* Training options for network newbies
I received an e-mail from a reader who is a systems analyst wanting to upgrade his skills. He was interested in learning more about wireless and VoIP and wondered how he should narrow down his options. I thought I’d pose that question to a couple of training experts to see what the best first steps a general IT exec who wants to focus on networking should take.
David Minutella, vice president of education services at The Training Camp says the reader should first get his feet wet by studying for the CompTIA Network+ exam. That would give him a good foundation knowledge of networking technologies and enable him to better decide which areas he might like to specialize in.
Specializing in technologies where there is a lot of buzz, such as VoIP, may also work to his advantage. Although VoIP may be hot at the moment, the number of pros who’ve received training and certification in this area is still low compared to other more established areas of networking. Therefore, there is relatively less competition between candidates with those skills – for now.
If specializing is a bit too soon, there is always the Cisco certified exams as the first steps to networking. You will almost always have to start off studying for the Cisco Certified Network Associate exam, which certifies basic network design and operational skills, but it does help you to decide whether you want to continue and go for the next level – the Cisco Certified Network Professional designation.
Although it can take less than a month to train for CCNA, the CCNP requires a lot more commitment. It involves three or four tests and four weeks of training at a cost of $10,000 for the training, according to Chuck Terrien, vice president of worldwide Cisco and networking product management at Global Knowledge. However, prospective employers would look favorably on candidates who have shown initiative and aptitude in getting certifications such as CCNP. This could mean the difference between getting an entry- level job and a higher entry-level job.
Yes, there is a confusing wide array of choices out there for network training but both training experts say you should chose whatever interests you rather than what is the hottest ticket out there. Before shelling out those training dollars, talk to your networking colleagues and see what kinds of networking opportunities there are in your organizations. Go to the library and get a few books. Perhaps buy a used router or two and start playing around. Look around the Cisco training Web site and look at a few CCNA books – does what you see interest you? Seek out Cisco user groups in your area and ask questions.
Good luck.
