What Is a Security Administrator?
In any good organization using computers in their operations, there’s always that one incredibly intelligent human who seems to know everything about computers. In essence, this is a certified specialist who manages computers and the security of the network. This important person is in charge of the management of all the system security apparatus like devices, anti-virus software, firewalls, and other configured applications running within the network. They’re the go-to person for any queries pertaining to system security.
This is the security administrator. Their job is as varied as the network they are supporting. But anyone who wants to be a security administrator must have a strong educational background, as they will need to keep their systems safe from hackers and internal mistakes. Let’s take a look at what a security administrator does and why their job is so vital to a company’s everyday operations.
What Exactly Is Their Job?
Now you’re asking: Why would an organization need a security administrator? Or rather, what exactly is the importance of a security administrator in an organization? What is their job? As a system security administrator, you’re tasked with the following:
- Running security checks: You implement a routine security audit of the system. You make sure all the network connections are optimally functional with zero flaws. You can also conduct penetration tests to root out and fend off any potential threats to the system.
- Configuring security parameters and devices: You’re the person who knows how to keep the system secure and running smoothly, so you’re the one to configure the security parameters and devices in the network, as well as conduct regular updates.
- Formulating security policies: Since you’re rich in security knowledge, you’re the important person who comes up with the best policies to maintain credible security. You train the staff on how best to handle the installed systems and how to identify potential threats. For example, you could teach them how to fend off a potential phishing attempt by not clicking on suspicious email links or visiting unsafe websites while on the network.
- Advising: As a well-versed system administrator, you find yourself in a good and trusted position to advise the organization on the best ways to run smoothly and also protect the system. Your advice on security policies, plans for disaster recovery, software to be installed and the best servers is well-regarded.
Why Would You Get A Master’s Degree In This Field?
If you were running a company would you want to hire someone with a strong educational background, certifications, and a track record in IT? Or a person who said they were really good with computers and showed off the gif-heavy website they boasted they built?
A master’s degree in information systems not only teaches you how to track the problems you’re likely to run into on the job most days, but it also validates your skills. Employers won’t have to question if you really know what you’re talking about when you have an accredited diploma to back up what you’re saying. The education you obtain during a master’s degree program is invaluable to performing this demanding job. And employers know this.
Here are some other benefits to earning a master’s degree:
- You’ll be a leader: If you thought the IT industry doesn’t need any leadership skills, you’ve been very wrong. A security administrator is a senior figure in an organization, and that’s a position that needs more brains to manage.
- Your value appreciates: Let’s face it: We live in a world where the most learned people are the most valued. Not just because they spent more time in classes, but because they boast more knowledge in their professional field. The same applies in the IT industry. Furthering your education gives you a better understanding of the ins and outs of your field.
- You get more knowledgeable: Enrolling for a master’s degree gives you the perfect opportunity to acquire extensive knowledge relating to your role as a security administrator. You’re exposed to the applied, theoretical, as well practical problem-solving fundamentals and concepts in information technology. You also get updated on the latest trends in the industry, and that puts you in a better position to perform your duties with minimal glitches.
Where Do I Go From Here?
If you’re looking for a leadership role in the IT world, a Master of Science in Information Systems can give you just that. While you can be a security administrator, there are many other options for you if you want to try something else. Here are just a few:
- vArchitect
- Application developer – Mobile, Desktop or Web
- Cloud administrator
As for where you might work, that answer is so broad it stretches across the world! Security administrators and other computer experts have found employment everywhere from the smallest local business to the government, overseeing data and systems for thousands upon thousands. Some security administrators freelance and offer their expertise to businesses who might not need them full time. Others work for hospitals, corporations, anywhere there are computer systems to manage to keep safe.
Are you interested in earning a Master of Science Degree in Information Systems? If you’re considering a graduate degree in this exciting field, you should consider ECPI University. With accelerated classes and year-round scheduling, you could earn your degree sooner and start looking for work faster. For more information, contact one of our helpful admissions counselors today.
It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!
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