System administrator - who is this? Functional responsibilities of a system administrator.

Recently, almost no large company or organization can do without it. He - system administrator, “king and god” of computer hardware. Some consider the profession of a system administrator to be prestigious and highly paid, while others do not know what system administrators actually do.

A system administrator, usually simply called a system administrator, is one of the most sought-after employees in any organization that has a large fleet of computer equipment or a more or less organized network of computers. Ensuring the operability of the company's computer network, the serviceability of all computer equipment and software, as well as the information security of the company - this is the job of a system administrator.

Some managers of enterprises and organizations who are “far away” from computer technology consider the professions of a system administrator and, for example, a programmer to be identical. In a number of other cases, the system administrator is “equated” to an advanced PC user who knows how to install the necessary software.

System administrators are also considered equally as “geniuses” whose actions are inexplicable from the point of view of an ordinary person, and hopeless “lazy people” in stretched sweaters who do nothing but sleep on the job...

Due to the very ambiguous attitude towards the profession of “system administrator”, the position of system administrator is paid differently. As a rule, in small companies the system administrator is an “enike specialist” (i.e., a computer specialist for all occasions) and does not receive a very high salary.

Large companies cannot get by with just Enikey. The staff of such companies may include a web server administrator, a database administrator, a systems engineer, and a network security administrator. Each of these specialists has their own clearly defined range of tasks and deep knowledge in their field of activity.

I want to be a system administrator!

According to a survey recently conducted by the Research Center of the recruiting portal SuperJob.ru in Russia, The profession of a system administrator is considered prestigious by 47% of respondents. The opposite opinion was expressed by 21% of Russians surveyed.

Many people are attracted to the system administrator profession by the non-standard nature of their tasks., the need to think creatively, the opportunity to improve oneself and constantly learn something new.

About 3% of respondents who participated in the survey value the profession of a system administrator for its salary, another 3% - for freedom of action. The same number of respondents value the free time that a system administrator has if the computers and networks entrusted to him are working properly.

System administrator - such a specialty does not yet exist in domestic universities. Basically, future system administrators receive education in related IT specialties in technical universities or in technical faculties and departments of classical universities. As a rule, the diploma of a graduate of one of these specialties will include “engineer”, “computer technology engineer”, “system programmer”.

A system administrator must have a set of certain qualities in order to become “professionally qualified.” For a system administrator, technical thinking, the ability to quickly and clearly respond in extreme situations, and a high degree of responsibility are required.

It goes without saying that appropriate knowledge in the field of computer technology is also required in accordance with the chosen job profile. So, for example, a web server administrator needs knowledge of Unix systems, experience in configuring web servers, mail servers, deep knowledge of the TCP/IP protocol stack, etc. But a database administrator needs completely different skills and abilities: knowledge of systems database management (MySQL, PostgreSQL, MS SQL, Oracle), knowledge of operating systems on which databases operate (Windows Server, *nix systems), knowledge of the information-logical language SQL.

The profession of “system administrator” is very difficult, but also very interesting. A good system administrator with a high level of professional qualities is in demand in the labor market. If you are ready to take this thorny path, dare to dare and may good luck accompany you!

System administrator(English) system administrator) - an employee whose job responsibilities involve ensuring the normal operation of the fleet of computer equipment, networks and software, as well as ensuring information security in the organization. Other names: system administrator(English) sysadmin), often simply admin.

System administrator- an employee whose responsibilities include not only monitoring the organization’s network security, but also creating optimal performance of computers and software for users, often connected by common work for a specific result.

Often system administrator functions transferred to IT outsourcing companies. Typically, such companies provide a lower cost of service than maintaining a full-time employee and carry out work on the basis of subscription contracts.

Due to the rapid growth of the Internet and the development of network technologies, it is becoming increasingly difficult for a single system administrator to confront all problems, so specialized forums and printed publications have long appeared aimed at broadening the horizons of novice system administrators and providing assistance in solving various problems.

Professional holiday of a system administrator- last Friday of July.

Specialization

System administrators can be divided into several categories:

Web server administrator - installs, configures and maintains web server software. Typically works for a hosting company. Knowledge of Unix systems (mainly Linux and FreeBSD), the ability to configure the Apache web server and mail servers (qmail, Sendmail, Exim, Postfix), which are installed on more than 90% of web servers worldwide, are required; additionally IIS web server and Windows Server OS family. A deep understanding of the OSI model and the TCP/IP protocol stack is required.

Database Administrator

Specializes in database maintenance.

You need deep knowledge of the DBMS (at least one of MySQL, PostgreSQL, MS SQL, Oracle, Informix, Firebird), the operating system on which the database runs (Windows Server, *nix (mainly Linux/FreeBSD) or Solaris), knowledge of the features database implementations, as well as knowledge of the information-logical language SQL.

Network Administrator

Engaged in the development and maintenance of networks. Deep knowledge is required in the field of network protocols (TCP/IP stack, IPX) and their implementation, routing, VPN implementation, billing systems, active network equipment (usually Cisco), physical construction of networks (Ethernet, Token ring, FDDI, 802.11).

