Do you want to earn a diploma that can help you land a rewarding and in-demand job in the IT sector? For those interested in technology, especially internet technology (IT), pursuing a career in network systems administration is a great place to start! Managing and maintaining computer networks, servers, and systems is a complex, intriguing, and highly demanded skillset in today’s digitalized world.

In this article, we will explain what a network systems administrator does, what education, certification, or training a network administrator should have, why you should choose a diploma in network systems management to get your start, what skills and certifications you need to become one, and how you can start your network systems administration career with a diploma from Sundance College! 

What Does a Network Systems Administrator Do?

A network systems administrator, or network systems manager, is responsible for installing, configuring, operating, and troubleshooting network hardware and software. They ensure that the network is secure, reliable, and efficient. They also monitor the network performance, troubleshoot problems, and provide technical support to end-users. 

Some of the typical tasks of a network systems administrator include:

• Setting up and maintaining servers, routers, switches, firewalls, and other network devices
• Installing and updating network software and applications
• Creating and managing user accounts, passwords, and permissions
• Implementing and enforcing network security policies and procedures
• Backing up and restoring data and files
• Documenting and reporting network issues and solutions

A network systems administrator can work in various settings from offices to schools, hospitals, government agencies, or IT companies with organizations like these as clients. This essential technical worker can also focus on different areas of network administration, such as cloud computing, wireless networking, or cybersecurity.

Why Choose a Diploma in Network Systems Administration?

If you want to become a network systems administrator, you might be wondering whether you need a degree or not. As with many career paths, the answer depends on your personal vision for career success and the path to a career you can be proud of. Some employers may hire candidates with a bachelor’s degree in computer science, or perhaps those with a network administrator bootcamp, while others may prefer applicants with a diploma!

To become a Network Systems Administrator with a diploma, focus on gaining practical experience and building a strong skill set in networking, system administration, and related technologies.

There are many benefits of choosing a diploma in network systems administration over other options. Here are some reasons why finishing network administrator classes  through your diploma is better than a degree or bootcamp. 

Length

A diploma program is shorter and more affordable than a degree program. You can complete your diploma in as little as one year and save money on tuition fees.

Extensive Training

A diploma program is more career-focused and comprehensive than a brief bootcamp program. It’s important to have broader skills and knowledge relevant to the current industry standards and demands. You can also gain hands-on experience through labs, projects, and practicum in a diploma program, in about a year.

Ideal Certification Preparation

A diploma program’s network administration and network security courses can help you prepare for industry certifications after graduation. Many diploma programs include courses that cover the topics and objectives of essential certifications, such as CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, Cisco CCNA, Microsoft Azure Certification, etc. These certifications can boost your resume and credibility as a network administrator with current and future-proof skills.

Education Employers Are Looking For

A diploma program can help you find employment opportunities in a streamlined manner. According to Statistics Canada career college graduates in computer and information sciences enter the workforce at rates near university graduates!

They also earn well over minimum wages in the first 2 years after graduation, on average, and earn 22.8% more after 5 years of employment — with an average of $56,000 annually.

Industry-Experienced Network Systems Management Diploma Instructors

Diploma programs expose you to some of the most industry-experienced instructors you can find anywhere in education! Our students often cite the benefits of working with instructors who care about their success as much as teaching them useful skills and IT knowledge. Huy writes:

I graduated from Sundance College’s Network System Administrator program. The instructors are nice, friendly, they are willing to help you to understand the lessons, even supported at the weekend. The instructors of my major courses are so fantastic, Samir Hunssain and Prakash Than.

I would like to thank you so much to my instructors Samir Hunssain and Prakash Than.  I truly appreciate you for helping me in many courses. 

I got a good job after graduation for two months. Now I have a bright future. :)” 

What Skills and Certifications Do You Need to Become a Network Administrator?

To become a successful network admin, you need to have both technical and soft skills. Technical skills are the specific abilities and knowledge that you need to perform your job duties. Soft skills are the general attributes and personality traits that you need to work effectively with others. 

