Keep computer networks running smoothly and securely.

As a network administrator or a network technician, you make sure the equipment and programs connecting computers to servers are working efficiently. Connections can range from a few personal computers in one office to large communications networks that span the globe.

The role developed as organisations began connecting personal computers to share information. Instead of managing each machine separately, a central server allowed access, storage and other functions to be controlled in one place.

You are responsible for maintaining that central server and its functions. You plan and install the hardware and software that make up the network, and you maintain devices such as printers connected to it. Your work may involve local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), internet or intranet systems. You may also identify future IT needs for the organisation.

For further information:
Australian Computer Society (SA Branch)
Phone: 02 9299 3666
Email: member.services@acs.org.au
Website: www.acs.org.au

In order to have the best possible chance of finding employment it is recommended that you gain the available qualifications.

TAFE SA offers courses relevant to this occupation including the Diploma of Information Technology (Advanced Networking) & (Cloud Engineering). Pathways include the Certificate III in Information Technology, Certificate IV in Information Technology Networking and Certificate IV in Cyber Security.

Studying at TAFE SA is one of the easiest and most successful pathways towards a University Degree.
Still unsure? Then try a short course also offered through TAFE SA. Check the website for the full list of short courses.

Skills shortage surveys indicate that the demand for some computing professionals is likely to remain high. Information technology recruitment specialists anticipate that there will be ongoing demand for network administrators, as networks become more sophisticated and operate for 24 hours a day. This must be balanced with the fact that there is a considerable number of people currently employed or trained in this area of IT. From the position of network administrator, you can progress to a network team leader, where you will be supervising a small team. Advancement to a management role, with less technical duties, is then possible.

There is a lot of hands-on keyboard work, too. Files may need to be added or deleted on the network server and file servers are regularly backed up on disc in the event of computer problems. Another important part of their job is to monitor the network and resolve any problems. Software tools are used to monitor the speed of the network and to ensure that details are recorded accurately. At all times they must ensure that the network is available to all system users in the organisation.

A network administrator is also responsible for setting up user accounts so that users can access the organisation's computing facilities. They organise security passwords and assess any breaches of company confidentiality, changing passwords and denying access if necessary. In some smaller organisations they may be required to train new staff to use the hardware and software, solving any problems staff may have encountered. In a larger organisation they work closely as part of the help desk team answering client queries.

A person suited to working as a network administrator would have an interest in computers and enjoy solving challenging problems, because network related problems can be complex. They would also need to know about networking hardware and how it is used and have an understanding of the types of cabling and wiring used. As well as this they would need to have a knowledge of the main network protocols (languages) and knowledge of at least one major network operating system package, such as Windows NT. A high level of organisation, the ability to adapt to new technology quickly, good communication skills and being a team player are also necessary to succeed in this occupation.