The digital landscape of today is built from complex networks, powering our connections, transactions, and innovations. As these networks expand and evolve, the demand for skilled professionals to manage and secure them skyrockets. A recent study projects a 24% growth in the global need for networking professionals by 2027 – a rate outpacing the average across all occupations. So, staying ahead of the curve requires continuous skill development. Enter the world of networking certifications: recognized validations of expertise that unlock career acceleration and enhanced earning potential. Whether you’re a seasoned network administrator or an aspiring IT professional, these credentials can be your key to success.
This blog serves as your guide to the top 10 networking certifications selected for their relevance in 2024. We’ll explore each certification in detail, outlining its target audience, key areas of coverage, and the distinct advantages it offers in today’s competitive job market. So, prepare to begin your journey towards a rewarding career in networking, one valuable certification at a time.
Understanding Networking Certifications
Navigating the world of networking certifications can be overwhelming. There are dozens of options spanning different vendors, skill levels, and career paths. This section aims to demystify this landscape and help you choose the right certification to advance your networking skills and career.
Types of Networking Certifications:
- Vendor-Specific vs. Vendor-Neutral:
- Vendor-Specific: These certifications focus on the technology of a particular vendor, like Cisco or Microsoft. They offer deep knowledge of that specific vendor’s solutions but may limit your versatility across different systems.
- Vendor-Neutral: These certifications cover broader networking fundamentals and concepts applicable to various vendors. They provide a strong foundation but may lack depth in specific technologies.
- Foundational vs. Advanced:
- Foundational: These certifications validate basic networking knowledge and skills, ideal for beginners or those transitioning into networking roles. Examples include Network+.
- Advanced: These certifications focus on specialized skills and advanced topics within specific networking areas like security, cloud, or wireless. Examples include AWS Advanced Networking Specialty.
Steps for Choosing the Right Certification:
Selecting the appropriate certification depends on several factors:
- Career Goals: What specific role are you aiming for? Network engineer, security specialist, cloud architect? Align your certification with the skills and technologies demanded by that role.
- Experience Level: Foundational certifications are better for beginners, while advanced certifications should build upon existing knowledge and experience.
- Current Skillset: Consider your existing networking knowledge and choose a certification that fills gaps or deepens your expertise in specific areas.
- Cost: Certification exams and training vary in cost. Consider your budget and seek economical options like self-study or discounted training materials.
- Exam Format: Some certifications involve multiple-choice exams, while others require simulations or performance-based tasks. Choose a format you feel comfortable with.
Top 10 Networking Certifications: 2024
Choose certifications that complement your skills and career goals, and use them as stepping stones to achieve your full potential in the networking field. Below are some of the top networking certifications that will help you take your career to the next level.
1. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
Obtaining the CCNA certification signifies your competence in navigating the dynamic realm of IT, as the comprehensive exam covers essential areas such as networking fundamentals, IP services, security, and automation. Crafted for adaptability, CCNA validates your proficiency in managing and optimizing cutting-edge networks, making it a versatile foundation for career growth. With Cisco’s certification, you become a living testament to the industry-recognized standard, showcasing the skills businesses trust to meet and surpass market demands.
This certification opens doors to various job roles, including Network Administrator, Network Engineer, System Administrator, and System Engineer. While no formal prerequisites are mandated, a recommended one or more years of experience in implementing and administering Cisco solutions enhances your preparation for the certification journey. It’s important to note that all Cisco certifications hold active status for a duration of 3 years.
Major Areas:
- Network Fundamentals
- Network Access
- IP Connectivity
- IP Services
- Security Fundamentals
- Automation and Programmability
Job opportunities:
- Network Administrator: Network administrators are responsible for the day-to-day operation and maintenance of an organization’s computer networks. They install, configure, and troubleshoot network devices, such as routers, switches, and firewalls.
- Network Engineer: Network engineers design, implement, and maintain complex computer networks. They typically have more experience and expertise than network administrators, and they are responsible for ensuring that networks are reliable, secure, and scalable.
