Career Paths in Network Administration

Network administrators are IT professionals who manage the networks of multiple organizations. They are the most senior technical staff in an organization because they oversee the network’s administration and supervise others working within it.

Network administrators are responsible for maintaining the hardware and software of organizations, such as servers, computers and switches, routers and VPN gateways, printers, intrusion detection system, firewalls, firewalls, and others. Network administrators manage security updates, software deployments, and data storage.
Are you looking for a career as a network administrator? You will need to be certified if you are interested in a career in network administration. A series of certifications will be required to demonstrate the skills necessary to perform the job. Although network administrators may have multiple certifications, you only need one certification to start your career. Combining certifications with work experience is the best way to promote and develop a career as a network administrator.
Why choose a career as network administrator?
Network administration is in huge demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics the area of network administration is growing at an average rate of eight percent per year. This is a higher growth rate than in most professional careers, and it is expected to continue through 2024. The demand for qualified expertise is not being met by the qualified administrators who are entering the profession. Although this has made it difficult for organizations to keep up with the demand for qualified professionals, it has opened up amazing employment opportunities for those who have the right skills.
Plan a New Path
Although the field of network administration has been a steady job for many years, it is now experiencing a significant shift. Cloud technology is changing the way network administrators create IT services. Those who fail to adopt this technology will be left behind. This certification path is a great way to get a rewarding career as a network administrator if you are dedicated to learning new technologies and improving your skills.
CompTIA A+
CompTIA A+ certification is the first for anyone who wants to start a career in IT. This certification, which is two-exam, teaches IT basics and qualifies you for an entry-level position on a technical team. This certification is associated with traditional job titles such as helpdesk technician and desktop support. These roles eventually provide the necessary work experience to advance your career.
The best online resources for IT professionals are practice tests and test-prep materials.
CompTIA A+ 220-1001 covers the following:
Mobile Devices 14%

Networking 20%

Hardware 27%

Virtualization and Cloud Computing 12%

Hardware and Network Troubleshooting 27%

CompTIA A+ 220-1002 covers the following:
Operating Systems 27%

Security 24%

Software Troubleshooting 26%

Operational Procedures 23%

MCSA
Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA), a type of specialist, can be found in a variety of areas including Cloud and Web Applications. Anyone interested in a career as a network administrator should focus on Windows Server. The MCSA: Windows Server 2016 certification can take anywhere from three months up to a year. Although there are no prerequisites to this certification, it is recommended that you first earn the CompTIA A+ (or Microsoft Technical Associate) (MTA).
Network administrators need to be able to understand both virtual and physical practices. The MCSA is not a requirement for a career as a network administrator, but it will improve your technical credibility.
Exams for MCSA: Windows Server 2016:
70-740 Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate MCSA – Windows Server 2016
70-741 Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate MCSA – Windows Server 2016
70-742 Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate MCSA – Windows Server 2016
70-743 Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate MCSA – Windows Server 2016
CompTIA Network+
After you have earned your CompTIA Network+ certification and started your search for a job in IT, you can become certified in CompTIA Network+. CompTIA Network+ will give you the first real experience of networking. While CompTIA A+ includes networking basics, Network+ seizes a deeper dive. This certification is ideal for anyone who wants to work in network support or other entry-level jobs. CompTIA Network+ certification is the perfect way to start a career as a network administrator.
On-demand training, virtual classroom options and practice tests are all common resources for preparing for the exam. CompTIA A+ certification is recommended, even though there is no requirement for eligibility. This certification is required to be part of your IT resume. It can be obtained without any work experience.
CompTIA Network+ includes:
Configuration
Wireless and wired network devices
Unified communications
Mobile
Virtualization and cloud technologies
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