The systems administration job description varies by company, but the general concept is the same: fix and maintain whatever hardware and software employees need to successfully conduct business. Here are a few daily tasks that system administrators will perform to keep the lights and the internet on within a company.

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Checking systems for issues, problems with service, and potential breaks
Answering requests for service fixes and tickets for problems
Updating status reports on problems and recording solutions
Monitoring environmental factors like temperature and humidity in the server room
Planning software updates, changes, and launches
Installing new tools and updates in hardware company-wide
Resetting the routers and computers to check their functionality
Educating employees on network security, safety, and maintenance
Troubleshooting bugs, network connections, and problems with technology
Helping new employees understand the software and checking to make sure they have everything they need
Tracking baseline metrics and vitals to better understand when something is behaving abnormally
Reporting potential problems to management with a list of alternatives and solutions
Meeting with vendors to discuss improvements to service and price comparisons
Clearing hardware when employees leave the company and preparing it for new hires
Work environment

There are multiple work environments that systems administrators encounter during their employment. Initially, they will have a desk or cubicle where they can be reached in case of a crisis or to fix problems through their own computers. In some cases, they may need to take over the screens of their peers to check software and sync them to the network, which they can do after seeking approval over the phone.

When they're not at their desk, system admins will work in server rooms, checking connections and making sure everything is running as it should. Additionally, they may be required to walk around the office, checking internet connections and evaluating the hardware of employees to identify problems. Depending on the size of the company, almost half of their day could be spent walking around, meeting with people, and solving their network problems.