Network and Computer Systems Administrators

Written By Keandra Wilson

 1. OVERVIEW

Network and Computer Systems Administrators are responsible for the installation, configuration, maintenance, and security of an organization's computer networks and systems. This includes managing local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), data communication networks, operating systems, and servers to ensure smooth organizational operations.

  • 2024 Median Pay: $96,800/year ($46.54/hour)

  • Job Growth (2023–2033): -3% (Decline)

  • Typical Education: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related fields

2. ROLE BREAKDOWN BY LEVEL

ENTRY LEVEL

  • Job Titles: Network Administrator, Systems Administrator, IT Support Specialist

  • Education: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field

  • Experience: Internship, entry-level IT support (0-2 years)

  • Certifications (Recommended):

    • CompTIA Network+

    • CompTIA Security+

    • Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

  • Core Duties:

    • Install and configure operating systems and networks

    • Monitor system performance and troubleshoot problems

    • Provide user support and training on network and system operations

    • Ensure security protocols are in place to protect data and networks

  • Salary Range: $55,000 - $75,000

  • Resources for Learning:

    • CompTIA Network+ Guide

    • YouTube: IT Administrator Training for Beginners

    • LinkedIn Learning: Network and System Administration Fundamentals

MID LEVEL

  • Job Titles: Senior Network Administrator, Systems Engineer, IT Infrastructure Manager

  • Education: Bachelor’s required; Master’s degree or certifications preferred

  • Experience: 3-6 years in IT infrastructure management or related fields

  • Certifications (Preferred):

    • Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)

    • Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

    • Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

  • Core Duties:

    • Oversee the installation and maintenance of complex networks and systems

    • Ensure that network security measures are robust and up-to-date

    • Manage and maintain server and storage systems

    • Troubleshoot and resolve network issues, often involving multiple systems or departments

    • Lead a team of junior administrators or IT specialists

  • Salary Range: $85,000 - $120,000

  • Resources for Learning:

    • Cisco Learning Network: CCNP Routing and Switching

    • edX: Advanced Network Administration

    • LinkedIn Learning: Advanced System Administration

SENIOR LEVEL

  • Job Titles: Network Architect, IT Director, Senior Systems Administrator

  • Education: Bachelor’s + Master’s (in IT Management or related fields) or advanced certifications

  • Experience: 7+ years in system architecture and network management

  • Certifications (Preferred):

    • Certified Information Systems Manager (CISM)

    • Certified Network Expert (CCIE)

    • ITIL v4 Certification

  • Core Duties:

    • Design and implement large-scale network infrastructures

    • Lead strategic IT planning and direction for the organization’s network systems

    • Ensure compliance with cybersecurity standards and regulations

    • Manage disaster recovery and business continuity planning

    • Oversee multiple teams and manage IT budgets

  • Salary Range: $120,000 - $175,000+

  • Resources for Learning:

3. HOW TO BECOME ONE

  • Education:

    • A Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or Engineering is typically required. Some positions may accept an associate's degree or certification in relevant fields.

  • Experience:

    • Entry-level roles can be accessed with internships or positions such as IT support or technical support. Progressing to mid or senior-level positions requires experience managing networks, systems, and IT infrastructure.

  • Certifications:

    • Entry-Level: CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA

    • Mid-Level: Cisco CCNP, Microsoft MCSE, Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

    • Senior-Level: Cisco CCIE, ITIL v4, Certified Information Systems Manager (CISM)

  • Advancement Path:
    Entry → Network Administrator → Senior Systems Administrator → IT Director → Network Architect

4. SKILLS & TOOLS

Core Skills:

  • Technical skills: Knowledge of networking, operating systems, and cybersecurity

  • Problem-solving skills: Ability to resolve complex system and network issues

  • Analytical skills: Evaluating network performance and anticipating future requirements

  • Communication skills: Explaining technical concepts to non-IT stakeholders

  • Multitasking skills: Handling multiple network and system projects simultaneously

Tools & Systems:

  • Network Tools: Wireshark, Cisco IOS, SolarWinds, Nagios

  • Systems Tools: Microsoft Windows Server, Linux, VMware

  • Security Tools: Norton, McAfee, Palo Alto Networks

  • Network Equipment: Routers, Switches, Firewalls (Cisco, Juniper)

  • Monitoring Tools: Zabbix, Datadog, Nagios

5. WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • Industries: Tech, Finance, Healthcare, Government, Education

  • Settings: Typically office-based or hybrid work; remote work options are increasing in mid-senior roles

  • Schedules: Full-time, often with extended hours (including evenings and weekends) for system maintenance, troubleshooting, or monitoring

  • Challenges: Ensuring network security, managing network downtime, coordinating with other IT departments

6. JOB OUTLOOK

  • Projected Employment Change (2023–2033): -3% (Decline)

  • Despite a slight decline in overall employment, network administrators will still be needed to replace retiring workers or those moving to other fields. Many routine tasks are becoming automated, and some roles are outsourced, which may contribute to job reductions in some sectors.

  • Annual Openings: ~16,400 (Due to retirements and other workers leaving the field)

7. RELATED OCCUPATIONS

  • Computer and Information Systems Managers: Oversee entire IT infrastructure management and strategy.
    Median Pay: $171,200/year
    Education: Bachelor’s degree in IT or related field.

  • Computer Network Architects: Design and implement data communication systems.
    Median Pay: $130,390/year
    Education: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or similar.

  • Information Security Analysts: Plan and implement cybersecurity measures.
    Median Pay: $124,910/year
    Education: Bachelor’s degree, certifications in cybersecurity.

8. RESOURCES FOR LEARNING & ADVANCEMENT

Courses & Certifications:

  • Cisco Networking Academy

  • CompTIA Network+

  • Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

  • Coursera: Computer Networks

Books:

  • “Network Warrior” by Gary A. Donahue

  • “The Phoenix Project” by Gene Kim, Kevin Behr, and George Spafford

  • “CompTIA Network+ Guide to Managing and Troubleshooting Networks” by Mike Meyers

Videos & Communities:

  • YouTube Channels:

    • NetworkChuck

    • Professor Messer

  • Communities:

    • r/networking on Reddit

    • Cisco Learning Network

9. REGIONAL DATA & EMPLOYMENT TRENDS

  • Top-Paying Industries:

    • Management of Companies: $101,600

    • Information Services: $101,140

    • Computer Systems Design: $99,780

  • Hot Markets:

    • California, New York, Texas, Florida, Illinois are strong job markets for Network and Computer Systems Administrators.

 

Keandra Wilson
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