Duties of a LAN Administrator
The duties of a LAN administrator, also called Local Area Network Administrator, are varied, and relate to the daily operation of computer networks and information technology systems, usually within a business environment. LAN administrators fill a specialized technical role within an organization with a high level of responsibility to keep network information systems up and running properly and to maintain a secure environment.
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Administer Network Stations
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A network consists of stations made up of computer and peripherals. A network can be two stations, or, depending upon the size of the company, thousands. A LAN administrator is responsible for using networking protocols to administer and connect the computers to form a cohesive network of computers that share information.
Install, Configure and Maintain Computers and Equipment
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The bulk of a LAN administrator's duties is installing and caring for the all the equipment needed to run a local area network. Network administrators will organize the requisition of computers, printers, disk drives and other related equipment, and then install and configure them to the company's computer network, maintaining them throughout their lives. They will also purchase, install and maintain networking equipment such as servers, routers and cables.
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Oversee Software Applications
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LAN administrators also are responsible for the software that makes the machines run and the applications required to perform specific business-related functions. They oversee the software end of the network by recommending software applications, developing applications, installing software and performing upgrades.
Plan and Implement Network Security
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A critical function of LAN administrators is to ensure network security by building firewalls and other security protocols to protect the integrity of the network. They also implement backup and recovery plans in the event of a disaster.
Troubleshooting
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From user problems to network malfunctions, many things can go wrong in the day-to-operation of a local area network. LAN administrators troubleshoot networks and systems, as well as user stations, to identify and correct problems.
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References
- Photo Credit computers network image by Orlando Florin Rosu from Fotolia.com
