A network security administrator helps protect systems from cyber attacks. They also manage all security resources and related departments in a company.
So, what are the values and duties involved in this profession? What a day in the life of a network security admin would be like? I will share with you my own story working in this role. Let’s get going!
An Overview Of Network Security Administration
A network security administrator helps secure a network or a digital asset. It’s typically a network system of companies and businesses. These organizations hire administrators to help maintain their security infrastructure.
An administrator is also responsible for finding security issues and developing tactics to counter them. Plus, they help manage and train other security staff.
Professionals in this field must possess skills relating to networking and master all IT security tactics.
A Day In The Life Of A Network Security Admin
Network security administration revolves around the tasks of an IT engineer as well as a security consultant. The managing role is significant in this career path.
The security threats are endless, and they can emerge at any time. Therefore, these experts have to work on a wide range of projects and tasks.
I will share with you a typical day of my work to bring a more detailed insight.
Job Overview
I currently work for a network-based business that develops an online platform. It focuses on reviewing and selling products. My firm has many teams that take care of maintaining the website.
I work with a security team to handle the security domain and protect the site from attacks. Most of the time, the system will properly function. There are no technical issues or threats occurring. During these periods, I will spend my time maintaining the system.
I will use a special tool to check the system’s source code. It will help me identify potential weaknesses that hackers can take advantage of.
When there’s a problem, my team will conduct different protocols to solve it. All staff usually work overtime during periods like this.
9:00 AM
The network security staff all follow a fixed schedule when the system is running well. I usually attend the company at 9:00 AM to prepare for my daily tasks. Most of my working days last 8 hours.
My team often conducts regular updates to the system. It involves giving new features and increasing the site’s security. Therefore, the first thing I do is to recheck all the updates.
I will review the site’s functions and ensure that there are no flaws that occur during updates. If there’s a problem, I will report it back to my team. Then, all members will host a meeting to solve the problem.
10:00 AM
The checking process normally lasts one hour if the updates are completed. After that, I move on to conduct training sessions for team members. I will monitor their performance and provide support if necessary.
For example, one member takes charge of maintaining the links to the products on the site. I will recheck all the links to assess if they have fulfilled their duty.
11:00 AM
My team usually hosts a meeting at 11:00 AM. Each member will take turns reporting the work progress to me and the chief manager.
Then, the chief manager will inform departments about upcoming changes and adjustments. For example, they may want to push the speed of upgrade patches to increase the system’s stability.
12:00 AM
The morning work finishes at 12:00 AM, and all staff members take a break. I usually sit at the company’s cafeteria for lunch and review the schedules for my afternoon work.
1:00 PM
The first thing I do in the afternoon is to host a meeting with my security team. I will inform the plans and changes set up from the morning’s meeting session back to the team members.
Then, the team will discuss and share ideas on possible methods for making the changes. For instance, the members will brainstorm solutions for increasing the network’s updating speed.
I will consider and pick the most effective ideas with the agreement of all team members. Then, I will assign each team member detailed duties.
2:00 PM
After the meeting, I will return to my desk and repeat the morning work. It involves tasks like:
- Monitoring the system
- Search for potential security issues
- Monitor team members’ progress and work results.
- Pen testing
Besides, I will spend time researching and looking for new ideas and tools that can increase the security level of the company’s network.
5:00 PM
I will review the network once more and check the security infrastructure. Then, I will make a report and submit it to the chief manager.
Is Network Security Administration Suitable For You?
Administrating a large security system is a challenging task. You have to manage all the related resources and departments. You are also responsible for the system’s security and smooth operation.
The responsibility of security administrators is very high. Besides technical skills and experience, you must possess excellent leadership. However, this career will bring you high recognition and a competitive income.
Suppose you have built a foundation in IT security. Then, you can develop your management and communication skills. They are essential factors to help you become an excellent network security admin.
Lastly, you must be able to cope with the stress this role brings. There are always security problems and threats to conquer every day. Don’t hesitate to pursue this role if you value a high income and possess suitable skills for it.
Final Thoughts
Everyday is a challenge for me when working as a network security administrator. There are many tasks to complete and domains to manage.
Yet, it’s this challenging working style that motivated me to pursue this career. It gives me a sense of accomplishment that no other career can bring.