- Security Administrator: Security administrators are responsible for protecting an organization’s computer networks from security threats. They implement and manage security solutions, such as firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and antivirus software.
- IT Support Specialist: IT support specialists provide technical support to users of an organization’s computer systems. They troubleshoot problems, answer questions, and provide training.
- Wireless Network Specialist: Wireless network specialists design, implement, and maintain wireless networks. They are responsible for ensuring that wireless networks are reliable, and secure, and provide good coverage. A CCNA can help you gain the skills and knowledge needed to become a wireless network specialist.
In addition to these specific job titles, a CCNA can also help you qualify for a variety of other IT positions, such as:
- Systems Engineer
- Data center technician
- Cloud network engineer
- Network security analyst
- Network consultant
2. CompTIA Security+
The CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701) is the latest and best in cybersecurity, covering essential skills for dealing with current threats, automation, zero trust, IoT, risk, and more. Once you’re certified, you’ll have the core skills needed for the job, and employers will take notice. The Security+ exam ensures you have the knowledge and skills to:
- Evaluate a company’s security setup and suggest and implement the right security solutions.
- Secure mixed environments, including cloud, mobile, Internet of Things (IoT), and operational technology.
- Work while considering relevant regulations and policies, including principles of governance, risk, and compliance.
- Recognize, analyze, and respond to security events and incidents.
The CompTIA Security+ certification exam checks if you can successfully assess an enterprise’s security setup, recommend and implement security measures, secure various environments, and operate while considering laws and policies.
Knowledge Area:
- Suggested qualifications include at least 2 years of IT administration experience with a security focus, practical hands-on knowledge of technical information security, and a comprehensive understanding of security concepts.
- Additionally, having CompTIA Network+ certification and two years of experience in a security/systems administrator role is recommended.
Major Areas:
- General Security Concepts
- Threats, Vulnerabilities and Mitigations
- Security Architecture
- Security Operations
- Security Program Management and Oversight
Job opportunities:
- Security Analyst: Security analysts are responsible for monitoring security systems, identifying and analyzing security incidents, and investigating potential threats. They also play a crucial role in implementing and maintaining security controls.
- Security Administrator: Security administrators are responsible for securing an organization’s computer networks and systems. They configure and manage security devices, such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems, and develop and implement security policies and procedures.
- Security Engineer: Security engineers design, implement, and maintain secure systems and networks. They work closely with security analysts and administrators to ensure that an organization’s IT infrastructure is protected from cyber threats.
- Penetration Tester: Penetration testers, also known as ethical hackers, identify and exploit vulnerabilities in an organization’s IT systems before malicious actors can do so. They use their skills to simulate real-world attacks and help organizations improve their security posture.
- IT Support Specialist: IT support specialists provide technical support to users of an organization’s computer systems. They troubleshoot problems, answer questions, and provide training.
3. CompTIA Network+
The CompTIA Network+ (N10-008) certification verifies the skills needed to deploy enterprise-level wired and wireless network solutions, as well as diagnose and troubleshoot network performance issues and harden networks against attacks to reduce security risks. However, CompTIA Network+ certifies the technical skills for configuring, controlling, and troubleshooting critical networks. This exam verifies that the successful applicant has the necessary knowledge and abilities for:
- Firstly, establishing network connectivity by deploying wired and wireless devices
- Secondly, understanding and maintaining network documentation
- Thirdly, understanding the purpose of network services
- Next, understanding basic datacenter, cloud, and virtual networking concepts
- Then, monitoring network activity, identifying performance and availability issues
- Next, applying network hardening techniques
- Lastly, managing, configuring, and troubleshooting network infrastructure
Recommended Experience :
For this exam, it is suggested to have:
- Firstly, CompTIA A+ Certification
- Secondly, networking experience of at least 9 to 12 months.
