Systems Administrator career guide
Systems administrators install, configure and maintain servers, operating systems and business IT infrastructure.
Career guide reviewed by Certyz · October 2026
Entry routes vary by employer and role. Compare the options below before deciding what to research next.
What does a Systems Administrator do?
Systems administrators install, configure and maintain servers, operating systems and business IT infrastructure.
- Office
- Server rooms
- Hybrid working
- Data centres
- Technology companies
- Schools
- Hospitals
- Government
- Managed service providers
How to become a Systems Administrator
Systems administrators frequently qualify through apprenticeships before progressing into infrastructure engineering and cloud roles.
Degree, Degree Apprenticeship or IT Infrastructure Apprenticeship.
- Degree apprenticeship
- Apprenticeship
- College
- Direct employment or training
Skills and progression for Systems Administrator
- Windows
- Linux
- Networking
- Troubleshooting
- Problem solving
- Senior Systems Administrator
- Infrastructure Engineer
- Cloud Engineer
- Infrastructure Manager
- IT Director
Check current entry requirements before deciding
This Certyz guide is a starting point. Qualifications, registration rules and apprenticeship availability can change. Confirm the latest requirements with employers, course providers, relevant professional bodies and official careers guidance.
What could the outlook mean for you?
Career opportunities can look different depending on where you live, your preferred route and the subjects and activities you enjoy. Your report brings those factors together rather than giving you a generic answer.
- Regional vacancy and salary intelligence
- Your personal career-match reasoning
- Opportunity strength and market direction
- Alternative careers worth considering