- 1.Network Administrators earn a median salary of $95,360 with 3% projected growth and 18,200 annual openings (BLS)
- 2.Education: Bachelor's in Computer Science or Master's in Computer Science typically required
- 3.No state licensing required; certifications like AWS Certified Solutions Architect enhance competitiveness
- 4.Top states by salary: California ($128,736), New York ($109,664), Massachusetts ($106,803), Washington ($104,896)
- 5.Process takes 4 years including education plus certification preparation
What Is a Network Administrator?
A network administrator is a professional who designs, develops, and maintains software applications, systems, and technology infrastructure. With 451,360 jobs nationwide, this is a growing occupation with strong career prospects.
The path to becoming a network administrator typically requires The standard path for software development careers.. To explore network administration programs, see our comprehensive rankings.
Network Administrator
SOC 15-1244What Does a Network Administrator Do? Key Responsibilities
Network Administrators perform a wide range of duties depending on their work setting and specialization. Core responsibilities include:
- Design and develop software applications and systems
- Write clean, efficient, and well-documented code
- Debug and troubleshoot software issues
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams on projects
- Review code and provide constructive feedback
- Stay current with emerging technologies and best practices
How to Become a Network Administrator: Step-by-Step Guide
Total Time: 4 yearsComplete Bachelor's in Computer Science
The standard path for software development careers.
- Strong technical foundation
- Widely recognized
- Good career prospects
Build Technical Skills
Develop hands-on skills through projects, internships, or bootcamps.
- Complete personal projects
- Contribute to open source
- Build a portfolio
Earn Relevant Certifications
Earn certifications like AWS Certified Solutions Architect to enhance your credentials.
- AWS Certified Solutions Architect - $150-$300
- Google Cloud Professional - $200
Gain Entry-Level Experience
Start your career in an entry-level network administrator position to build practical experience.
- Apply for entry-level positions
- Seek mentorship from experienced professionals
- Build your professional network
- Document your accomplishments
Pursue Specialization & Advancement
Specialize in high-demand areas and pursue leadership opportunities.
- Identify specialization areas
- Pursue advanced certifications
- Consider graduate education
- Develop leadership skills
Network Administrator Education Requirements: Degrees & Programs
Bachelor's in Computer Science
4 yearsThe standard path for software development careers.
Advantages
- Strong technical foundation
- Widely recognized
- Good career prospects
Considerations
- Time commitment
- May not be required by all employers
Master's in Computer Science
2 yearsAdvanced degree for specialized or research roles.
Advantages
- Higher salary potential
- Specialized knowledge
- Research opportunities
Considerations
- Higher cost
- Not always necessary
Coding Bootcamp
3-6 monthsIntensive training programs for career changers.
Advantages
- Fast track to employment
- Lower cost
- Practical skills
Considerations
- Less theoretical depth
- Variable quality
- May need to supplement with self-study
Network Administrator Certifications: Required & Recommended
While not required, certifications can increase salary by $5,000-$15,000 annually and demonstrate expertise.
Recommended Specializations
AWS Certified Solutions Architect
Amazon Web ServicesValidates cloud architecture skills on AWS platform.
Google Cloud Professional
Google CloudDemonstrates expertise in Google Cloud technologies.
Network Administrator Skills: What You Need to Succeed
Successful network administrators combine strong technical competencies with interpersonal skills.
Technical Skills
Proficiency in languages relevant to the role (Python, JavaScript, Java, etc.).
Foundation for efficient problem-solving and technical interviews.
Collaborative development and code management.
AWS, Azure, or GCP for modern application deployment.
Soft Skills
Breaking down complex problems into manageable solutions.
Explaining technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders.
Working effectively in agile teams.
Network Administrator Career Path: Entry to Senior
The network administrator career path offers diverse opportunities for advancement. Most professionals start in entry-level roles before advancing to senior positions or specializing.
- Junior Network Administrator (Entry Level): Learning and contributing to projects. Salary: $66,752-$81,056.
- Mid-Level Network Administrator (2-4 years): Independent work on features and projects. Median salary: $95,360.
- Senior Network Administrator (5-7 years): Technical leadership and mentorship. Salary: $114,432-$133,504.
- Staff/Principal (8+ years): Architecture and cross-team impact. Salary: $143,040-$171,648.
- Director/VP (10+ years): Engineering leadership. Salary: $171,648+.
Network Administrator Salary by State: What Network Administrators Earn
Top Employers Hiring Network Administrators by State
California
CAWashington
WATexas
TXNew York
NYMassachusetts
MAGeorgia
GAIllinois
ILPennsylvania
PAFlorida
FLOhio
OHNetwork Administrator Job Outlook: Growth & Opportunities
Network Administrator employment is projected to grow 3% from 2025 to 2035, as fast as average. About 18,200 job openings are expected each year.
Strong demand is driven by digital transformation, cloud adoption, and the increasing reliance on software across all industries. Professionals with advanced certifications and specialized skills will have the strongest job prospects.
Best Network Administration Programs
Network Administrator FAQs: Requirements, Salary & Career
Data Sources
Job outlook, education requirements, and employment data for network administrators
Wage and employment data by state and metro area
Related Network Administration Resources
Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.