Becoming a network administrator is a rewarding and noble profession. It involves managing computer networks for a company or organisation. There are different certifications available to become a network administrator.
The most popular ones include the CCNA exam for the technical side, CCNP or CNet exam for the application side, and the CCNA or CCDA exam for the business side. The exams vary by state but typically you will be required to pass at least one of them in order to hold your current job.
Now that you know what it takes to become a network administrator, it’s time to get started. There are many ways to get started.
Some of these are through traditional school programs, community college courses or online courses. Each path has its own set of benefits and drawbacks.
For example, traditional school training can provide an excellent education in terms of classroom instruction. On the other hand, networking classes offer more hands-on experience with real networking tools.
After you have some school training and feel ready, you should look into taking any of the following certifications: CCNA Routing & Switching, CCNP or CCDA Networking, or any of the other newer certifications.
The CCNA certifications are the easiest and require little experience or knowledge to complete. However, they do take a few months of study. The CCNP exam process is much the same except for a little longer concentration and testing.
The CCNA exam process differs from the others in several ways. First, it is a self-study project that should take between two and four months to complete.
Second, unlike most of the other certifications it does not have a specific time frame or format. Once you pass the exam, you are not required to re-take it every year, just like any other certifications.
A good way to build your IT experience is by obtaining one of the many networking jobs available. A common network admin job will entail administering a network of anywhere from ten to hundreds of computers. You can work at home or in a traditional office setting.
Networking positions also exist for those who prefer to work in an environment where their daily interaction with clients is highly frequent. This could be for corporations or for online businesses.
These positions often require a combination of computer knowledge as well as knowledge of networking or troubleshooting. You may have to handle any technical problems that occur with your clients’ equipment or network.
There are several different paths to take when deciding on a career path in this field. You can choose to gain general IT experience by working as a network newbie, an assistant to an IT administrator, or by gaining more experience through volunteer work.
Many community colleges and vocational schools offer courses in becoming a network administrator. Those wishing to pursue higher education in this field may choose to focus on the administrative side of things or on the networking aspects.
Upon completion of a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree program in this subject area, you will be prepared to pass the most rigorous exam process required in order to become certified.
If you are considering this career path, you should look into all of the options. Community colleges and vocational schools offer many different classes in this field.
Taking these programs will give you the hands-on experience necessary to pass the CCNA or CCNP exam process. You may also want to consider getting certifications online to upgrade your skills or to simply satisfy your interest.
The CCNA exam process is extremely standardised and it is expected that all aspiring professionals will pass at least one of the three exams offered.
Overview of Job Prospects, Salaries, and Key Statistics for 2023-2024
The current state of network administration in both Australia and the USA for 2023-2024 including insights into salary statistics, employment growth, and the steps required to become a network administrator in each country.
1. Role and Responsibilities of a Network Administrator
A network administrator manages, maintains, and supports an organization’s computer networks, ensuring smooth and secure operation. Key responsibilities include:
- Installing, configuring, and maintaining network hardware and software.
- Monitoring network performance and troubleshooting connectivity issues.
- Ensuring network security by implementing firewalls, VPNs, and regular security updates.
- Managing user permissions and network access.
- Supporting end-users and providing technical guidance on network issues.
2. Education and Certification Requirements
Australia
In Australia, network administrators typically need a diploma or bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Network Engineering, or a related field.
Practical experience is highly valued, and industry certifications such as Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), CompTIA Network+, and Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) can significantly enhance job prospects.
USA
In the United States, a similar educational pathway is followed, with an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related field being standard.
Certifications like CCNA, CompTIA Network+, and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) are widely recognized and can make candidates more competitive in the job market.
3. Salary Statistics for Network Administrators in 2023-2024
Australia
In Australia, network administrator salaries vary based on experience, location, and certification. Below is an overview of salary statistics for 2023-2024:
| Experience Level | Average Salary (AUD) | Major Cities (e.g., Sydney, Melbourne) |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0-2 years) | $55,000 – $65,000 | $60,000 – $70,000 |
| Mid-Level (3-5 years) | $70,000 – $85,000 | $80,000 – $90,000 |
| Senior-Level (5+ years) | $90,000 – $110,000 | $95,000 – $120,000 |
In terms of industry distribution, network administrators in sectors like finance, healthcare, and IT consulting firms often earn higher salaries than those in education or government roles.
