Even if you are using a Macintosh or Windows NT to operate your site, the software will still use UNIX conventions in its configuration and operation. An understanding of UNIX will allow you to better interact with your software regardless of the computer platform. Second, a system manager must have a good understanding of multi-user systems. I am talking about the computer concepts involved as well as the people issues. Local area network managers, mainframe and minicomputer operators and web site system managers all have to learn the same lesson.
Small changes can effect large numbers of people.
Become very familiar with your particular combination of hardware and software and understand the implications of moving a file or changing a file name. In some cases, a simple change can lead to an entire web server being out of commission. Internet-based jobs are one of the most quickly growing markets today. While you can prepare in the ways mentioned above you must also remember that the industry is changing so rapidly that your job description today will more than likely be different tomorrow. Douglas E. Welch is a freelance writer and computer consultant in Van Nuys, California.