Network Administrator
Network Administrator
Network Administrators manage networks and communications systems.
Network administrators install, support and manage the computer networks and business systems that keep information flowing. Network admins implement and maintain network hardware and software, identify & solve network problems, and ensure network security, availability & performance standards.
In challenging economic times, organizations retain and/or hire network administrators to optimize existing networks for reduced costs and increased operational efficiency. During economic recovery and growth, companies purchase new network and communications technologies to gain a competitive advantage, leading to increased demand for network administrators to install, secure and optimize the new systems. This consistent demand for network administrators, independent of economic conditions, has led many employment experts to dub network administrator a "recession proof career."
The U.S. Dept. of Labor forecasts network administrator employment to increase by 23% from 2008 to 2018, much faster than the average for all occupations. With demand at an all-time high, it's an ideal time to learn network administration; there are numerous network administration training programs and accredited degrees featuring coursework in contemporary network technologies. Compare the top-rated network administrator training programs in the U.S. and online.
a.k.a. Systems Administrator | Network Analyst | Cisco Network Administrator | Network Manager | Network Engineer
Network Administrator Salary
Network Administrator Education Requirements
Network Administrator Training and Degrees
Network Administrator Certifications
Network Administrator Jobs
Network Administrator Job Outlook
Network Administrator Related Careers
Network Administrator Skills & Responsibilities
Typical day-to-day activities and in-demand skill sets for network administrators include:
- Network administrators configure and maintain an organization's internal computer network.
- Network admins manage network security solutions, including firewall, anti-virus & intrusion detection systems.
- Network administrators troubleshoot, identify, solve, and then document network problems.
- Network administrators install and support hard-line phones & networked telecommunications devices.
- Network administrators monitor network performance and optimize the network for optimal speed & availability.
- Network admins install, configure and maintain network hardware, such as Cisco routers & switches.
- Network admins install, configure and upgrade network software, such as enterprise antivirus programs.
- Network administrators implement and maintain emergency backup systems for critical network servers.
- Network administrators implement firewalls to protect the corporate network against external security threats.
- Network administrators research hot products, services & protocols to support network procurement and development.
- Network administrators regulate user access to sensitive data & files to protect against internal security breaches.
Network Administrator Salary
- Network Administrator average annual salary (U.S.): $69,000
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Network Administrator Salary $69,000 |
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Average starting salaries for network administrators and related positions:
- Network Administrator salary: $69,000
- Network Manager salary: $73,000
- Cisco Network Administrator salary: $80,000
- Network Designer salary: $81,000
- Network Engineer salary: $86,000
- Cisco Network Engineer salary: $88,000
- Network Security Administrator salary: $89,000
- Network Maintenance Specialist salary: $90,000
- Network Architect salary: $105,000
- Cisco Network Architect salary: $109,000
- Cisco CCIE Network Engineer salary: $114,000
The hourly pay rate for network administrators ranges from $21 to $60 per hour, depending on the individual's geographic location, certifications and experience level.
Deep dive comparison of network administrator salaries.
Sources: Indeed.com, U.S. Dept. of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics
Network Administrator Education Requirements
Network administrators are often required to have at least an undergrad or graduate degree in computer science, network administration, systems engineering, or a related field of study. Upon completion of a formal education program, network administrators can further distinguish themselves and increase employment and advancement opportunities by earning network-centric certifications, such as CompTIA's Network+, Cisco's CCNA, and Microsoft's MCTS: Server 2008 Network Infrastructure Configuration.
Fundamental skills and courses to look for in a network administration degree program include systems administration training, LAN & WAN installation & configuration, routing & switching, and some variety of network security training. A networking degree that includes certifications will help you graduate with a distinct competitive advantage. Effective communication skills are also key, as network administrators must be able to easily communicate complex ideas and solutions to both technical and non-technical employees. Beyond these basics, choose a degree with the courses that interest you most, or those featuring networking skills that are hot right now, such as virtualization or cloud computing.
Research and compare the top-rated network administration training programs in the U.S. and online.
Network Administrator Training, Certificates & Degree Programs
Browse the top-rated undergrad & graduate degrees, professional certificates, online courses and self-paced training programs matching the network administrator education requirements and career path.
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Network Admin Training Program |
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B.S.I.T. Network Administration
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BSIT Microsoft Network Management
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Master's in Network Management
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B.S.I.T. Cisco Network Management
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Associate in Network Administration
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B.S. Networks Design & Management
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A.A.S. in IT - Network Administration
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Info. Systems Certificate - Networking
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Master's in Network Architecture
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Official Cisco CCNA, CCENT & CCDA Certification Boot Camp
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Find Computer Training Schools
Network Administrator Certifications
Highly desirable certifications for Network Administrators may include the following:
- CompTIA A+ Certification
- CompTIA Network+ Certification
- CompTIA Security+ Certification
- Cisco CCENT Certification
- Cisco CCNA Certification
- Cisco CCNP Certification
- Microsoft MCSE Certification
- VMware Certified Professional (VCP)
Network Administrator Jobs
Network administration training, certifications and experience qualify you for a variety of positions including:
- Network Administrator: Browse and apply to Network Administrator Jobs
- Network Engineer: Browse and apply to Network Engineer Job Openings
- Cisco Network Engineer: Browse and apply to Cisco Engineer Job Openings
- Network Support Specialist: Browse and apply to Network Support Specialist Jobs
- Cisco Certification Jobs: Browse and apply to Jobs for Cisco certified network professionals
- Businesses and Hiring Managers: Post jobs and find candidates on CareerBuilder at a discount
Network Administrator Job Outlook
Employment of network administrators is expected to increase by 23% from 2008 to 2018, much faster than the average for all occupations. Computer networks are an increasingly vital part of the modern business, and demand for network administrators will continue to increase as firms invest in new technologies. The rapid adoption of mobile device technologies, such as tablets and smartphones, in corporate culture means more organizations will use the Internet to conduct business online; this trend translates into an increased need for network administrators who can help businesses utilize emerging technologies to communicate with employees, clients, and customers. Networking career growth will also be driven by the increasing need for qualified network security personnel as cyber attacks become more prevalent and sophisticated.
Source: United States Department of Labor - Bureau of Labor Statistics
Network Administrator Related Careers
IT Career Paths
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