what is a network administrator?
Virtually every organization needs an online network to process sales, host websites, interact with customers, record data and utilize business software. If the network goes down, they could suffer from a data breach or lose tens of thousands of dollars in sales. Network administrators create and maintain systems that keep businesses running 24/7.
If a new company reaches out, you'll set up a new system with firewalls, anti-virus software and other protective measures. Existing businesses hire you to upgrade their technology, patch security holes and analyze their system's performance. You'll think ahead so that operations protect their data from the beginning instead of scrambling after a breach.
Network administrators install and maintain local area networks, wide area networks and other equipment. Your hardware and software expertise enables you to maintain the entire system. You'll also train new employees so that they can maintain the system when you're not around. However, you're still the first person that your company calls when they need your expertise.
While you'll focus on network administration, you'll supplement your knowledge with skills in programming, web development and cloud technology, making you even more valuable in the workplace.
network administrator jobsaverage network administrator salary
According to our salary guide, network administrator salaries in Canada vary widely depending on many factors, including the company you work for, your experience and the type of network you manage. The average salary for a network administrator in Canada is around $75,000 a year, or just over $35 an hour. Starting salaries are around $55,000, rising to $100,000 or more by the end of your career. Having a specialization or holding several accreditations goes a long way to boosting your income.
types of network administrator
Depending on their specialties, network administrators can function as:
- network coordinators
- information analysts
- information systems (IS) managers
- information technology (IT) specialists
- local area network (LAN) administrators and specialists
Companies also hire general network administrators for their daily needs.
Network administrators can work in specific fields, such as:
- education
- government
- healthcare
- retail
- finance
- architecture
While each position requires the same basic skills, you'll study each industry to provide the best services. Some fields require different equipment, stronger firewalls or more frequent maintenance.
working as a network administrator
Network administrators can work for some of the world's most prestigious companies. Learn more about your daily duties and work environment.
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network administrator job description
What does a network administrator do? Once you get started, your job responsibilities may include:
- discussing the company's needs with colleagues and stakeholders
- designing and installing systems
- evaluating the existing system's efficiency
- repairing security holes
- backing up data with cloud technology
- upgrading the network
You don't just maintain the existing system: you make it better. You adjust the network to make it faster, safer and more efficient while remaining user-friendly. When new technology rolls out, you decide whether to integrate it into the system. Software upgrades can be pricey, so you'll use your expertise to decide whether to take the leap.
Network administrators also educate people. You'll give colleagues advice about maintaining cybersecurity, such as never sharing passwords and avoiding phishing scams. When someone has a question, you'll explain it in a way that they can understand. Periodically, you'll train new employees to operate the network safely and efficiently.
Preventing hacks, scams and data breaches is one of your most important roles. You're always one step ahead of hackers and their rapidly changing tactics. After installing firewalls and anti-virus software, you monitor the network and repair issues, protecting the network from attacks. Likewise, you only add trustworthy network users and remove suspicious characters.
You're familiar with various technologies, programming languages, operating systems, servers, software and network equipment, such as modems and routers. Networks you operate may include:
- local area networks (LANs)
- wide area networks (WANs)
- storage area networks (SANs)
- virtual private networks (VPNs)
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network administrator work environment
Network administrators usually work indoors in an office environment. However, your location varies depending on your industry. You could work in a bank, warehouse, or scientific facility, each with a different layout.
Throughout the day, you'll likely visit different areas in your facility and possibly travel to other locations. While you work online, you'll also deal with hardware, modems and routers that require you to work in the office. Network administrators typically work in person, but you can ask your boss about work-from-home options.
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who are your colleagues?
You might work with fellow technology experts, including system administrators, network designers and telecommunications specialists. Colleagues also include network engineers, information technology consultants and network managers. If you work for a large company, they may employ multiple network administrators. Companies often call IT experts for troubleshooting. Your colleagues also depend on your location. For example, if you work for a bank, you'll interact with office workers, bankers and finance professionals. Many jobs have human resources and payroll managers.
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work schedule
Some network administrators work 9 to 5 jobs with 40 hours a week, but your employer might schedule you for early morning, afternoon or night shifts. Some companies need 24-hour monitoring to keep large systems active, requiring some people to work on weekends and holidays.
If an emergency happens when you're not at work, expect your employer to contact you for assistance. Sometimes, you can answer questions over the phone, but you might have to head to work at odd hours. Hourly employees usually receive overtime pay, but salaried employees are sometimes exempt.
Most network administrators hold full-time positions. However, you could start with a part-time position in a different role and gradually achieve a full-time job. If you work hard, you could work for the same company for years. Still, some network administrators move to different companies for better schedules or benefits.