Major Areas:
- Networking Fundamentals
- Network Implementations
- Network Operations
- Network Security
- Network Troubleshooting
Job opportunities:
- Network Support Specialist: Provides technical support to users experiencing network issues, configures basic network devices, and assists network administrators.
- Help Desk Technician: Troubleshoots hardware and software problems for users, often including resolving network connectivity issues.
- Junior Network Administrator: Assists senior administrators with network management tasks, monitors network performance, and performs basic troubleshooting.
- Network Field Technician: Installs and configures network equipment at customer sites, tests network connectivity, and resolves basic issues.
- Systems Engineer: Assists with systems installation, configuration, and maintenance, with potential network responsibilities depending on the role.
- Network Administrator: Manages an organization’s network infrastructure, including troubleshooting, configuration, security, and performance optimization.
- Network Analyst: Performs network analyses to identify and resolve performance issues, implements network upgrades, and monitors network security.
- IT Consultant: Provides IT consulting services to businesses, with potential specialization in networking based on experience and skill set.
4. Juniper Networks Certified Associate – Junos (JNCIA-Junos)
As an integral component of the Juniper® Enterprise Routing and Switching Certification and Service Provider Routing and Switching Certification tracks, the JNCIA-Junos, Associate, is tailored for networking professionals possessing beginner-intermediate knowledge in the field. The certification entails a written exam where candidates showcase their comprehension of the core functionalities embedded in the Junos® OS.
For optimal exam preparation, we suggest utilizing the recommended resources, such as “Getting Started with Networking” and “Introduction to the Junos Operating System.” Although these resources are beneficial, it’s important to note that they are not mandatory, and success on the exam is not guaranteed solely by their use.
Major Areas:
- Networking Fundamentals
- Junos OS Fundamentals
- User Interfaces
- Configuration Basics
- Operational Monitoring and Maintainance
- Routing Fundamentals
Job opportunities:
- Juniper Network Technician: Provides basic support for Junos networks, including device configuration, troubleshooting, and monitoring.
- Network Support Specialist: Troubleshoots network issues, including those related to Junos devices, and assists network administrators.
- Junior Network Administrator: Assists senior administrators with Junos network management tasks, such as device configuration, security, and performance optimization.
- Help Desk Technician: Resolves user issues related to network connectivity, potentially including troubleshooting Junos network problems.
- IT Field Technician: Installs and configures Junos network equipment at customer sites, tests network connectivity, and resolves basic issues.
- Junos Network Administrator: Manages Junos networks for an organization, handling configuration, security, performance, and troubleshooting.
- Network Analyst: Analyzes Junos networks to identify and resolve performance issues, implements network upgrades, and monitors network security.
- Cloud Network Engineer: Deploys and manages Junos networks in cloud environments, ensuring optimal performance and security.
- Network Automation Specialist: Automates Junos network tasks using scripting languages, improving efficiency and consistency.
5. AWS Certified Advanced Networking – Specialty
The AWS Certified Advanced Networking – Specialty is designed for individuals engaged in complex networking tasks, backed by a minimum of five years of hands-on experience in architecting and implementing network solutions. Before attempting this exam, it is advisable to have:
- Professional experience using AWS technology, understanding AWS security best practices, familiarity with AWS storage options and their underlying consistency models, and knowledge of AWS networking nuances and their relevance to integrating AWS services.
- Knowledge of advanced networking architectures and interconnectivity options, such as IP VPN, multiprotocol label switching (MPLS), and virtual private LAN service (VPLS).
- Familiarity with developing automation scripts and tools, encompassing the design, implementation, and optimization of routing architectures (including static and dynamic), multi-region solutions for global enterprises, and highly available connectivity solutions like AWS Direct Connect and VPN.
- Understanding of CIDR and sub-netting (IPv4 and IPv6), IPv6 transition challenges, and generic solutions for network security features, including AWS WAF, intrusion detection systems (IDS), intrusion prevention systems (IPS), DDoS protection, and economic denial of service/sustainability (EDoS).
