Career roadmap
How to Become a Network Administrator
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a network administrator, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a network administrator: (1) learn IT fundamentals, (2) start in IT support, (3) earn Network+ and CCNA, (4) build a lab, (5) advance. Most people need about 1–4 years. BLS lists “bachelor's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a network administrator
Learn IT fundamentals
Hardware, operating systems and networking basics.
Start in IT support
Help desk roles provide real-world experience.
Earn Network+ and CCNA
Prove networking knowledge to employers.
Build a lab
Practice routing, switching, firewalls and servers in a home lab or simulator.
Advance
Move into network engineering, cloud, security or architecture roles.
Education and training requirements
BLS lists a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology or a related field as typical. Many administrators instead combine an associate degree or IT experience with certifications such as Network+ and CCNA.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 1–4 years |
Certifications and licenses
- CompTIA Network+: Vendor-neutral networking fundamentals.
- Cisco CCNA: A widely respected networking certification.
- Microsoft Azure Administrator: Cloud administration certification.
- CompTIA Security+: Security fundamentals often required for government roles.
Skills to build now
Start with routing and switching, tcp/ip and subnetting, and firewalls and vpns, and practice methodical troubleshooting and documentation. Learning the network administrator vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Help Desk or Junior Admin: Support users and basic systems.
- Network or Systems Administrator: Manage networks and servers.
- Network or Cloud Engineer: Design and automate infrastructure.
- Infrastructure Architect or IT Director: Lead strategy and teams.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Network Administrator training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do network administrators need a degree?
BLS lists a bachelor’s degree as typical, but many administrators combine experience and certifications instead.
How long does it take to become a network administrator?
Most people need about 1–4 years of training. BLS lists a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology or a related field as typical. Many administrators instead combine an associate degree or IT experience with certifications such as Network+ and CCNA.
Do you need a degree to be a network administrator?
Often, but not always. BLS lists a bachelor’s degree as typical, but many network administrators move up from help desk roles with certifications such as CompTIA Network+ and Cisco CCNA.
What certifications are available for network administrators?
Common credentials include CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA, Microsoft Azure Administrator, and CompTIA Security+. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 15-1244 (Network and computer systems administrators).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Network and computer systems administrators (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.