This article is part of an IT Career News series called Your Next Move. These articles take an inside look at the roles related to CompTIA certifications. Each article will include the responsibilities, qualifications, related job titles, and salary range for the role. As you consider your next IT career move, check back with CompTIA to learn more about your job prospects and how to get there.
Ready to move up from the help desk? Is it time to put your troubleshooting skills to use in a new position? If you’re a methodical thinker who’s good at monitoring processes and making sure everything runs smoothly, then server administrator may be a good next step for you.
What is a server administrator?
A server administrator configures and maintains servers and makes sure IT infrastructure runs smoothly in the following ways:
- Creates new user accounts, recovers lost passwords, and keeps data secure
- Develops and implements network maintenance standard operating procedures
- Diagnoses and repairs hardware and network malfunctions
- Ensures security firewalls are updated regularly
- Provides management with regular reports
Midsize and large organizations usually have at least one dedicated server administrator in-house, but working with a service provider specializing in server administration is also an option. In smaller environments, where individuals or small teams may provide a full range of IT support, systems administrators and network engineers might double as server administrators.
Server administrators typically work regular office hours in a standard office environment. However, upgrades that need to occur during off-hours or when a problem arises may require them to work outside of normal business hours. The work involves collaboration with different departments, so people who work well in groups will thrive in this position.
Server administrators need adequate knowledge of many types of server-based business applications and should be able to install, manage, and troubleshoot servers in data centers, on-premises, and hybrid environments. IT pros in this role should stay abreast of new technology, understand how to work with new hardware and software and recommend modifications and improvements.
How to become a server administrator
Most organizations hiring a server administrator seek someone with a bachelor’s degree in computer science or engineering and strong knowledge of at least one server operating system, such as Windows, Mac, or Linux. Many server administrators have previously worked as help desk technicians, data center technicians, or network technicians.
Certifications like CompTIA Server+ and CompTIA Linux+ can prove that you have the specialized skills needed to be a server administrator. Check out the CompTIA Explore Tech Careers to see what other certifications can help you become a server administrator.
In addition to certifications, CompTIA offers a full suite of training products to help you learn the technical and professional skills needed to become a server administrator.
- CertMaster Learn: Learn at your pace with interactive lessons and videos
- CertMaster Labs: Get hands-on practice using real software applications
- CertMaster Practice: Test your knowledge and find out if you’re ready for the exam
- The Official CompTIA Study Guide: Learn and review exam objectives with our comprehensive textbook
Job titles related to server administrator
- Systems administrator
- Data center technician
- Network administrator
- Network engineer
- Field service technician
+ Means more
At CompTIA, + means IT careers. You can consider us your partner on your journey to becoming certified, finding, interviewing for, and winning that new job role.
- We help you save money. Getting a CompTIA certification is an investment in your career, but getting a discount can help. There are several ways you can save money on your CompTIA purchases.
- We help you decide how to take your exam. Scheduling your exam is the easy part. CompTIA exams are offered at testing centers around the world as well as through online testing, which is available 24/7, so you can test in person or at home. Learn more about your testing options.
- We help you land your next job. CompTIA certifications hold great value in the IT industry and are highly sought-after by recruiters. They signify a proven competence and expertise in various tech disciplines, making individuals who earn these certifications stand out in the job market.
Need more job inspiration? Check out CompTIA’s Tech Jobs Report and learn more about the latest data and trends in tech hiring and the implications for employers and the U.S. workforce with new episodes each month.
Will your next move be server administrator? If so, check out CompTIA Server+ to acquire the skills needed to succeed there.