To enroll in a diploma program in network systems administration, you need to have a high school diploma or equivalent. Your career can always benefit from career-oriented education and training as found in Sundance College. This program has curriculum chosen specifically to prepare graduating students for the rigors of popular systems administrator certifications, including: 

• CompTIA A+
• CompTIA Network+
• CompTIA Security+
• Microsoft Certified Azure Fundamentals Associate
• Cisco Certified Network Associate

In Canada, there are some provinces where you’ll need regulatory certification in addition to your industry certifications. For aspiring network administrators, you may want to get some experience and apply for professional certifications from provincial regulatory bodies in:

• Ontario 
• Saskatchewan
• Manitoba
• British Colombia

Network Systems Managers’ Hard Skills

Some of the technical skills that you need as a network admin are:

• Knowledge of network protocols, standards, and architectures
• Proficiency in network operating systems, such as Windows Server or Linux
• Ability to install, configure, troubleshoot, and maintain network hardware and software
• Familiarity with cybersecurity tools and techniques, especially those useful for organizations’ network security
• Experience with scripting languages, such as PowerShell or Python

Soft Skills Needed Of Network Systems Managers

Some of the soft skills that you need as a network admin are:

• Communication skills: You need to be able to communicate clearly and professionally with users, clients, managers, and other IT staff. You also need to be able to write documentation and reports.
• Problem-solving skills: You need to be able to analyze complex network issues and find effective solutions. You also need to be able to think creatively and logically.
• Teamwork skills: You need to be able to collaborate and cooperate with other IT professionals on projects and tasks. You also need to be able to share your knowledge and expertise with others.
• Time management skills: You need to be able to prioritize your workload and meet deadlines. You also need to be able to multitask and handle stress.

5 Tips to Succeed as a Network Systems Administrator with a Diploma

Once you have completed your diploma program and obtained your certifications, you are ready to start your career as a network systems administrator. 

To launch a career as a Network Systems Administrator with a diploma, focus on gaining practical experience and building a strong skill set in networking, system administration, and related technologies! Below are a few concrete steps you can take to accomplish this goal: 

• Stay informed in the IT World: The IT industry is constantly evolving and changing. New technologies, trends, and challenges emerge every day. You can attend workshops, read books and blogs, watch videos, listen to podcasts, etc. and learn future-proof career education that can set you up for success after your graduation and while you work.
• Professional Networking: Networking is not just for computers, it’s for people too! Professional networking (to distinguish the term from IT networking) is all about building relationships and connections with professionals in your field. Professional networking can help you learn from others, exchange ideas, share resources, find mentors, get referrals, and discover new opportunities. You can network with others by joining online communities, forums, groups, or platforms, such as LinkedIn, Reddit, etc. You can also attend in-person events, meetups, conferences, or webinars related to network security and network systems administration.
• Seek feedback: Feedback is essential for improving your performance and skills. Feedback can help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, learn from your mistakes, and set goals for your improvement. You can seek feedback from your practicum supervisors, Sundance colleagues, IT clients, or end-users. But your first and best resource for feedback remains your instructor during your diploma program.
• Be adaptable: As a network systems administrator, you need to be able to adapt to different situations and environments. You may have to work with different types of networks, systems, devices, software, or clients. You may also have to deal with unexpected problems or changes. You need to be flexible and open-minded to cope with these challenges and find solutions.
• Be curious: Curiosity is the fuel of innovation and creative problem-solving. Curiosity can help you discover new things, explore new possibilities, and find new ways of doing things. Curiosity can also make your job more fun and interesting. You can cultivate your curiosity by asking questions, trying new things, experimenting with different methods or cybersecurity tools, or challenging yourself with new projects.

How to Start Your Career as a Network Systems Manager with a Diploma from Sundance College

As an essential diploma program in the technology field, our network systems administration diploma is designed to prepare you for the real-world challenges and opportunities of the IT sector. Students learn from experienced instructors who have worked in the IT industry and have extensive knowledge of the latest networking administration technologies and trends. You will also gain practical skills and experience through hands-on labs, projects, and practicum experience.

Our diploma program in network systems management will also help you prepare for industry certifications that are recognized and valued by employers. You will be well prepared to take exams for CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, Cisco CCNA, Microsoft Azure, etc. 

Our diploma program in network systems administration provides students career services that will assist you in finding employment opportunities after graduation. You will have access to resume writing workshops, interview coaching sessions, job fairs, employer visits, etc.

Our students are happy with their career-ready diploma education in network systems management, including a review from Joy from our Edmonton campus: 

“Everything seems so easy. I am working because of their flexibility it’s not hard to attend or study their modules. Giving me enough time to submit and answer all the required assessments or homework. At Sundance College, they will help you every step of the way, making you feel you are valued and the support from them is superb. Now, I’m not worried that I can’t do this because I know I am I good hands.”

Don’t forget to take advantage of this useful information about network systems education and training! Leverage these insights on how to become a network systems administrator with a diploma!

Apply to our network systems administration diploma online to earn a diploma that provides a secure path to systems administrator certifications. ‌Become one of the 92% of all Sundance College graduates to find work in their respective fields! Connect with an admissions advisor today to get started.