What Is a Network Administrator? A Career Guide

What does a network administrator do?

Some tasks you might find in a network administrator’s job description include:

• Install, configure, and maintain network hardware and software such as routers, firewalls, and switches

• Protect networks from unauthorized users through physical and technical means

• Set up and maintain virtual private networks (VPN) 

• Resolve network connectivity issues for other employees

• Maintain and troubleshoot storage networks

Network administrators often have job descriptions similar to systems administrators. Learn more about systems administrators if you want to know how they differ.

System administration vs. network administration

Some organizations use system administrator and network administrator interchangeably, and there are many overlapping responsibilities. However, there’s technically a difference. System administration focuses on servers and computer systems, while network administrators work more specifically with network-related tasks and equipment, like setting up routing, IP addresses, and maintaining local area networks (LAN).

If you’re in a smaller organization, these responsibilities might be folded into one role, while larger organizations tend to differentiate them. Since systems and networks are often intertwined, it’s not rare to see job descriptions that require knowledge of both.

Network administrator salary and job outlook

A network administrator makes a median annual salary of $87,623 in Canada [1]. 

Jobs are growing for network administrators—the Canadian government ranks job prospects as “Good” in most provinces and territories [2].

How to become a network administrator

As a network specialist, you’ll want knowledge of basic networking skills. You should be able to install software, perform routine network maintenance, modify web pages, or respond to requests for help.

Consider completing a college program or other educational program with an emphasis in computer science, web technology, network administration, or a related field.

A networking certification can help you gain skills and show employers your capabilities. You can also get your start in help desk roles and work your way up to being a network administrator.

Key network administrator skills

Here are some common skills found in network administrator positions:

• Knowledge of different types of networks: Local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), virtual private networks (VPNs), and storage area networks (SANs) are each different types of networks. Though some jobs may call for more experience in one over another, foundational knowledge of what various networks are and how to configure them will be central to your work as a network administrator.

• Understanding network security components: These might include firewalls, VPNs, and access control. As a network administrator, it will be important to know common attacks and the appropriate response to them.

• Familiarity with servers: Upgrading and configuring servers is a common and sought-after ability in network administrators. Windows and Linux servers are common in the US.

• Communication and teamwork: As a network administrator, you’ll likely work in a team or with other organization members to ensure computers and systems are up and running. Communicating problems and solutions with other people is a valuable skill.

Common network administrator certifications

The following certifications can be helpful to those in the beginning stages of their networking career: 

• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA): The CCNA validates your skills in Cisco network solutions, basic IP addressing, and other network fundamentals. Though exam takers usually have some experience working with Cisco networking products, a training program can prepare you for the exam if you start from scratch.

• CompTIA Network+: The CompTIA Network+ Certification: This covers many networking basics, such as security, troubleshooting, and infrastructure. It is a solid option for entry-level networking positions and is more fundamental than the CCNA. The Network+ certification can be a good option if you're entirely new to networking concepts.

A degree may boost your earning potential and enhance your professional growth if you're looking to invest in your future. An associate or bachelor’s degree in computer science can be a great way to become a network administrator or IT professional.

Looking for a broader introduction to IT work?

The Google IT Support Professional Certificate introduces learners to the basics of information technology (IT) work, including several concepts key to networking administration, like troubleshooting and TCP/IP communications. Learners who complete the program receive an industry-recognized professional certificate and can go on to take the CompTIA A+ exam.

Entry-level network administrator roles

Many IT professionals start in help desk positions—entry-level IT jobs where they resolve computer issues that arise for companies and their employees. These entry-level roles include IT specialist, help desk technician, help desk analyst, and IT technician. These positions can give you a broad introduction to IT and some hands-on experience dealing with network issues. Once you have some experience, you can transition to a networking position.

Already in a help desk position? If you have an entry-level IT job but want to transition into network administration, try building your networking skills. You can do this through hands-on experience or by earning a network certification like the CCNA. You can also ask your employer if they'll let you take on more network-related tasks or shadow network professionals at your organization.

Interview questions for network administrator positions

Get ready for an interview by reviewing potential questions. Here are a few basic ones you might run into:

• What is a firewall, and how would you implement one?

• What is a proxy server?

• What is a switch?

• What types of networks are you familiar with?

• Describe a network challenge that you’ve faced and how you overcame it.

IT jobs are highly technical, so an interviewer will probably ask you technical and personal behavioural questions. Have answers ready for both. Prepare professional stories of how you’ve worked through networking solutions, your successes, or when things didn’t go so well (and what you did about it).

Practise explaining networking processes out loud. It’ll help you feel prepared and show employers you’re serious about the job.

Getting started as a network administrator

Network administrators are crucial to any organization that uses computers. As a network administrator, you’ll be key to ensuring employees have access to the networks they need while keeping unauthorized players out of the picture. You can learn the basics of IT work with the Google IT Support Professional Certificate.