Network and systems administrators

What do network and systems administrators do? 

Network and systems administrators configure, install, maintain and protect software, hardware and the network.

Network and systems administrators ensure that all of the hardware in a network is correctly configured, connected and maintained. They also make sure that connections in the network allow the hardware to communicate and share data efficiently and quickly.

The space industry is built from all sorts of networks. Network and systems administrators might work with government organisations, academic institutions or private businesses. Their work might involve operations on the ground and active missions in space. Because space initiatives are highly cooperative, sometimes networking across multiple organisations is required.

What you’ll need to know and do

Network administrators in the space industry work with the latest standards in network architecture, operating systems and data management. In many cases, they will design ways to make them perform even better, or develop new technologies entirely.

They work closely with ICT vendors to find the best product solutions for their organisation. They also have extensive knowledge of network maintenance, diagnostics, analytics and troubleshooting.

Network administrators need strong people skills so they can provide quality technical support to users. They also need knowledge of every access point and potential weak link in the network, and how to protect them.

Your study pathway 

There is no minimum study requirement to work as a network and systems administrator. However, there are many study options available.

Degrees in the following study areas may be relevant to becoming a network and systems administrator:

• computer science
• information technology
• computer and network engineering.

Almost all universities in Australia offer degrees in computer science. Visit individual university websites for more information.