About this Course
Every app, website and cloud service depends on people who can keep computer systems and networks running reliably. If you’re interested in essential IT careers, network and system administration offers a clear path into infrastructure, operations and cybersecurity-focused roles.
In this foundational course, you’ll explore the core tasks of network and system administrators while building the technical skills needed for modern IT roles. You’ll gain hands-on experience with Linux system administration, security controls and network fundamentals. By the end of the course, you’ll have experience deploying and managing containerized applications — packaged to run consistently — in cloud environments. Whether you’re interested in cybersecurity, DevOps, cloud engineering or data infrastructure, this course provides the practical knowledge and confidence to succeed in today’s IT settings.
You can take this course on its own or use it to prepare for one of these programs:
Designed For
Anyone interested in developing the skills necessary for network and system administration roles.
See Requirements
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
This is an introductory programming course, and no previous experience is required. Anyone is encouraged to enroll.
To get the most out of this course, you should have some experience using a command line in an operating system such as Windows, Linux or Mac; managing email and files on a computer; and using word and data processing software such as Microsoft Word and Excel.
English Proficiency
If English is not your native language, you should have at least intermediate English skills to enroll. To see if you qualify, make sure you are at the B2 level on the CEFR self-assessment grid. To learn more, see English Language Proficiency Requirements – Noncredit Programs.
International Students
Because this offering is 100% online, no visa is required and international students are welcome to apply. For more information, see Admission Requirements for International Students.
TECHNOLOGY REQUIREMENTS
- A computer or laptop with the following required specifications:
- 1.83 GHz Intel Core Duo or faster processor (or the equivalent)
- A recent operating system (Windows or Mac)
- At least 4G of RAM
- Administrative privileges to install software
- A high-speed internet connection
- A headset with microphone
Completing the Course
To successfully complete this course, you must fulfill the requirements outlined by your instructor.
What You’ll Learn
- Techniques for command‑line Linux administration including user management, process control and troubleshooting common system issues
- Core TCP/IP networking concepts and service setup, including how systems communicate using common protocols (SSH, DNS, HTTP, HTTPS)
- Security practices for Linux systems, such as permissions, secure access methods, certificates and basic host‑based firewall configuration
- How to automate and manage systems efficiently using scripting, Git version control and configuration tools such as Ansible
- Foundational container and cloud skills, including deploying applications and managing resources using AWS Console and CLI tools
Get Hands-On Experience
- Install, configure and secure Linux systems in lab-driven environments using permissions, ACLs, SELinux, SSH authentication and host‑based firewall tools
- Write Bash automation scripts, explore programming with Python, use Git for version control and apply Ansible for system administration
- Deploy and manage containerized applications in a Kubernetes cluster and interact with AWS services using Console and CLI tools
EARN A DIGITAL BADGE
After successfully completing this course, you can claim a digital achievement badge that can be shared on LinkedIn and other social media sites. Learn more about digital badges.
Career Stats
20.1%
Projected job growth for network and computer systems administrators in Washington state (2024–2034)
$104,062
Median salary for network and systems administrators in Washington state (2023)
OUR ENROLLMENT COACHES ARE HERE TO HELP
Connect with an enrollment coach to learn more about this offering. Or if you need help finding the right certificate, specialization or course for you, reach out to explore your options.
This program is intended for professional development and is not designed to meet educational requirements for professional licensure or certification.