System Administrator Test

Use the system administrator test to identify candidates that can effectively set up, run and maintain your organization’s computer systems.

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What is a system administrator test?

The system administrator test is a pre-employment skills test designed specifically for the role of system administrator, or Sysadmin. It uses a series of multiple-choice questions to measure a candidate’s knowledge of computer systems and how capable they are of applying that knowledge in a practical context.

Written by subject matter experts, questions cover the core responsibilities of a system administrator. This includes the management of Windows and Linux systems, software installation and configuration, network management and systems security. The test also looks at related soft skills, like the ability to communicate complex information, understand user requirements, and offer IT support to non-technical staff.

A strong performance in the system administrator test proves a candidate has the necessary skills to manage computer systems and can ensure reliable operation through proactive support, troubleshooting and maintenance.

About the System Administrator Test

Most businesses today rely on a robust IT infrastructure for core operations. Inefficiencies within a computer system or unexpected downtime can significantly impact business performance, so it’s important those systems are managed by capable hands.

Sysadmins are IT professionals that ensure computer systems run effectively, efficiently and successfully meet an organization’s IT requirements. With the system administrator test you can identify candidates that have both the know-how and skill set to not only manage computer systems and networks, but to optimize their performance and add value to your business in the process.

Why should you use a system administrator test for recruiting?

Finding the best candidate for a system administrator position can be tricky, particularly if you are not an IT professional yourself and have limited knowledge of computer systems.

Applicant resumes often list similar skills and experience and are typically written to match your job description, making it a challenge to differentiate between them and determine which applicants really do have the knowledge and skills you’re looking for.

A system administrator test solves this issue by giving you an effective way to screen candidates at scale.

By issuing the test, you ask applicants to prove their talent in a practical nature. To do well, they’ll need to show in-depth knowledge of operating systems and software, skills in cloud computing, and the ability to work with IT hardware. They’ll also need to show keen problem solving skills and an understanding of how to configure computer systems to best meet user requirements.

With detailed score reports issued on completion, you’ll have a reliable way to compare candidates based on essential criteria, and to do so objectively. Those who meet the required standard can be shortlisted for interview, while those that don’t can be eliminated from the process.

As well as being a useful tool when recruiting for Sysadmins, the system administrator test can be used as part of a comprehensive test battery when hiring for roles such as:

View a sample report

Results for the System Administrator Test along with other assessments the candidate takes will be compiled to produce a candidate report.

The report is automatically generated and available both online and as a downloadable pdf so they can be shared with other team members and employees alike.

App screenshot

How our test assesses system administrator skills

Candidates will need to answer a range of questions that measure industry-specific technical skills, soft skills (e.g. time management), aptitude (e.g. numerical reasoning) and relevant personality dimensions (e.g. integrity). The results present a holistic view of how well-suited each candidate is for the job at hand, using a data-driven approach.

The format varies by type of question, including multiple-choice for aptitude and technical skills, situational judgement for soft skills and agreement on a Likert scale for the personality dimensions. This approach ensures candidates are being assessed in an accurate and fair manner, and that results reflect the true underlying qualities of each candidate.

The characteristics, abilities and knowledge necessary to be a system administrator were identified using the US Department of Labor's comprehensive O*NET database. O*NET is the leading source of occupational information that is constantly updated by collecting data from employees in specific job roles.

During the development process, test questions were rigorously analyzed to maximize reliability and validity in line with industry best practices. They were created by our team of I/O psychologists and psychometricians – who collaborated with subject-matter-experts – and field-tested with a representative sample of job applicants who have varying experience, just like you might find in a talent pool.

Each test is reviewed by a panel of individuals representing diverse backgrounds to check for any sensitivity, fairness, face validity and accessibility issues. This ensures each candidate has a fair chance of demonstrating their true level of expertise.

Our system administrator test is monitored to ensure it is up-to-date and optimized for performance.

Our test platform

Our platform offers an extensive library of hundreds of tests, giving you the flexibility to select and combine them in any way that suits your hiring needs. From understanding specific role requirements to assessing general cognitive abilities, our diverse library ensures you can tailor your assessment process precisely.

Multi-format.
Our test questions come in various formats, including multiple-choice, true and false, ranking and situational judgment, all ensuring comprehensive candidate assessment.
Role-specific simulations.
Experience real-world scenarios with our role-specific simulations, providing accurate insights into candidates' performance, readiness and fit for the position.
Adaptive scoring.
Our adaptive scoring system evaluates responses in real-time, by adjusting to the candidate's ability level, enhancing accuracy and reliability.

Curated by our
team of experts

Expert 1 Expert 2 Expert 3

Scientifically validated by psychometric specialists

  • Our team of assessment experts is made up of I/O psychologists, psychometricians, and subject matter experts who work closely together to ensure each test is accurate and reliable.
  • Our subject matter experts are rigorously vetted and typically have several years of experience working in their industries and hold advanced credentials.

Frequently asked questions

What skills are required to be a system administrator?

Sysadmins need a combination of technical and soft skills to be effective. Technical skills include cloud computing, operating systems, networks and hardware, whilst soft skills include problem solving, communication, decision making and attention to detail.

Is the system administrator test hard?

Our system administrator test has been designed by experts in the field and pitched at an intermediate level. Candidates with the potential to excel in system administration should find it a challenge but well within their capabilities.

What is the cost for Neuroworx's system administrator test?

Neuroworx operates on a monthly or annual subscription basis. We have several plans to suit your hiring needs, which you can check out here. Alternatively, you can get in touch with us to discuss a custom plan.

Can I get a free trial?

Yes, simply sign up (no credit card is required) and we'll give you unlimited access for seven days. Create as many jobs and test as many candidates as you want; you won't be charged a penny.

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