How do i become a Sys Admin?

petes2008

Hi,
Apologies if this is the wrong thread but I wasn’t sure where to direct this question. I have been working in IT support for approximately 6 years now and have been contracting for the past 3, mostly doing desktop and network support. I am now looking to advance in my career into an area that is more specialised, challenging and with better financial reward. I have considered venturing into the infrastructure/networking side of things i.e. working towards system admin, because the networking side of things interests me. Before I venture down the long and winding road of Cisco certification I was hoping to get some feedback from the people working in this sector. Can you tell me how hard it is to break into this sector and what are the best certifications to have under your belt? Can you tell me if it pays well and how much work is currently available. I know most of the answers to the questions are primarily based on hands on experience but any feedback would be much appreciated.
Cheers.

rickdangerouss

For me, the market is in flood mode. Cisco is a good cert but not that good without exp. Could you tell us more of the background you was/are in? It's open ended at the moment.

I do not see allot of jobs in this area and if there is a job, Senior is writen all over it.

Best of luck.

mickman

i am a sys admin earning almost 50k. i have been working in IT for 9 yrs. there are no jobs out there anywhere at present. the work is challenging and interesting but nothing too stressfull if you do things right.

i would do the MCSE, CCNA and VCP. these with experience and you are sorted. one without the other is no good though

AARRRGH

You could also go down the Unix route. It tends to be less crowded.