalable, secure, and reliable.
• Evaluate and integrate new networking technologies to improve performance.

Now that you understand what is a network administrator, let's explore the steps to becoming one.

How Can upGrad Help You Become a Network Administrator?

Becoming a network administrator is a rewarding career choice that requires strong skills in network configuration, system management, and security protocols. These skills can be gained through industry-recognized certifications and hands-on experience.

upGrad offers specialized courses and certifications designed to equip you with the technical skills needed to succeed as a network administrator. With over 1 crore learners relying on upGrad for their upskilling, it's a leading destination for career growth.

Here are some of the courses offered by upGrad in computing.

• Cloud Computing and DevOps Program by IIITB - (Executive)
• Professional Certificate Program in Cloud Computing and DevOps
• Fundamentals of Cloud Computing

Do you need help deciding which course to take to advance your career in network administration? Contact upGrad for personalized counseling and valuable insights. For more details, you can also visit your nearest upGrad offline center. 

Similar Reads:

• Average Network Engineer Salary in India – For Freshers & Experienced in 2024
• A Guide for Understanding the Networking Commands

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