This area of IT is perhaps just about the most sweeping & comprehensive there is. Typically, some degree of specialisation is required, because to cover each element would probably take too many years of learning. The major systems 'players' in this marketplace are Microsoft & Cisco. The actual software side of networking is Microsoft's department, and the hardware side (routers, controllers & switches etc.) is where Cisco primarily works. 'Security' has become a big issue recently, which has led both businesses to move in to the market in a huge way. Another fast growing area within this sector is wireless-connectivity & devices. Lastly, two very important & developing sectors in the security marketplace are Computer-Forensics & Ethical-Hacking.

If you're looking to build a professional career in IT, begin by developing some networking expertise. Absolutely nothing else will make sense until you have an understanding of how computers run and link to one another. Presuming a rudimentary level of computer user-skills, (refer to our more general Computer Training pages if not,) the recommended starting place is nearly always 'CompTIA' A+ and Network+ . Details of these qualifications are available in the CompTIA section of this site.

Progressing from this level will often take you to the Microsoft MCSA/MCSE or the 'Cisco' CCNA/CCNP, according to whether you are interested in the 'hardware' or 'software' side of things. Nevertheless, a good knowledge of MS's operating-systems is extremely advantageous as they are such a key aspect of most networking environments. Again, each of these accreditations are featured in-depth on the relevant sections within this website.

Equally of course you might want to fine tune your Wi-Fi (wire-less) skill-sets with accreditations like the CWNP and CWNA, or continue down the CompTIA route with Server+, Linux+ or Security+ .

Microsoft offer a number of specialisations within MCSE, for instance in Messaging or in Security for all those with a particular interest. It could be that CompTIA Security+ is right for you, in order to lead on to the CISSP - 'Certified Information Systems Security Professional'. You'll find there are tight 'experience' requirements for the 'CISSP', and they need discussing and understanding before you take this route. Our long-standing recommendation is always to take part in an educated discussion before embarking on any kind of new career-training.

'CompTIA' (the Computing Technology Industry Association) is a world-wide concern that currently supplies a number of the most reputed vendor-neutral accreditation paths on the market. Establishments like ISC2 supply Security accreditations, and 'CWNP' offer professional wireless networking tracks. Needless to say, there is a whole gamut of accreditation tracks from Cisco & Microsoft. The choice may well be a little overwhelming, & therefore we urge you to go very carefully & talk through all your alternatives with an advisor who knows the procedure very well. This will keep you from getting into an expensive mistake, in terms of time and money spent.

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