Article: A computer systems administrator’s biggest job is to keep an organization’s lines of communications open. On a given day you might have major hardware or software malfunctions to fix; you may have to rewire network cables; you may be pressed to work as fast as possible by frustrated people whose computer systems are paralyzed. None of this is easy or for the faint-hearted. On the other hand, you will be well-paid. Network administrators in 2013 made an average of $74,000, with the top earners bringing in nearly $120,000.  Other functions of the job include updating software and hardware, maintaining email and data storage, training new users on the system, connecting employee workstations to the network, and sometimes managing telecommunications networks for people working from home or on the road.  Do research before committing to a career in systems administration. There are many web resources that can give you a good summary, such as US News and World Report or Computer Weekly While sometimes it is possible to work in systems administration with previous experience or a professional certificate or associate’s degree, you will find that many employers prefer people with a bachelor’s degree. Doing a four year degree will familiarize you with things like programming, network security, operating systems, database analysis, and systems analysis, and systems design. Usually, you should do a computer-related major such as information or computer science. Some college programs will include the chance to do an internship. This is a great chance to acquire on-the-job experience and industry skills while still in school. It will make you more hireable as a new graduate. As a way to increase your hireability and credentials, consider furthering your education past a four year degree. For example, companies like Microsoft, Red Hat, and Cisco offer vendor certification programs in things like programming, servers, applications, and databases. While such certifications are voluntary, according to PC World 68% of hiring managers in the industry consider them to be “medium or high priority” in making hiring decisions.  You can also get certifications in Windows or Linux server systems, and there is high demand for Cloud and DevOps certifications. You should be able to find certification programs in a variety of places. Microsoft certification courses, for example, are sometimes offered in tech schools or community colleges. You can also take them through “Learning Partners” – trainers all over the country will prepare you for the certification exam. Systems administrators have to know the ins and outs of major computer operating systems like Windows, Linux, Android, iOS, and others, in order to be able to make updates, install patches, do data backups, manage hardware, and monitor software and system performance. Cast a broad net. Familiarizing yourself with a range of systems – particularly the most popular ones – will make you flexible and more in demand. Some vendors, again, have certification programs in their operating systems. Check with companies to see whether they offer training. Communication is an underrated part of being a systems administrator. Yes, much of your time might be spent in alone in the server room, keeping things going. But you will have to work with others, as well. You will need to be able to express your expectations, to propose ideas, and to offer solutions to peers and to management. Can you convince your boss, for example, to upgrade the company’s web server? This requires skills in persuasive speaking. Try talking in front of a mirror for 15 to 20 minutes every day. If you are more serious about improving your communication skills, join a speaking organization like Toastmasters International.

What is a summary?
Find out whether the field is right for you. Do a bachelor’s degree. Consider further vocational training. Become familiar with a range of operating systems. Develop communications skills.