Another very common question I hear a lot on the internet is: “How can I get started in networking?” or “What does it take to become a Network Engineer?”
As you may have read in my previous post about getting started in IT – there usually are several ways to achieve this goal.
I’ve seen for-profit schools offer Associate degrees in Network Engineering, promising students lucrative careers in this field once they graduate. These type of programs will usually also include vouchers for various technical Certifications along the way. Sadly, the vast majority of the students in such programs often graduate with only one or two Certifications at best.
They get overwhelmed quickly with the class work and time it takes to study for Certification tests.
One of the first questions you should ask yourself is: “Why do I want to work in networking?” If you answered for the money. Please move on now…
Too many times I see people wanting to work in networking for the money. There is certainly nothing wrong with seeking out a career that can comfortably support a family. But, please don’t let this be your only reason.
I feel people work best in a field if they are truly interested in working with a particular technology. To become a really good Network Engineer requires excellent problem solving skills.
Okay, let me get off of my soapbox. Let’s see how you can get started today.
First and foremost, it would help if you are comfortable working with computers already. You know how to troubleshoot hardware and software, and maybe already work in the field doing help desk, desktop or some other type of technical support. You now want to take things to the next level.
Wait a second. But, I have none of the skills above!
Alright. Then first of all, I would recommend you get some basic computer troubleshooting skills and some basic Certifications under your belt. Again, please see my article on how to get started in IT.
When it comes to computer networking, one of the most entry-level and vendor neutral Certifications one can get is the CompTIA Network+ Certification.
However, if you really want to step it up a notch – then aim for the Cisco CCNA Certification. Cisco is the number one vendor for networking technology. They make a wide variety of gear ranging from network switches, routers, IP cameras and phones etc.
The Cisco CCNA can be taken in two parts or in one sitting as a comprehensive test. I would suggest the two route approach, as it allows you to break the topics down into smaller and more manageable parts.
The good news is that if you decide to take the two test approach, Cisco now awards you with the CCENT (Cisco Certified Entry Network Technician) Certification which in my opinion is equivalent to or even trumps the CompTIA Network+.
So, why did I mention the CompTIA Network+ then if Cisco Certifications are better? Easy. The Cisco Certification tests are notoriously difficult to pass and will take a large amount of time to study for.
Now, if you have the time to study – then by all means aim for the CCNA. Or at the very least the CCENT from Cisco. Remember, I want you to get your foot in the door – working in the field, so you can put real-world work experience on your resume.
Graduating a 2-year Network Engineering program does not automatically make one a Network Engineer. Many people find this out the hard way!
Also, a company is not going to give you full access to their network just because you show up with a couple of Certifications either. Again, you will have to work your way up from a lower technical role first.
But, having a Network+ or Cisco CCENT / CCNA Certifcation is a good start to learn about these technologies and show employers that you are serious about the networking field. It will take years before someone will call you a Network Engineer, but you can get there if you work hard at it.