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job outlook for network administrators
Network administrators have a positive job outlook. If you do well, you could advance to a senior position or supervise your team. Supervisors earn higher titles that usually come with pay raises. Plus, you could seek higher jobs within the company and eventually become one of the most prestigious employees.
Once you've accumulated years of experience, you can negotiate for higher salaries. You'll highlight the fact that you can work with old, modern and advanced technology to meet the company's needs.
Some network administrators learn that they have a talent for a specific task. If you want to switch positions, you could seek a job as a:
- cloud engineer
- Ruby developer
- cyber security engineer
- data warehouse developer
- security analyst
Seeking education or a mentorship helps you prepare for your new role.
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benefits of working for randstad as a network administrator
Working with Randstad offers you a range of benefits:
- always a contact person you can fall back on and ask for help from
- many training opportunities
- a range of jobs in your area
network administrator skills and education
In Canada, the educational requirements to become a network administrator can vary depending on the specific employer and the complexity of the network systems being managed. However, here are the typical educational paths and qualifications that are often considered necessary or beneficial for pursuing a career as a network administrator:
- Post-Secondary Education: Many network administrators have at least a post-secondary diploma or degree in a relevant field. Common educational paths include:
- Bachelor's Degree: A bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field can provide a strong foundation for a career in network administration. Some universities and colleges in Canada offer specialized network administration or network security programs.
- Diploma or Certificate: Many colleges and technical institutes in Canada offer diploma or certificate programs specifically focused on network administration, networking, or IT systems administration. These programs often provide hands-on training and may be a more direct route into the field.
- Certifications: While not always mandatory, certifications can greatly enhance your qualifications as a network administrator. Popular certifications for network administrators in Canada include:
- CompTIA Network+: This certification covers networking concepts and is often considered a starting point for those entering the field.
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA): A widely recognized certification for those working with Cisco networking equipment.
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator or Windows Server: If you work with Microsoft-based networks, these certifications can be valuable.
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): For those interested in network security, CISSP is a respected certification.
- Certified Information Security Manager (CISM): Another certification that is relevant for network administrators focused on security.
skills and competencies
On a basic level, you'll need troubleshooting, problem-solving and communication skills. In fact, many network administrators start as IT workers. You'll learn how to use basic software, such as Microsoft Office, and help others with their technology problems. As a network administrator, you'll perform similar tasks on a larger scale.
Likewise, critical thinking helps you find solutions for your client. If hackers keep threatening your company, should you strengthen the security system, install new firewalls or overhaul the network altogether? When new technology rolls out, should you upgrade the network or stick with the system that works? You'll make the best decisions for your team.
Network administrators also write and understand programming languages, including:
- HTML
- Ruby
- Python
- Java
- PHP
- C++
Sometimes, your employer might ask you to complete tasks outside your main responsibilities. They want an expert in nearly everything:
- programming
- installing hardware and software
- troubleshooting devices
- analyzing data
- operating telecommunication networks
Finally, network administrators are time management experts. You complete projects on time, and if an issue outside your control forces delays, you'll notify your supervisors and get the project back on track. When you work overtime, your employer notices and appreciates your dedication to your job.
FAQs about working as a network administrator
Here you will find answers to the most frequently asked questions about network administrators.
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do network administrators work solely online?
Your job involves extensive Internet use, but you'll also work with physical hardware, such as modems, computers and routers. Network coordinators also work alongside team members and communicate face-to-face with colleagues. For this reason, you might not be able to work from home, but your boss may permit this under special circumstances.
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how much education do network administrators need?
To become a network manager, you need to have completed an undergraduate degree in computer science. Many specialize with a master's degree in computer networking or a certification in computer networking. Although certification requirements vary from company to company, it's not uncommon to need certifications for Microsoft software, Cisco or Sun microsystems.
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do network administrators offer technical support?
Network administrators aren't IT workers, but you offer troubleshooting and technical support for your company's system. In fact, many network administrators start off as IT professionals and then move to advanced fields with higher-paying employers. You may work alongside IT workers when issues arise.
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can network administrators work for major firms?
Small businesses and large corporations alike need network administrators, opening the door to partnerships with major players. You could work for machinery manufacturers, software development companies and financial institutions that make millions of dollars per year. High-paying jobs often come with other perks, such as free meals and paid commutes.
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do network administrators work alone?
Some companies hire one network administrator, while others need a team to maintain the system 24/7. In any case, you'll work with other technical experts as well as people who work in different parts of the company, such as human resources (HR). You could advance to a supervisor position and manage other network administrators.
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how do I find a job as a network administrator?
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