USA
In the United States, salaries for network administrators are generally higher than in Australia, reflecting the broader demand and the scale of tech industries across different states. Here is an overview of salary statistics for network administrators in 2023-2024:
| Experience Level | Average Salary (USD) | Major Cities (e.g., New York, San Francisco) |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0-2 years) | $55,000 – $65,000 | $65,000 – $75,000 |
| Mid-Level (3-5 years) | $75,000 – $90,000 | $85,000 – $95,000 |
| Senior-Level (5+ years) | $100,000 – $120,000 | $110,000 – $130,000 |
California, Texas, and New York have the highest concentrations of network administrators, particularly in tech-heavy cities like San Francisco, Austin, and New York City, where salaries can exceed $120,000 for experienced professionals.
4. Employment Growth and Demand
The demand for network administrators is expected to grow steadily over the coming years, with network security and cloud computing driving the need for skilled administrators.
Australia
In Australia, employment growth for network administrators is projected to be around 8% over the next decade. According to recent job data, the number of job openings is expected to increase, particularly in metropolitan areas where large companies and government agencies are situated.
The increasing adoption of cloud services and cybersecurity measures further enhances the demand for network administrators.
Key employment statistics for 2023-2024 include:
- Average Job Growth Rate: 8%
- Primary Industries: IT Services, Finance, Government, Healthcare.
- Top Locations: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane.
USA
In the United States, the job outlook for network administrators is expected to grow by about 5% over the next decade, with thousands of annual job openings due to retirement and expansion.
While automation and cloud computing might reduce demand for some traditional network roles, cybersecurity concerns are driving demand for network specialists with expertise in security-focused roles.
Key employment statistics for 2023-2024
- Average Job Growth Rate: 5%
- Primary Industries: Technology, Finance, Healthcare, Government.
- Top Locations: California (Silicon Valley), Texas (Austin), New York, Virginia.
5. Skills in Demand and Certifications
With the rise of cyber threats and cloud technology, certain skills and certifications are especially valuable for network administrators in both Australia and the USA.
In-Demand Skills:
- Network Security: Knowledge of firewalls, VPNs, and cybersecurity protocols.
- Cloud Computing: Familiarity with AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud can be a differentiator.
- Troubleshooting: Strong analytical skills for diagnosing and solving network issues.
- Network Monitoring Tools: Proficiency with tools like SolarWinds, Nagios, and Wireshark.
Top Certifications:
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA): Essential for foundational knowledge in networking.
- CompTIA Network+: Recognized as a good entry-level certification.
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): Highly regarded for network security roles.
- Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Valuable for network administrators working with Microsoft environments.
6. Steps to Become a Network Administrator
- Complete Education Requirements: Pursue an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in IT, Computer Science, or Network Engineering.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level IT roles, internships, or part-time positions can provide necessary experience.
- Obtain Certifications: Earning certifications like CCNA or CompTIA Network+ can boost credentials.
- Develop Key Skills: Focus on network security, cloud computing, and troubleshooting.
- Apply for Entry-Level Positions: Look for roles such as junior network administrator, network technician, or IT support.
- Continuously Upgrade Skills: Regularly update certifications and learn emerging technologies, such as SD-WAN and AI-driven network management.
7. Job Search and Career Growth Tips
For job seekers in Australia and the USA, networking, joining professional organizations (e.g., CompTIA, Australian Computer Society), and attending technology meetups or conferences can provide valuable job leads and industry connections.
Regularly updating skills and staying informed on industry trends, such as network security and cloud integration, will also help individuals remain competitive in this evolving field.
To summarise, becoming a network administrator in 2023-2024 in either Australia or the USA is a promising career choice, with solid salary prospects and demand for skilled professionals, particularly those with expertise in cybersecurity and cloud technology.
With the right combination of education, certification, and practical experience, individuals can build a successful and rewarding career in this essential IT field.
For more information on network administration roles and how to develop a career in IT, consider browsing job boards such as Indeed or LinkedIn, and explore certification options through Cisco and CompTIA.
