While there are many critical roles within an organization, systems administrators keep the IT systems running. Their crucial role ensures that employees can access what they need when they need it. Systems administrators work with physical computer networks, allowing them to be highly employable by many different organizations. If you are interested in working with the day-to-day operations of computer networks, a career as a systems administrator or SysAdmin could be your next move.
What is a systems administrator?
A systems administrator’s responsibilities include:
- Ensuring the company hardware and software are working as intended
- Installing all the applications needed to support the organization
- Updating systems when new software is released
- Maintaining user accounts and access
Some functions of a systems administrator may overlap with the organization’s network administrator, depending on the size of the organization. While a network administrator’s primary focus is the organization’s servers and network, a systems administrator primarily focuses on other working parts of the IT system, including the computers themselves and software.
Systems administrators also organize, install and support an organization’s computer system, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), network segments and other data communication systems.
How to become a systems administrator
Most employers look for systems administrators with a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as computer and information technology. Employers usually require three to five years of experience for systems administration positions.
However, because system administrators work with computer hardware and equipment, a degree in computer engineering or electrical engineering can be beneficial. Systems administrators also have opportunities for career advancement, such as later becoming computer network architects.
Adding certifications such as CompTIA Security+ and CompTIA Network+ will show employers you have the current skills to be successful as a systems administrator.
CompTIA Security+ and CompTIA Network+ focuses on the following skills:
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CompTIA Network+ |
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CompTIA Security+ covers the essential skills a systems administrator needs to secure their systems, which are very similar to the skills required of a security administrator. Typically, a systems administrator must harden their systems to be more secure and must understand the security implications of proper hardware, software, and data asset management. They must also implement security controls to help ensure their systems remain secure, with the ability to report and communicate system status and security incidents.
CompTIA Linux+ validates the skills of IT pros with hands-on experience configuring, monitoring, and supporting servers running on the Linux operating system. CompTIA Linux+ can also be an excellent tool for becoming a systems administrator.
The exam focuses on the following skills:
- Security
- Kernel modules
- Storage and virtualization
- Device management at the enterprise level
- Git and automation
- Networking and firewalls
- Server side and command line
- Sever coverage
- Troubleshooting
- SELinux
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 systems 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 systems administration
At CompTIA, + means IT careers. That means 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 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 and 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.
Will your next move be Systems Administrator? If so, download the exam objectives for CompTIA Linux+ to learn more.