How to Become a System Administrator?

In today’s technology-oriented world, companies cannot operate without the use of IT systems. System administrators are very important for managing the servers, networks, and computer systems to ensure their smooth running. They deal with issues such as software installation, troubleshooting, security management, and data backup to eliminate downtime and secure organizational data. This blog explains who a system administrator is, their roles and responsibilities, and the steps to becoming one in detail.

Table of Contents:

• What Does a System Administrator Do?
• System Administrator Roles and Responsibilities
• How to Become a System Administrator?
• Skills Required to Become a System Administrator
• Tools and Technologies Used by System Administrators
• Career Levels and Responsibilities of a System Administrator
• System Administrator Salary
• Practical Applications of a System Administrator
• Why the Intellipaat System Administrator Course Stands Out?
• Conclusion

What Does a System Administrator Do?

A system administrator, also known as a system admin, plays a very important role in the IT infrastructure of any company. They guarantee the smooth and continuous operation of computer systems, servers, and networks. System administrators play a key role in technology, helping employees install software, troubleshoot issues, and prevent system failures.

System Administrator Roles and Responsibilities

Let’s explore the roles and responsibilities of the system administrator:

1. Taking Care of Servers and Networks: The task involves the installation, configuration, and maintenance of servers, routers, and other networking equipment. 
2. Performance Monitoring of the System: System administrators regularly check system health to prevent failures.
3. User Administration: Involves creating and managing user accounts, passwords, and access controls.
4. Security administration: It is applied to protect the systems against viruses, malware, and cyberattacks.
5. Resolving Issues: System administrators are responsible for hardware, software, and network-related issues.
6. Backup: Ensures that data is regularly backed up and accessible in emergencies.

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How to Become a System Administrator?

Let’s explore the steps to follow to become a system administrator.

Step 1: Finish Higher Secondary Education

As a system administrator, it is important to complete your higher secondary education (10+2) and focus on subjects like mathematics and computer science, which help you build a strong foundation.

Step 2: Complete your Bachelor’s Degree 

To apply for a system administrator position, you need a bachelor’s degree in information technology, computer science, or a related field. Your degree will prepare you much more significantly to learn the key topics in networking, operating systems, and database management.

Step 3: Obtain a Master’s Degree (Optional)

Earning your master’s degree is not a requirement to begin your journey as a system administrator, but it will set you apart from other candidates and, additionally, allow you to extend your reach to higher-paying positions. 

Step 4: Obtain Experience

Obtaining work experience is the most important step. Try to secure an entry-level internship and begin working as an IT support specialist, network, or help desk technician. These entry-level roles can help you get experience in the field before you move into a full-time position in administration.

Skills Required to Become a System Administrator

An effective system administrator has to possess technical skills and soft skills. Let’s break the skills into two categories:

Technical Skills Required to Become a System Administrator

You require a strong technical background to work as a system administrator. Some of the key technical skills that are required are:

1. Networking Knowledge: Knowledge of LAN, WAN, VPNs, firewalls, and routing.
2. Knowledge of Operating Systems: Experience in Windows, Linux, and Mac OS.
3. Server Management: Installation, configuration, and maintenance of servers.
4. Cloud Computing: Familiarity with platforms such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.
5. Database Management: With MySQL, Oracle, or Microsoft SQL Server.
6. Cybersecurity Awareness: Ability to protect systems against malware and cyberattacks.
7. Backup and Recovery: Backing up data and disaster recovery planning.

Soft Skills Required to Become a System Administrator

In addition to technical knowledge, soft skills are also crucial for a successful career in system administrator roles. Some key soft skills that are very relevant are:

1. Problem-Solving: Ability to detect and solve problems quickly.
2. Communication Skills: Ability to make clear explanations of technical issues to non-technical employees.
3. Time Management: Ability to prioritize tasks and handle multiple responsibilities efficiently.
4. Teamwork: Co-operating with IT personnel and other departments.
5. Adaptability: Keeping up with the new technologies and industry trends.

Tools and Technologies Used by System Administrators

A system administrator uses an extensive variety of tools and technologies that are utilized to manage the system. They can also use these tools to carry out their daily chores as well as stay secure. Now, let us take a look at some of the tools that are used by system administrators:

1. OS: Windows Server, Linux (Ubuntu, CentOS, Red Hat), macOS.
2. Networking Tools: Cisco Packet Tracer, Wireshark, and PuTTY.
3. Monitoring Tools: Nagios, Zabbix, SolarWinds.
4. Virtualization Software: VMware, Hyper-V, VirtualBox.
5. Cloud Platforms: AWS, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud Platform.
6. Security Tools: Firewalls, antivirus packages, intrusion detection systems.

Career Levels and Responsibilities of a System Administrator

System Administrator Salary

The salary of the system administrator in India varies based on experience, skills, and location. System administrators have an average yearly earnings of approximately ₹5,40,000. Those in the entry-level may expect to earn nearly ₹4,20,000 per year, but those in the position of administrator with higher skills and qualifications may earn a maximum of ₹8,80,000 per year. Along with the market salary, most professionals are also given extra payment or bonuses, which range on average to ₹40,000 per year.

These salary figures are based on research from Glassdoor.

Practical Applications of a System Administrator

System administrators are important in maintaining smooth business activities. Their work has been applied in some real-world situations, such as:

1. Ensuring that the business operates by maintaining the servers and the networks.
2. Protecting data with backup and recovery.
3. Cybersecurity implementation to deter internet attacks.
4. Assisting employees in troubleshooting and gaining access to the system.
5. Ensuring efficiency and speed of the IT infrastructure.

Why the Intellipaat Microsoft Azure Course Stands Out?

The Intellipaat Microsoft Azure Course helps you start or advance your career as an Azure Administrator. Here’s why it stands out:

1. Become an Azure Certified Professional by preparing for the AZ-104 Microsoft Azure Administrator Exam.
2. Learn Virtual Machines, Azure SQL Database, Web Apps, Networking, Security, and Storage.
3. Get 40 hours of live sessions, 22 hours of self-paced videos, and 56 hours of projects & exercises for real-world practice.
4. Learn from experienced industry experts with lifetime free course upgrades and 24/7 support.
5. Benefit from career support, mock interviews, and job assistance with 300+ hiring partners.

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Conclusion

System administrators are very important in ensuring that the IT systems of an organization are secure, efficient, and reliable. They maintain the network and server, and ensure data recovery, and keep business operations running smoothly. With growing demand for skilled professionals, system administrator roles offer good career prospects, steady growth, and attractive salaries. By learning both technical and soft skills, you can start this career with confidence.

Upskill today by enrolling in our Microsoft Azure Certification, and also prepare for your next interview with Azure Interview Questions prepared by the industry experts.

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