System administration as a concept first began to take shape in the 1960s and 1970s when organisations began adopting mainframe computers to handle more complex data processing. Initially, system administrators (also called sysadmins) were tasked with managing these large machines. As computing technology advanced through the 1980s, the role expanded to include managing an array of hardware and software systems. The introduction of personal computers, local area networks (LANs) and the internet in the 1990s further broadened the scope of system administration, requiring sysadmins to develop new skills in networking, security and user support.
The role of a system administrator continues to evolve. With the advent of cloud computing, virtualisation and DevOps practices in the 2000s and 2010s, today's sysadmins are expected to possess a diverse skill set that includes not only traditional IT management but also development and programming capabilities. Modern sysadmins manage hybrid environments that span on-premises data centres and cloud platforms. They play a crucial role in maintaining cybersecurity, optimising performance and supporting business continuity. Perhaps most importantly, they are expected to adapt to meet emerging technological advancements while being aware of and supporting the changing needs of their organisation.
The job of the modern system administrator extends into essentially every area of IT. As such, the role demands a diverse skill set. You will be expected to work with various technologies, including application and file servers, desktops, routers, wide area networks, databases and cybersecurity systems. Those who take this career path should focus on developing proficiency in multiple operating systems, such as Linux and Microsoft, along with skills in scripting, automation and programming. With the growing importance of cloud computing and virtualisation, these competencies have become essential.
System administrators have a wide range of responsibilities, all of which help ensure the smooth operation of an organisation's digital infrastructure. These duties encompass both technical and interpersonal skills, enabling sysadmins to maintain and optimise system performance while also supporting the needs of end-users. While obligations may shift from company to company (or even from day to day), system administrators are typically involved in the following:
- Configuring and managing company infrastructure
Sysadmins set up and maintain the hardware and software systems necessary for business operations, ensuring that all components are functioning together as expected. - Managing user access and permissions
Establishing and managing user accounts, administrators ensure that authorised users have appropriate access to the resources they need while maintaining security protocols. - Analysing processes and creating automations
Administrators identify areas for improvement and develop automated solutions to enhance efficiency. - Performing daily security backups and restores
Sysadmins create and manage backups of critical data and make sure that essential information can be restored in the event of data loss. - Monitoring IT systems and alerting teams to potential situations
System administrators are the eyes on the company's applications and networks; they continuously monitor system performance, functionality, usage and overall instance health. They are also directly involved in system security, identifying and addressing potential issues before they escalate. - Problem solving and troubleshooting
When hardware, software or network issues are found, sysadmins assist with diagnosing and resolving the potential problem. - Creating data backlogs
System administrators develop and maintain logs of system performance and issues, providing valuable data for troubleshooting and future planning.
If you are interested in becoming a system administrator, you must possess a blend of technical and interpersonal skills to effectively manage an organisation's IT infrastructure. Technical proficiency ensures they can handle the complexities of IT systems, while interpersonal skills enable them to interact with users and colleagues, providing crucial support and maintaining operations.
Key skills that fall into these areas include:
Strong soft skills are essential for system administrators as they frequently interact with various stakeholders in an organisation, providing support and solving problems under pressure.
- Communication
Effective communication is vital for sysadmins as it helps them explain technical issues and solutions clearly to non-technical users and to collaborate with IT and business teams. - Multi-tasking
Sysadmins often juggle multiple tasks simultaneously, such as managing system updates while troubleshooting user issues. - Problem-solving skills
The ability to diagnose and resolve issues efficiently is crucial for maintaining system uptime and minimising disruptions. - Analytical skills
In many cases, the system administrator will need to solve complex problems—sometimes with access to limited information. Analysing system performance and identifying potential improvements or threats is a key aspect of a sysadmin's role. - Organisational skills
Sysadmins must juggle various IT assets, schedules and projects. Strong organisational skills help them prevent these areas from becoming chaotic and unmanageable. - Decision making
Quick and informed decision-making skills are intrinsic to system administration, especially when dealing with time-sensitive system issues that may require immediate attention.
Technical expertise is the backbone of a system administrator's role. Mastery of various technologies and systems ensures they can maintain and optimise the IT infrastructure effectively.
