Become a Network Administrator with these Online Courses

Network administration is an exciting and in-demand career path, especially as companies rely more and more on complex IT infrastructure and security. Network administrators are responsible for configuring, monitoring, troubleshooting and securing computer networks. They ensure that networks operate efficiently and keep data safe from threats.

If you‘re interested in becoming a network administrator, taking online courses is a great way to gain the necessary skills and knowledge. Online courses offer flexibility, allowing you to learn at your own pace and on your schedule. They are also often more affordable than traditional in-person programs.

In this comprehensive guide, we will cover:

What does a network administrator do?
Why is there high demand for network administrators?
What skills are required?
The best online courses and programs to become a network admin
Tips for succeeding in your classes
Certifications to boost your resume
Career advancement opportunities

Let‘s get started!

What Does a Network Administrator Do?

Network administrators manage and support computer networks for businesses, schools, government agencies and other organizations. Their day-to-day duties include:

Installing, configuring and maintaining network hardware/software like routers, switches, firewalls, servers, etc.
Setting up user accounts and handles access permissions
Monitoring network performance and troubleshooting issues
Ensuring network security by managing antivirus software, firewalls, encryption, etc.
Upgrading network infrastructure and implementing new solutions
Managing cabling, wiring and other infrastructure
Training users on IT policies and providing tech support
Documenting the network architecture and procedures

The specific responsibilities can vary based on the organization, network size and infrastructure. But in general, a network admin keeps the computer systems running smoothly so that employees can do their jobs efficiently. They play a key role in maintaining productivity.

Why is There High Demand for Network Administrators?

Almost every modern organization relies on computer networks and the internet for daily operations. Having skilled network administrators on staff is crucial for keeping systems running optimally. Some key reasons why network admins are so in-demand include:

Technological Advances: New technologies are emerging rapidly, requiring upgrades to network infrastructure. Organizations need qualified IT personnel to implement and manage new solutions.
Cloud Computing: The adoption of cloud-based services and hybrid networks creates a growing need for admins who understand both on-premise and cloud systems.
Information Security: Data breaches can cripple organizations financially and reputationally. Network security is a top priority, driving demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals.
Big Data: Larger networks and increasing data requires sufficient bandwidth, storage and IT personnel to handle higher capacity and complex configurations.
Mobility: Supporting a mobile workforce with secure remote access requires network admins proficient in technologies like VPNs and cloud computing.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for network administrators is projected to grow 5% through 2029, about as fast as the average across all occupations. The median annual salary was $84,810 as of May 2020. With high demand and great pay, network administration is an appealing and stable career choice.

What Skills Are Required to Become a Network Administrator?

While a college degree in information technology or computer science is often preferred, it is possible to break into the field with an online education. Some of the key skills and qualifications you‘ll need include:

Technical expertise: In-depth knowledge of networking concepts like TCP/IP, DNS, VPNs, firewalls, etc. Familiarity with network hardware and operating systems.
IT certifications: Industry-recognized certs like CompTIA Network+, CCNA, AWS Certified Solutions Architect demonstrate your abilities.
Problem-solving: Logical thinking and systematic troubleshooting skills to diagnose and fix all sorts of network issues. Strong analytical abilities.
Communication: Clear written and verbal communication to interact with different technical and non-technical colleagues and users.
Time management: Ability to prioritize tasks, multitask efficiently and work on both short-term and long-term network projects.
Attention to detail: Careful and methodical approach for tasks like managing cables, configuring firewall rules and documenting procedures.
Lifelong learning: Willingness to continuously expand your skills and keep up with the latest advancements in the field.
Stress tolerance: The ability to keep calm under pressure when dealing with network outages or security incidents.

By taking high-quality online courses and gaining hands-on experience (e.g. through internships), you can develop expertise in all these areas and pursue a rewarding career.

Best Online Courses to Become a Network Administrator

Here are some of the top online learning platforms that offer courses to help you gain network administration skills:

1. Coursera

Coursera is one of the most popular e-learning platforms, partnering with top universities like Stanford to offer online versions of their courses.

