In today’s digital age, data centers are the humming powerhouses that keep our online world running smoothly. But as these facilities become increasingly complex, the need for skilled professionals to manage them grows ever stronger. This is where data center certifications come in. Earning a recognized credential can significantly boost your resume, validate your expertise, and open doors to exciting career opportunities.
This blog post dives into the top 10 data center certifications to pursue in 2024, highlighting their key features and how to choose the one that best aligns with your career goals.
Top 10 Data Center Certifications
Below we will cover details of each certification, including key skills and knowledge areas covered, and the benefits of obtaining the credential. With this information, you can make an informed decision about which certification best aligns with your career goals and skill set.
1. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
The CCNA is an IT certification offered by Cisco that validates your knowledge and skills in installing, configuring, operating, and troubleshooting basic network equipment. It’s considered an entry-level certification and a springboard for further Cisco certifications.
Skills and Knowledge:
- Understanding network components like routers, switches, and cabling.
- Configuring and managing wired and wireless network access.
- Working with IP addressing, subnetting, and routing protocols.
- Understanding and configuring services like DHCP, DNS, and firewalls.
- Implementing basic network security measures.
- Knowledge of network automation concepts.
Target Audience:
- IT professionals with no prior networking experience or those looking to validate foundational knowledge.
- Individuals seeking careers in network administration, support, or engineering.
Top Job Roles for CCNA Holders:
- Network Support Specialist
- Network Administrator
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior Network Engineer
- Security Analyst (with additional security training)
Benefits of CCNA Certification:
- The average salary for CCNA certified professionals in the US ranges from $58,000 to $85,000 annually, depending on location, experience, and other factors.
- The CCNA certification demonstrates your foundational knowledge of networking and makes you a more attractive candidate to employers.
- The CCNA is the stepping stone to more advanced Cisco certifications, which can lead to even higher salaries and better job opportunities.
2. Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Data Center
The CCNP Data Center certification validates your expertise in designing, deploying, operating, and optimizing data center network infrastructure. It demonstrates your ability to manage complex, converged data center environments that combine network, compute, storage, automation, and security technologies.
Skills and Knowledge:
- Deep understanding of routing protocols, network segmentation, Quality of Service (QoS), and data center fabrics.
- Expertise in data center network design principles, including ACI (Application Centric Infrastructure) and VXLAN.
- Working knowledge of converged infrastructure solutions that integrate network, compute, and storage resources.
- Understanding of storage area networks (SANs) and network-attached storage (NAS).
- Familiarity with network automation tools and scripting languages like Python.
- Implementing security best practices for data center environments, including access control and threat detection.
Target Audience:
- Network professionals with experience in data center technologies and a strong foundation in networking (CCNA recommended).
- IT professionals seeking to advance their careers in data center design, operation, or management.
Top Job Roles for CCNP Data Center Holders:
- Data Center Network Engineer
- Data Center Architect
- Cloud Network Engineer
- Network Automation Engineer
- Data Center Operations Specialist
Benefits of CCNP Data Center Certification:
- The average salary for CCNP Data Center certified professionals in the US is significantly higher than CCNA holders, ranging from $80,000 to $120,000 annually depending on experience and location.
- The CCNP Data Center certification positions you for leadership roles in data center management and opens doors to high-demand cloud networking careers.
- This certification demonstrates your in-depth knowledge of complex data center solutions, making you a highly sought-after candidate for employers.
- The CCNP Data Center serves as a stepping stone to the even more prestigious CCIE Data Center certification, the pinnacle of data center networking expertise.
3. Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) Data Center
The CCIE Data Center is the pinnacle of Cisco certifications for data center networking. It validates your ability to design, implement, operate, troubleshoot, and optimize complex data center network infrastructure at an expert level. This highly sought-after certification demonstrates your mastery of advanced Cisco technologies and positions you for leadership roles in data center management.
Skills and Knowledge:
- Expertise in designing scalable, secure, and resilient data center network architectures. This includes deep understanding of network fabrics, overlays, and automation technologies.
- The ability to diagnose and resolve complex network issues in data center environments using advanced tools and techniques.
- Comprehensive knowledge of Cisco data center solutions, including ACI, Nexus switches, UCS fabric Inter-Switch Links (ISL), and Application Centric Infrastructure (ACI).
