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Cisco Certifications Overview - Career Path Options |
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When considering a Cisco Certification, you need to understand
how they structure their programmes, so that they match up
with your career requirements (depending on where you are
at right now).
There are 3 levels of Cisco Certification, based on your
increasing level of experience and expertise: Entry level
is the Associate, mid-level is the Professional and the highest
level is the Expert.
There are also a range of Specialist Cisco certifications
available to showcase your knowledge in specific technologies,
solutions or job roles.
General Certifications: Three Levels of Certification
* Cisco Associate. The first step in Cisco networking begins
at the Associate level. Think of this as the apprentice or
foundation level of Cisco networking certifications.
* Cisco Professional. This is the advanced or journeyman
level of Cisco certification.
* Cisco Expert. This is the highest level of achievement
for Cisco network professionals, certifying an individual
as an expert or master.
Then, there are 6 different paths you can follow with your
general Cisco Certification ambitions:
* Routing and Switching: This path is for professionals who
install and support Cisco technology-based networks in which
LAN and WAN routers and switches reside.
* Design: This path is aimed at professionals who design
Cisco technology-based networks in which LAN and WAN routers
and switches reside.
* Network Security: This path is directed toward network
professionals who design and implement Cisco Secure networks.
* Service Provider: This path is aimed at professionals working
with infrastructure or access solutions in a Cisco end-to-end
environment primarily within the telecommunications arena.
* Storage Networking: This path is for professionals who
implement storage solutions over extended network infrastructure
using multiple transport options.
* Voice: This path is directed toward network professionals
who install and maintain Voice solutions over IP networks.
Cisco Qualified Specialist Certifications
Lastly, there are a variety of focused Certifications, which
are available to showcase your knowledge in specific technologies,
solutions, or job role. New certifications are added to this
list regularly. These are the Cisco Qualified Specialist certifications,
and include:
* Access Routing and LAN Switching
* Content Networking
* Foundation for Channel Partners
* IP Communications Certifications
* Optical Certification
* Storage Networking Certifications
* VPN and Security Certifications
* Wireless LAN Certifications
About the Author:
So there you have it. A snapshot overview of the Cisco Certification
options. For more detailed information on each of these certifications,
you can visit our website: http://www.cisco-certification-central.com
Author: Eran Malloch. Formerly a Career Advisor for one of
Australia's largest IT Certification training firms, as well
as many successful years as the owner/operator of his own
IT Training firm, Eran now freelances, offering support for
those wanting to pursue an IT Career, or wanting to advance
in the one they have now. For free news and articles about
Cisco Certification, visit http://www.cisco-certification-central.com
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Relevant Resources |
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Need Cisco Hardware for your Cert? |
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| Call 813.852.6400 now for more information to find the best router or switch to best help you with your certification exam. Having "real" hands-on experience is extremely beneficial not just for testing, but also ensures you are actually familiar with the device you are working on.
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