What Is a Network Administrator?

At the macroscopic level, the digital economy in the U.S. is vast. Valued at $4.9 trillion, it has more than doubled since 2020, according to IAB research. At a more granular level, the digital ecosystem comprises billions of devices, all interconnected through networks managed by network administration professionals.

Network administration goes beyond keeping networks up and running. It also involves addressing different types of information security threats targeting critical systems. Understanding what a network administrator is, their responsibilities and the job requirements can clarify the next steps in a career seeker’s journey. For those interested in this path, pursuing a Master of Science (MS) in Cybersecurity Management and Technology can equip them with the knowledge and skills to run and protect networks, helping power the digital economy.

What Does a Network Administrator Do?

A network administrator’s responsibilities may vary. Factors that determine what a network administrator does can depend on career level (entry-level or experienced professional) and industry (manufacturing, energy and more).

Job titles can also vary. For example, roles such as computer network architect or information security manager can often share similar responsibilities. Below are general responsibilities applicable to most network administrators and related roles.

Network Infrastructure Design and Configuration

Expert network infrastructure design, installation and configuration — including servers, routers, switches and cloud networking components — for both on-premises and cloud environments helps ensure that systems are scalable, well integrated and aligned with organizational needs.

Network Operations and Reliability Management

Using advanced monitoring tools to proactively detect performance issues and troubleshoot network problems helps ensure that networks meet user demands and continue to operate efficiently.

Security and Access Management

Implementing and managing security controls; monitoring for unusual activity; managing secure access; and coordinating with security teams to protect systems, data and users are responsibilities that can serve as a natural entry point for professionals pursuing a career change to cybersecurity.

Monitoring, Troubleshooting and Optimizing Performance

Using advanced monitoring tools to proactively detect performance issues and troubleshoot network problems helps ensure networks meet user demands and continue to operate efficiently.

Maintenance, Upgrades and Life Cycle Support

Administrators oversee ongoing maintenance, repairs and upgrades of network systems and devices. This includes keeping hardware and software current, supporting software-as-a-service (SaaS) and cloud integrations, and maintaining the integrity of network and server deployments over time.

What Are the Requirements to Become a Network Administrator?

Understanding what a network administrator is also means understanding the skills and qualifications of the role.

Earn a Degree

Most network administration and information technology (IT) management roles start with a bachelor’s degree in a computer-related field, such as computer science or IT. Employers commonly prefer candidates with a graduate degree for more advanced or leadership-focused roles.

Build Skills and Knowledge

Knowledge of hardware, software and networking, as well as programming and database concepts, is ideal for network administration roles. Professional skills, such as analytical thinking, problem-solving, multitasking and communication, allow administrators to understand technical issues and explain them to nontechnical staff.

Gain Experience and Certifications

As a hands-on role, many network administrators gain experience with real-world networks and systems on the job. Certifications can also strengthen qualifications, especially when working with specific platforms or vendors. Vendor-neutral certifications, such as CompTIA A+, provide an additional option.

Continue Your Education

Technology changes fast, so employers may require regular training, certification renewals or continuing education courses to stay current. Pursuing a master’s degree can also support career advancement, particularly for those interested in leadership roles.

Network Administrator Salary and Job Growth

The U.S. Bureau of Labor of Statistics (BLS) provides the 2024 median annual salaries of different types of network administration roles, including network and computer system administrators, network architects, and information security managers.

Network and Computer System Administrators: $96,800
Computer Network Architects: $130,390
Information Security Managers: $171,200

Job growth projections between 2024 and 2034 differ across network administration roles, according to the BLS.

Network and Computer System Administrators: Slight decline in job growth, with around 14,300 openings each year
Computer Network Architects: 12 percent growth, with around 11,200 openings each year
Information Security Manager: 15 percent growth, with around 55,600 openings each year

Advance Your Career in Network Administration

Network administration professionals play a central role in today’s digital environments, where strong security oversight is essential. As responsibility increases, so does earning potential — making information security management an attractive career path.

The MS in Cybersecurity Management and Technology program at Augusta University Online prepares students for these demands through flexible technical and management tracks. Students build practical skills to identify, manage, and reduce cyber risks, whether they’re advancing technical expertise or preparing for leadership roles. Graduates leave with the skills needed to support secure, reliable networks across a wide range of organizations and take the next step toward their career goals.

Learn more about Augusta’s MS in Cybersecurity Management and Technology program today.

Sources:
CompTIA, The Essential Guide to the Changing Role of Network Administration
IAB, Measuring the Digital Economy
Indeed, System and Network Administrator as a Career Path
Indeed, What Does a Network Administrator Do? (Responsibilities and Skills)
Monday, “What Is Network Administration? What IT Leaders Need to Know”
Payscale, Average Network Administrator Salary
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Computer and Information Systems Managers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Computer Network Architects
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Network and Computer Systems Administrators