Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/662314
6 April, 2016 l Working World l WorkingWorld.com FEATURE ARTICLE C omputer networks are critical parts of almost every organization. Network and computer systems administrators are responsible for the day-to-day operation of these networks. They organize, install, and support an organization's computer systems, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), network segments, intranets, and other data communication systems. Administrators manage an organization's servers and desktop and mobile equipment. They ensure that email and data storage networks work properly. They also make sure that employees' workstations are working efficiently and stay connected to the central computer network. Some administrators manage telecommunication networks. In some cases, administrators help network architects design and analyze network models. They also participate in decisions about buying future hardware or software to upgrade their organization's network. Some administrators provide technical support to computer users, and they also may supervise computer support specialists who help solve users' problems. DUTIES Network and computer systems administrators typically do the following: • Determine an organization's network and computer system needs before setting one up • Install all network hardware and software and make needed upgrades and repairs • Maintain network and computer system security and ensure that all systems are operating correctly • Collect data in order to evaluate and optimize network or system performance • Add users to a network and assign and update security permissions on the network • Train users in the proper use of hardware and software Career Outlook: Network and Computer Systems Administrators QUICK FACTS: NETWORK & COMPUTER SYSTEMS ADMINISTRATORS 2014 Median Pay $75,790 per year $36.44 per hour Typical Entry- Level Education Bachelor's degree Number of Jobs, 2014 382,600 Job Outlook, 2014-24 8% (As fast as average) Employment Change, 2014-24 30,200 EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONS DATA FOR NETWORK & COMPUTER SYSTEMS ADMINISTRATORS, 2014-24 Occupation Title SOC Code Employment, 2014 Projected Employment, 2014 Change, 2014-24 Employment by Industry Percent Numeric Network and computer systems administrators 15-1142 382,600 412,800 8 30,200 SOURCE: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2016-17 Edition, Network and Computer Systems Administrators, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/network-and-computer-systems-administrators.htm