What should I focus on to transition into a sysadmin role?

Sysadmin roles can be quite broad, so you really can start from anywhere. Just dive into networking fundamentals if you're uncertain. It's crucial to adopt a 'sink or swim' mentality as you learn about different topics. Don’t hesitate to tackle a variety of tasks to gain real-world experience.

Curiosity is key in this field—always ask yourself why things work or break. Setting up a home lab is also a great way to learn. Messing things up in a controlled environment allows you to experiment and fix issues without real-world consequences. While certifications are helpful, remember that hands-on experience often counts just as much, especially if you're looking to move up internally.

To get started in sysadmin, I recommend focusing on cloud services like AWS or Azure, along with learning virtualization and networking basics (like Cisco). Earning an entry-level certification in any of these areas can really help you land a junior sysadmin position. Once you’re in, you might find an area you want to specialize in based on your experiences.

It sounds like you're already doing some of the right things by handling issues independently. In my experience, the best sysadmins are those who not only fix current problems but also proactively seek out issues and solutions aligned with business goals. My advice is to keep pushing yourself into new challenges and learning opportunities. Don’t settle into a routine; always look for ways to grow, as that’s what helps you advance in this field.