Network / Systems Administration

What is a Network?

Business data communication is the fastest growing segment of the ICT Industry. It is a very diverse area covering the relatively simple peer-to-peer connection of a few personal computers, through Internet and private networks to large communication networks (such as Banking, Government Departments, Travel). There are a huge number of protocols, platforms and software solutions to communicate with one another.

What does a Network Administrator do?

The job of establishing and maintaining the connectivity is enormous. At the top end of the complexity is the requirement to provide secure interfaces to multiple platforms configured for cooperative processing with distributed database technologies for example. Depending on the level of responsibility and the particular job role involved, duties may include:

• Administering the use of all networks including the maintenance of the user register.
• Providing assistance to users with standard networks software and communications packages and mainframe access.
• Assisting with development and enhancement of relevant standards, procedures and guidelines.
• Planning, scheduling and implementing network hardware and software maintenance requirements and upgrades.
• Preparing and verifying daily backups.
• Providing first, second or third level support by voice and electronic means as required.
• Allocating the necessary resources to resolve client problems and queries in an effective and timely manner.

Personal qualities required include a strong telephone manner and communication skills, strong service orientation with excellent communication skills for understanding technical problems, clearly explaining solutions, sound administrative skills and effective time management and personal organisation skills.

Career Paths

Positions in this field are frequently on advancement from the base entry level. Because of the demand for increasing specialisation, professionals in the field tend to achieve more senior recognition without changing basic occupation. As it is necessary for people in this field to continually upgrade their skills, you will most likely enhance your qualifications with Vendor Certifications such as Microsoft, CompTIA, Cisco, Red Hat, Sun and CWTS.

Choose the following qualifications to get you there: