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Feb 28, 2022

Steps to Becoming a Network Administrator

Steps to Becoming a Network Administrator

If you’re a techie with a dream, want to leverage your skills and savvy to soar in a career, and are jazzed by the idea of tapping computer training courses, then read on – this is for you.

Although you’ll need to engage in a leading-edge program to hone your craft, setting your sights on the ‘why’ of your IT diploma courses is a must. The role of network administrator may be a lofty goal to inspire you to take the educational leap.

Why Become a Network Administrator?

 

Because you’ll be the kingpin (or queen) of the very systems that organizations rely on for day-to-day success. Your job consists of overseeing the maintenance and upgrade of technological systems or networks and ensuring all is running smoothly. You are vital and you get paid in accordance with your skillset and, the best part, you’re in demand across a vast array of industries.

So, You Want to Become a Network Administrator…

Next Steps:

1.Understand the Role and Responsibilities

You will maintain and operate computer systems. Some functions will be specific to your job, but overall, you’ll need to:

  • Install new hardware and software
  • Ensure the system functions efficiently and users can access
  • Perform backups for important data and have a risk management/recovery plan in place.

2.Recognize Job Opportunities and What Compensation Looks Like

  • Wherever companies rely on computers for operations, services and success, you’ll find opportunities to put your tech savvy to work. The need for network administrators spans a variety of industries, including, manufacturers, governments, hospitals, retailers, software and financial service companies and even schools, colleges and universities. After a few key years of contributing and learning, you’ll be eligible for leadership roles and eventually may even consider consulting for organizations.
  • As we know, technology is shifting and advancing rapidly and consistently, and as such job opportunities are solid and the salary range and hourly rate is competitive. With taking computer courses online and networking courses, you can easily become in demand and enjoy an evolving and lucrative career.

3.Know the Soft and Tech Skills Required to Succeed

Essential Soft Skills you will need to develop to achieve personal and professional success:

  • Critical Thinking and Adaptability

Ability to prioritize, analyze, evaluate, think outside the box, and consider various options for solving problems, adapting solutions to the challenges that arise.

  • Team Consideration and Connection

Must be open-minded and open to collaboration, working as part of a team, listening, contributing, and honing your interpersonal skills.

  • Effective Communication

Keen verbal and written skills, used to install, oversee, and communicate concepts for ease of use to others. And you need to be clear, concise and respectful with your team members in order to achieve success over time.

  • Technical Skills – Those vital skills included in network courses, IT courses such as the Advanced Diploma in Cisco and Red Hat Engineering we offer at Anderson College.

In this course you will learn:

  • Installing and Configuring Windows Server
  • Red Hat Certified System Administration Essentials – installation, establishing network connectivity, managing physical storage, and performing basic security administration. Introduces Linux to a beginner.RHCSA – Red Hat System Administrator – the skills to administer Red Hat servers has become mandatory for all system administrators now. This course prepares students for the Red Hat
  • Certified System Administration examination.
  • RHCE – Red Hat Certified Engineer – this course prepares students for Red Hat Certification.
  • Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) – skills in installing, configuring, implementing, maintaining, and troubleshooting and prepares students for the CCNA certification.
  • Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) – ENCOR: Implementing Cisco Enterprise Network Core Technologies.
  • Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) – ENARSI: Implementing Cisco Enterprise Advanced Routing and Services.
  • ITIL – Information Technology Infrastructure Library.
  • Virtualization and Cloud Computing.

Take the “Anderson College Career Discovery Quiz”

4.Get Your Career Training Started

The first step to becoming a network administrator is exploring your options for training.

Research and Select a Program:

  • Taught by industry experts, those in the field applying their skills and knowledge and aware of the up-to-date systems and requirements you’ll need to succeed
  • That combines theoretical classroom learning with practical hands-on training, ensuring you become well-versed in all aspects of the IT industry
  • Supported by industry experts in the fields of technology, education, and business, to ensure the program is aligned with current industry trends, regulations, and requirements – as we offer at Anderson with the support received from our Program Advisory Committee.

5.Let Us Help You

Review program details here, and then call to book your Express Appointment with one of our Admissions Advisors so we can get you on track to your in-demand tech career today.

We want to make sure you have what you need to succeed! Check out these reference links:

Frequently asked questions

Quick answers about applying, funding, and life at Anderson College.

How long does it take to complete a program at Anderson College?
Most diploma programs run 24–58 weeks of full-time study, depending on the discipline. Healthcare programs (PSW, Cardiology, MOA, Dental Assistant) typically include a clinical or work placement so you graduate job-ready.
What financial aid options are available?
We accept OSAP (Ontario), Better Jobs Ontario, Windmill Microlending, in-house Alumni and PSW bursaries, and traditional student lines of credit through major banks. Visit our Financial Aid page for the full list and to chat with a Financial Aid Advisor.
Are international students welcome?
Yes. Anderson College is a DLI-approved Career College registered with the Ministry of Colleges and Universities. Programs marked as PGWP-eligible qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit. See our International Students page for visa support details.
How do I apply?
You can start your application online in under 5 minutes or speak with an Admissions Advisor for a guided walkthrough. Begin your application here.
Does Anderson College offer job placement support?
Every program includes Career Services — resume coaching, interview prep, employer connections and lifetime alumni support. Many programs also include a built-in clinical or industry placement so you graduate with real-world experience. Learn more on the Career Services page.

Still have a question? Speak with an Admissions Advisor →

Anderson College — Celebrating 140+ Years

Anderson College is one of Canada's oldest colleges, having opened our first location in 1885. We have trained more than 150,000 students over a 140-year history, and have been an empowering partner for students overcoming career challenges and transitioning to the next phase of their lives.

With ten locations in Ontario, we are recognized for our high-calibre faculty, hands-on, real-life career training and supportive culture. At Anderson College, we are more than our century-old history, our programs and state-of-the-art facilities; we are a team of caring individuals, deeply committed to helping our students become skillful, confident and in-demand employees.

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