CCNA is where it all starts for training in Cisco. This teaches you how to handle the maintenance and installation of routers. Fundamentally, the internet is based upon huge numbers of routers, and big organisations who have several locations utilise them to connect their computer networks.
Because routers join up networks, look for a course which teaches the basics (maybe the CompTIA Network+, possibly with A+ as well) before getting going with CCNA. It's essential to have some knowledge of how networks operate before you commence any Cisco training or the chances are you'll fall behind. Once qualified and looking for work, companies will expect good networking skills to complement your CCNA.
Qualifying up to the CCNA level is where you should be aiming; don't be pushed into attempting your CCNP. With experience, you will have a feel for if this level is required. If so, your experience will serve as the background you need to master your CCNP - because it's a difficult qualification to master - and mustn't be entered into casually.
Often, trainers provide a shelf full of reference manuals. Obviously, this isn't much fun and isn't the best way to go about achieving retention.
Where we can utilise all of our senses into our learning, our results will often be quite spectacular.
Study programs now come via DVD-ROM discs, where everything is taught on your PC. Video streaming means you are able to see your instructors showing you how it's all done, with some practice time to follow - via the interactive virtual lab's.
It makes sense to see some examples of the kind of training materials you'll be using before you make your decision. You should expect videoed instructor demonstrations and interactive modules with audio-visual elements.
Some companies only have access to training that is purely available online; sometimes you can get away with this - but, imagine the problems if your access to the internet is broken or you get intermittent problems and speed issues. It's much safer to rely on DVD or CD discs that will not have these problems.
You have to make sure that all your certifications are current and commercially required - you're wasting your time with programs that lead to in-house certificates.
All the major IT organisations like Microsoft, Adobe, Cisco or CompTIA each have internationally approved proficiency programmes. These heavyweights will give some sparkle to your CV.
Getting into your first IT role is often made easier if you're supported with a Job Placement Assistance service. Because of the great demand for appropriately skilled people in this country even when times are hard, it's not necessary to become overly impressed with this service however. It's not as difficult as you may be led to believe to find your first job once you're properly qualified.
Help and assistance with preparing a CV and getting interviews is sometimes offered (if it isn't, consult one of our sites). Be sure to you update that dusty old CV straight away - don't leave it till you pass the exams!
It's possible that you won't have even passed your first exam when you land your first junior support job; although this can't and won't happen if your CV isn't in front of employers.
You'll normally experience better performance from an independent and specialised local recruitment consultancy than you'll experience from any training provider's national service, as they'll know the local area and commercial needs better.
A good number of trainees, so it seems, are prepared to study their hearts out (for years sometimes), only to do nothing special when trying to get a good job. Promote yourself... Do your best to get in front of employers. Don't expect a job to just fall into your lap.
Any advisor who doesn't ask many questions - it's more than likely they're actually nothing more than a salesman. If they wade straight in with a specific product before getting to know your background and whether you have any commercial experience, then it's very likely to be the case.
If you have a strong background, or maybe some work-based experience (maybe some existing accreditation?) then it could be that the level you'll need to start at will be quite dissimilar from someone with no background whatsoever.
Consider starting with some basic user skills first. Beginning there can make the slope up to the higher-levels a much easier going.
Information:
(C) Scott Edwards 2010. Hop over to Cisco Certification or www.ComputerTraining4PC.co.uk.
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