Network Administrator vs. System Administrator

Network Administrator vs. System Administrator

Even though both the terms sound a lot alike, there are significant differences between them which are visible only when we review the roles and practice of these two personnel. In fact, this distinction is maintained by a substantial amount of effort, with investments from the technical community and managers alike. This assignment elaborates on the differences in roles of a system administrator and a network administrator, which were revealed through an interesting source for technical information - Techies.com.

Systems Administrator

A system administrator is usually employed in smaller organizations and is majorly concerned with operating systems, applications, users, databases, etc. The systems administrator is also known by various other names, such as Sysadmin, or IT systems administrator (Schneider, n.d.). A system administrator's duties are broad in nature and not as specific as that of a network administrator, as a system administrator is usually held in charge of the installation, support and maintenance of computer systems or servers; they are responsible for the “infrastructure” view of the hardware and software. Apart from these direct duties and responsibilities, the system administrator also has a few management related issues to take care of, such as managing projects, training and supervising computer operators, and assisting in scenarios where technical staff fails to help. Efficient performance of all of these tasks requires a good mix responsibility, technical skills, as well as organizational skills and managerial capabilities.

Network Administrator

Network Administrators are usually employed in organizations that are larger in size and the usual responsibilities assigned to them include cabling, pricing of ISPs, managing the equipment's physical limitations, etc. They are middle-level employees providing serving the support function in a typical organization (Schneider, n.d.). Direct involvement with users does not take place until a specific scenario requires it. The main focus of ...