These workers educate users about computer security, install security software, monitor networks for security breaches, respond to cyber attacks, and, in some cases, gather data and evidence to be used in prosecuting cyber crime. Some database administrators may also be responsible for database design, but this task is usually performed by database designers or database analysts.Ĭomputer security specialists plan, coordinate, and maintain an organization’s information security. Because many databases are connected to the Internet, database administrators also must plan and coordinate security measures with network administrators. An organization’s database administrator ensures the performance of the system, understands the platform on which the database runs, and adds new users to the system. They also test and coordinate modifications to the system when needed, and troubleshoot problems when they occur. In many cases, database administrators must integrate data from old systems into a new system. They identify user needs and set up new computer databases.
Many of these workers are also responsible for maintaining network and system security.ĭatabase administrators work with database management software and determine ways to store, organize, analyze, use, and present data. Administrators also troubleshoot problems reported by users and by automated network monitoring systems and make recommendations for future system upgrades. They ensure that the design of an organization’s computer system allows all of the components, including computers, the network, and software, to work properly together. Systems administrators are responsible for maintaining system efficiency. These workers gather data to evaluate a system’s performance, identify user needs, and determine system and network requirements. They install and maintain network hardware and software, analyze problems, and monitor networks to ensure their availability to users. They work in a variety of environments, including large corporations, small businesses, and government organizations. They are responsible for LANs, WANs, network segments, and Internet and intranet systems.
Network and computer systems administrators design, install, and support an organization’s computer systems. These workers may also research related products and make necessary hardware and software recommendations, as well as address information security issues. For example, setting up a network may involve the installation of several pieces of hardware, such as routers and hubs, wireless adaptors, and cables, as well as the installation and configuration of software, such as network drivers. Network architects and engineers perform network modeling, analysis, and planning, which often require both hardware and software solutions. Systems are configured in many ways and can range from a connection between two offices in the same building to globally distributed networks, voice mail, and e-mail systems of a multinational organization. They set up, test, and evaluate systems such as local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), the Internet, intranets, and other data communications systems.
Network architects or network engineers are the designers of computer networks. The workers described below all help individuals and organizations share and store information through computer networks and systems, the Internet, and computer databases. Among its most important functions are the efficient transmission of information and the storage and analysis of information. Information Technology (IT) has become an integral part of modern life.