- Advanced skills in network automation using tools like Python and Cisco APIs to automate network configurations and troubleshooting tasks.
- Deep understanding of data center security principles, including microsegmentation, access control lists (ACLs), and threat detection mechanisms.
Target Audience:
- Highly experienced data center network engineers with a strong foundation in networking (CCNP Data Center recommended) and a proven track record of success in data center design and operations.
- IT professionals aiming for leadership positions in data center management, architecture, or cloud networking.
Top Job Roles for CCIE Data Center Holders:
- Data Center Network Architect
- Cloud Network Architect
- Data Center Operations Manager
- Network Automation Lead
- Senior Network Engineer (Data Center)
Benefits of CCIE Data Center Certification:
- The CCIE Data Center certification is highly sought after, translating to significant earning potential. Salaries in the US typically range from $120,000 to $180,000 annually, or even higher depending on experience and location.
- This certification positions you as a data center networking expert, opening doors to leadership roles and career advancement opportunities.
- The CCIE Data Center is a globally recognized symbol of expertise, making you a highly attractive candidate to employers worldwide.
- Achieving this certification demonstrates your ability to solve the most complex data center network challenges.
4. VMware Certified Professional 6–Data Center Virtualization (VCP6-DCV)
The VCP6-DCV certification validates your proficiency in administering and troubleshooting VMware vSphere v6.7 infrastructure. It demonstrates your ability to optimize, scale, and manage virtualized environments to meet business needs. This certification is a valuable credential for IT professionals seeking to advance their careers in virtualization technologies.
Skills and Knowledge:
- Expertise in installing, configuring, and managing vSphere components like ESXi hosts, vCenter Server, and virtual machines.
- Understanding resource allocation, capacity planning, and performance optimization techniques for virtualized environments.
- Knowledge of storage solutions like vSAN and VMFS, and network configurations for vSphere environments, including vMotion and vDS.
- Implementing vSphere features like HA (High Availability), DRS (Distributed Resource Scheduler), and vSphere Replication for high availability and disaster recovery.
- Understanding security best practices for virtualized environments, including user access control and role-based access control (RBAC).
- Familiarity with additional VMware products like vRealize Suite and VMware Cloud Foundation (optional).
Target Audience:
- IT professionals with a minimum of six months of experience working with vSphere technologies.
- System administrators, network administrators, and virtualization specialists seeking to validate their vSphere skills.
- Individuals interested in pursuing a career in cloud computing or private cloud management.
Top Job Roles for VCP6-DCV Holders:
- VMware vSphere Administrator
- Cloud Infrastructure Specialist
- Virtualization Engineer
- IT Operations Specialist
- Private Cloud Administrator
Benefits of VCP6-DCV Certification:
- The VCP6-DCV certification can lead to higher earning potential compared to IT professionals without the certification. Salary ranges vary depending on location and experience, but typically fall between $70,000 and $100,000 annually in the US.
- The growing demand for virtualization skills strengthens your job security and makes you a more competitive candidate in the IT job market.
- This certification opens doors to more advanced roles in cloud computing, virtualization management, and private cloud infrastructure.
- The VCP6-DCV demonstrates your knowledge and skills in managing vSphere environments, making you a valuable asset to any organization leveraging VMware technologies.
5. Data Center Certified Associate (DCCA)
The Data Center Certified Associate (DCCA) certification, typically offered by Schneider Electric, is an entry-level credential designed to validate your foundational understanding of data center operations and design. It equips you with the essential knowledge to contribute to a data center team and prepares you for further specialization in this field.
Skills and Knowledge:
- Understanding the design and operation of critical components like power distribution, cooling systems, fire suppression, and cabling infrastructure.
- Knowledge of temperature and humidity control methods used to maintain optimal operating conditions within the data center.
- Familiarity with safety protocols and best practices for working in a data center environment.
- Understanding the Uptime Institute’s Tier Classification System for data center design and its impact on operations.
- A foundational grasp of common IT hardware and software components used within data centers.
Target Audience:
- Individuals with no prior data center experience seeking to enter the field.
- IT professionals looking to broaden their knowledge and understand how data centers function.
- Facility management personnel interested in specializing in data center operations.
