Does technology fascinate you? Are you curious about and interested in learning about different software, hardware and devices? If you answered yes to these questions, you should become a system administrator aka sysadmin.
A sysadmin is responsible for monitoring and maintaining computer systems in a network or environment that has multiple users. It's a great time to become a sysadmin now because the technology sector is booming and yet it's facing a major Skills shortage.
Around 61% businesses plan on increasing investment in their tech and about 60% of businesses want to increase the number of people in their tech department. This is obviously because technology is the way forward for many businesses.
But there is a stumbling block. There simply aren't enough techies to meet the growing demand. 69% of business leaders can't keep pace with the changing tech landscape because they aren't able to find the right talent.
To become a sysadmin, you need to have relevant work experience, the right training, and the ability to get your job done. Perhaps, you don't have the work experience that you need. But that's okay if you have the right skills. Sure, organizations are going to prefer someone with a proven track record. However, don't worry about this. Sooner or later, you will get your break. Be ready for that moment by training and developing your skills.
Training gives you practical exposure and real-world abilities that you can use when you become a sysadmin. It also shows your prospective employers that you have initiative and the drive to succeed. Some certifications you could pursue as you try to become a sysadmin now are as follows:
There are three levels of Microsoft certifications: Fundamentals, Associate and Expert. You can choose to certify yourself in various Microsoft suites like Azure or Microsoft 365 or you could go down the role-based route by completing all certifications that are essential for an administrator. Either way, Microsoft certifications are recognized by the industry. They add value to your profile, help you demonstrate your skills and advance in your career. This is certainly one route you could take on your way to becoming a sysadmin.
The training for this certification will lead you down a path that's comparable to Microsoft's Fundamentals training. However, there is one crucial difference: the training for this certification takes you beyond Microsoft's environments. This training will give you the skills you need to configure hardware, identify and solve IT problems, implement security features, and so on. It's a great certification when you're trying to become a sysadmin.
Companies across the globe are facing operational challenges. There is a surging demand for tech talent while there's a shortage in supply. That's why now is the best time to become a sysadmin – the mainstay of any IT environment.
Sysadmins are not only very well-paid, but they also enjoy other benefits like being able to upskill on the job at their employer's expense. While sysadmins have great prospects now, it also acts as a great foundation for a long-term career in the IT industry and a range of other lucrative roles in the future.
Becoming a sysadmin may not be simple or straightforward but it isn't unattainable either. It does require continuous learning and training and the ability to demonstrate your skills – but with the right levels of interest and dedication this should not be a problem. Certifications from Microsoft and CompTIA are great for you on your journey to becoming a sysadmin. They give you the skills you need while demonstrating to prospective employers that you have the drive they're looking for.
If you like working with computer systems, now is a great time to become a sysadmin. It may be a challenging pursuit, but it's also one that promises to be satisfying and rewarding.
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