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Computer networking has revolutionized the way people work and connect, both at home and in the workplace. It has also generated demand for professionals who can create, maintain and secure these networks, sometimes on a very large scale. This is where network and computer systems administrators enter the picture.

Network and computer systems administrators

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS, bls.gov, 2012), network and computer systems administrators attend to the day-to-day operation of computer networks. They organize, install and support a number of systems, including local area networks (LANs,) wide area networks (WANs), intranets and other computer-based communication systems. While specific duties can vary tremendously from one day to the next, the BLS reports the following tasks are often among them:

• Determining an organization's networking and computer needs
• Installing and updating all applicable network hardware and software
• Maintaining network and computer security
• Monitoring a network's or system's performance and problem solving problems
• Training users how to properly use networking technology

These duties require keen analytical, communication and problem-solving skills. Other important characteristics -- like in-depth knowledge about computers and their networks -- can be honed through formal training.

How to become a network and computer systems administrator

The BLS reports that while some network and computer systems administrators can enter the field with an associate degree or professional certification, most employers require at least a bachelor's degree in computer and information science or a related field. Network and computer systems administrator schools can provide the training necessary to earn any of these credentials. You may even be able to complete at least some of your network and computer systems administrator training online. This option may be particularly attractive to those already working in the field who want to advance their careers while maintaining full-time employment.

Network and computer systems administrator salary information and trends

Networking and computer systems administrators tend earn more, on average, than the typical U.S. worker, though a number of factors can impact their bottom line. According to the BLS, the national network and computer systems administrator salary in 2011 was $70,970 median, with the lowest-paid 10 percent earning up to $43,400 and the top 10 percent earning up to $112,210 nationally. The BLS notes that the industries offering the highest median earnings that year included computer and peripheral equipment manufacturing companies, insurance and employee benefit funds, and the U.S. Postal Service.

Location can have a notable impact on network and computer systems administrators salaries. With this in mind, the BLS reports that the following states offered the highest average salaries for these professionals in 2011:

• Virginia: $85,370 mean
• District of Columbia: $84,720 mean
• Maryland: $83,720 mean

Another major factor that can influence salary is education and experience. As a general rule, the more you have of either, the more your earnings potential improves. Investing in the right training through a network and computer systems administrator school is just one way you might develop your personal career.

Career outlook for network and computer systems administrators

The BLS reports that demand for network and computer systems administrators is expected to grow as firms invest in newer, faster technology and mobile networks. As such, the Bureau projects that demand for these professionals will grow by 28 percent between 2010 and 2020. Opportunities are expected to be especially strong among health care-related employers. As with earnings, location can also impact your career outlook. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, demand for these professionals is expected to grow across the country between 2008 and 2018, but may be especially strong in the following states:

• Utah: 31 percent growth
• Virginia: 27 percent growth
• Mississippi: 21 percent growth

Wherever you live, the BLS notes that employers will need administrators with proper training in order to reinforce their networks and security. Network and computer systems administrator schools can provide that type of training. We recommend researching a number of programs -- including those with online courses -- to find one that suits both your goals and learning style.