Target Audience:
- The ideal candidate for this certification should have a minimum of five years of networking experience, with at least two years specifically focused on cloud and hybrid networking.
- The candidate should be well-versed in AWS networking nuances and their implications for integrating AWS services, AWS security best practices, as well as AWS compute and storage options, and their underlying consistency models.
Major Areas:
- Network Design
- Network Implementation
- Network Management and Operation
- Network Security, Compliance, and Governance
Job opportunities:
- Cloud Network Architect: Design, build, and optimize secure and scalable network architectures for enterprise cloud environments.
- AWS Network Specialist: Implement and manage advanced AWS networking services, including Direct Connect, VPN Gateway, and Transit Gateway.
- Cloud Security Engineer: Secure AWS network environments by implementing firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and access control policies.
- DevOps Engineer: Integrate networking solutions into DevOps pipelines for automated infrastructure provisioning and deployment.
- Network Automation Engineer: Automate network tasks using tools like AWS CloudFormation and AWS SDKs.
- Senior Network Administrator: Manage and support complex enterprise networks hosted on AWS.
- Consultant: Provide expert advice and guidance on designing and implementing AWS network solutions for clients.
6. VMware Certified Professional – Network Virtualization (VCP-NV)
The VMware Certified Professional – Network Virtualization 2024 (VCP-NV 2024) certification affirms an individual’s expertise in configuring, deploying, and overseeing VMware NSX environments, essential for virtualizing networking and security services. Job roles aligned with this certification encompass network administrators, virtualization administrators, and consultants.
Knowledge requirement:
- A minimally qualified candidate for VCP-NV 2024 is adept at installing, configuring, managing, and troubleshooting NSX solutions, albeit occasionally requiring research for certain topics. With a recommended 6 months or more of experience in VMware NSX solutions and a broader 2-year IT background, the candidate demonstrates knowledge of NSX features, functions, and architectures.
- Familiarity with VMware vSphere and its command line is evident, though occasional research may be needed.
- The candidate may seek assistance or supervision for specific tasks and could benefit from researching network virtualization-related topics while possessing a solid grasp of the majority of knowledge outlined in the exam blueprint.
Major Areas:
- IT Architectures, Technologies, Standards
- VMware Solution
- Plan and Design the VMware Solution
- Install, Configure, Administrate the VMware Solution
- Troubleshoot and Optimize the VMware Solution
Job opportunities:
- Network Virtualization Engineer: Design, implement, and manage complex NSX environments, ensuring scalability, performance, and security.
- Cloud Network Architect: Collaborate with cloud architects and cloud administrators to design and implement network solutions for enterprise cloud environments.
- DevOps Engineer: Integrate network virtualization solutions into DevOps pipelines for automated infrastructure provisioning and deployment.
- Network Automation Engineer: Automate network tasks using VMware tools and APIs, such as VMware NSX API and VMware Cloud Automation Services.
- Security Engineer: Secure virtualized networks using NSX security features, such as microsegmentation, firewalling, and intrusion detection.
- IT Consultant: Provide expert advice and guidance on designing and implementing NSX solutions for clients.
7. Microsoft Certified: Azure Network Engineer Associate
In the role of an Azure network engineer, your responsibilities encompass enhancing the performance, resiliency, scale, and security of Azure networking solutions. Deployment of these solutions involves using the Azure portal, the command line, and templates. Proactively monitoring network environments to identify issues and minimize risks is also part of your duties.
Collaboration is crucial in delivering Azure solutions, and you work alongside solution architects, cloud administrators, security engineers, application developers, and DevOps engineers. Additionally, you assist Azure support engineers in resolving connectivity issues reported by customers.