Systems Engineer(or system architect)

Engaged in building corporate information infrastructure at the application level. Works, as a rule, in an outsourcing company or a large company or corporation. You need knowledge of common operating systems (Windows NT, Windows 2000, Windows XP, Linux, FreeBSD, Mac OS); directory services Active Directory, Lotus Domino, LDAP; common DBMS, email, groupware, web servers, CRM, ERP, CMS, document management systems - the connection of which in the context of business processes is involved.

Network Security Administrator

Deals, respectively, with information security problems, documenting security policies, regulations and provisions on information resources. Works, as a rule, in an outsourcing company or a large company, corporation. Requires knowledge of encryption and authentication protocols and their practical application (VPN, RADIUS, SSL, IPsec, RAS), PKI planning, access control systems (firewalls, proxy servers, smart -cards, CheckPoint, SecurID), incident analysis, backup.

System administrator for a small company

(from 5 to 50 jobs) - is engaged in maintaining the functionality of a small fleet of computer equipment and maintaining the network. Has no assistants and performs all computer and communications related duties, including technical user support. In software development companies, it maintains Web servers, programs used by developers. They can also test software developed by the company.

Knowledge of the Microsoft OS, office and accounting programs such as Microsoft Office and 1° C, the ability to build a local network, and basic knowledge of databases and programming languages are required.

System administrator (English: system administrator) is an employee whose job responsibilities involve ensuring the normal operation of the fleet of computer equipment, networks and software in the organization. Other names: sysadmin, often just admin.

System administrators are employees whose responsibilities include not only monitoring the organization’s network security, but also creating optimal performance of computers and software for users, often connected by common work for a specific result.

Often, the functions of a system administrator are transferred to companies involved in IT outsourcing. Typically, such companies provide a lower cost of service than maintaining a full-time employee, and operate on the basis of subscription contracts.

Not a single company whose computer park consists of more than one machine can exist without a system administrator (sysadmin).

A system administrator is an information technology professional who is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the server, hardware, and software installed on enterprise computers.

Job responsibilities

Creation and maintenance of a computer complex and network;

Monitoring the operation of operating systems and software;

Installation and adjustment of software;

System resource allocation;

Coordination and administration of systems;

Maintaining the functionality of a network or several computers;

Control and assistance to network users;

Implementation of remote administration (if direct access to the computer is not possible);

Providing support to the system operator;

Network maintenance;

Network repair and installation;

Installation and repair of equipment.

If any malfunctions in the operation of the operating system are detected, all responsibility falls on the shoulders of this specialist. Naturally, the system administrator must understand hardware and programs in order to troubleshoot problems efficiently. He must also take care of the reliable protection of information from viruses and hacker attacks. Now more and more technical universities are opening training for these specialists. And this is not surprising, because almost any enterprise has its own computer network, and it necessarily requires the control of a network administrator, maybe even more than one.

Requirements

The system administrator must have good knowledge of software and network equipment for small and medium-sized networks.

Understand various computer configurations, operating systems, and networking standards.

Be able to reliably ensure information security of a computer network.

Know technical English, as most of the documentation is written in it.

Personal qualities

Attentiveness;

Thoroughness and systematicity in work;

Patience;

Perseverance;

Accuracy;

Painstaking;

Responsibility.

Education

Higher, incomplete higher, secondary specialized technical education.

Places of work

Enterprises and organizations;

Companies and firms;

Computer centers;

Educational institutions.

System Administrator Day was invented by Chicago system administrator Ted Kekatos in 1999. Since 2000, System Administrator Day has been celebrated annually and everywhere on the last Friday of July.

So, today we will try to answer the question: “Who is a system administrator?” In addition, we will figure out how much such a person earns, what he does, and how good and important his work is in the modern world. After all, every profession has its place. Let us quickly begin to analyze our topic for today.

Concept

System administrator - who is this? Let's try to answer this question, but first let's decipher this concept. After all, the name of our profession today is far from being a Russian abbreviation.

The thing is that “sysadmin” stands for “system administrator”. That is, this person is working with some kind of networks. And since this is a computer profession, then, as you might guess, such people will work with these machines.

System administrator - who is this? Once we have learned the full name of the position, revealing his responsibilities and profession as a whole will be several times easier. So let's try to do this. After all, before starting work, it is always important to know what lies ahead.

What does he do?

After we have explained the concept a little and figured out the question: “Who is a system administrator?” - It is necessary to find out about the job responsibilities of such employees. Especially if you are interested in this profession. Maybe they will “tear three skins” from you and demand huge amounts of work?

Not at all. In fact, the job of “sysadmin” is what almost every user dreams of. You will have to configure operating systems, reinstall, install software and connect equipment. This also includes setting up an Internet connection, treating your computer for viruses, and protecting the system from various infections. In general, everything that the average user can do now.

In truth, a system administrator, programs and computers are three integral components of this profession. Sometimes particularly advanced system administrators even engage in programming. This gives them a significant advantage over other workers. Let's now see what pros and cons this profession has. After all, everything can’t be that good, right? Then everyone would aspire to be a system administrator.

