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which career path is better; system admin or sql database admin?

Asked 2/7/2012 2:57:39 AM by Bugra Ulusoy

in a big confusion.. In my company am being offered to choose system admin including Vmware,Windows and NetApp administration or Database admin including only MSSQL server as career options. I need to choose any one as my Primary Career! Am confused here as I know both of System or Database admin!! I am interested in both of them but I have not decided yet
Can you guys advice me which one will be more beneficial on the Long run ?? which career path will be very well or fastest growing job in the future?
in my point of view,vmware,windows and netapp have wide of range but sql is not enough by itself as a database admin..you have to use and learn especially Oracle and Linux because oracle is being used for large and huge systems..

THANKS

Answered 2/7/2012 8:32:00 AM by bodhisatya mookherjee

(0)

Please choose the one that interests you more. SQL server DBA is a very high paying job if you learn the art of Performance tuning. Also you can go on to become Architect if you are a very good DBA. Windows sysadmin is also high paying if you are very clear with Active directory, storage, exchange server. Also do not make the mistake of learning SQl server and oracle at the same time. Please understand that good salary goes to the master of a technology , not to a jack of all trade. Focus on one and be a master. Both tracks have many professionals but very few experts who can solve problems.

If you have good programming skills the DBA would be the right track. If you have very good troubleshooting skills, then sysadmin would be idea.

Answered 2/9/2012 1:43:07 PM by Jeremy Kadlec

(0)

Bugra,

I agree with some of Bodhisatya's comments. I would do what you enjoy the most.

In terms of the two fields, I think they will both continue to grow.

In terms of SQL Server's usage versus Oracle, I would have to disagree with your assertion. I know of some fairly large SQL Server systems.

HTH.

Thank you,
Jeremy Kadlec

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