How to Become a Systems Administrator
A systems administrator title comes with interesting job functions, a good salary and a fair amount of respect. However, that title can cover a lot of ground and varies from company to company in its exact duties. Systems administrators manage, build and maintain some of a business' most critical computer systems.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Read a broad selection of computing resources. There are many types of systems administrators and also many types of systems. To understand which kinds of systems you want to work with and how they interact with others, you need to have a high-level understanding of them all. Make sure to cover Windows, Unix (Linux) and networking systems.
-
2
Determine which kind of systems you would be most interested in working with. You may eventually work with many types of systems, but most sysadmins start out working on one specific type of system.
-
-
3
Read books dedicated to training administrators. These books are different than other computer system books in that they will focus on the kinds of tasks that computer administrators are required to do. These books can also prepare you to pass certification exams.
-
4
Build up experience. Because systems administrators have unlimited access to some of the most critical computer systems, it is rare for someone with no experience to be hired as a systems administrator. However, it may be possible at small businesses where the systems administrator is usually also the help desk person, and the desktop support person, and so on. Doing everything helps build experience quickly.
-
5
Get certified. Certification is not required, but it may help open doors or get you more interviews, especially if you have less experience. Certification is a way to prove that you understand the complexities of systems administration (see Resources).
-
6
Apply for systems administrator positions online. As high-tech positions, most admins are hired via either job websites or other online communities such as LinkedIn.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Try to get the words "administrator" or "engineer" in your job title. These keywords are often looked for by recruiters. If you can't get a raise or bonus at a performance review ask for at least an improved title. You will probably get it, especially if your performance warrants a raise or bonus but the budget prevents it.
