System Administrator - Who is it, what are the duties of a sysadmin, and where to learn.

In the modern world, not only new professions are emerging, but old ones are also changing. They become relevant and necessary. For example, it is interesting to know what a system administrator does and what he is engaged in. This is a profession that has always been demanding. To master this profession, it is necessary to understand what duties the administrator must perform, in which companies he works, and how often he needs to learn. All these details will help understand how profitable and interesting it is to work in this profession.

Who is a system administrator?

Let's start with what a system administrator is and what tasks he performs. A system administrator, or sysadmin, is a key figure in the IT sector. He is responsible for the stable operation of servers, computer networks, and information systems of companies. The work of a system administrator includes many responsibilities, from installing and configuring equipment to cybersecurity and troubleshooting technical issues. This profession is very demanding, as the development of digital technologies and the increasing demand for uninterrupted IT infrastructure operation have made it more and more in demand. A sysadmin is an extremely important person in the company's team.

What types of system administrators are there?

The profession of system administrator has many types. Depending on specialization, system administrators can be divided into the following categories:

1. Network administrator - responsible for network equipment, user access, traffic monitoring, and ensuring network security.
2. Server administrator - responsible for installing, configuring, and maintaining servers, managing databases, and backing up information.
3. Windows/Linux system administrator - specializes in administering Windows or Linux operating systems, updating software, and troubleshooting failures.
4. Security administrator (SecOps) - ensures the cybersecurity of the company, sets up protection systems against hacker attacks, and conducts security audits.
5. Cloud administrator - responsible for configuring and maintaining services in cloud environments (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud).

The profession of system administrator is evolving, and new work directions are emerging.

What does a system administrator do and what are their responsibilities?

The main tasks of a system administrator include the following aspects:

1. Setting up and maintaining servers - installing and configuring server hardware, managing operating systems, and ensuring stable operation.
2. Monitoring and troubleshooting - continuous monitoring of the IT infrastructure's state, rapid response to failures, and resolution of issues.
3. Ensuring information security - implementing antivirus protection, setting up firewalls, creating security policies, and controlling access to information.
4. Backing up and recovering data - automating the backup process to prevent data loss.
5. Configuring networking equipment - installing and configuring routers, switches, VPNs, and Wi-Fi networks.
6. Process automation - using scripts and specialized software to optimize routine tasks.
7. Technical support for users - assisting company employees in resolving computer, software, and network access issues.

Considering these responsibilities, it becomes clear that the work of a system administrator is not as simple as it may seem at first glance.

How to become a system administrator: education or courses?

To master the profession of a system administrator in Ukraine, there are several paths: obtaining higher education, taking specialized courses, or self-educating in the profession.

In Ukraine, universities such as Kyiv Polytechnic Institute (KPI), Lviv Polytechnic, Kharkiv National University of Radioelectronics (KhNURE), and Kyiv National University named after T. Shevchenko offer specialized degrees for sysadmins. However, under the conditions of war in Ukraine, it is better to choose a distance learning format.

You can also take courses or obtain certification. In Ukraine, programs such as Cisco (CCNA), Microsoft (MCSA, MCSE), Linux Professional Institute (LPIC), CompTIA Security+ are available. They range from a few months to a year. These programs are offered by numerous IT schools and online platforms like ITVDN, DAN.IT, GoIT, EPAM University, Prometheus, Udemy, and Coursera. Over the years, the number of course options has been increasing, providing the opportunity to choose what suits best.

There is also the option of self-learning. Many sysadmins master the profession independently, using online courses, books, and forums. Microsoft, Linux, Cisco documentation, YouTube channels about system administration, and online server and network administration courses are useful resources for self-learning. This way, one can enter this profession without spending too much money.

Considering all of the above, a system administrator is an important and promising profession in the modern world, especially in Ukraine, where the demand for IT specialists is constantly growing. The choice of education may depend on the conditions and possibilities of each person, but the main thing is the desire to learn and develop in information technology!

How to find a job?

A system administrator is a specialist responsible for configuring, maintaining, and securing the company's information infrastructure. His services are always in demand, as companies need specialists who ensure the uninterrupted operation of digital systems. To find a system administrator job, relevant knowledge and skills are required. The most effective ways to search for jobs include:

1. Using job search websites such as Layboard.com, LinkedIn, Indeed.

2. Reviewing career pages of companies that post job vacancies on their official websites.

3. Using freelance platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, Fiverr, for self-employment.

4. Actively participating in professional groups, forums, and conferences for networking and getting recommendations.

5. Participating in internships or training programs offered by companies.

Finding a job as a system administrator is not difficult, but one should remember that there is high competition in this profession, and it is necessary to gain experience in the shortest Time possible.

How much can one earn?