Occupation
Overview
Most
business computers communicate with one another
through networks. These networked computers
can be close to each other (even in the same
office), linked via a Local Area Network (LAN).
They can also be thousands of miles apart,
linked via a Wide Area Network (WAN).
Network
Administrator is a good occupation for individuals
with a keen interest in computers, technical
skills, and the desire to keep things running
smoothly. Unlike the Network Technician who
monitors network activity, performs basic
troubleshooting, and reports their findings,
the Network Administrator is the one person
who is ultimately responsible for keeping
the network running. This requires the ability
to identify problems that occur with the network,
to fix problems that might be frustrating
users, and to help users and management with
normal activities. Mission critical problems,
such as not being able to reach printers,
not being able to reach the Internet, and
not being able to send and receive e-mail
normally, are often fixed by the Network Administrator.
Not
surprisingly, network security is increasing
in importance. Obtaining certification in
this area, e.g., by passing the Certified
Information Systems Security Professional
(CISSP) exam, can not only set one apart from
the competition in getting a job, it can also
have a positive impact on one's salary.
New
technologies, such as wireless, Virtual Private
Networks, broadband, and fiber are beginning
to appear and will be more prevalent in the
coming years. Biometrics will also start to
emerge which provide network security via
fingerprint or retinal scans.
While
the recent economic downturn has had a moderate
negative impact on job availability for Network
Administrators, jobs do still exist, though
they might be at a lower level than a year
ago. When the economy rebounds there should
be even more of these jobs available than
before the downturn. The Bay Area is one of
the best places in the U.S. to receive network
training.
The
use of computers and computer networks is
expected to continue to increase well into
the next century, providing plenty of jobs
for the people who keep the networks running.
Most medium and large companies have Network
Administrators in their Information Systems
(IS) or Information Technology (IT) departments.
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