System Administrator Interview Questions and Answers

The following sample interview for system administrators will give you a quick start to your job interview preparation.

System administrators are responsible for the entire network of hardware and software that makes up an organization’s computer system. They take care of everything from installation and security to periodic maintenance and upgrades.

Job Interview Questions and Answers
for a System Administrator

Question: What experience do you have with hardware components? 
Answer: Installation and replacement are some of the most frequently performed operations with hardware. Sometimes a system administrator might need to rebuild a hardware component.

Question: Give an example of systems you have been working with as an administrator? 
Answer: These typically are: Windows and Linux, which support either Asset Management or GIS. Typical duties include engineering, support and maintenance, and research for the purpose of innovation and upgrading.

Question: What are the personal characteristics of a system administrator?
Answer: System administrators are experts at handling hardware and software. They are quick with both their hands and their head. They can work alone, but they know when and how to communicate with others, whether to report problems, learn information needed to fix problems, or instruct employees regarding technical issues.

Question: What role do characteristics such as assertiveness and problem solving play in the career of a system administrator?
Answer: Analytical thinking and problem solving is crucial to be able to analyze software or hardware malfunction. They are also necessary to be able to improve or upgrade systems so that they suit company needs. Assertiveness also plays a role because administrators have to make decisions. They decide on solutions, security measures, and things like system upgrades.

Question: Is team-work part of a system administrator’s typical day?
Answer: Administrators are typically called in to offer technical support for teams working on a project. Support might mean technical troubleshooting or the development and explanation of technological strategy with regards to the project goals and means.