system operator (sysop)

A sysop is the person who runs a computer server . In general, a sysop or system operator is one who runs the day-to-day operation of a server and the term suggests a person who is available when the system is. A related term is administrator . In larger computer systems, the administrator manages security and user access while a system operator monitors and performs routine operations at the computer. In smaller computer systems (for example, UNIX systems), the administrator and the system operator tend to be the same person.

In a wide area network ( WAN ), a sysop is a tech-savvy employee who receives a small stipend (in addition to their regular salary) for trouble-shooting computer-related problems. Typically, the WAN administrator will assign a sysop to each building on the WAN.