- Anyone interested in a career in data center maintenance, operations, or support.
Top Job Roles for DCCA Holders:
- Data Center Technician
- Data Center Operations Specialist
- Data Center Support Specialist
- Facilities Technician (Data Center)
- Entry-level Data Center Engineering Roles (with additional experience)
Benefits of DCCA Certification:
- The DCCA certification demonstrates your basic understanding of data centers, making you a more competitive candidate for entry-level data center jobs.
- This certification serves as a stepping stone for pursuing further data center specializations and higher-level certifications.
- The DCCA is a vendor-neutral certification recognized within the data center industry, showcasing your commitment to professional development.
- The knowledge gained through DCCA training can enhance your ability to perform effectively in a data center environment.
6. Data Center Design Consultant (DCDC)
The Data Center Design Consultant (DCDC) certification, typically offered by BICSI (Building Industry Consulting Services International), validates your expertise in designing and planning data centers. It demonstrates your ability to create high-performance, energy-efficient, and reliable data center infrastructure that meets the specific needs of your clients.
Skills and Knowledge:
- Understanding key considerations like space planning, power and cooling distribution, airflow management, and cabling infrastructure.
- Knowledge of relevant industry standards like ASHRAE TC 9.9, Uptime Institute Tier Classification, and local building codes.
- Familiarity with various power and cooling technologies, fire suppression systems, monitoring and security systems used in data centers.
- Skills in project planning, budgeting, managing resources, and collaborating with stakeholders throughout the data center design process.
- Ability to effectively communicate complex technical concepts to clients and negotiate project requirements and specifications.
Target Audience:
- Experienced data center professionals with a strong understanding of data center design and construction principles.
- Electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, and IT professionals seeking to specialize in data center design.
- Consultants and designers working on data center projects.
- Individuals who want to demonstrate their expertise in data center design to potential clients.
Top Job Roles for DCDC Holders:
- Data Center Design Engineer
- Data Center Consultant
- Data Center Project Manager
- Critical Facilities Specialist
- Data Center Solutions Architect (with additional IT background)
Benefits of DCDC Certification:
- The DCDC certification can lead to higher salaries compared to data center professionals without the certification. Salaries for Data Center Design Engineers typically range from $80,000 to $120,000 annually in the US, depending on experience and location.
- The DCDC demonstrates your expertise in data center design, making you a more credible and trusted advisor to clients.
- This certification opens doors to leadership roles in data center design, project management, and consulting.
- The DCDC sets you apart from other data center professionals and makes you a more attractive candidate to potential employers.
7. EPI Certified Data Centre Expert (CDCE)
The EPI Certified Data Centre Expert (CDCE) is a high-level certification program designed for experienced data center professionals seeking to validate their expertise in designing, implementing, operating, and optimizing complex data center infrastructure. It’s offered by the EPI Group, a prominent training provider in the data center industry.
Skills and Knowledge:
- Understanding of all phases of a data center’s lifecycle, from planning and design to construction, commissioning, operation, and retirement.
- Expertise in designing scalable, secure, and energy-efficient data center layouts, including power distribution, cooling systems, and network infrastructure.
- Ability to analyze business cases, evaluate technical proposals for data center projects, and identify potential risks and opportunities.
- Knowledge of various data center equipment types and the ability to select, evaluate, and test equipment for optimal performance and integration.
- Skills in managing data center projects, including budgeting, scheduling, resource allocation, and risk mitigation.
- Familiarity with relevant data center standards like Uptime Institute Tier Classification and industry best practices.
Target Audience:
- Experienced data center professionals with a strong foundation in data center design, operations, and technologies.
- Data center designers, architects, consultants, and project managers seeking to advance their expertise.
- IT professionals with a focus on data center infrastructure aiming for leadership roles in data center design and management.
- Individuals who hold the EPI Certified Data Centre Specialist (CDCS) certification and are looking to progress to the next level (CDCS is a prerequisite for CDCE).
Top Job Roles for EPI CDCE Holde\rs:
- Data Center Design Engineer
- Data Center Architect
- Data Center Project Manager
- Data Center Consultant
- Data Center Operations Manager (with additional operational experience)
Benefits of EPI CDCE Certification:
- The EPI CDCE certification can significantly increase your earning potential compared to data center professionals without the certification. Data Center Design Engineers with CDCE certification typically earn between $90,000 and $130,000 annually in the US, depending on experience and location.
