What Does An IT Administrator Do?

IT administrators ensure that the IT infrastructure in companies and organizations runs. Since many companies are now dependent on IT, it is important that everything runs smoothly.

This applies to individual computers and servers but also includes networking with one another, i.e. storage systems, networks, and telecommunications systems.

You can find out what else falls within the scope of duties and what requirements must be met here.
 

Definition: IT administrator

An IT administrator – also known as a system administrator – is responsible for maintaining computer networks and computer systems. A system administrator is assigned to the IT department of a company. This is where you monitor and manage the computer networks of the company where you work. You are also responsible for the organization and development of computer systems.

The IT administrator has a very important role in the company. Since a lot of work processes are digital nowadays, you have to take care of the computer systems and regular updates to ensure that the necessary technology works reliably.
 

 

How do you become an IT administrator? Requirements and skills

IT admins have a lot of responsibility. You are responsible for a company’s IT infrastructure. A failure of the IT infrastructure is almost inevitably associated with a loss of sales.

Despite the high level of responsibility, there is no degree or training that specifically targets the IT administrator. Most IT administrators are career-shifters – and you can get started in many ways. Nevertheless, some are of course more suitable than others.
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Training & studies

There are mainly IT courses at (technical) colleges and universities. These are traditionally offered full-time. Since the job has a high practical component, they are a particularly good opportunity to get to know the practice without giving up an academic degree.
 

Qualifications & skills

IT administrators should be familiar with the basic concepts of IT. The essential skills include:

• Knowledge of operating systems used (printer, e-mail, user accounts …)
• Knowledge of server technology (Windows Server 2003, 2008 and 2012; Unix & Linux servers; MacOS servers)
• Authentication methods
• Identification and resolution of hardware errors
• Network protocols
• Data backup
• PHP, mySQL, Perl, Java

Since IT admins usually have access to all systems, they can also view all data accordingly. Therefore, discretion, integrity and loyalty are other important qualities that every admin should have.

In addition to the professional prerequisites, it is advisable for an IT administrator to have some personal characteristics. This includes mastery of English, initiative, and team spirit.

Also, you should show motivation and a high level of commitment. Other positive characteristics include willingness to learn, sociability, and a reliable character.
 

 

What are the tasks of an IT administrator?

Computer networks are used by most companies to perform their various tasks. An IT administrator is responsible for these networks. You configure, operate, control, and maintain telecommunication systems and data networks. With your activity, you contribute to the fact that all computer-controlled work without restrictions.

An IT administrator is responsible for ensuring that the network servers and workstation computers (clients) work together properly. This does not only concern a smooth reception of the wireless Internet but also the correct cabling of the devices. The security of the technology is guaranteed by the IT administrator because you will regularly make updates.

As a system administrator, you are the first point of contact for trouble-free sending of e-mails and other communication services. Keeping the security software up to date is just as much a part of your job as looking after routers and the firewall. You will also help colleagues with advice and support in case of problems in the home office area of a company.

Another activity of the system administrator is the training of employees. It is your responsibility to familiarize your colleagues with the use of new hardware and new software. For this, not only flexible working hours and participation in further training are expected. The IT administrator must be on call and have the ability to work in various areas under time pressure.

You also have to be aware that you often have to sacrifice time after work or on the weekend to maintain and troubleshoot the technology. At these times, the company can best do without technology.
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Salary of an IT administrator

The starting salary of an IT administrator is $70,000 to $83,084 per year. Salaries of IT administrators with a few years of professional experience range from $83,084 to $100,00. per year. Depending on experience, company size, and location, up to $100,00 per year for IT administrators is realistic.
 

 

Potential industries for IT administrators

Since pretty much every company has a basic IT infrastructure, IT administrators can be found in every industry. Large companies in particular have entire departments that take care of the IT infrastructure.
 

Application as an IT administrator

The job as an IT administrator is very practical. The more experience you already have, for example through internships and/or part-time jobs, make you better. Based on the experience, you can also better prove your motivation, as you have already got to know everyday work and know what to expect.

It’s best to link this to the specific requirements and tasks mentioned in the job offer. In this way, you can tailor your application to precisely this job offer.
 

Conclusion

The professional field of the IT administrator is linked to a wide range of requirements, qualifications, and areas of responsibility. We have summarized the most important information for you here.

• As an IT administrator in a company, you are responsible for ensuring that all computer systems and networks function properly.
• You configure, operate, control, and maintain telecommunication systems and data networks.
• For the job as an IT administrator, a degree is not absolutely necessary, numerous training courses prepare you for the job.
• IT administrators earn an average of $6,923 per month.

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