- In-depth knowledge of operating systems
Proficiency in multiple operating systems—such as Linux, Windows and macOS—is fundamental for managing diverse IT environments. - Cloud computing skills
Knowledge of cloud platforms like AWS, Azure and Google Cloud is increasingly important as more organisations adopt hybrid and cloud-based infrastructures. - Knowledge of network and web servers
Managing network and web servers involves configuring, securing and maintaining these systems to ensure reliable connectivity and performance. - Familiarity with DHCP
Understanding dynamic host configuration protocol (DHCP) is central to network management, making it possible for sysadmins to assign IP addresses dynamically. - Experience with major DevOps tools
Many system administrators operate within DevOps environments, collaborating closely with development and operations teams. To implement and manage DevOps practices, they should be proficient with relevant tools such as Docker, Kubernetes and versioning systems like Git. - Programming and scripting
Skills in scripting languages like Java, Python, Bash and PowerShell enable sysadmins to automate repetitive tasks and improve their efficiency. - Understanding of cloud infrastructure
Knowledge of cloud infrastructure components and services helps sysadmins design and manage scalable, resilient cloud-based systems. - Configuration management expertise
Tools like Ansible, Puppet and Chef are used to automate and manage configuration tasks, ensuring consistency and reliability across the IT infrastructure.
The role of the system administrator includes many aspects of network management. This has led some to approach the title as though it were synonymous with 'network administrator'. But while sysadmins and network administrators both play roles in managing an organisation's IT infrastructure, there is a significant difference in their responsibilities and areas of focus.
- Network administrators are specifically focused on managing the network components of an IT infrastructure. Their primary responsibilities include configuring and maintaining network devices, setting up and managing LANs and wide area networks (WANs), monitoring network performance and ensuring network security. Although there is some overlap here with certain sysadmin responsibilities, the network administrator's focus is on maintaining stable and secure communication channels within the organisation, enabling seamless data transfer and connectivity.
- System administrators are responsible for the overall management and maintenance of computer systems and servers. Their tasks may include some of the network and hardware-related responsibilities of a network administrator, but also include managing operating systems, ensuring technologies are up to date, troubleshooting technical issues, managing user accounts and performing regular data backups and recovery. They ensure that the entire IT infrastructure runs smoothly and efficiently, and that IT systems are supporting the organisation's daily operations.
- In other words, system administrators have a broader scope than network administrators who focus more specifically on network related tasks and issues. That said, some employers may still use these terms interchangeably.
System administrators are needed in a wide range of industries, each with specific requirements and applications:
- Financial services
In the financial sector, sysadmins manage complex IT environments involving banking systems, transaction processing and financial databases. They ensure data security and compliance with regulatory standards, maintaining the integrity and availability of financial information. - Healthcare
Sysadmins in healthcare manage electronic health records (EHR), medical imaging systems and communication networks. They play a critical role in ensuring data security and compliance with healthcare regulations, and help support effective patient care through reliable IT systems. - Government and military
Government agencies and military organisations employ system administrators, promoting increased security and efficiency in their communication and data storage systems. Sysadmins in these sectors must navigate strict security protocols as they may be responsible for handling sensitive information. - Telecommunications
Sysadmins in telecommunications companies oversee networks, data centres and communication systems. Because telecommunication companies may support millions of users, it is important that the system administrators prioritise high availability and security within these IT infrastructures. - Law
Law firms and legal service providers require sysadmins to manage document management systems, case management software and network security.
System administrators have several potential career paths, each offering chances for specialisation and advancement:
- Network administrator
Network administrators focus on maintaining network hardware and software, ensuring reliable connectivity and performance. They configure and manage routers, switches and firewalls, and monitor network performance. - Database administrator
Database administrators manage and maintain databases, ensuring data integrity, performance and security. They work with various database management systems to support applications and services. - Cloud administrator
Cloud administrators manage cloud-based infrastructure and services. They work with various cloud platforms, handling tasks such as provisioning, monitoring and troubleshooting cloud resources. - System architect
System architects design and oversee the implementation of IT infrastructure, ensuring it meets the organisation's needs and taking into account factors such as scalability, security and performance. - Cybersecurity expert
Cybersecurity experts focus on protecting IT systems from external and internal threats. They implement security measures, conduct risk assessments and respond to security incidents, ensuring the organisation's data and systems are accessible only to authorised users. - IT consultant
IT consultants provide expert advice to organisations with regard to optimising their IT infrastructure. They assess current systems, recommend improvements and help implement new technologies.