- The CDCE demonstrates your advanced knowledge and expertise, making you a highly sought-after consultant and leader in the data center field.
- This certification opens doors to senior-level positions in data center design, project management, consulting, and data center strategy.
- The CDCE sets you apart from other data center professionals and positions you for the most prestigious roles in the industry.
8. Juniper Networks Certified Professional Data Center (JNCIP-DC)
The JNCIP-DC certification validates your expertise in designing, deploying, operating, and troubleshooting data center network infrastructure using Juniper Networks Junos software. It demonstrates your ability to configure, manage, and optimize complex data center network environments for high performance and scalability.
Skills and Knowledge:
- Deep understanding of data center network design principles, including IP fabrics, EVPN (Ethernet Virtual Private Network), VXLAN (Virtual Extensible LAN), and network segmentation technologies.
- Expertise in configuring, managing, and troubleshooting Junos devices such as QFX Series switches, including Junos features for data center deployments.
- Understanding of security best practices for data center networks, including access control lists (ACLs), microsegmentation, and threat detection mechanisms.
- Knowledge of implementing Junos features for high availability and disaster recovery in data center networks, such as Link Aggregation Groups (LAGs) and Multichassis LAG (MC-LAG).
- Familiarity with scripting languages like Python and basic understanding of network automation concepts for managing Junos networks.
Target Audience:
- Experienced network professionals with a strong foundation in networking concepts and some experience with Junos software.
- IT professionals aiming to specialize in data center network design, implementation, and management using Juniper technologies.
- Individuals who hold the Juniper Networks Certified Associate (JNCIA-DC) certification and are looking to advance their knowledge.
Top Job Roles for JNCIP-DC Holders:
- Data Center Network Engineer
- Data Center Network Architect
- Cloud Network Engineer
- Network Automation Engineer
- Juniper Networks Support Engineer (focusing on Data Center)
Benefits of JNCIP-DC Certification:
- The JNCIP-DC certification can lead to higher salaries compared to network professionals without the certification. Salaries for Data Center Network Engineers with a JNCIP-DC typically range from $80,000 to $120,000 annually in the US, depending on experience and location.
- This certification positions you for leadership roles in data center network design, operation, and automation.
- The JNCIP-DC demonstrates your in-depth knowledge of Junos for data center deployments, making you a highly sought-after candidate for employers using Juniper technologies.
- The JNCIP-DC serves as a foundation for pursuing the even more prestigious Juniper Networks certifications like JNCIE Data Center, the pinnacle of data center expertise for Juniper technologies.pen_spark
9. CNet Certified Data Centre Sustainability Professional (CDCSP)
The CNet Certified Data Centre Sustainability Professional (CDCSP) validates your ability to design, implement, and manage data centers with a focus on sustainability. Offered by CNet Training, this certification equips you with the knowledge and skills to optimize data center operations for energy efficiency, resource conservation, and reduced environmental impact.
Skills and Knowledge:
- Understanding the environmental impact of data centers and the need for sustainable practices.
- Knowledge of key metrics like Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) and strategies for improving data center efficiency.
- Familiarity with sustainable design principles for data center facilities, including renewable energy integration and resource-efficient materials.
- Understanding various cooling technologies and methods to optimize cooling systems for energy efficiency.
- Knowledge of best practices for sustainable data center operations, including energy management, waste reduction, and resource optimization.
- Familiarity with relevant data center sustainability standards and regulations, such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and Green Grid initiatives.
Target Audience:
- Data center professionals with a background in data center operations or design seeking to specialize in sustainability.
- IT professionals interested in incorporating sustainable practices into data center management strategies.
- Facility management personnel working within data centers who want to contribute to sustainability efforts.
- Individuals aiming for careers in green data center design, operations, or consulting.
Top Job Roles for CDCSP Holders:
- Data Center Sustainability Specialist
- Green Data Center Engineer
- Sustainable IT Consultant
- Data Center Operations Manager (with focus on sustainability)
- Facilities Engineer (Data Center)
Benefits of CDCSP Certification:
- The CDCSP certification can lead to higher salaries compared to data center professionals without a sustainability focus. While specific data is limited, sustainability expertise can potentially increase earning potential by 5-10%.
