To become a senior system administrator, you need to have a combination of technical and soft skills, as well as relevant education and experience. A bachelor's degree in computer science, information systems, or a related field is essential. You should also have at least five years of experience in system administration or a similar role. Proficiency in Windows, Linux, or Unix operating systems is necessary, as well as knowledge of networking protocols such as TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, or VPN. Additionally, familiarity with database management systems like MySQL, Oracle, or MongoDB is important. You should also be able to use scripting languages like PowerShell, Python, or Bash and have experience with cloud computing platforms such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud. Lastly, excellent problem-solving skills, communication abilities and teamwork skills are essential for success in this role. Certification from vendors or organizations like Microsoft, Cisco, or CompTIA can also be beneficial.