Computer Network Manager

Also known as:

Network Manager

Introduction

Computer network managers support and maintain the computer networks used in many organisations. A network is a group of computers linked together, usually through a powerful central computer called a fileserver.

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Work Activities

Computer network managers maintain and support the computer networks used in many large organisations. A network is a group of computers linked with one another, usually via a powerful central computer known as a fileserver.

Networking offers a number of advantages for organisations, for example:
• staff of the organisation can share information and resources
• teams can work together on a project, even if they are in different offices
• data (eg numbers of sales, or enquiries) can be collected and analysed centrally
• equipment such as printers can be shared by several users.

Network managers might be responsible for one or more computer networks. Organisations often have several networks: perhaps a local area network (LAN) within an office, and a wide area network (WAN) linking branches across the UK or worldwide.

Network managers and their staff do tasks such as connecting new users to the network, issuing passwords and removing log-ins for staff who have left. They make sure the network is secure and can be accessed only by authorised staff.

They must make sure that regular back-ups are performed. At the end of the day (or overnight), all the current data on the network has to be saved on to a separate storage device such as a magnetic disk or tape.

This is kept in a secure place well away from the main fileserver. Should there be a network failure, all data up to the previous night can then be restored from the back-up.

When there are problems with the network, computer network managers investigate and try to fix them as quickly as possible. To do this they sometimes need to work with hardware and software suppliers and internet access providers.

Computer network managers are also involved in budgeting and forward planning They must make sure network hardware and software are updated to suit the organisation's present and future needs.

Managers might have to visit other offices and sites to install or update hardware and software.

Computer network managers usually supervise a small team of network administrators, technicians and support workers. They have a good knowledge of computer systems, as well as business knowledge and some programming skills.

When there are problems managers would probably have to work late. They might also be 'on call' at times in case there is a systems failure.

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Personal Qualities and Skills

As a computer network manager, you should have a strong IT skills and a good knowledge of network hardware and software.

You should be patient and methodical, as identifying the cause of a problem sometimes requires a degree of detective work. You should enjoy problem solving.

You have to plan and prioritise work and motivate your team.

You need good written and spoken communication skills to manage staff and liaise with users and suppliers.

You need to be calm, conscientious and able to cope with stress, particularly when the network is not working correctly.

You must be willing to keep up to date with advances in technology.

For some jobs, you might need a driving licence.

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Pay and Opportunities

Salaries vary depending on role and responsibilities.

The pay rates given below are approximate.

Salaries are in the range of £26,000 - £33,500 a year, rising to £43,500 - £58,500. Higher earners can make around £77,000 a year.

Salaries may include performance-related pay, profit sharing or company bonuses.

Computer network managers work a basic 37-hour week, Monday to Friday. Late finishes and weekend work are sometimes required, and they might be on call to deal with emergencies.

There are jobs throughout the UK, in industry and commerce, including banks, building societies and insurance companies, as well as in the public sector with local and central government departments, the National Health Service (NHS) and public utilities.

Some experienced IT managers work on a freelance basis, usually on short term contracts.

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Adult Opportunities

It is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

Some employers will consider applicants with broad relevant skills, even if they do not have the usual entry qualifications.

Some entrants have a background as a network technician or network administrator, sometimes gaining certified qualifications.

If you don't have the qualifications needed to enter your chosen degree or HND course, a college or university Access course, eg, Access to IT/Computing, could be the way in. These courses are designed for people who have not followed the usual routes into higher education. No formal qualifications are usually needed, but you should check this with individual colleges.

A range of manufacturer accredited courses are available on an intensive basis, often flexible and part-time, including evenings and weekends, such as CISCO Certified Network Associate and UNIX.

Distance learning is available from Computeach, covering networks.

• 6% of people in occupations such as computer network manager are self-employed.
• 4% work part-time.
• 17% have flexible hours.
• 1% of employees work on a temporary basis.

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