As previously stated, system administrators play a central role in maintaining the stability, security and efficiency of an organisation's IT infrastructure. Although their work often goes unnoticed when everything runs smoothly, sysadmins are nevertheless integral to the seamless operation of IT processes. More specifically, system administrators contribute to business success by:
One of the most vital tasks of a system administrator is to ensure that technology is effectively used across the organisation. They frequently discover new ways to improve processes and facilitate better communication and collaboration between different departments. By implementing multi-level protocols and clearances, sysadmins help connect various divisions, making it easier for them to work together efficiently. This enhanced collaboration can lead to improved business unit synergies, resulting in a more cohesive and productive organisation.
System administrators often act as the first line of defence against security vulnerabilities, particularly those caused by user negligence. By working closely with security and compliance teams, sysadmins ensure that best practices are integrated directly into system operations. This proactive approach helps to mitigate risks and protect the organisation from potential cyber threats.
Enterprise resource planning (ERP), customer relationship management (CRM), and other business systems may offer significant customisation options. However, excessive customisation can lead to unnecessary complexities, increasing the difficulty and cost of maintaining these systems in the long run. A good system administrator will manage and streamline customisations, minimising technical debt and ensuring that the systems remain efficient and cost-effective. Proactive management helps to reduce long-term operational costs while enhancing the overall sustainability of the organisation's IT infrastructure.
Entering the field of system administration requires a combination of formal education, practical experience, relevant certifications and traditional job hunting. First and foremost, aspiring system administrators should focus on building a strong foundation in IT principles and gaining hands-on experience to develop the skills necessary for managing complex IT environments. Here are several key steps to help you become a system administrator:
A strong educational background is crucial for a career in system administration. Earning a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology or a related field provides a comprehensive understanding of computer systems, networks and software development, which are essential for a system administrator role. Some universities also offer specialised programmes in system administration or network management. If you decide to take your education further by obtaining a master's degree in a relevant field, you could qualify for a higher starting salary. Certifications can likewise help demonstrate your expertise. Starting with certifications like Certified System Administrator (CSA), CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+ can provide a viable foundation, and for a more comprehensive skill set, you may wish to follow the ServiceNow System Administrator Learning Path. This learning path focuses on configuring, managing, and maintaining ServiceNow platforms, making it a valuable credential for professionals in modern, cloud-based environments. It equips you with the knowledge needed to optimise ServiceNow's capabilities, helping streamline business operations and IT service management.
Education can provide a solid foundation for system administration, but it is personal experience that will build on that foundation. Internships offer invaluable opportunities for developing the practical skills needed to become a sysadmin. By working in real-world situations alongside seasoned system administrators, you will gain unique insights that will help you as you continue your career. Seek internships during or after your formal education to help build a comprehensive skill set. At the same time, engage in personal IT projects to hone your skills apart from internships or assignments. Setting up a home lab, managing small networks or contributing to open-source projects can provide practical experience and help you demonstrate your capabilities to prospective employers.
Your resume is your professional showcase and should reflect your education, certifications and relevant experience. Ensure your resume highlights your proficiency in operating systems, networking, cloud computing and specific tools or technologies. Customise your resume for each job application, emphasising the qualifications that align with the job description.
Start applying for entry-level IT positions to gain initial experience. Begin with roles like help desk technician or IT support specialist. Once you have sufficient experience, target system administrator positions that match your skills and career aspirations. Networking with industry professionals and utilising job boards can help you discover suitable opportunities.
Becoming a system administrator offers a dynamic and rewarding career path in IT, but knowing exactly how to get started can be a daunting prospect. We can help.
ServiceNow's Career Journey takes the guesswork out of entering the field of system administration. We provide comprehensive training to help build your technical skills and insight into certification paths to validate your expertise and make you stand out to employers. And, with support from a dedicated and friendly community via forums and other resources, you will always have access to invaluable insights to further enhance your professional journey.
Get started today and learn more about your path towards becoming a system administrator.