Based on the needs of the client, a system administrator makes design recommendations and maintains client computers, servers, and networks. They set up, upgrade, and manage data cloud infrastructure, facilitating multi user computing settings and guaranteeing the efficient operation of IT services.

IT Support Specialists offer technical assistance to users facing computer system, software, and hardware issues, requiring strong problem-solving, technical knowledge, and excellent communication skills to maintain smooth operations.

Skills Required for an IT & System Administrator

• Operating Systems Knowledge:
  
  • Expertise in OS: In-depth understanding of Windows, Linux, and Unix.
  • Windows: Manage accounts, group policies, Active Directory, and server security.
  • Linux/Unix: Skilled in command-line interfaces, package management, and shell scripting.
• Network Administration:
  • Network Configuration: Set up, monitor, and troubleshoot routers, switches, and firewalls.
  • Routing and Switching: Manage traffic, ensure redundancy, and maintain network performance.
  • Security: Proficiency in firewalls, IDS, and IPS for threat protection..
• Scripting and Automation:
  • Automation Tools: Use Python, PowerShell, and Bash to automate processes.
  • Python: Script for task automation and custom tools.
  • PowerShell: Manage Windows systems through scripting.
  • Bash: Automate tasks on Unix-based systems.
• Cybersecurity:
  • Security Practices: Apply best practices to protect data.
  • Firewall Configuration: Permit legitimate traffic, block malicious activity.
  • Encryption: Secure data in transit and at rest.
  • Patching: Perform regular updates to fix vulnerabilities.
• Database Management:
  • SQL Proficiency: Create strategies to ensure data integrity and availability.
  • Backup and Recovery: Manage accounts, group policies, Active Directory, and server security.
• Cloud Computing:
  • Cloud Expertise: Manage resources in AWS, Azure, and GCP.
  • Infrastructure Management: Provision, configure, and manage cloud resources.
  • Cloud Security: Implement security best practices for cloud environments.

Tools Required in IT & System Administration

Linux: An Open Source Unix-like Operating System

Linux is a potent open-source operating system that is utilized for system administration, development, and server environments. It is an indispensable platform for contemporary computing because it provides stability, security, scripting, automation, configurable systems, and a thriving developer community.

Components of a Linux System:

• Bootloader:
  
  Loads the Linux operating system when the computer starts. (Examples: GNU GRUB, LILO, SYSLINUX, systemd-boot.)
• Init Program:
  
  The first program run by Linux; it starts system services and login screens.
• Software Libraries:
  
  
  • Dynamic Linker: Handles shared libraries used by programs.
  • C Standard Library: Necessary for running C programs (e.g., GNU C Library).
  • Other Libraries: Additional libraries like SDL and Mesa for specific functions.
• Basic Unix Commands:
  
  Standard Tools: Provided by GNU coreutils.
  • Embedded System Tools: Alternatives like BusyBox and Toybox for simpler systems.
• Widget Toolkits:
  
  To build graphical interfaces for applications. ( GTK, Qt, Enlightenment Libraries.)
• Package Management System:
  
  Installs and updates software on the system.
• User Interface Programs:
  
  Command-line (CLI) and graphical interfaces (GUI).

Features of Linux

• Multi User functionality allows several users to use separate terminals to access the same system resources.
• Multitasking: Using intelligent CPU time division, several tasks can be carried out at once.
• Portability: Linux can run on a variety of devices and supports a wide range of hardware.
• Security features include encryption, authorization, and authentication.
• Live CD/USB: The majority of Linux distributions include live CD/USB for user testing.
• Graphical User Interface (X Window System): GUI-based Linux systems are conceivable.
• Multilingual support for an adjustable keyboard.
• Application support: Its own software repository allows users to download and set up programs.
• File System: Offers a structured file system.
• Open Source: Community-based, freely accessible software.

Windows Server: A group of Server Operating Systems

Windows Server Administration is a comprehensive field that covers server installation, configuration, roles, storage, Active Directory, remote access, virtualization, troubleshooting, performance, and reliability.

Components of Windows Server

• Active Directory:
  
  • Function: Organizes network resources and manages user access.
  • Features: Regulates security, streamlines administration, supports domain integrity, and integrates with Group Policy.
• Group Policy:
  
  • Function: Controls computer and user configurations across the network.
  • Uses: Installs software, distributes updates, and configures security settings.
• Hyper-V:
  
  • Function: Virtualization technology for running multiple OS on one server.
  • Features: Supports live migration, dynamic resource allocation, and simplifies virtual machine management.
• Remote Desktop Services:
  
  • Function: Allows users to access resources from any device/location.
  • Features: Provides secure user authorization, uniform program deployment, VDI, and session-based virtualization.
• DNS:
  
  • Function: Converts domain names into IP addresses.
  • Features: Manages domain name resolution on networks using a feature-rich DNS server.
• PowerShell:
  
  • Function: Scripting language and command-line shell for server management.
  • Features: Automates complex tasks, supports secure usage, and enables local/remote management.

Features of Windows Server

• Multi-Layered Security:
  
  
  • Windows Defender: Built-in antivirus and firewall providing strong protection
  • Automated Patching: Keeps the system updated with the latest security fixes.
  • Server Core Option: Reduces the attack surface by using a smaller code base.
• Multiple Sockets:
  
  
  • Host Multiple Websites: Allows simultaneous hosting of multiple sites, enhancing flexibility and performance.
• Low Maintenance:
  
  
  • Minimal Maintenance Required: Enables IT administrators to focus on other tasks, reducing overall maintenance needs.
• Scalability:
  
  
  • Adjustable Resources: Easily scale system resources to meet changing demands, accommodating spikes in traffic and adjusting application architecture.
• Access Control:
  
  
  • User-Level Restrictions: Simplifies setting access permissions based on credentials, enhancing security and protecting sensitive data.
  • Features: Manages domain name resolution on networks using a feature-rich DNS server.
• Security Updates:
  
  
  • Automatic Updates: Ensures the system is protected against the latest threats and vulnerabilities, improving both security and performance.