Network Admin vs. System Admin

Overview

• Discussion of career paths: Network Admin and System Admin.
• Importance of understanding roles and responsibilities in IT specialization.

Network Administrator (Net Admin)

• Primary Responsibility: Organization's network infrastructure.
• Components of Network Infrastructure:
  • Switches
  • Routers
  • Firewalls
  • IP Telephony (PBX systems)

Key Responsibilities

• Configuring network devices:
  • Switches: Proper VLAN configurations.
  • Routers: Set up routing protocols (OSPF, BGP).
  • Firewalls: Security policies, access lists, and port management.
  • IP Telephony: Configuration of call managers and tracking.
• Physical Layer Tasks:
  • Running cables (Cat5, Cat6).
  • Managing patch panels and comms rooms.

Specialization Areas

• Routing and Switching (especially in ISP environments)
• Voice infrastructure and technologies.
• Security specialization (firewall implementation and design).

System Administrator (Sys Admin)

• Primary Responsibility: Organization's server infrastructure.
• Components of Server Infrastructure:
  • Virtualization (Hyper-V, VMware)
  • Storage (SANs, network-attached storage)

Key Responsibilities

• Administering server components:
  • Active Directory: User/group policies.
  • Software Management: Ensure latest patches for OS and antivirus are installed.
  • System Center: Administering Microsoft SCCM.

Collaboration Between Roles

• Network and System Admins work closely together.
• Changes by one can impact the other:
  • Example: Closing a port on a firewall can affect server communication.
  • Example: New server setups may require network adjustments.

Career Path Recommendations

• Advice to Explore Both Roles:
  • Having knowledge in both areas is beneficial.
  • Personal experience in both networking and system administration is valuable.
• Certifications:
  • CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate)
  • MCSE (Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert)
• Specialization:
  • While being well-rounded is good, specialization in a particular area can elevate career prospects.

Conclusion

• Encouragement to explore both career paths and find a niche of interest.
• Reminder to like, share, and subscribe for more tech content.