The Top 5 Networking Certifications

As technology becomes more complex, so do the networks they support. As a result, the skills of highly-trained network professionals are likely to remain in high demand in the foreseeable future.

IT professionals seeking careers in networking frequently turn to certifications as a way to validate their technical skills and expertise with prospective employers. With so many credentials to choose from, it’s easy to get lost in the certification maze, especially if you’re just beginning your career in IT networking or network security. Here, we’ll take a look at the top five credentials, ranging from foundation to the expert level, we recommend for those pursuing networking careers.

Network+

Recognized globally, CompTIA’s vendor-neutral Network+ certification is a must-have credential for IT professionals starting a career in networking and network security. Professionals holding this credential demonstrate knowledge and technical skills necessary to manage all aspects of network infrastructures including installation, configuration, operation, risk management, troubleshooting and problem solving unexpected events, as well as manage peripheral devices and network related tools.

Relatively inexpensive, the Network+ certification is priced at $246 USD (individuals who work for CompTIA member companies qualify for additional discounts). Formal training is not required but a range of training materials including classroom, self-study, and online training are available.

While there are no prerequisites, CompTIA recommends that credential seekers possess the CompTIA A+ certification, nine months’ experience in administration or network support, or equivalent related education. For those serious about a future career in network security, this credential serves as a foundation for the CompTIA Security+ credential.

For more information on Network+, visit http://certification.comptia.org/getCertified/certifications/network.aspx.

Ed Tittel is a 30-year-plus veteran of the computing industry, who’s worked as a programmer, a technical manager, a classroom instructor, a and a technical evangelist for companies that include Burroughs, Schlumberger, Novell, IBM/Tivoli and NetQoS. He has written and blogged for numerous publications, including Tom's Hardware, and is the author of over 140 computing books with a special emphasis on information security, Web markup languages and development tools, and Windows operating systems.