Working as a network administrator can be an exciting career for those who enjoy technology, problem-solving, and working with others. From managing an organization’s computer networks to troubleshooting and providing user support, network administrators wear many hats on the job, so no two days are alike.
If this type of career sounds up your alley, you might be wondering what skills you’ll need to acquire to thrive as a network administrator. Understanding the key skills for network administrators can help you determine if this dynamic career path is right for you.
1. Core Technical Skills for Network Administrators
As you can imagine, the field of network administration is inherently technical. On a daily basis, you’ll be working with a wide range of network devices and other technical components that require detailed knowledge and experience with networking protocols, security, and more.
Understanding Networking Protocols and Configurations
Working in network administration requires an extensive knowledge of the various networking protocols and configurations that are most often used in the field, including:
- TCP/IP
- SNMP
- HTTP
- DNS
Knowing these protocols is essential for connecting devices to networks, communicating between devices, and ensuring proper access to network resources.
Likewise, network administrators need to be able to configure different types of routers and switches, as well as set up firewalls on networks for added security and protection.
Implementing and Monitoring Network Security Measures
Speaking of security, this is another crucial aspect of a network administrator’s job. These professionals are often responsible for researching, recommending, and implementing security protocols for entire organizations to protect against cyber threats. Even once protocols are implemented, network administrators need to continuously monitor network traffic and be on the lookout for signs of security breaches.
2. Advanced Technical Competencies for Network Administrators
Network administrators must also know basic networking protocols and security best practices. They are also tasked with more complex troubleshooting and network infrastructure design, which require more advanced technical skills.
Mastery of Hardware and Software Troubleshooting
When hardware and software issues inevitably arise in network systems, administrators are relied upon to troubleshoot, diagnose, and fix these problems as promptly as possible. Network admins need to know how to use tools and techniques to isolate problems and test fixes. Along the way, these professionals must also carefully document their processes for future reference.
Designing Network Infrastructure and Services
Network administrators are also responsible for designing and implementing entire network infrastructures for organizations. Hence, they need to have in-depth knowledge of how to design secure and scalable systems to suit an organization’s changing needs.
As part of this work, network admins may need to configure such services as virtual private networks (VPNs), cloud solutions, and databases.
3. Professional Qualifications and Education
Where can you expect to learn all the technical skills you need to succeed as a network administrator? Many professionals in this field have specialized degrees, diplomas, and even certifications.
Essential Certifications for Network Administrators
Certifications not only validate your expertise but also enhance specific network administrator skills, especially in areas like basic hardware, operating systems, networking, and security. Some employers work with particular operating systems and hardware and may look for network administrators with certifications that relate to the technologies they use.
Some of the foundational certifications in the field include:
Having in-demand certifications can help network administrators sharpen their skills in niche areas of the field, which could help them advance their careers into more specialized positions.
Degree Programs and Continuing Education
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), “network and computer systems administrators typically need a bachelor’s degree in a field related to computer or information science. Others may require a postsecondary certificate or an associate’s degree.”
Because network administration is constantly evolving, professionals entering this field must be committed to a lifetime of growth, continuing education, and professional development to stay on top of the latest trends and best practices.
4. Soft Skills and Personal Attributes
While strong technical skills can take you far as a network administrator, you’ll also need to have some soft skills in place to thrive in this field.
Effective Communication and Team Collaboration
Network administrators often explain complex issues to non-technical staff, including employees and supervisors. As a result, excellent communication skills (both written and verbal) can really come in handy. And because network admins often work with external vendors and others within an organization’s IT department, strong collaboration skills are also a must.
Problem-Solving and Analytical Abilities
When network issues arise, administrators need to use their problem-solving and analytical thinking skills, especially when troubleshooting and resolving complex network issues. With strong analytical thinking abilities, administrators can also plan for network expansions as organizations scale while identifying potential vulnerabilities that require additional security measures.
5. Time Management and Multitasking
The work of a network administrator also requires excellent time management and multitasking skills, especially when working on multiple projects at once.
Balancing Multiple Tasks and Priorities
It is not uncommon for network administrators to have to juggle various responsibilities and tasks in high-pressure situations. These professionals must learn how to manage their time so they are prioritizing the most urgent network issues while planning for long-term network improvements and other needs.
With this in mind, network administrators need to have strong time management skills that include the ability to identify which issues are the most pressing. When urgent network issues arise, administrators need to be able to handle the stress and pressure that can come along with them while keeping decision-makers informed throughout the troubleshooting process.
Start Your Network Administration Journey Today
From sharp technical knowledge to basic problem-solving and communication, having these key skills for network administrators could set professionals up for careers. For many looking to break into this field, starting off with a diploma in computer support or a related discipline may be ideal.
In Florida Technical College’s Computer Support Technician Diploma program, students can learn the basics of troubleshooting, diagnostics, networking, and information systems that may help them pursue entry-level work in the field. The skills learned in this program can serve as a foundation for pursuing additional certifications, such as CompTIA A+, and for individuals interested in roles like network administration, further study—often through a related bachelor’s degree in information technology or cybersecurity—may be needed depending on employer expectations.
Request more information about this program by reaching out, or get started today!
This article presents a general overview of the field of network administration, including job opportunities within that field. It does not describe the educational objectives or expected employment outcomes of a particular Florida Technical College program. Florida Technical College does not guarantee that students will obtain employment or any particular job. Some positions may require licensure or other certifications. We encourage you to research the requirements for the particular career you desire.
Sources
https://ftccollege.edu/program/diploma/computer-support-technician-diploma/
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/220419855_System_Administration_Soft_Skills
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/B9781931836425500163
https://www.comptia.org/certifications/network
https://www.comptia.org/certifications/security
https://www.cisco.com/site/us/en/learn/training-certifications/certifications/technician/index.html
