How a Network Administrator Can Help Your Business

A network administrator is someone who manages computer networks, manages the systems running on those networks, and makes sure they are working as planned. Read on to find out more about how a network administration service can help you.

Maintaining network security 

A network administrator helps to maintain security in the following ways: 

1. Audit user activity: An administrator audit user activity on the network, such as email use and logins. This will allow them to monitor and detect any unusual activity on the network, such as unexplained spikes in bandwidth usage or attempts at unauthorised access.

2. Managing software and hardware: Network administrators ensure that network hardware and software is up-to-date and working correctly. This includes everything from installing new servers and supporting desktops to keeping antivirus programs up to date and managing the network printers. They will test systems for performance and stability, to minimise data loss due to system failure and make sure that proper backups are in place so data will not be lost permanently. These may be stored on-site or off-site depending on available space and risk of loss or theft of hardware containing the backup copy. Maintain the OS and application systems used for day-to-day business activities, data communications applications, electronic mail management systems, databases, and web browsers.

Maintaining physical security

Network administrators work with other employees in the IT department to maintain physical security. They assess risk and plan appropriate strategies for protecting against physical threats such as fire, theft of hardware and data, and disruption caused by natural disasters and power failures. They will maintain the server room in a secure location, with no easy access for unauthorised personnel.

Troubleshooting

A network administrator makes sure that all the hardware and software components on the network are working correctly, and troubleshoot problems as they come up. They may also be able to perform maintenance work on hardware without needing to call in an outside technician.

Training

Network administrators may provide training to other employees who need to use specific applications, such as email clients or FTP clients. The administrator will ensure that the employee is following procedures for accessing these applications, and can answer any questions they may have regarding the use of the application system.

If you would like to find out more, you should contact a local IT company. A system administrator will be happy to discuss your current setup and your future IT needs.