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From learning the compute and virtualization field with demonstrated expertise in Virtual Machines (VM) and Hypervisors to VMware (vSphere, vCloud Director and NSX) to working in Zscaler VPN network with network monitoring, configuration, and troubleshooting. Take lessons with Network experts in LANs, WANs, VPNs, TCP/IP, Firewalls, Antivirus, Port Routing that will bring you a career understanding in System administration. Subjects covered are diverse from Microsoft Windows Server (including AD, Exchange and Terminal Server) to MS SQL, Microsoft client operating systems and applications, PC/Server Hardware setup, fault diagnosis and repairs experience, working in Veaam, Cisco and Juniper environments. Find Network / System Admin Lessons WFH freelancers on April 17, 2025 who work remotely. Read less
Becoming a network and system administrator involves acquiring a broad set of technical skills, knowledge, and understanding of various systems and protocols. Here are the key areas you should focus on:
1. Networking Fundamentals
TCP/IP: Understand the fundamentals of the Internet Protocol Suite, including how data is packaged, addressed, transmitted, routed, and received at the transport layer (TCP, UDP) and network layer (IP, ICMP).
Technical Explanation: Learn how IP addresses are structured (IPv4/IPv6), the roles of DNS, DHCP, and how routing protocols like OSPF, BGP work to manage data traffic across networks.
Network Topologies: Know different network designs (star, bus, mesh, etc.), their advantages, and where they're best applied.
Subnetting: Master the art of dividing networks into subnetworks to manage network traffic, enhance security, and optimize resource use.
Network Security: Understand firewalls, VPNs, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and intrusion prevention systems (IPS). Familiarity with security protocols like SSL/TLS is crucial.
Technical Explanation: Learn how to configure firewall rules, set up VPNs for secure remote access, and use tools like Wireshark for network traffic analysis.
2. Operating Systems
Windows and Linux Administration:
Windows: Active Directory, Group Policy, PowerShell scripting, Windows Server management.
Linux: Command line proficiency (Bash scripting), system configuration, package management (e.g., yum, apt), and understanding of Linux file systems.
Technical Explanation: For Windows, you should know how to manage domain controllers, user accounts, and security settings. For Linux, understanding how to manage services via systemd, secure SSH access, and automate tasks with cron jobs is essential.
3. System Administration
Server Management: Learn to install, configure, and maintain servers for various services like web servers (Apache/Nginx), database servers (MySQL/PostgreSQL), and mail servers (Postfix, Exchange).
Virtualization: Understand concepts of virtualization (VMware, Hyper-V, KVM) for efficient resource management.
Technical Explanation: Know how to set up virtual machines, manage their resources, and ensure they communicate securely within a network.
Backup and Recovery: Master backup strategies, including full, incremental, and differential backups, and know how to perform disaster recovery.
Monitoring and Maintenance: Tools like Nagios, Zabbix, or Prometheus for system and network monitoring. Routine maintenance includes patch management, system updates, and log analysis.
4. Storage Management
NAS/SAN: Understand Network Attached Storage and Storage Area Networks for centralized data storage solutions.
RAID: Knowledge of RAID configurations for data redundancy and performance.
Technical Explanation: RAID 0, 1, 5, 10 - understand their benefits, risks, and use cases.
5. Scripting and Automation
Scripting Languages: Basic to intermediate knowledge of scripting for automation (Python, PowerShell, Bash).
Technical Explanation: Write scripts to automate repetitive tasks, like system updates, user account creation, or log analysis.
6. Cloud Services
Basic Cloud Concepts: Familiarity with AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud Platform for provisioning services, managing resources, and understanding cloud security.
IaaS, PaaS, SaaS: Understand different service models and when to use them.
7. Security Practices
Access Control: Learn about authentication mechanisms, authorization, and the principle of least privilege.
Compliance and Policies: Understand regulations like GDPR, HIPAA if relevant, and implement security policies.
8. Troubleshooting
Methodology: Develop a structured approach to diagnose and resolve issues in both network and system contexts.
Tools: Use diagnostic tools like nslookup, ping, traceroute, netstat for network troubleshooting; and system logs, performance monitors for server issues.
9. Certification and Continuous Learning
Certifications like CompTIA Network+, CompTIA Security+, Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate, or Cisco's CCNA can provide structured learning and validation of skills.
Continuous learning through workshops, online courses, or community involvement to stay updated with technology advancements.
10. Soft Skills
Communication, problem-solving, and the ability to work under pressure are as crucial as technical knowledge.
Becoming proficient in these areas will equip you to manage, secure, and optimize both network and system environments effectively. Remember, practical experience, whether through internships, personal projects, or lab environments, is invaluable alongside theoretical knowledge.
