Network secure? Check. Computers up and running? Check. No printer jams? Check. Fantastic System Administrator? Double check! Considering all of the daunting tasks and long hours that our system administrators put into creating our seamless work communities, we’d just like for them to know that their hard work doesn’t go unnoticed and would like to honor them with the recognition they deserve. Keep reading to find out exactly what your SysAdmin does and why showing your appreciation is so important!
Duties of a System Administrator
The responsibilities of a SysAdmin are wide- ranging and can vary greatly from one organization to another. They are usually charged with installing, maintaining, and supporting servers and other computer systems. This also includes planning for and responding to service outages and other possible issues. The system administrator seeks to ensure that the uptime, performance, resources, and security of the computers they manage, meet the needs of their users, without exceeding the budget.
Other duties include:
Necessary skills and training
Unlike other professions, there is no single path to becoming a system administrator. Many SysAdmins have a degree in a related field: computer science, information technology, computer engineering, information systems, or have completed a trade school program. In addition to this, many companies now require an IT certification for employment.
The subject matter of system administration entails knowledge of operation systems and applications, as well as the purposes for which people in the organization use the computers. Perhaps the most important skill for a SysAdmin to have is problem solving. If a server goes down, it is their responsibility to quickly and correctly diagnose the problem and devise the most efficient plan for repair. It is usually not within their duties to design software applications, but administrators must understand the behaviors and language of the program to successfully install the platform and troubleshoot any problems.
Show Your Appreciation!
SysAdmin Appreciation Day was created by Ted Kekatos and was first celebrated on July 28, 2000. Since then, it has been observed on the last Friday in July to honor System Administrators and other IT professionals for their hard work. The holiday is recognized and promoted by many IT professional organizations, including: the League of Professional System Administrators, SAGE/USENIX, and SNIPhub.
Remember this is one day to recognize your System Administrator for their workplace contributions that promote professional excellence. Thank them for all the things they do for you and your business!
Learn more about York’s System Administrator here and be sure to thank your own SysAdmin today!
Posted By: Ariana Hampton- Marcell