Cons

Well, let's start with the negative aspects. After all, it is they who, as a rule, make us think about whether this or that place is suitable for us or not. Notes “is a system administrator good or bad” can often be found in many articles on the topic of work.

The first thing that should be noted is that a person must have perseverance. Working as a system administrator, you will have to spend most of your time at the computer, without looking away from it. Fortunately, for most modern users this is not such a problem.

In addition, system administrators are endowed with enormous opportunities and, as a result, responsibility. After all, the work within the company, which is performed on computers, will depend on you. Something will break - and you will have to fix it quickly and efficiently. In cases where you know exactly what you are doing, there is no need to be afraid.

The monotony of work and its monotony is another significant disadvantage of the chosen profession. Every day everything will come down to the fact that you come to check the operation of the computers, set up the equipment if necessary, and then go to your workplace and carry out the boss’s instructions regarding setting up the PC. Many people get very tired of this schedule.

Pros

True, our current profession also has a number of advantages. These are the ones you can meet when reading the notes “sysadmin - good or bad”. In fact, there are much more positive aspects here than negative ones.

The first point is the work schedule. Very often, system administrators are hired with a flexible schedule, that is, on call. When services are not needed, you come to the workplace, then check the operation of all equipment and leave. And sometimes you stay in your office and mind your own business until your services are needed. But the salary still drips.

The second point is the ease of operation for most users. Modern people are very advanced in computers. This is why you can fix most of the difficulties that arise on computers without any problems. If the work is “not dusty and simple”, and also brings in a good income, then the employee will perform it at the highest level.

It is also worth noting that in most cases, system administrators are left to their own devices after conducting daily equipment checks. You can drink coffee, play games (especially if your bosses are not watching you, but have provided you with a separate office), work on the Internet, or chat with friends. All this has a very beneficial effect on your lifestyle. The main thing is not to “go too far” and start “working to the detriment”.

Plus, working on a computer is predominantly mental work. You don't have to carry bricks, work in bad weather conditions, and so on. Typically, employees are provided with their own offices where they can drink tea, warm up and just feel comfortable.

If you are not a supporter of communicating with people, then a system administrator is your profession. All you will do is work at the computer. There is minimal contact with living people here. Thus, it is a goldmine for introverted individuals.

How much does he earn

And here is another rather important point. After all, any profession and position must be paid somehow. System administrator salary is a connection on which, as a rule, the quality of a person’s work depends.

The point is that if you are required to do a lot of work for a small salary, then, of course, you should refuse. A freelance system administrator (they called - they came and fixed it, went home) receives from 10,000 rubles per month. But employees of even the smallest companies with full-time or flexible hours - from 20,000 rubles.

With all this, the higher the salary, the better the system administrator will perform his duties. After all, then he will be interested in it. Thus, we can say that our profession today is quite a profitable occupation.

Conclusion

Our conversation has now come to an end. Today we found out who system administrators are, what they do, what the pros and cons of this profession are, and also how well the work of such workers is paid.

As you can see, this "place" can be suitable for most advanced computer users. To be honest, you have to learn to be a system administrator. For example, in addition, you can complete specialized courses to get a “crust”. But sometimes you can do without it. That's it.

Let's figure out who system administrators are. Indeed, recently this is the name given to almost everyone who works in the computer field. Previously they were called programmers, now they have learned the new fashionable word “sysadmin”.

Enikey people, not administrators

Who works in thousands of small firms? Anyone, but not admins, but rather Enikey people. That is, general workers, only in the IT field.

Their job is as follows:

Bring it;
replace the cartridge;
install Windows;
install office and program settings.

At best, such small companies have a file sharing service within the network, and perhaps a domain controller. A slightly larger organization may have a mail server and a corporate website that run on the local machine (I can’t judge whether this is good or bad).

After all, you don’t think that this entire army of thousands of Enikey people from small companies can be called “sysadmins”? Otherwise, this country would not have experienced a “staff shortage” and would not have started independently preparing administrators almost from scratch, simply out of boredom. It was not for nothing that a lot of money was allocated and a huge amount of time was spent; an entire independent department was created to communicate with students, many of whom did not even have work experience. Recruiting was in full swing, Yandex was looking for all competent specialists in order to later develop them into professionals who certainly do not communicate with users and do not change their cartridges.

Definition of a system administrator

The very phrase “system administrator” was formed from the fact that there are information systems, and, accordingly, there are people who somehow administer these systems. Please note, it is Information Systems.

Information system is a computing system (networks, software, hardware) and information. An IS user is truly a user, and not an object to which the work of a system administrator should be directed.
System administrator- a person who maintains the system. Maintaining its operational state, working on its architecture, optimizing its operation, and so on. But not the person who communicates with users and sets up their computer or printer.

By this I want to say that if an employee is responsible for connecting keyboards, mice, monitors and everything else, then call him whatever you want, but not an administrator. If an employee managing a system installs and configures workstations on a daily basis, then he is already an engineer. At the same time, the most important task of a system administrator is to build a system that anyone can work with. It should be clear, concise, and documented.