This field is among the largest and most all encompassing sectors in the field of IT. Because there are so many advanced skill-sets to learn, a certain amount of specialisation is the only realistic option. Cisco and Microsoft are essentially the 2 key companies who rule this particular field. MS create Network & Server software, whilst Cisco concentrate primarily on the hardware side of networking: Routers, switches, controllers etc. Security has become a big concern in recent years, which has forced each of the corporations to move in to the area in a huge way. Another fast growing market in this sector is wireless-connectivity and related products. And next we come on to Hacking (legitimately) & Forensics - each of which are complex and highly specialised disciplines themselves, and take a great deal of working experience and knowledge.

A rudimentary knowledge of networks is a good first base for anyone coming into the industry. You need to understand how PC's function and communicate with one another before you can consider anything else. Assuming you have a minimum of basic user skills, you'll find the CompTIA A+ and 'Network+' programs are excellent to begin with. More about these qualifications can be found in the 'CompTIA' section of this website.

Progressing from this level is often the domain of the Microsoft 'MCSA'/'MCSE' or the Cisco 'CCNA'/'CCNP', according to whether you're interested in the hardware or software end of things. However, an in-depth understanding of Microsoft's operating-systems is extremely important as they are such an important aspect of the majority of networking environments. For more details, you will come across information regarding each certification on the actual 'Cisco' & Microsoft pages of the web site.

Another option is to continue with CompTIA accreditations for instance Server+ , Security+ or Linux+ and continue being vendor neutral, or maybe take the CWNA or CWNP & specialise in 'wireless' technology.

There are now larger options over and above Cisco and Microsoft when it comes to becoming qualified in these disciplines. Indeed, a number of well regarded bodies are essential players now where certification is concerned. An understanding of network interface connectivity between & among networks is becoming increasingly more important. We're seeing an important paradigm shift in networking technologies today, both in processing terms and in data-storage, with internet based computing gaining presence & 'green I.T.' getting to be more and more relevant. From a economic viewpoint, greener engineering has to be built to be much more cost-effective, as well as being less harmful to the planet. The processing-power within modern computer systems is lower, which means there's much less heat to cool down. Both of these together greatly reduce the energy expenditure, & so impact upon a business' bottom-line -- particularly in data-centres and high-volume processing departments.

The vendor-neutral international association 'CompTIA' now provides perhaps the most recognised & widely respected impartial I.T. qualifications. Other associations also provide deserving qualifications, for example 'CWNP' ('Certified Wireless Network Professional') & ISC2 ('International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium'). Of course Cisco & Microsoft provide a total array of professional level qualifications. Because there are so many training and career possibilities in this field, it's sensible to get more personalised guidance from an experienced industry advisor prior to selecting your particular route. With no personally-tailored advice you could head off in the wrong direction & squander a lot of time and/or money.

You will find a number of specialist MCSEs from MS, that cater for areas such as Messaging or Security if that is the direction you want. You could possibly choose to go for Security+ with 'CompTIA', followed by the 'Certified Information Systems Security Professional' (CISSP). 'CISSP' prospects have to have substantial professional working experience, so be sure to investigate this thoroughly. As always, we suggest talking with a professional industry advisor to avoid any mistakes.

Digital (or Computer) 'Forensics' is comparatively new in this area - TV shows like CSI-Crime Scene Investigation may have made us aware of it. The physical reality of 'Computer Forensics' is very much less glamorous than portrayed in these programmes (of course!) Nonetheless, technological forensics is providing an intriguing profession for a lot of people right now. The work involves seeking and interpreting 'digital footprints' for use in data-recovery or legal enquiries.

Located in a related sector to Computer Forensics & IT Security comes 'Ethical Hacking' - another somewhat new discipline to regulate criminal activity. These are certifications offered through the EC Council that teach more advanced candidates the more dark concepts of 'hacking' - but with the purpose of using these competencies to safeguard & raise the security of a system, instead of harming it.

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