What is the network administrator salary and job outlook?

The network administrator is responsible for keeping the organization's computer network and its operation up to date as expected. Any company or organization that uses multiple computers or software platforms needs a network administrator to coordinate and connect different systems. It sounds simple enough, but there is another common post that might confuse you: the system administrator.

So the system administrator is the same as the system administrator?

In short, not really. But the lines can be blurry depending on the working environment. However, IT professionals can take the rules page, the line of which is: "Where names are ignored and obligations are met!" Although this is clearly excessive, in many small organizations the terms "network administrator" and "system administrator" are often used interchangeably because they cover the same actions. At the same time, the differences between network and system administrators become much clearer in large organizations.

What are the tasks of network and system administrators?

As mentioned earlier, the functions of a network administrator vary widely depending on the organization for which he works. Some work as generalists, covering everything from hardware installation to server troubleshooting, while others have a much narrower focus.

Here are some examples of activities related to network and system administration. In environments where the tasks of network administrators and system administrators are more clearly divided and defined, the tasks in italics are more closely aligned with the system administrators:

• Configuring network hardware like servers, routers, and switches
• Upgrading and repairing computer networks
• Troubleshooting network issues
• Assisting network architects with the design of network models
• Deploying and updating software
• Managing servers and their operating systems
• Implementing security measures and basic testing
• Managing cloud and physical network storage

What is the network administrator salary and job outlook?

Taking the opportunity to work with computers and technology is fantastic, but pleasure alone doesn't pay the bills. Fortunately, the career prospects of network administrators seem very stable.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the network administrator salary will increase by 6% by 2026. This is the national average for all occupations. 

BLS notes that the demand for network administrators and technology operators, in general, remains high, but that there is potential for technologies such as cloud computing and automation to ease the demand. As with most technical jobs, you need to keep abreast of technological change and develop your skills to maximize your employability.

With that in mind, you're probably wondering: how much does a network administrator make? The BLS reports that the average annual salary of network administrators in 2017 was $ 81,100. 1 It is important to note that certain variables linked to remuneration play a role, such as: B. Position, education, and experience. In general, however, network administrators can expect reasonable salaries.