Systems Administrator Career
How to Become a Systems Administrator
Network and computer systems administrators design, install, and support an organization's information systems. They maintain network hardware and software, analyze performance, and monitor networks. Systems administrators work with all types of networks, including local-area networks (LAN), wide-area networks (WAN), network segments, Internet, and intranet. They may also be responsible for the security of their networks.
Degree Programs and Training for the Systems Administrator Career
You usually need a bachelor's degree to work as a network and computer systems administrator. Computer science or information systems are good choices, although employers do not always require systems administrators to hold degrees in a computer-related field.
Systems Administrator Career Certification and Licensing
You don't need certification or a license. However, training and certifications offered by hardware vendors, software vendors, and professional organization may help qualify you for some jobs.
Systems Administrators' Earnings
The middle 50% of systems administrators earned between $49,000 and $79,000 in 2006.
Systems Administrators' Employment Outlook
Employment for systems administrators is growing much faster than other careers, although offshore outsourcing limits some opportunities. Systems administrators with great technical skills have the best prospects.
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Source: Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-2009 Edition; Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor.