Computer Network Administrator Future Job Outlook and Career Facts

Computer Network Administrator Career Description

Computer network administrators design, install and support an organization's LAN, WAN, network segment, Internet or Intranet system.

Computer Network Administrator Career Details

These workers provide day-to-day onsite administrative support for software users in a variety of work environments, including professional offices, small businesses, government and large corporations. They maintain network hardware and software, analyze problems and monitor the network to ensure availability to system users. Network administrators gather data to identify customer needs and then use that information to identify, interpret and evaluate system and network requirements. They may also plan, coordinate and implement network security measures.

Computer Network Administrator Career Specializations

Network administrators may become software engineers, actually involved in the designing of the system or network, rather than just the day-to-day administration.

Computer Network Administrator Career Working Environment

Network administrators typically work in offices in comfortable surroundings. Many may work long hours and weekends to meet deadlines or fix problems that occur during off hours. Network administrators can administer and configure networks and servers remotely, although it is not common. Like other workers who spend large amounts of time in front of a computer terminal typing at a keyboard, these workers are susceptible to eyestrain, back discomfort and hand and wrist problems.

Programs to Consider:

Computer Network Administrator Career Required Training

Due to the wide range of skills required, there are many ways that workers can become network administrators. Entry-level workers are involved in routine maintenance and monitoring of computer systems, typically working behind the scenes in an organization. After gaining experience and expertise, they are often able to advance into more senior-level positions in which they take on more responsibility. 
Senior network administrators may present recommendations to management on matters related to a company's network. They may also translate the needs of an organization into a set of technical requirements based on the available technology.

Computer Network Administrator Career Coursework

Many employers seek applicants with bachelor's degrees, though not necessarily in a computer-related field Those interested in becoming a computer network administrator should have strong problem-solving, analytical and communication skills, since troubleshooting and helping others is a vital part of the job. Network administrators should be able to communicate effectively on paper, via email or in person. Strong writing skills are useful when preparing manuals for employees and customers.

Computer Network Administrator Career Future Job Outlook

The employment of computer network administrators is projected to be among the fastest growing occupations over the 2000-2010 period, as organizations continue to adopt and integrate increasingly sophisticated technology. Demand for computer network administrators will grow as a result of the upsurge in electronic commerce and as computer applications continue to expand. Workers that are knowledgeable in the function and administration of networks have become increasingly hard to find as these workers perform functions that are a crucial element of business in our high-tech economy.

Computer Network Administrator Salary

Median Salary--$69,160 in 2011