Hi there! I'm a Computer Engineer with a strong focus on back-end programming. In college, I studied cybersecurity, but I feel like I've forgotten most of that knowledge. Now, I want to dive back into the world of system administration, but I have no idea where to start. What steps should I take to re-enter this field, what can I expect along the way, and how different is system administration from programming? I know this might sound like a silly question since I have a background in cybersecurity, but I'm really looking for some guidance here!
4 Answers
System administration isn't as focused on programming as you might expect. Sure, knowing some scripting can help, but it's not a strict necessity. Typically, you won't jump right into a sysadmin role — starting at help desk positions is usually the first step to gain practical experience. Getting a certification like A+ is a good idea, but nothing beats real-world experience. I suggest looking at job postings to see what skills and technologies employers are asking for!
I get where you’re coming from, but I advise you to think twice. Development roles often pay better and provide a better career trajectory compared to starting out in IT.
Don't forget about the CCNA certification! It's a great credential to help you get into networking and system administration. It can open a lot of doors.
Honestly, if you're aiming for more financial rewards, sticking with development might be your best bet. If you really want to transition to IT, be prepared for entry-level positions like help desk roles that typically start around $50k and build your way up to sysadmin. Just a thought!
Thanks for the advice! I’ll definitely start looking for help desk roles to gain that experience.