This article provides the basic overview of the computer networking certifications such as Network+, MCSE, CCNA, CCNP and others. These certifications are important for the people who want to advance their careers in the IT especially in computer networking field. Certified people are always given preferences in jobs in all over the world.



Network+

Network + by Comptia is designed for the IT professionals who have more than nine months experience in network administration. The code for the Network+ certification is N10-003 and it was first introduce in 1997 by Comptia. Network+ is an entry level exam and it provides the base for the advance certifications such as MCSE, CCNA, CCNP and others. Network+ is designed specifically for the Network administrators and like the other certifications of Comptia, Network+ certification will not expired once it is achieved.

Security+

Security+ certification by Comptia is designed for the IT professionals who have more than 2 years experience in the field of network administration, system administration and network securities. The code for this certification is SY0101 and it was started by Comptia in 2002. The common topic that are covered in this certifications are network, security infrastructure, cryptography, authentication, access control, internal and external network attacks and the dealing with the company’s security.

MCSE

Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer is a well renowned network certification that is designed by Microsoft. MCSE is based on the Windows NT and Windows 2000 platforms and the Windows 2003 Server has been merged in the MCSE certification. MCSE never retires but the new versions are released by the Microsoft after sometime so the candidate has to be upgrading himself after some time. The ideal job description roles for the MCSE certified people are Systems engineer, Network Engineer, Network Consultant, and Systems Analysts jobs.

CCNA

Cisco Certified Network Associate is an introductory level exam by Cisco Systems. CCNA is well renowned exam that checks the candidate’s ability of network administration, LAN, WAN and routing. The basic topics that are covered in the CCNA are IP addressing, Subnetting, Routing IOS, Frame Relay, ISDN Lines, ATM, network devices, topologies and routers. CCNA paves the way for the most advanced certifications by Cisco Systems such as CCNP, CCIE and CCVP. The job role for the CCNA certified people is network administrator, systems administrator and network consultant.

CCNP

Cisco Certified Network Professional is an advanced level certification by Cisco Systems. It is a next level exam after CCNA. CCNP covers advanced networking topics that include WAN (Wide Area Network). CCNP certification is valid for three years. The topics that are covered in CCNP are advanced networking, LAN, WAN, Routing, IP addressing, converged networks, network security, VPN, quality of service and broadband technologies like VOIP, VOIP security, DSL and Cable net technology.