What Does a Senior Network Administrator Do?

A senior network administrator plays an important part in maintaining and optimizing a company's computer network. Essentially, it's his job to ensure that the system of computers and other hardware components is functioning correctly and to assist employees with troubleshooting when problems arise. Being successful in this career usually requires someone with in-depth computer knowledge and excellent communication skills. In most cases, a person must have a minimum of a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related major to get into this field. Typical job duties of a senior network administrator include setting up and maintaining computer networks, training personnel, troubleshooting issues and improving networks.

One of the primary responsibilities of a senior network administrator is setting up a company's computer network. For example, he might be required to install hardware and software on each computer, attach wires and install routers. Besides this, he will usually test each computer to make sure it operates correctly and is connected to the rest of a network. In addition, the senior network administrator must ensure that the network's configuration and installed software meet the specific needs of managers and employees within a company.

Along with this, he will be in charge of maintaining networks. This could involve upgrading a currently used software application with a new version when it becomes outdated or installing new software when necessary. Besides this, he may be required to monitor the security of the network and implement virus protection solutions to prevent security threats.

In many cases, a senior network administrator will also be responsible for properly training personnel on how to use the computer network. Since he is the one who creates the network and has expert knowledge, it's up to him to share that knowledge with others. This might involve holding training seminars or working one-on-one with employees who experience difficulty in accessing or using resources on the network.

Another large part of this job revolves around troubleshooting issues when they occur. For example, if a network becomes infected with a virus, a senior network administrator would be in charge of effectively eliminating the virus and restoring the network to normal operation. Consequently, he must be prepared to handle a variety of technical issues on short notice and able to quickly resolve problems.

Additionally, a senior network administrator might be asked to improve a computer network. This could happen when supervisors or employees complain about a particular feature of a network or if a software program isn't operating efficiently. To improve a network, the network administrator may install new or upgraded software, or customize applications to enhance user friendliness.