How to become a network and computer systems administrator

Install, configure, and maintain an organization's local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), data communications network, operating systems, and physical and virtual servers. Perform system monitoring and verify the integrity and availability of hardware, network, and server resources and systems. Review system and application logs and verify completion of scheduled jobs, including system backups. Analyze network and server resource consumption and control user access. Install and upgrade software and maintain software licenses. May assist in network modeling, analysis, planning, and coordination between network and data communications hardware and software.

Steps to get there

Most employers expect most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree..Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.

What network and computer systems administrators do

• Plan, coordinate, and implement network security measures to protect data, software, and hardware.
• Perform data backups and disaster recovery operations.
• Diagnose, troubleshoot, and resolve hardware, software, or other network and system problems, and replace defective components when necessary.
• Maintain and administer computer networks and related computing environments, including computer hardware, systems software, applications software, and all configurations.
• Configure, monitor, and maintain email applications or virus protection software.
• Confer with network users about solutions to existing system problems.

Skills that matter most

• Active Listening
• Reading Comprehension
• Critical Thinking
• Monitoring
• Speaking
• Active Learning
• Writing
• Learning Strategies

Is network and computer systems administrator a good career?

On the numbers, this job pays above the typical job. Median pay is 94% above the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.

Where it pays most

• Maryland $118,290
• New Jersey $116,420
• Massachusetts $110,980
• District of Columbia $110,970
• Virginia $109,610

Network and Computer Systems Administrators salary by state and city

Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.