System administration

System administrators(sysadmins) are information technology (IT) professionals who make sure an organization’s computer systems are functioning and meet the needs of the organization. Sysadmins support, troubleshoot, and maintain computer servers and networks.

A system administrator’s job description might include: 

• Managing different operating system(Windows,Linux,Mac) systems
• Upgrading, installing, and configuring application software and computer hardware
• Troubleshooting and providing technical support to employees
• Creating and managing system permissions and user accounts
• Performing regular security tests and security monitoring
• Maintaining networks and network file systems

Sysadmins are ultimately responsible for the upkeep, configuration and reliable operation of computer systems, especially those with multiple users like servers. They aim to ensure that the uptime, performance, resources, and security of the system they manage meets the users’ needs within their company’s budget.

Skills you need as a system administrator

• In-depth knowledge of operating systems: Whether it’s Windows, Linux, or Mac, hiring managers generally look for competency in administering the operating system used in their company. Windows and Linux operating systems have been widely embraced and are good systems to start with, though it’s a good idea to check if your industry favors one over others.

• Familiarity with hardware: Working physical devices—such as servers or printers—will be an important part of a system administrator's job. 

• Cloud computing skills: Familiarity with cloud applications like Office365, Google Cloud Platform, and AWS can give you a boost in the hiring process.

• Knowledge of networks: Being able to set up and maintain Local Area Networks (LAN) and Wide Area Networks (WAN), in addition to setting up network security features like firewalls, are often expected of system administrators. This might often be the case at smaller companies, where IT professionals are expected to wear many hats.

• Communication and interpersonal skills: In addition to working on a team, sysadmins will often be expected to help other employees that don’t have the same technical knowledge, through help desk support or other means. Being able to communicate well will be a key part of a system administrator’s successful day-to-day tasks.

 Role and responsibilities of Security systems administrator

Security systems administrator are responsible for desktop, mobile, and network security, and are also responsible for installing, administering and troubleshooting an organization’s security solutions.

A security systems administrator is someone who gives expert advice to companies regarding their internal security procedures and can also help to detect any weaknesses in a company's computer network that may make them vulnerable to cyber attacks.

Security systems administrators are a company’s first step in monitoring suspicious activity either within the local network or from outside internet traffic.

Security systems administrators are in charge of the daily operation of security systems, and can handle things like systems monitoring and running regular backups; setting up, deleting and maintaining individual user accounts; and developing organizational security procedures.

Security systems administrators train staff on proper protocols, monitor network traffic for any suspicious activity, perform risk assessment, audit machines and their software, update software on the latest security patches, and ensure that each network resource has the proper defenses.

They can even defend against zero-day malware and in some cases, may provide evidence of a cyber attack to prosecute individuals for breaching security.

A security systems administrator's responsibilities may include the following:

• Defending systems against unauthorized access
• Performing vulnerability and penetration tests
• Monitoring traffic for suspicious activity
• Configuring and supporting security tools (firewalls, antivirus, and IDS/IPS software)
• Implementing network security policies
• Analyzing and establishing security requirements
• Identifying threats and working on steps to defend against them
• Training employees in security awareness/procedures
• Developing and updating disaster recovery protocols
• Conducting security audits
• Making policy recommendations
• Providing technical security advice
• Consulting with staff, managers and executives on best security practices