Network architecture can change dramatically depending on the type of network. Expertise in handling a LAN does not necessarily translate to VPN. The answer to this question can tell you whether or not the candidate has experience with your network type and will be a good network administrator for your systems. What to look for in an answer:

• Knowledge of different types of networks
• Interest and experience setting up and maintaining the network structure you use
• Their opinions about the different types of networks available

This question gives job seekers an opportunity to discuss their previous work experience. By delving into the tools they commonly use and asking them to pick out their favorites, you can find out whether or not their skill set will be a good fit with your network architecture and get a look at their rationale. Even if they don’t have a lot of specific experience, an answer that demonstrates an understanding of the pros and cons of different monitoring tools can help with your hiring decision. What to look for in an answer:

• How many tools the applicant knows
• An understanding of the different types of tools
• Experience with cloud-based and locally installed network monitoring

Firewalls are one of the most basic tools in a network administrators box. They deny traffic from one device to another based on a set criteria. A firewall might disallow contact with a website based on its security certifications or isolate a device that only needs access to a limited list of web addresses. What to look for in an answer:

• Security is essential in a business setting and firewalls are one element to passive security
• Applicant should demonstrate an understanding of how firewalls work and when to deploy them

Workgroups require management at the individual system level. Each system is its own controller, deciding what to share with other users that are part of the group. Domains have a more server-to-client setup, where a centralized authentication server sets the communication rules. What to look for in an answer:

• Applicant has experience working with domains
• Familiarity with server setup and maintenance
• Experience upgrading a workgroup to a domain

Two-factor authentication is becoming the norm. That means you’ll need two out of three possible security measures to gain access. Typically, this means something you know, something you have and/or something you are. For example, you might need a password and token or a password and biometric scan (fingerprint ID is most common) or a token and a biometric scan. An applicant’s answer to this question can show whether or not they are up to date on some of the latest security protocols. What to look for in an answer:

• Knowledge of different types of authentication
• An understanding of different security protocols
• Experience working with two-factor authentication

Network administrators are responsible for monitoring network systems and troubleshooting issues to maintain daily business operations. At any time, network administrators may receive requests from employees to help them fix network errors so they can continue their job duties. This question allows interviewers to determine a candidate's resourcefulness and ability to find solutions to different network problems. A candidate's answer should emphasize:

• Understanding of diagnostic methods
• Investigative nature
• Ability to ask for help