Administrator – computer systems management
The basic task of a system administrator is to manage the computer systems along with access rights. In doing so, the administrator has a diverse range of tasks, depending on the type of applications.
Tasks of an administrator
In a broader sense, the administrator is entrusted with the planning, installation, configuration and maintenance of a company’s IT infrastructure. This includes, for example, the following tasks:
- Maintenance of user accounts and user rights
- Data backup
- Planning, setting up and monitoring networks
- First level support for users
- Troubleshooting workstations and servers
The main areas of activity
Especially in large companies it is common that not one administrator supervises the entire EDP (Electronic Data Processing), but is assigned to a special field of activity. Those who work primarily in the network area plan and set up networks, configure network components and manage servers, printing and directory services. The system administrator for storage systems is primarily concerned with the management of storage space in the company and performing data backup. An administrator specializing in operating systems assists users with problems and questions, manages user accounts and privileges, and installs workstations and servers. System administrators with a focus on web servers and mail systems take care of Internet access, intranet solutions and mail servers.
The administrator in e-commerce
In e-commerce, the administrator has important tasks in the area of store management. He ensures that an online store is available for purchases at all times from a technical point of view. He plans hardware solutions for the implementation of software-technical requirements. He installs store software, performs regular updates and constantly ensures security against access by unauthorized third parties. He manages the users and their rights. Other tasks include the provision of store statistics, the technical basis for newsletters or the connection to merchandise management systems. In smaller companies, the administrator often performs other tasks such as maintaining articles, although this is not part of the classic area of responsibility of a system administrator.
Qualification of an Administrator
Many system administrators and store managers are career shifters and have no training in IT technology. However, training occupations such as information technology staff, IT systems staff, IT systems electronics technician or IT specialist are frequently represented. In addition, a technical, scientific or computer science degree is a possible starting point for a job as an administrator. Admins often have additional certificates from certain manufacturers, such as Apple, Microsoft, Cisco or Linux. If you want to look after an online store as an administrator, you need in-depth know-how in the areas of PHP, MySQL, ASP, script programming, Apache HTTP Server and programming languages. This necessary knowledge depends on the server architecture and e-commerce software used.
Working as an administrator: personal requirements
To be able to work as an administrator, you should have a systematic and analytical approach to work. A high level of problem-solving skills is also required. Employees in this field must be able to deal with pressure and irregular working hours. A very good command of English, a willingness to undergo further training, a sense of responsibility and the ability to gather information independently round off the administrator profile.