- The CDCSP demonstrates your commitment to sustainability and positions you for emerging job roles in green data center management and consulting.
- This certification can open doors to leadership roles in data center operations with a focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility.
- The CDCSP sets you apart from other data center professionals and makes you a more attractive candidate for employers seeking sustainability-conscious professionals.
10. Registered Communications Distribution Designer (RCDD)
The RCDD designation is a credential offered by BICSI (Building Industry Consulting Services International) that validates your expertise in designing and installing telecommunications cabling infrastructure for commercial buildings. RCDDs ensure these systems meet industry standards, are functional, and support the evolving needs of modern communication technologies.
Skills and Knowledge:
- In-depth knowledge of copper and fiber optic cabling types, standards (TIA/EIA-568), and proper installation techniques.
- Understanding of various network topologies (star, bus, mesh) and their application within buildings.
- Familiarity with relevant building codes and fire safety regulations impacting telecommunications cabling infrastructure.
- Knowledge of common communication technologies supported by cabling systems, such as voice, data, and audio/video.
- Skills in creating and interpreting technical drawings, schematics, and cable schedules for telecommunications systems.
- Basic understanding of project management principles for planning, budgeting, and overseeing cabling infrastructure projects.
Target Audience:
- Experienced telecommunications cabling professionals with a minimum of 3 years of experience.
- Electrical engineers, low-voltage electricians, or IT professionals seeking to specialize in telecommunications cabling design.
- Individuals who want to demonstrate their expertise and qualify for higher-level cabling design projects.
Top Job Roles for RCDD Holders:
- Telecommunications Cabling Designer
- Communications Systems Designer
- Low-Voltage Design Engineer
- Network Infrastructure Specialist (with additional IT background)
- Cabling Project Manager
Benefits of RCDD Certification:
- RCDDs typically earn higher salaries compared to non-certified cabling professionals. Salaries for Telecommunications Cabling Designers with RCDD certification can range from $70,000 to $100,000 annually in the US, depending on experience and location.
- The RCDD designation demonstrates your expertise to clients and employers, making you a more trusted advisor for telecommunications cabling projects.
- This certification opens doors to leadership roles in telecommunications design, project management, and consulting within the low-voltage cabling industry.
- The RCDD sets you apart from other cabling professionals and makes you a more attractive candidate to potential employers.
Choosing the Right Certification for Your Data Center Journey
Having explored the top 10 data center certifications, you might be wondering which one best suits your career aspirations. With a variety of options available, selecting the right certification requires careful consideration of your individual goals and experience. Some key factors to guide your decision:
- Choose a certification that strengthens your skillset in your desired area. For instance, the CCNP Data Center caters to network design and automation, while the CDCMP focuses on data center operations management.
- Some certifications, like the CCNA, serve as foundational knowledge blocks, while others, like the CCIE Data Center, cater to seasoned professionals. Evaluate your current skillset and choose a certification that presents a suitable challenge and aligns with your experience level.
- Research job postings in your target field to see which certifications are most sought-after by employers. Opt for certifications from reputable organizations with strong industry recognition to maximize your career prospects.
- Certain certifications, like the DCCA, offer a vendor-neutral approach, providing a broad understanding of data center concepts. Conversely, vendor-specific certifications, like those offered by Cisco or Juniper, delve deeper into specific technologies and might be advantageous if you’re aiming for a role focused on a particular vendor’s solutions.
- If security is your passion, a security-focused certification might be a better fit. Additionally, some certifications offer flexible online learning options, while others require in-person classroom training. Choose a format that aligns with your learning style and schedule.
Conclusion
As the digital landscape continues to transform, data centers remain the backbone of our interconnected world. By pursuing a data center certification, you equip yourself with the expertise and skills necessary to thrive in this dynamic field. We’ve explored the top 10 certifications to consider in 2024, along with key factors to guide your selection. Remember, the right certification can unlock exciting career opportunities and validate your knowledge in this in-demand domain. Take the first step towards a rewarding data center career, research further, explore the available options, and choose the certification that best aligns with your unique aspirations. The future of data centers is bright, and with the right credentials, you can be a part of it.
