Popular System Administrator Certifications for You

As technology continues to evolve, the demand for skilled system administrators grows. System administrators are responsible for managing an organization’s computer network and systems, including hardware and software. They ensure everything functions efficiently and securely, which is why it’s essential for them to have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their job effectively. One way to demonstrate these skills and knowledge is by obtaining a system administrator certification.

Importance of System Administration Certifications

System administration certifications are essential because they provide a way for employers and colleagues to verify that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to perform your job effectively. In some cases, employers may require or prefer specific certifications that align with their organization’s needs.

Additionally, earning certifications can give you a competitive advantage over other candidates, increase your earning potential, and provide you with supplementary experience or knowledge.

The Role of a System Administrator

A system administrator’s primary responsibility is to manage and maintain an organization’s computer network and systems. They ensure that everything runs efficiently and securely, which includes installing and configuring hardware and software, implementing upgrades to computer systems, managing an organization’s IT structure’s security, monitoring computer systems and networks to identify issues or threats, and providing technical support to users related to hardware and software.

System administrators must have a thorough understanding of computer systems and networks, as well as excellent problem-solving and communication skills. They must be able to work under pressure and have the ability to prioritize tasks effectively.

Popular System Administrator Certifications

Here are popular system administrator certifications that you should consider:

1. Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)

The RHCSA certification is intended for experienced Red Hat Enterprise Linux system administrators to showcase their skill set. It is also a prerequisite for those who want to become Red Hat Certified Engineers. This certification demonstrates that individuals can install, configure, deploy, and maintain Linux systems and firewalls.

2. Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE)

The RHCE certification is designed for experienced Linux or UNIX system administrators who want to prove their advanced knowledge and skills in managing systems in DevOps environments.

3. CompTIA Server+

The CompTIA Server+ certification is intended for administrators who install, manage, and troubleshoot servers at an administrator level. The certification is vendor-neutral and covers a range of skills and knowledge related to both hardware and software in on-premise and hybrid server environments, including scripting and cloud computing.

4. CompTIA Security+

The CompTIA Security+ certification is intended for cybersecurity professionals, but it is also useful for system administrators who want to demonstrate their skills in protecting systems and data. Candidates with this certification can show that they can install and configure secure systems, as well as perform threat analyses and implement risk mitigation and response activities.

5. ServiceNow Certified System Administrator

The ServiceNow Certified System Administrator certification is intended for individuals who want to demonstrate their ability to use and manage ServiceNow systems. ServiceNow is a cloud-based platform that certain businesses use to automate IT business management activities. These organizations may hire ServiceNow administrators responsible for creating and developing applications for this platform and offering assistance to users.

6. Linux Professional Institute LPIC-1 Linux Administrator

The Linux Professional Institute provides a variety of certification options for system administrators, beginning with the LPIC-1 Linux Administrator. This certification demonstrates that professionals are capable of installing, configuring, and maintaining Linux systems. It covers topics such as fundamental maintenance tasks, comprehension of Linux, UNIX, and GNU commands, file and access permissions management, as well as networking and security fundamentals.

7. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

The CCNA certification is an entry-level certification for IT professionals, including system administrators, that demonstrates their skills and knowledge of fundamental networking concepts. These concepts include installation, configuration, and management of routers, switches, firewalls, and wireless access points.

8. Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate

The Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate is a certification that demonstrates professionals’ ability to implement, manage, and monitor Microsoft Azure environments for organizations. Azure is a cloud computing platform that provides a range of services that support business activities and management.

9. VMware Certified Professional – Data Center Virtualization (VCP-DCV)

The VCP-DCV is a certification offered by VMWare that demonstrates professionals’ ability to work with vSphere infrastructure. vSphere is a cloud computing virtualization platform. Virtualization allows users to simulate functions and run multiple operating systems at once, creating a virtual or digital version of computer hardware.

Conclusion

If you’re interested in advancing your career as a system administrator, earning a certification can help open doors and provide you with the skills you need to excel in your role. There are many certifications available, and it’s important to consider your organization’s needs, your career goals, and the skills and knowledge you want to acquire when choosing which one to pursue. Ultimately, investing in a system administration certification can be a valuable investment in your future. The article lists nine certifications as examples to pursue, but there are many more options available.