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A Day in the Life of a Computer and Network Administrator*

In this age of technology, the work of a computer and network administrator is important to the success of most businesses. Computer and network administrators help ensure that information is transmitted, stored, and analyzed correctly and efficiently through computer networks. A job in computer and network administration requires the most up-to-date proficiency in computer technology.

From a Computer Degree to the WorkplaceThe level of education required by employers of computer and network administrators may differ depending on the job, but formal education or certification are almost always needed. For those who decide to pursue this career path, some job assignments may include:

• Design, install, and maintain computer systems
• Troubleshoot computer problems within an organization
• Evaluate the performance of computer systems
• Monitor networks
• Take responsibility for LANs, WANs, Internet, and company intranet systems

As a primary function, computer and network administrators ensure their employers have dependable lines of electronic communication, both external and internal. When computer and networking troubles arise, computer and network administrators may be called upon to fix the problem. This type of trouble-shooting can require patience and resourcefulness, along with strong analytical and communication skills.

Along with formal education, certification in certain specialties may be required to work as a computer network administrator. Continuing education will most likely be required as well, since the computer field changes so rapidly. Because of these rapid changes, most companies will invest in keeping updated with the latest technologies. As the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports, this means that employment of network and computer systems administrators is expected to increase faster than average from 2008 to 2018.