OVERVIEW
What is a Network Administrator?
Network administrators work with hardware, software, computer infrastructures, and entire information systems and ensure everything runs sm,oothly and as designed. Typical tasks include setting up and upgrading new networks, identifying problems as they arise, and coming up with practical solutions.
RESPONSIBILITIES
What Does a Network Administrator Do?
Although most businesses use computers and need the help of a network administrator, each setting is different. In general, network administrators perform the following duties:
- Setting up new networks.
- Maintaining and upgrading existing computer networks, including hardware like VPNs and routers.
- Troubleshooting flaws in software, hardware configuration, communications equipment, and then fixing problems as they arise.
- Updating and configuring virus protection software and other programs to keep networks secure.
- Monitoring and maximizing network performance.
- Installing and configuring computer systems and network equipment, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and data communication systems.
- Communicating updates and problems to other employees, as well as those in management roles.
- Training new users.
- Preemptively determining an organization’s software and hardware needs.
- Evaluating network performance.
EDUCATION & BEST DEGREES
What Education Does a Network Administrator Need?
The education level required to enter the network administrator field varies by employer. However, most will require at least an associate’s degree in a computer-related discipline, along with relevant certifications. However, many employers require network admins to have a bachelor’s degree in information technology, network engineering and security, or a related area of study. In these areas of study, you will learn scripting and programming languages, Linux, cloud foundations, data management, web development, and more.
What Certifications Does a Network Administrator Need?
Not all network administrators need certifications, but some positions may require them. Certifications can be a great way to set yourself apart from competition for positions. Some of the best industry certifications that you can pursue for a network administrator role include:
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA Project+
- CompTIA IT Operations Specialist
- CompTIA Secure Infrastructure Specialist
- Axelos ITIL®1 Foundation
- LPI Linux Essentials
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
- Amazon AWS SysOps Administration-Associate
- Amazon AWS Cloud Practitioner
Best Degrees for a Network Administrator
Technology
Information Technology – B.S.
Award-winning coursework and value-add certifications make this online...
Award-winning coursework and value-add certifications make this online program a top choice.
- Time: 61% of graduates finish within 39 months.
- Tuition: $3,835 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 35 total courses in this program.
Stackable CompTIA certifications that you can earn in this program:
- IT Operations Specialist (earned with A+ and Network+)
- Cloud Administration Professional (earned with Network+ and Cloud+)
- Secure Infrastructure Specialist (earned with A+, Network+, and Security+)
- Secure Cloud Professional (earned with Security+ and Cloud+)
Skills for your résumé that you will learn in this program:
- Scripting and programming
- Networking and security
- Systems and services
- Data management
- Business of IT
Technology
Accelerated IT Bachelor's and Master's Degree
Earn both your bachelor’s in IT and master’s in Information Technology at...
Earn both your bachelor’s in IT and master’s in Information Technology at a faster pace with fewer courses.
- Time: Approximately 5 years.
- Tuition: $3,945 per 6-month term for the bachelor's degree; $4,090 per term for the master's portion.
- Courses: 42-43 total courses in this program.
Stackable CompTIA certifications that you can earn in this program:
- IT Operations Specialist (earned with A+ and Network+)
- Cloud Administration Professional (earned with Network+ and Cloud+)
- Secure Infrastructure Specialist (earned with A+, Network+, and Security+)
- Secure Cloud Professional (earned with Security+ and Cloud+)
Skills for your résumé that you will learn in this program:
- Automation with Python
- Cloud and networking security
- IT service management
- Data and AI fluency and integration
- Agile project and product management
- Microsoft IT strategy in cloud, data, AI, and security
This program allows students to earn their bachelor's degree in IT and move directly into a master's degree in IT management, cutting down on the total number of courses to complete.
Technology
Cloud and Network Engineering – B.S.
Launch your career in designing, securing, and optimizing complex networks....
Launch your career in designing, securing, and optimizing complex networks.
Students choose between four unique specializations within this program. These spcializations prepare students to work with different software systems and processes in their careers.
Specializations in this program include: General, Cisco, AWS, and Azure.
- Time: 61% of graduates finish similar programs within 36 months.
- Tuition: $3,915 per 6-month term.
- Courses: 34 or 37 courses in this program depending on focus area
This program also includes third-party certifications that will help you boost your résumé and be prepared for career success. Certifications available in all specializations include:
- CompTIA A+
- Linux Essentials - LPI
- ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library)
Business
MBA Information Technology Management
Earn the online college degree that can move your career into IT upper...
Earn the online college degree that can move your career into IT upper management:
- Time: Graduates can finish in 12 months
- Tuition: $4,805 per 6-month term
- Courses: 11 total courses in this program
Sample careers and jobs this business degree will prepare you for:
- Management
- Project Management
- Leadership
- Innovation
- Communications
- Information Systems Security
Learn to navigate emergencies, execute strategies, and optimize systems with the competencies within this specialty MBA.
How Much Does a Network Administrator Make?
$110,123
According to Salary.com (as of September 1, 2025), the average annual salary for a Network Administrator in the U.S. is $110,123. Salaries typically range from $92,994 to $130,897, with most earning between $101,157 (25th percentile) and $120,997 (75th percentile).
What Is the Projected Job Growth?
4%
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of Network and Computer Systems Administrators—a category encompassing Network Administrators—is projected to decline by approximately 4% between 2024 and 2034. Despite this decline, the occupation is expected to generate around 14,300 openings per year, mainly due to the need to replace workers who exit the field.
SKILLS
What Skills Does a Network Administrator Need?
Network administrators need to have a broad skill set to perform their job. Below are some of the most common skills, although it’s certainly not an exhaustive list:
- Knowledge of computer networks: You’ll need to know how to set up and manage IPs, wireless modems and routers, cloud services, and cybersecurity, to name just a few.
- Coding: To work as a network administrator, you’ll need to have solid internet technology skills, including coding. Common languages include HTML, C++, PHP, Python, JavaScript, Java, and Ruby.
- Problem-solving: Network administrators are faced with frequent issues that need to be resolved promptly.
- Team-working and communication skills: Whether you’re facing problems or everything is running smoothly, you’ll frequently convey status updates and other information to people inside and outside of your team.
- Attention to detail: One wrong move can wreak havoc on a network, so you’ll need to pay close attention to details while you’re working.
- Time and project management: Network administrators often must juggle multiple projects and other tasks simultaneously. They also frequently work with internal and external (including digital) teams, and must adhere to different timelines to ensure everyone can effectively do their jobs.
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