Do you find yourself often wondering if you should obtain that next Cisco certification? There are a lot of them and it becomes increasingly difficult to decide which ones are worth the time. Netcon Solutions deals in used Cisco equipment and we recommend that all network engineers master CCIE equipment, CCNA equipment, CCNP equipment, and other related devices.
The Importance of Learning CCNA Equipment
Of CCIE, CCNA, and CCNP, CCNA tends to be the most important early on. Why is this? Mastering CCNA equipment helps you get started. The CCNA program stands for Cisco Certified Network Associate. It is an entry-level certification that demonstrates your ability to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot any issues relating to networks operating on basic routers and switches. By mastering CCNA equipment, you open yourself up to potential careers as a network specialist, network administration, network support engineer, and much more.
The basic requirement for the CCNA certification is three years of experience as a network engineer. This certification is considered one of the easiest to obtain.
CCIE Certification
The CCIE certification, known as the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert, is challenging to earn. Only three percent of all Cisco professionals obtain this certification. Don’t let this discourage you. If you can master CCIE equipment, you are truly in an elite group and a desirable candidate for any networking job. Having the ability to sit through and complete this challenging program is worth the time if you are capable.
CCNP and Used CCNP Equipment
The CCNP certification stands for Cisco Certified Network Professional. This certification takes place after the CCNA certification, but it is a prerequisite to the CCIE certification. Learning CCNP equipment is useful and a great sticking point for network engineers that are interested in furthering their skills without the time commitment that CCIE requires.
The prerequisites for CCNP are a few years of experience in networking, preferably at the CCNA level. However, these requirements are not set in stone and are flexible if you possess the necessary skills. If you want to become well-versed in CCNP, you will have to take separate exams in switching, routing, and troubleshooting. Make sure you brush up on your skills.
The Security Industry
Another hot topic in the world of networking is network security. Certifications related directly to network security are in demand. Notable examples include Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP). Many of these certifications were created in the last 20 years as the Internet continues to boom. More than ever, companies are working hard to protect their data and they are spending large portions of their budget to maintain network security at all times.
Overall
There are many certifications available in the world of networking. They are all valuable in their own way and every company requires networking professionals in order to maintain a reliable network. In the end, you must choose a certification that appeals to you.
Netcon Solutions supplies used Cisco equipment to companies in Toronto, the GTA, and all of Ontario. We offer CCIE equipment, CCNP equipment, and CCNA equipment. If you have any questions about our company or the equipment we sell, please feel free to contact us directly. We would be more than happy to answer any questions that you may have.