To be successful in obtaining this certification, you should have experience in creating and managing compute, storage, and networking resources in Azure. A solid understanding of networking fundamentals, including name resolution, network protocols, and network address management, is also essential. Furthermore, you should possess subject matter expertise in strategizing, implementing, and overseeing Azure networking solutions, covering:
- Core network infrastructure
- Hybrid connectivity
- Application delivery services
- Private access to Azure services
- Network security
Exam include:
Major areas:
- Design and implement core networking infrastructure
- Design, implement, and manage connectivity services
- Design and implement application delivery services
- Design and implement private access to Azure services
- Secure network connectivity to Azure resources
Job opportunities:
- Azure Network Administrator: Responsible for the day-to-day operation and maintenance of Azure networking resources, including virtual networks, subnets, security groups, and network appliances.
- Azure Network Engineer: Design, implement, and manage complex Azure network architectures, ensuring security, scalability, and performance.
- Cloud Network Architect: Collaborate with solution architects and cloud administrators to design and implement network solutions for enterprise cloud environments.
- DevOps Engineer: Integrate networking solutions into DevOps pipelines for automated infrastructure provisioning and deployment.
- Network Automation Engineer: Automate network tasks using Azure Resource Manager (ARM) templates, Azure PowerShell, and Azure CLI.
- Security Engineer: Secure Azure network environments by implementing firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and access control policies.
- IT Consultant: Provide expert advice and guidance on designing and implementing Azure network solutions for clients.
8. PCNSA (Palo Alto Networks Certified Network Security Administrator)
The PCNSA certification encompasses the operation and management of Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFWs). Designed for security administrators, the Palo Alto Networks Certified Network Security Administrator (PCNSA) certification validates the knowledge and skills essential for deploying and overseeing Palo Alto Networks NGFWs. PCNSA-certified individuals showcase expertise in the Palo Alto Networks NGFW feature set and the core components of the Palo Alto Networks product portfolio.
Given the highly integrated and automated nature of Palo Alto Networks technology, the PCNSA certification attests to an individual’s capability to navigate multiple technologies working cohesively to thwart advanced cyber threats. Those who earn the PCNSA demonstrate proficiency in operating the Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewall, effectively safeguarding networks against cutting-edge cyber threats. The intended audience for this certification includes security administrators tasked with the operation and management of the Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewall.
Major Areas:
- Device Management and Services
- Managing Objects
- Policy Evaluation and Management
- Securing Traffic
Job opportunities:
- Palo Alto Networks Firewall Administrator: Install, configure, manage, and maintain Palo Alto Networks NGFWs, ensuring optimal security posture and network performance.
- Cybersecurity Analyst: Utilize Palo Alto Networks security features to monitor network activity, analyze security incidents, and identify potential threats.
- Network Security Engineer: Design, implement, and optimize secure network architectures using Palo Alto Networks NGFWs and other security solutions.
- Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst: Monitor and respond to security events in real-time, leveraging Palo Alto Networks NGFW data and analysis tools.
- Cloud Security Specialist: Secure cloud environments using Palo Alto Networks Prisma Cloud solutions, leveraging the skills gained through PCNSA training.
- Penetration Tester: Utilize your Palo Alto Networks expertise to simulate real-world attacks and improve the security posture of networks.
- IT Consultant: Provide expert advice and guidance on deploying and managing Palo Alto Networks solutions for clients.
9. ACA-Campus Access (Aruba Certified Associate – Campus Access)
The ACA-Campus Access (Aruba Certified Associate – Campus Access) certification empowers you to establish yourself as a trusted network professional proficient in fundamental wired and wireless concepts. It equips you with the skills to configure and manage contemporary, open standards-based networking solutions, validating expertise in Aruba’s wired and wireless technologies. This certification covers a spectrum of areas, including routing and switching, RF concepts, basic security, connectivity, monitoring, and reporting, enabling you to advance your career as an Aruba Certified Associate capable of implementing a modern, unified networking solution.
Target Audience:
- Tailored for network field technicians, deployment technicians, NOC Level 1, or junior network engineers, the typical candidate possesses hands-on experience with Aruba products and at least 1+ year of networking experience, coupled with a vendor-agnostic understanding of basic network protocols.
