Great Online Resources for a Networking Administrator
When you think of the word network, what comes to mind? Your favorite TV station, perhaps? Facebook or MySpace? Or, if you are studying computers, do you start rehearsing various acronyms: LAN, WAN, WWAN, Wi-Fi (the last one is not actually an acronym, but it’s close enough)? All of these demonstrate the basic principle of networking: linking together a group of objects or people so they can communicate. In business today, networks are one of the most important technologies available. They enable the rapid sharing of ideas and files; the Internet, itself one giant network, is crucial to generating sales and visibility. Companies are turning to networking, not to have an advantage over competitors, but to survive.
The Demand for Computer Networking Professionals
The growth of this section of the computer and technology industry has led to a corresponding increase in trained workers to manage it. In the networking field, there are those who design new networks, those who study existing networks and make recommendations, and those who are responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of the hardware involved. Another increasingly important aspect of networking is ensuring any information is secure. Whether it is a company Intranet (a network within a company or department), or a wireless network, unauthorized access should be prevented. All of these functions require a trained staff, led by a networking administrator.
What Is a Networking Administrator?
The job of a networking administrator includes all of the tasks listed above. Even if some of them are done by co-workers, the administrator still has the final responsibility to ensure that the company’s computer networks are secure, efficient, and up to date.
Top Online Resources for Networking Administrators
Computers and the technology industry are constantly evolving. A network administrator needs to keep up with these changes, and there are several websites that allow him or her to stay current. Here are a few:
- Microsoft TechNet(technet.microsoft.com) From industry giant Microsoft, this site is geared towards IT (Information Technology) professional of all fields. Users can stay on top of technology trends, access a forum to help solve their tough problems, read articles and blogs, and more.
- CNET (www.cnet.com) This site is targeted mainly toward consumers. It offers breaking news, articles, blogs, and in-depth reviews of new products. Itscombination of expert ratings and user ratings make researching new products easy. (The two following websites are also operated by CNET.)
- ZDNET (www.zdnet.com) ZDNET is CNET’s technology-meets-business website. In addition to news, blogs, industry-related downloads, and white papers, this website specializes in business software, communications, reviews, developer tools, and networking.
- TechRepublic (www.techrepublic.com) TechRepublic is CNET’s site for strictly IT matters. Members have access to more than 10,000 how-to manuals, 50,000 white papers, over 1,000 downloads, and thousands of question-and-answer discussions among industry professionals. Newsletters are also available for subscription. This being a CNET offshoot, there are also plenty of product reviews.
- Search Networking (searchnetworking.techtarget.com) Here you’ll find some excellent information for beginners and professionals alike. Learn how to get started in network administration, career options, and what the OSI model is (hint: it’s the basic concept of networking). There are also tutorials, tech guides, book excerpts, and information on all types of networks.
Even if you are just curious about the field of networking, it is a good idea to check out the sites listed above. Some of the information might be too technical for you at this point, but it will give you an idea of what a career as a networking administrator involves. The tutorials also serve as an effective introduction to a demanding and technical job.
(Please note: the above websites were selected as sources of information, not safe shopping sites. Remember to use caution when buying anything online.)
Schools offering Networking training:
Diploma, Bachelor, Associate, Certificate
Computer Aided Drafting, Business Management and Technology, Information Technology Engineering, Computer Science: Concentration in Technical Graphics, Computer Science: Concentration in Networking Technology, ..
Alaska, California, Washington, Online School
Pittsburgh Technical Institute
Associate, Certificate
Multimedia Technologies, Computer Programming, IT - Network Administration, IT - Network Security & Computer Forensics, Electronics Engineering Technology, ..
Pennsylvania
Associate, Bachelor, Certificate, Diploma
Associate of Arts: Graphic Design, Bachelor of Science: Information Technology, Certificate: Computer Support Technician, Certificate: Computer Networking, Associate of Applied Science: Paralegal Studies, ..
Georgia
Associate, Diploma, Bachelor
Graphic Art & Design, Computer Technology, Computer Systems & Network Technology, Cosmetology, Persoanl Fitness Trainer, ..
Nebraska, Tennessee, Missouri, Oklahoma, Illinois, Kansas, Iowa, Ohio
Master, Bachelor
Master of Science in Information Security - Technical Track, Master of Science in Information Security - Managerial Track, Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership - Higher Education, Master of Science in Public Safety Administration, Bachelor of Arts in Fire Service Administration, ..
Online School
