What does a network administrator do?

I'm interested in tech careers and considering becoming a network administrator. Can anyone share what the daily responsibilities are like for someone in this role? I'm curious about the skills and education needed, too.

A Network Administrator is responsible for maintaining computer infrastructures with emphasis on networking. They might work with an organization's LAN (Local Area Network), WAN (Wide Area Network), and segment networks.

Their daily responsibilities usually include organizing, installing, and supporting an organization's systems. They oversee network security, data storage, and software performance, ensuring that data is being transmitted reliably and efficiently.

Network Administrators often provide technical support, problem-solving for network users, and address issues with servers, desktop problems, and network connectivity. Also, they may need to maintain network scripts, test networks for weaknesses, analyse network traffic, and supervise updates and patches.

For the education part, a bachelor's degree in an IT-related field is often required, such as computer science or information systems. Certifications like Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) and CompTIA Network+ can be beneficial and sometimes preferred.

Skills necessary for this role include knowledge of network architecture and design, understanding of network performance optimization, and proficiency in network testing and troubleshooting. Additionally, Network Administrators should have excellent analytical and problem-solving skills. Lastly, being in tech, they will need to keep pace with the constantly changing landscape of technology.