Computer Network Administrators
Overview
Introduction
Computer network administrators, or network specialists, design, install, and support an organization's local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), network segment, or Internet system. They maintain network hardware and software, analyze problems, and monitor the network to ensure availability to system users. Administrators also might plan, coordinate, and implement network security measures, including firewalls. Approximately 383,900 computer network and systems administrators work in the United States.
Quick Facts
Median Salary
Employment Prospects
Minimum Education Level
Experience
Skills
Personality Traits
Earnings
Factors such as the size and type of employer, the administrator's experience, and specific job duties influence the earnings of network administrators. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the median yearly income for computer network and systems administrators was $82,050 in May 2018. The lowest paid 10 percent made less than $50,990 per year, and the highest paid 10 percent earned more...
Work Environment
Computer network administrators work indoors in a comfortable office environment. Their work is generally fast paced and can be frustrating at times. Some tasks, however, are routine and might get a little boring after a while. But many times, network specialists are required to work under a lot of pressure. If the network goes down, for example, the company is losing money, and it is the netwo...
Outlook
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) projects that employment of network and computer systems administrators will grow 5 percent from 2018 to 2028, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Network administrators are in demand as firms spend more money on newer, faster technology and mobile networks. Companies are also seeking administrators to assist in protecting computer systems from h...
