System Administrator vs. Network Administrator: Navigating Your Career Choices

Network and systems administration both fall under the expansive umbrella of information technology (IT). It’s worth noting that network and system administrators often perform overlapping tasks in small businesses. However, as businesses scale and IT systems grow in complexity, these roles become more distinct. If you're considering a career in IT, it helps to understand this distinction to ascertain which role best suits your interests and strengths.

Discover the unique responsibilities, essential skills, and career opportunities in both system and network administration to make an informed career choice. 

What is a system administrator? 

A system administrator, or sysadmin, works toward ensuring the smooth operation of computer systems. Skilled in both hardware and software, sysadmins troubleshoot issues involving physical servers and other components of a firm’s IT infrastructure. In addition to managing user accounts and access rights, sysadmins also handle data backup and recovery planning. Sysadmins also take on the responsibility of installing and updating software as needed.

What is a network administrator? 

A network administrator is primarily responsible for the upkeep of computer network systems. Also called netadmin, a network administrator sets up new networks, manages backups, and resolves connectivity issues as they arise. Netadmins also monitor network performance, ensuring optimal speed and availability. Additionally, netadmins maintain network security by deploying firewalls and other relevant security tools. 

Key differences between system administrators and network administrators

Sysadmins and netadmins are both crucial for maintaining an organization’s IT infrastructure. While these positions share some overlapping responsibilities, they aren’t interchangeable. These factors differ between the roles:

Focus area 

Sysadmins manage the overall functionality of computer systems to support organizational goals. Netadmins ensure the stability and security of networks to facilitate reliable data exchange and communication across the organization.

Hardware domain

Netadmins handle key network infrastructure devices, such as ethernet hubs and network gateways. In contrast, sysadmins work with more foundational hardware, such as servers and memory cards. 

Technical know-how

Although sysadmins are knowledgeable in both computer systems and networks, netadmins have a more specialized and in-depth understanding of network infrastructure and protocols.

Career paths and opportunities

Both netadmins and sysadmins are mid-level positions in IT. Discover the career trajectory outlining potential growth paths for each role.

Career path of a system administrator

Starting in a help desk or IT specialist role can serve as a stepping stone to becoming a sysadmin. 

As you gain more experience, you can progress to specialized roles like server administrator, systems engineer, or cloud administrator. You may also have the opportunity to take on the role of a network administrator. Senior-level job opportunities include positions like systems administrator manager and director of systems administration.

The following is an overview of the salary you can earn as a sysadmin, based on your level of experience [1]:

• 0–1 year: $68,883

• 1–3 years: $73,033

• 4–6 years: $76,656

• 7–9 years: $78,784

• 10–14 years: $82,647

• 15+ years: $87,484

Career path of a network administrator

The netadmin role, similar to sysadmin role, necessitates prior experience in entry-level roles like help desk analyst. With sufficient experience, you can take on advanced roles like network security engineer or computer network architect. In time, you could progress to a senior position like principal network administrator.

The breakdown below reveals the impact your experience level has on your average base salary as a netadmin [2]:

• 0–1 year: $68,952

• 1–3 years: $73,068

• 4–6 years: $76,681

• 7–9 years: $78,814

• 10–14 years: $82,680

• 15+ years: $87,511

How to pursue a career in system or network administration

Most organizations expect candidates for a system or network administrator role to have a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. By choosing relevant courses, you can customize your education for either career path.

If you’re aiming to be a netadmin, you may benefit from cybersecurity, network engineering, and database administration courses. If you're interested in the role of a sysadmin, consider opting for courses on operating systems and device maintenance.

To stay competitive with industry trends, it’s beneficial to earn both vendor-specific and neutral certifications. As a sysadmin, you can pursue certifications such as Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA), CompTIA Security+, and CompTIA Network+. As a netadmin, alongside CompTIA Network+ and CompTIA Security+, you can also obtain certifications such as Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) and Certified Network Defender (C|ND).

System administrator vs. network administrator: Which IT role is right for you?

Netadmins focus on building and maintaining the infrastructure linking an organization’s computers. Sysadmins, in contrast, configure software and facilitate user access. The choice between these roles comes down to your individual career goals. 

It’s useful to note that a network administrator is a specific type of system administrator who focuses on IT systems' network infrastructure. 

Sysadmins tend to have a slightly higher salary. As of February 2025, the average annual base salary for sysadmins in the United States is $86,011 per year [1]. Netadmins, on the other hand, earn approximately $79,831 per year [2]. 

Both roles see consistent demand. The demand for network and systems administrators remains high. You'll find many of these positions in industries like computer systems design, education, and finance.

Get started in IT support on Coursera

Systems and network administrators are both crucial to the IT department, often sharing responsibilities that help keep the organization’s technology running smoothly. You could develop the necessary skills to excel in either role by obtaining the Google IT Support Professional Certificate. The five-course series in this certification program offers guidance on executing day-to-day IT support tasks, including computer assembly and wireless networking.