Network Certifications

Increasing use of networks for social and business interactions establish the need for networking professionals. As entities move their businesses to the Internet to access the opportunities offered by e-commerce, the need for networking professionals has increased. Today, many employers are looking for highly trained network administrators competent in various information technology (IT) aspects. Such professionals are needed to lead the entities’ IT strategy especially in a contemporary environment where business transactions are being conducted online. The importance of such professionals make network certifications a critical requirement going forward since such certifications evidence the holder’s competence in aspects of networking for which the certificates are issued.

Getting a certification is an evidence that the holder has undertaken the requisite training to solve networking challenges that arise in such the area that one is certified. Although practical knowledge betters one’s ability to solve such challenges, certification highlights that one has the knowledge on which to build to be successful in various aspects of IT. While pursuing network certification, a person will learn the basics in networking that can be applied in different environments. Completing the required network certification process assures the potential employers of one’s ability to solve existing and emerging issues in IT networks. One of such certifications is Cisco Systems.

Before getting a Cisco Certification, one has to complete the Cisco Certified Network Associate qualification that is designed to provide one with a strong networking foundation. This includes gaining a fundamental knowledge of networking protocols and Open Systems Interconnection reference model. After completing a Cisco Certified Network Associate certification, one gains networking skills and the ability to troubleshoot various IT equipments. These skills will be helpful in future as networking becomes the basis of communication. People with a good network understanding will be in a good position to troubleshoot and solve network problems that may arise in future. Identifying and correcting problems is dependent on a clear understanding of the working of networking functions and networking certification helps to achieve this goal.

Network administrators are people whose main responsibility is to manage the networks and all the connections to the companies’ switches and routers. The duties performed by the administrators show clearly that their position needs one to learn the skills needed. Certifications are not adequate in the development of professional network administrators. Other qualifications important to have proficient network administrators include:

Knowledge of procedural and operational aspects of computer systems, software, peripheral equipments and hardware.
A degree in computer science or related field from a recognized institution with experience in client-server environment.
Knowledge of techniques of malware prevention and removal including the application of antivirus technologies and desktop administration.
Ability to simplify technical information for use by all people ranging from technical to non-technical personnel.
Skills to resolve all customer concerns and complaints.
Good knowledge of the law i.e. federal, state and local laws as well as the codes and regulations.