- Under the guidance of a Professional or Expert, candidates can apply configurations and verify the status of a campus network.
Exam Necessary Validation:
- To attain the ACA-Campus Access certification, candidates must successfully pass the exam administered by PearsonVUE.
- The certification validates knowledge and skills across critical areas, such as network stack, connectivity, network resiliency, switching, WLAN, routing, security, authentication/authorization, management and monitoring, troubleshooting, and performance optimization.
- This comprehensive validation ensures a well-rounded expertise in deploying, managing, and troubleshooting Aruba-based networking solutions.
Major Areas:
- Network Stack
- Connectivity
- Network Resiliency and virtualization
- Switching
- WLAN
- Routing
- Security
- Authentication/Authorization
- Management and Monitoring
- Troubleshooting
- Performance Optimization
Job opportunities:
- Network Technician: Install, configure, and troubleshoot basic network devices, including Aruba access points, switches, and routers.
- Help Desk Technician: Resolve user network connectivity issues and provide basic network support, leveraging your knowledge of Aruba technologies.
- Junior Network Administrator: Assist senior network administrators with managing Aruba campus networks, including configuration, security, and performance optimization.
- Field Service Technician: Install and configure Aruba network equipment at customer sites, ensuring proper functionality and connectivity.
- Network Support Specialist: Provide technical support to users experiencing network issues, including those related to Aruba devices.
10. Nokia NRS I (Nokia Certified Network Routing Specialist I)
The NRS I Networking certification marks the starting point for the Nokia Service Routing Certification (SRC) Program, which is specially designed for students with limited knowledge of IP and Ethernet Technologies. The training for NRS I equips individuals with essential knowledge about the TCP/IP layered model, Ethernet, Internet addressing, packet forwarding, routing protocols, MPLS tunneling, and Virtual Private Network (VPN) services.
This certification lays a strong foundation in IP technology, preparing individuals to progress in the program by taking additional courses or certifications. Once students complete the Network Routing Specialist I certification, they will:
- Gain familiarity with the basics of the TCP/IP layered model, Ethernet, internet addressing, and packet forwarding.
- Understand routing protocols, MPLS tunneling, and Virtual Private Network (VPN) services.
- Passing this certification helps students:
- Describe the basics of the TCP/IP layered model.
- Identify the network locations where Nokia Service Router family products are used.
- Perform basic configurations using the command line interface of the Nokia 7750 Service Router.
- Explain the purpose and operation of the Ethernet protocol.
- Describe the Internet Protocol (IP) addressing and forwarding process.
- Explain the difference between static routing and dynamic routing protocols.
Major Areas:
- Introduction to networking and services
- Service Router Components and Command Line Interface
- Ethernet
- The Internet Layer
- IP Routing Protocol Basics
- Services Overview
Job opportunities:
- Network Technician: Install, configure, and troubleshoot basic network devices, including Nokia routers and switches.
- Help Desk Technician: Resolve user network connectivity issues and provide basic network support, leveraging your knowledge of Nokia technologies.
- Junior Network Administrator: Assist senior network administrators with managing Nokia networks, including configuration, security, and performance optimization.
- Field Service Technician: Install and configure Nokia network equipment at customer sites, ensuring proper functionality and connectivity.
- Network Support Specialist: Provide technical support to users experiencing network issues, including those related to Nokia devices.
Conclusion
The journey to a fulfilling and rewarding career in networking starts with building your knowledge and skill set. Certifications provide valuable validation of your expertise, opening doors to exciting opportunities and enhanced earning potential. Acquiring Networking certifications is just one step in your journey. Combine strategic certification choices with practical experience, soft skills development, and a commitment to continuous learning to ensure long-term success in this rewarding and dynamic field.
The future of networking careers is bright, with skilled professionals playing a critical role in driving innovation and connectivity across various industries. By investing in the right certifications, staying on top of industry trends, and continuously honing your skills, you’ll be well-positioned to seize exciting opportunities and shape the future of this dynamic field. So, take action today!
