He doesn't fix computers. What is a system administrator and how to become one?

Contents:

• Briefly about the profession
• Responsibilities
• Skills and knowledge
• Training
• Career
• Useful materials from the editors of Skillbox.by

Briefly about the profession

A system administrator is responsible for the smooth operation of computer systems and company networks. At first glance, a system administrator might seem like someone who simply fixes computers. But their role is different: they maintain and protect the IT infrastructure on which almost all companies depend. Specialists configure servers, monitor data security, manage networks, and maintain IT systems.

System administrators prevent failures and recover data after incidents, ensuring the smooth operation of business processes. Without work, companies can face downtime and security threats.

Responsibilities

Here's what a system administrator does at work:

• Configures and manages networks.A system administrator creates new networks and maintains existing ones for corporate communications. A system administrator monitors routers to ensure everything is working properly;
• Administers servers.Installs and configures server software. Ensures that servers are not overloaded and operate quickly and without failures;
• Responsible for data security.Protects information from hacks and viruses. To do this, install an antivirus, firewall, and other data protection tools;

• Solves technical problems.Diagnoses and fixes problems when the "blue screen of death" appears or the computer suddenly stops performing the required command. This is how the system administrator minimizes downtime;
  
• Works with users.Trains employees on how to use programs and answers their questions. A specialist helps install the software and monitors its proper operation;
  
• Maintains software.Updates operating systems and applications on employees' computers to work with new features.

Skills and knowledge

You need to pump up your hard and soft skills to become a successful system administrator.

Hard skills

• Network technologies. This is the basis of any system administrator's work. Understanding how routers and network protocols work helps you quickly troubleshoot network problems;

• Operating systems. The administrator must configure and maintain operating systems - Windows and Linux. Knowledge of the command line and basic scripts improves your work because they allow you to execute a series of commands with a single click;
• Information Security.Data security skills help prevent attacks and protect confidential information. A system administrator should know basic data encryption methods and how to install security systems.

Soft skills

• Quick Problem Solving.The ability to quickly find and fix problems is a valuable skill. Downtime for company employees due to problems costs money. Therefore, a system administrator must quickly resolve issues;
  
• Teamwork.A system administrator works with other departments. The ability to explain technical things in simple terms is useful for all employees.

Training

Here are three training options. Choose the one that suits you best: 

• Higher education.You can start with higher education in the field of IT. Universities offer programs where you can learn the basics and delve into specific topics of systems administration. For example, The Belarusian National Technical University offers a faculty of "Information Systems and Technologies". Here you can get a basis for a career as a system administrator;
  
• Self-education.This path requires independence. Books, articles, and educational videos are your best friends here. But there is a downside: there is no mentor to point out your mistakes. It is difficult to master a profession without an experienced specialist. Training will take more time;
• Courses.A middle ground between higher education and self-study. Courses do not require as much time as university and at the same time provide an opportunity to gain knowledge through practice. The courses include classes with real practical problems, which allows you to immediately apply the theory.

Career

A system administrator's career, like in other professions, depends on experience and skills:

• Junior.A system administrator at the beginning of a career. At this level, tasks are reduced to mastering basic system management skills and solving simple problems. A beginner is trained and guided by experienced colleagues;
• Middle.Possesses knowledge that allows him to independently solve problems. The System Administrator maintains system stability and optimizes work processes;
• Senior.Responsible for strategic systems management and coordination of junior employees. Deep understanding of technology, ensuring the reliability and security of the IT infrastructure.

Useful materials from the editors of Skillbox.by

If you see yourself in the role of a system administrator, start by studying these materials.

Literature:

• «The Practice of System and Network Administration» by Thomas Limoncelli, Christina Hogan and Strata Chailup — a handbook for system administrators. It covers the best practices of systems management: server management, security and network infrastructure;
• «UNIX and Linux System Administration Handbook» by Nemeth Evi, Snyder Garth, Hein Trent, Whaley Ben, Makin Danis a popular book on UNIX and Linux administration. A practical guide ideal for beginners and experienced administrators.

Information resources: 

• Articles on administrationis a section of a popular IT forum dedicated to administration; 
• SYSAdmins.ruis a platform that answers questions about server and network administration.

Telegram channels: 

• Administrating with Bukvais a channel where professionals share their experiences and post materials on the topic;
• System Administrator — all about system administration.