Experienced System Administrator with 26+ Years Expertise

Muhammad Shafaqat

Manassas, Virginia +1-703-***-**** *********@*****.***

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/muhammad-shafaqat-58941632

Professional Summary

Experienced System Administrator with over 26 years of expertise in the management, implementation, and troubleshooting of Microsoft Windows client/server systems in physical and virtual environments. Proven ability to improve system performance, install security patches, and support end-users efficiently. Adept at server and network management, system backups, restoration, and security protocols. Highly skilled in using SCCM, WSUS, and Qualys for system patch management and vulnerability mitigation. Strong interpersonal skills with a focus on customer service and collaboration.

Objective

Detail-oriented and dedicated System Administrator seeking a challenging role in a dynamic organization. Bringing extensive experience in system configuration, software issue diagnosis, and optimizing network security. Ready to apply technical expertise and problem-solving skills to improve operational efficiency and maintain secure IT infrastructures.

Core Competencies / Skills

Cybersecurity & Patch Management (SCCM, WSUS, Qualys)

Windows Server & Client System Administration (Windows Server 2022, Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, WDS)

Network Management (Switch Configuration, Cisco, Fiber Cabling, LAN/WAN)

Backup & Disaster Recovery

Virtualization (Hyper-V, VMware)

SharePoint & Power Automate

Server/Storage Management (SAN/NAS, SQL Server, Exchange Server)

Project Management & Team Collaboration

End User Support & Training

Installation & Configuration (Applications, Printers, MFPs)

Multi-language Proficiency: Fluent in English, Urdu, and Punjabi.

Professional Experience

L4 Technician Microsoft Data Center

Mount Pleasant, Wisconsin To Date

Provide expert-level support for the deployment, management, and troubleshooting of high-availability systems within a Microsoft Data Center environment.

Perform advanced diagnostics and troubleshooting on mission-critical infrastructure, including physical servers, networking equipment, and virtualized environments.

Lead efforts in managing and maintaining Microsoft Azure services, ensuring high uptime and seamless integration with on-premises systems.

System Administrator / Computer Management Assistant

US Embassy, Islamabad April 1999 – April 2025

Managed installation, configuration, and maintenance of over 1000 client systems, including servers, workstations, and network infrastructure in compliance with the U.S. Department of State standards.

Led the installation and application of security patches and firmware updates using SCCM, maintaining A+ cybersecurity grade for the embassy.

Managed user accounts, troubleshooting hardware/software issues, and providing exceptional end-user support for embassy staff and remote posts in Pakistan.

Successfully upgraded over 50 servers from Windows Server 2016 to Windows Server 2022, ensuring seamless migration of critical systems including DNS, DHCP, Print, and WDS servers.

Deployed and supported SharePoint and Power Automate solutions for improved document management and business process automation.

Led and participated in the setup and management of backup solutions and disaster recovery procedures, ensuring business continuity.

Project: Windows Server 2022 Migration & Server Replacement

Migrated all departmental applications, including SQL Server and proprietary applications, to Windows Server 2022.

Coordinated the migration of over 200 print servers and associated peripherals to the latest version.

Manager, Technical Services

Data 4 Networks, Islamabad 1997 – 1999

Installed and managed LAN, WAN infrastructure, including CAT5/CAT6 cabling, fiber optics, and network equipment (routers, switches).

Oversaw system installations including Novell NetWare, Windows NT, and Unix, supporting network configuration, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Trained and managed support staff, providing hands-on training for network setup, system configuration, and hardware/software support.

Manager, Customer Support

Network Systems Islamabad 1997 – 1999

Managed customer installations, including LAN cabling, server setup, and configuration of proprietary network operating systems.

Provided after-sales support and troubleshooting for hardware/software issues, improving customer satisfaction and system uptime.

Conducted staff training sessions, enhancing technical knowledge and support capabilities across the team.

Education

Master of Computer Science (MCS)

Preston University, Islamabad 2001

Certifications:

CompTIA A+

CompTIA Security+

Cisco CCNA (2018)

References

Available upon request.

Contact this candidate