Network Administrator

Are you considering a career in information technology? Or, maybe you are thinking about changing directions. Then, becoming a network administrator could be just what you are looking for. According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook, this area is growing with the times. An AAS degree in Networking Technology from Bryant & Stratton College, with its certification-ready curriculum, would set you well on your way to this exciting career.

What is a Network Administrator?

Network administrators can be responsible for installing, configuring, securing, administering, and troubleshooting computer systems within businesses in local area networks (LANs) or through and across cities and countries in wide area networks (WANs). They may also be called Network and Computer Systems Administrators, among other titles, depending on if their position is more specialized.

What can I do with an AAS degree in Networking Technology?

Earning an AAS degree in Networking Technology will enable you to work with hardware (physical devices), switches, routers, network systems, and network design. You will also learn computing skills and how to handle the movement of the internet through LANs and WANs. You will be prepared for entry level positions at IT help desks, businesses, financial institutions, schools, government agencies, and even hospitals. With the great reliance on computers in our time, becoming a network administrator is a solid bet.

You may also increase your visibility in the field with a Bachelor’s degree from Bryant & Stratton College. This degree will delve deeper into business principles, such as management, accounting and operations management.

Additional Training/Requirements

Once you have your AAS degree in Networking Technology, how do you show potential employers that you really know what you are doing? The answer is through certifications. Bryant & Stratton College recommends three certification tests, the CompTIA A+, Comp TIA Security+, and the CompTIA Network+. Your tuition covers one certification exam.

In completing the requirements for your AAS degree, you will have been given the tools to pass all three exams. But, you needn’t take all three. The CompTIA A+ is a basic skills exam. Taking and passing the CompTIA Network+ exam will make it clear that you also have the basic skills necessary to be a network administrator.

In addition to the Comp TIA certifications, you may also consider Security+ and Network+ certifications. Of course, you may want to tailor the exams you take to your desired career trajectory. There are industry-leading organizations that offer certification exams, upon completion of this degree, as well.

Job Responsibilities of Network Administrators 

These depend in large part on where you work and whether you have landed in a specialized position. However, in general, network administrators are responsible for the daily operations of computer networks including:

• Training staff in how to properly use the hardware and software,
• Evaluating and purchasing software or hardware,
• Adding users and updating security permissions to the network,
• Installing wireless transmitters and receivers,
• Installing and configuring networking software and applications software,
• Installing storage area networks,
• Monitoring daily server traffic and system usage,
• Maintaining network logs,
• Updating network, application and security software,
• Performing scheduled back-ups and tests,
• Interpreting and solving problems when a user or an automated monitoring, system alerts that a problem exists,
• Installing patches and rebooting the entire system,
• Reading trade publications to keep up with developments in networking technology (self-education), and
• Researching software and hardware upgrades.[1]

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Career Outlook

The Bureau of Labor and Statistics reports that employment for network administrators is expected to grow at a competitive rate, 6 percent, between 2016 and 2026. Demand for these workers is increasing in the health care industry. Also, the need for network administrators could increase as small and medium-sized businesses without their own IT departments, adopt cloud services.

Your employment prospects are likely to increase if you have attained a Bachelor’s degree. Again, taking the recommended certification exams will also increase your visibility to potential employers. Being up to date on cloud computing and all the latest technology is to your advantage as well.

At Bryant & Stratton College, your instruction will be via simulation lab, updated regularly, so you will not fall behind the fast pace of technology today. This is important in a competitive job market. While demand for all IT professionals is high, those with the most up to date knowledge and skills will have the upper hand.

Employment Settings for Network Administrators

According to the BLS, the largest employers of network administrators, as of 2016, were businesses involved in computer system design and related services employed at about 18 percent. Those who worked in information comprised about 11 percent. Another 10 percent were employed in educational services; state, local and private. About 9 percent worked in the finance and insurance industries, while another 7 percent were employed in the management of companies and enterprises. While these were the largest employers of network administrators, such professionals also were employed in hospitals and government.

Network administrators work with other IT professionals in the course of their employment as well as non-IT staff. They may be solely responsible for their employer’s needs, or work in teams. Due to the nature of the work, putting in overtime is not unusual. The BLS reports that in 2016, 1 in 5 network administrators worked over 40 per week.

While this information may help you in determining the right career path for you, understand that job market data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Handbook is intended to provide insight into occupational opportunities, and is not to be construed as a guarantee of salary or job title. Bryant & Stratton College cannot guarantee employment in any field.

For more insights into the Networking Technology field, please visit the Technology and Design section of our blog. Here you will gain valuable information about IT careers. Explore the website and be sure to visit the Networking Technology Degree page.