Network & Systems Administration

Close up image of servers.8 Weeks, 8 hours/week, 100% online, $595

Network and Systems Administration professionals are vital for maintaining the stability, security, and efficiency of an organization’s IT infrastructure. Register today to learn the fundamentals of how to install, configure and maintain computer hardware, software and networks.

Registration
$595

Contact us for group rates and customized training

About This Pathway

UW-Milwaukee TechEd Frontiers Network and Systems Administration Digital Badge

Complete the Network and Systems Administration pathway to acquire foundational knowledge and skills in network installation, configuration, and maintenance, along with other common enterprise technologies. Gain the ability to analyze complex information and technology needs, applying principles of information science to implement effective solutions. Learn to design, implement, evaluate, and administer information systems that meet specific user and organizational needs across diverse environments. Additionally, develop effective communication abilities to thrive in various professional contexts.

In this pathway, you will:

  • Obtain a strong grasp of fundamental network concepts and principles, enabling you to install, configure, and maintain computer networks, including network device setup, implementing security measures, and troubleshooting common issues.
  • Examine network designs & technologies, including different types of networks (LAN, WAN, MAN), network topologies, network protocols, and network security principles.
  • Gain familiarity with Components of Network Infrastructure like routers, switches, servers, firewalls, and storage devices, understanding their roles and functions in a network environment.
  • Learn the basics of Linux and Windows operating systems, including installation, configuration, and management, covering command-line operations, file systems, user management, and system administration tasks.
  • Explore networked technologies commonly used in enterprise environments such as active directory for user and resource management in Windows networks, and virtualization software for creating and managing virtual machines.
  • Equip yourself with the foundational knowledge to install, configure, and maintain computers and common computing hardware, covering Windows and Linux operating systems, server and client device management.

Modules

The pathway consists of four modules, building the fundamental skills necessary to pursue a career in network and systems administration. Each self-paced module is designed for two weeks of learning, approximately eight hours each week.

The modules include:

  • Module 1 – Introduction to Networking
    • Course Intro
    • Computer Hardware Basics
    • Network Hardware Basics
    • Network Topologies & Technologies
    • Network Media
    • Network Protocols
    • IP Addressing
    • Reference Models
    • Computer Build (Lab)
    • Network Cable Build (Lab)
    • SI Model Mnemonic (Lab)
    • Cisco Packet Tracer (Lab)
  • Module 2 – Linux Essentials
    • Open-Source Software & Linux Intro
    • Virtual Machines (Type 2 Hypervisors)
    • Installing Linux
    • OS Overview
    • Command-Line Basics
    • Building a Linux Virtual Machine (Lab)
    • Linux CLI & OS Fundamentals (Lab)
  • Module 3 – Windows Essentials
    • Installing Windows
    • Command-Line Basics
    • Common IT Admin Tools
    • Windows Server
    • Installing Windows Desktop (Lab)
    • Installing Windows Server (Lab)
    • Windows CLI Basics (Lab)
  • Module 4 – Enterprise Technologies
    • Active Directory
    • Group Policy & User Management
    • Cloud Services & Azure
    • Type 1 Hypervisors
    • Building an Active Directory (Lab)
    • Group Policy & User Management (Lab)
    • Getting Started with Azure (Lab)
    • Setting up a Type 1 Hypervisor (Lab)

Ideal Learner

This TechEd Learning pathway has been designed for learners interested in pursuing a career in the field of IT, who possess a strong passion for working with computer networks and systems, or for individuals who may already be working in the IT industry but want to enhance their skills in network and systems administration. It provides an opportunity to enhance existing skills or acquire new ones, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced IT professionals. By completing this course, learners will be equipped with the foundational knowledge and competencies necessary to pursue a career in network and systems administration.

Course Hardware Requirements:

  • Access to a broadband internet connection which can stream HD video and download large 10GB+ files
  • A modern computer which can run several simultaneous x86 based virtual machines (not ARM/Apple Silicon) with adequate resources. Example: Modern Intel i5 or AMD CPU, 16GB RAM, 500GB SSD
    Ideal Learner

Network & Systems Administration Skills are in Demand

Network and systems administration skills continue to be in demand in today’s technology-driven world. Network and systems administrators play a crucial role in managing and maintaining the infrastructure and connectivity of organizations, ensuring that networks, servers, and other IT systems operate efficiently and securely. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the employment of network and computer systems administrators in the United States was projected to grow 4 percent year over year from 2019 to 2029, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth can be attributed to the increasing reliance on technology and the need for professionals to manage and secure computer networks and systems. Showcase your new skills by sharing a digital badge with your professional networks.

Learn From Subject Matter Experts

The competencies in every TechEd Frontiers pathway have been created and informed by UWM’s award-winning faculty and industry leaders from some of Milwaukee’s largest companies. Experts involved in the Network & Systems Administration digital credential come from UWM’s School of Information Studies.

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