System Administrator Responsibilities

  • Register and manage DNS records for a server
  • Install and configure Operating System (OS) where required
    • NOTE:
      • Western Technology Services (WTS) hosted virtual servers will come pre-installed with the operating system selected in the Virtual Server Request process
      • WTS will monitor and report on patch levels for all guest operating systems running in the virtual server infrastructure
      • OS Logs for all guest operating systems will be forwarded to a central logging repository for Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) purposes
  • Schedule and install OS patches
  • Manage OS lifecycle
  • Ensure OS is properly licensed and activated
    • NOTE: 
      • WTS hosted virtual servers include a Windows Server license
  • Install optional OS components required by applications (configuration of these additional components is usually dictated by application requirements and should be performed by the application administrator or by the system administrator as documented by the application administrator)
  • Create and maintain documentation concerning the server OS build and any configuration changes over the life of the server
  • Manage host-based firewall software
  • Ensure Antivirus software is installed and monitored where appropriate and react to antivirus alerts
  • Grant access as required for application installation and support
  • Configure remote access options
  • Set up server health checks (e.g. ping checks) and any additional OS specific monitors deemed necessary
  • Respond to server down events in accordance with Service Level Agreement (SLA)
  • Monitor disk space, memory, and CPU usage
  • Manage file and directory permissions
  • Configure and monitor OS backup jobs
  • Test backup and restore plan for the OS and consult with the application administrator to make sure that plan aligns with application backup and restore plan
  • Assist application administrator with installation and troubleshooting issues that overlap with OS
  • Ensure the system adheres to campus security guidelines
  • For physical servers, ensure that proper warranty and\or service agreements for the physical hardware are maintained and have SLAs that align with the SLA for the server

Published on  and maintained in Cascade.