There has been a great demand for network administrators in the past decade. Consequently, salaries have gone up. While the Internet has revolutionized the method of communication and business models, companies have had to focus on maintaining data security while ensuring speed and reliability.

A course in network administration will teach students of ways to connect computers and users by making use of software and networks. Even though most of us use personal computers, few of us really understand the devices and networks that function behind the scenes. A network specialist knows to build and maintain servers, fiber optic networks, routers, and other complex components to ensure that the Internet works seamlessly.

One can choose between two- and four-year degree courses offered by both online and on-campus colleges in database administration, information systems, network administration, and so on. Various courses focus on areas such as maintaining and establishing wide and local area networks as well as databases, firewalls, TCP/IP protocols, encryption, and network security.

Large companies such as Cisco and Microsoft also offer career training through certification courses. These certifications enhance your resume and help you secure work in network administration. Some of these certifications are mandatory for some positions because the IT majors such as Cisco dominate niche areas. For instance, more than 1 million people have Cisco certifications.

After graduating from a network administration course you can find employment in computer systems design companies, colleges, universities, natural gas distributorships, and rail transportation companies.

With advances in technology and the increasing need for businesses to globalalize, the importance of network systems in enhancing the performance and success of industries has increased. Such companies require employees trained in maintaining secure network infrastructures.

This field interfaces computer networking and security management. If you like network engineering and security support, you must consider obtaining an online degree on computer networking and security management. Degree courses in computer networking train you to work as a network support specialist, network administrator, and database administrator.

Most employers insist on hiring only those with a degree for computer networking work. While other certifications could be needed a degree is usually a must.

With an online degree in computer networking and security management you will be able to obtain entry-level work in computer networking. Such courses include papers in wide and local area networking, network security, authentication schemes, directory services, and various operating systems. Some degree courses also provide training in cutting edge technology through simulated hands-on experience in virtual lab environments.

One needs network administration to ensure a secure and robust network. As networks become larger, it is vital to ensure data security. It is the responsibility of the network administrator to ensure that the network is secure from viruses and other external threats introduced through different networks and applications.

Low quality administration and poor security can lead to losses in millions of dollars to organizations, individuals, and communities. Stolen data can be misused. Organizations and companies consider content to be of vital importance and an “intellectual asset”. Competitors can benefit from data collected by rivals. So, network security and administration are high priorities for organizations and communities using automated processes and sensitive data. Similarly, hospitals with online profiles of patients need properly administered and secured networks to ensure that private data remains confidential.

Network administration and security experts deal with procedures, processes, and configurations needed to maintain a dynamic and robust network. Courses in network administration and security are very important topics covered at colleges and universities.

In the US, universities and community colleges offer different network administration and security certifications, diplomas, and degrees. Besides, many leading IT vendor companies have their own network administration and security certifications. It is best if you opt for a college-certified diploma or study for vendor-specific tests on network administration and security to enhance work opportunities.

Proper network administration and security ensures that millions of networks and people are secure. Transfer of data can create instantaneous havoc. One can understand the potential for damage for insecure networks if one envisages a badly administered banking system enabling transfer of funds to random accounts. So, all organizations hire network administrators to regulate processes and security issues.

There is great demand for network administrators and security specialists. Of course specific certification and experience enhances employability. By earning more certifications and obtaining greater experience you will qualify for challenging and higher management positions in network administration and security departments.