For aspiring network admins, recommended Coursera options include:

Google IT Support Professional Certificate (beginner-friendly)
Google IT Automation with Python Professional Certificate (intermediate)
Cisco CCNA 200-301 Certification Prep Course

These programs teach foundational IT support and networking skills. The certificates can be added to your resume.

2. edX

edX has over 20 million learners and offers 1500+ online courses in partnership with universities like MIT, Harvard and Berkeley.

For an introduction to networking, edX has a great free program – Introduction to Networking by Juniper Networks.

It teaches network fundamentals, models, topologies, hardware, protocols and more.

3. Cybrary

Cybrary is an IT and cybersecurity training platform that offers free and paid online courses. It‘s used by companies like IBM for employee training.

For network administration, Cybrary has excellent free courses covering:

The in-depth training prepares you well for the associated certification exams.

4. LinkedIn Learning

LinkedIn Learning (formerly Lynda) contains thousands of online video courses taught by industry experts.

For network administration, recommended LinkedIn Learning courses include:

With bite-sized video lessons and real-world examples, these courses are very engaging and practical.

5. Udemy

With 183,000 online courses, Udemy is a leading marketplace for online learning focused on career skills.

Recommended Udemy courses for budding network admins include:

The hands-on labs and practice exams are very useful for reinforcing the concepts.

This is just a small sample – there are many more quality network administration courses on Udemy.

Tips for Succeeding in Online Network Admin Courses

Here are some tips to help you get the most value from online network administration classes and training programs:

Take notes: Actively take notes during video lectures to better absorb the material. Review and expand on them after.
Do the labs: Get hands-on by fully engaging with labs and network simulations to apply what you learn.
Utilize resources: Use any provided study guides, cheat sheets, simulations and flashcards to improve retention.
Learn tools: Gain experience with network tools like Wireshark, SolarWinds, PRTG Network Monitor, etc.
Ask questions: Post on course discussion forums or reach out to instructors when you need clarification.
Study consistently: Set a regular study schedule and keep up with assignments for better knowledge retention.
Apply concepts: Relate course materials to your own experience or work environment.
Take practice tests: Use end-of-course assessments to identify knowledge gaps to review.

By incorporating these methods, online network training programs can be just as valuable as traditional classroom education – and more convenient.

Network Administration Certifications

Getting recognized IT certifications can really enhance your qualifications as a network admin job candidate.

Here are some of the top network administration certifications:

Entry-Level

CompTIA Network+
Cisco Certified Technician (CCT)

Associate-Level

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
Juniper Networks Certified Associate (JNCIA)

Professional-Level

Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)
Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

Many online courses are designed specifically to prepare you for a certain certification exam. So you can efficiently learn the required skills while working towards a valuable credential for your resume.

The CompTIA Network+ and Cisco CCNA are two of the most popular certs to launch a network admin career.

Career Advancement Opportunities

A few years of solid experience as a network administrator enables you to move into more senior roles with higher pay and greater responsibility. Some examples include:

Senior Network Administrator – Lead a team of admins and oversee complex enterprise networks.
Network Architect – Design and integrate network solutions on a large scale.
Network Engineer – Take on complex network projects and infrastructure rollouts.
Systems Administrator – Transition into the management of servers, data centers and virtualization.
Network Operations Manager – Manage network teams and admins organization-wide.
Information Security Analyst – Move into the cybersecurity domain as a security analyst or auditor.

Many employers provide tuition reimbursement and ongoing training opportunities to help network admins continue advancing their careers. Getting an MBA in Information Systems can also open up leadership roles.

The future looks bright for network administrators who stay up-to-date on the latest technologies and keep developing their skills throughout their careers.

Start Your Network Admin Journey Today!

If you‘re excited by the prospect of managing enterprise networks, online courses provide an accessible path to gain the required technical expertise.

With foundational knowledge from classes combined with hands-on labs and projects, you can become qualified for associate-level network admin roles.

Further experience and certifications like the CCNP allow you to take on more advanced engineering and architecture positions.

The demand for skilled network administrators will continue growing for the foreseeable future. It‘s a lucrative and engaging career that lets you enable business success through optimizing core IT infrastructure.

So start exploring online network administration courses today and invest in your future! The first step is boosting your knowledge and skills so you can gain that initial foothold.

Let the learning begin!