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Network Administrator Job Description

Learn about how to start a career as a network administrator.

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network administrator

A network administrator oversees his office's
internal network

Network administrators set up and maintain computer networks. These pathways for information are vitally important in the modern marketplace, and companies need well-trained, creative and motivated people to establish their communication networks.

Network administrators may design company-specific intranets or they may work on developing an external network.

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Once a network design has been established, the network administrator sets up the network hardware and software and configures network settings, including crucial security settings. Supervising and maintaining a network is also part of a network administrator's job.

More experienced network administrators find themselves directing the work of junior network administrators and discovering ways to tweak more performance out of an established network system. Top-level network administrators use their considerable experience to make networking recommendations to the highest levels of company management.

Network Administrator Career Path

Entry Level Mid Level Senior Level

Types of Roles

Network administrator

Senior network administrator

Consulting network administrator

Experience

0 – 4 years

5 – 10 years

10+ years

Getting There

  • All entry-level requirements
  • Leadership skills
  • Ability to think creatively
  • Project ownership

Salary*

$46,500

$67,500

$86,000

Description

  • Design and develop computer networks
  • Troubleshoot and maintain current network systems
  • Direct work of lower level administrators
  • Recommend network improvements to senior management
  • Provide leadership for networking team
  • Prepare contingency plans
  • Make training recommendations

* Depends on company size, specific job, and location
Sources: Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association (SIFMA), Princeton Review, Salary.com, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Monster.com

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