The Essential Guide to the Changing Role of Network Administration
What is network administration evolution?
Network administration evolution refers to how the responsibilities, required skills, and tools for network administrators are changing in response to remote work, cloud technology, cybersecurity needs, and distributed IT environments. Today, network administrators must be adaptable, proactive, and skilled in both technical and soft skills to thrive.
Introduction: Why network administration is rapidly evolving
Network administration is no longer just about keeping office computers online. The digital landscape is shifting fast, and the demand for advanced network administration skills is higher than ever. As organizations embrace remote work, cloud networking, and digital transformation, the modern network administrator’s role is expanding—and so are career opportunities in network management.
This blog covers the latest network management trends, essential modern network administrator skills, the impact of cloud networking and IT network automation, and how to prepare for a future-proof IT career. If you want to understand or pursue a career in network administration, read on for a step-by-step guide to succeeding in today’s environment.
How has the role of network administrator changed?
Network administration has evolved dramatically. Previously, network admins focused on maintaining internal networks and on-premise hardware. Now, their responsibilities include:
- Remote network management for a distributed workforce
- Overseeing cloud networking technologies and seamless SaaS integration
- Ensuring reliable connectivity for users everywhere—from home to coffee shops
- Proactive network troubleshooting using advanced IT monitoring tools
- Enabling secure network access while managing network security practices
Expert insight
“Networks today are essentially a utility. We expect the network to work everywhere, just like electricity,” shares Steve Petryschuk, Auvik Technology Advocate.
Must-have modern network administrator skills
Becoming a successful network administrator now requires more than just technical know-how. Here are the top skills you need:
Technical skills
- Cloud networking experience: Familiarity with AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud networking.
- IT network automation: Ability to automate routine tasks using Python or PowerShell.
- Network security practices: Applying proactive security measures for both hardware and cloud systems.
- IT monitoring tools: Using solutions like Auvik, Nagios, or SolarWinds for visibility.
- SaaS network integration: Managing and integrating cloud-based software for remote teams.
Professional IT skills
- Advanced communication: Clearly explain complex issues to non-technical users.
- Collaboration: Work with security and DevOps teams.
- Adaptability: Keep up with rapid network management trends.
- Problem-solving: Proactively address issues instead of reacting to them.
How remote work & cloud networking re-defined network management
The shift to remote and hybrid work has made network administration evolution a necessity. According to Auvik’s 2021 Network Field Report, nearly 80% of organizations now support at least some remote workers. This shift means:
- Network administrators must ensure secure, high-performance connections for remote users
- They must troubleshoot across different home networks and devices
- Visibility is needed for both corporate and off-site endpoints
Embracing cloud networking technologies allows networks to scale rapidly and support distributed workforce IT needs. IT automation scripts and cloud-based monitoring have become the new norm for efficiency and reliability.
Top network security practices every admin needs
Security integration is now central to network administration. Today’s admins must:
- Keep all devices and systems updated with the latest security patches
- Monitor for unusual activity using advanced IT monitoring tools
- Collaborate with security teams to identify and manage vulnerabilities
- Ensure secure SaaS network integration and cloud-based resources
Tools and certifications: Stay ahead in your network admin career
Must-have tools
- Auvik: Cloud-based network monitoring
- SolarWinds: Comprehensive IT management
- Ansible: Automation for network infrastructure
- Intune or JAMF: Endpoint device management
Career-boosting certifications
Obtaining credentials like CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Security+, or CompTIA Cloud+ is the best way to validate your skills and stand out. Certifications improve your network administrator job outlook and ensure you’re prepared for evolving network management trends.
Frequently asked questions
What does a modern network administrator do daily?
They maintain both on-premise and cloud networks, use automation and monitoring tools, troubleshoot remote connections, and collaborate with security teams.
How has remote work changed the network administrator’s job?
Admins must support users everywhere, manage distributed workforce IT, and ensure seamless, secure network access outside of traditional office environments.
Which technical and professional IT skills are most important?
Technical skills include cloud networking, network automation, and security. Professional skills involve communication, collaboration, and adaptability.
What tools are most effective for remote network management?
Auvik, SolarWinds, Ansible, and endpoint management solutions like Intune or JAMF.
How can CompTIA Network+ help your IT career?
It validates your ability to manage modern networks and is often required by employers for IT network administrator roles.
Yesterday vs. today: Network administrator responsibilities
| Feature | Yesterday’s Admin | Today’s Admin |
|---|---|---|
| Work Location | Onsite | Hybrid/Remote |
| Focus | Hardware, LAN | Cloud, SaaS, Distributed IT |
| Toolset | Manual, CLI | Automated, cloud tools |
| Security Role | Reactive | Proactive, integrated |
| Collaboration | Internal IT team | Cross-functional, user-first |
Conclusion & next steps: Future-proof your network admin career
Network administration evolution means embracing new technologies, expanding your skill set, and staying ahead of IT management trends.
Whether you’re already in IT or looking to break in, now is the perfect time to level up your expertise. Start by viewing the CompTIA Network+ exam objectives, enrolling in a certification course, or exploring the latest in network management best practices.
Take your next step—view the CompTIA Network+ exam objectives and get started today!