How to Become a Network Administrator
Install, configure, and maintain local and wide area networks, intranets, and other communication systems. It typically requires a bachelor's degree, with a median salary of $99,130 per year and about average projected job growth.
Median pay
$99,130/yr
Typical range
$62,640 to $155,050
Job growth
-1%
Openings / yr
14,300
Majors that lead here
Key skills
- Network Configuration
- Firewalls and VPNs
- Troubleshooting
- TCP/IP
- Network Monitoring
Helpful certifications
- CompTIA Network+
- Cisco CCNA
- Cisco CCNP
- CompTIA Security+
Is this career a fit?
Remote-friendly
55/100
Work-life balance
62/100
Stress level
48/100
Satisfaction
67/100
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- Product Manager$166,790 median
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- Software Developer$135,980 median
- Cybersecurity Analyst$129,180 median
- Data Scientist$120,230 median
- IT Project Manager$116,580 median
Frequently asked questions
How much does a Network Administrator make?
The median pay for a Network Administrator is $99,130 a year (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). The typical range runs from $62,640 to $155,050, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What degree do you need to become a Network Administrator?
The usual entry point is a bachelor's degree. Common majors are Information Technology, Computer Science, Network Engineering, and Computer Engineering.
Is Network Administrator a growing field?
The BLS projects about average demand for this role, about -1% over the decade, with roughly 14,300 U.S. openings a year.
What skills does a Network Administrator use most?
Common skills for this role are Network Configuration, Firewalls and VPNs, Troubleshooting, TCP/IP, and Network Monitoring.
Planning to become a Network Administrator?
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Take the major quizSalary and job-growth figures: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and O*NET OnLine (median annual wages May 2025; employment projections 2024-2034). National figures; actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.