CCNA is the way to go for training in Cisco. This will enable you to work on the maintenance and installation of routers and network switches. The internet is made up of many routers, and large companies that have various regional departments use them to allow their networks of computers to communicate.

It’s vital that you already know a good deal about how computer networks operate and function, because computer networks are joined to routers. If not, the chances are you’ll fall behind. Better to look for a course covering the basics in networking (maybe the CompTIA Network+, possibly with A+ as well) and then do a CCNA course. Look for a training provider that can offer this as a career package.

Should this be your first introduction to routers, then working up to and including the CCNA is definitely sufficient - at this stage avoid being tempted to do the CCNP. With a few years experience behind you, you can decide if it’s appropriate for you to go to the level of CCNP.

How the program is actually delivered to you can often be overlooked. How is the courseware broken down? What is the specific order and at what speed is it delivered?

Students often think it makes sense (with most training taking 1-3 years to gain full certified status,) that a training provider will issue a single section at a time, as you pass each element. However:

It’s not unusual for trainees to realise that their providers ’standard’ path of training is not what they would prefer. It’s often the case that a different order of study is more expedient. Perhaps you don’t make it in the allotted time?

An ideal situation would be to have all your study materials sent to your home before you even start; the entire package! Then, nothing can hinder your progress.

Look at the points below carefully if you think that over-used sales technique about examination guarantees seems like a good idea:

Certainly it isn’t free - you’re still coughing up for it - it’s just been wrapped up in the price of the package.

It’s well known in the industry that when trainees fund each progressive exam, at the time of taking them, the chances are they’re going to pass first time - since they are conscious of the cost and will therefore apply themselves appropriately.

Does it really add up to pay a training company at the start of the course for exams? Go for the best offer when you take the exam, instead of paying any mark-up - and do it locally - rather than possibly hours away from your area.

A lot of unscrupulous training companies secure big margins because they’re getting paid for examinations upfront then banking on the fact that many won’t be taken.

In addition to this, you should consider what an ‘exam guarantee’ really means. Many training companies won’t pay for re-takes until you can prove to them you’re ready to pass.

Prometric and VUE exams are approximately 112 pounds in Great Britain. Why pay exorbitant charges for ‘Exam Guarantees’ (often hidden in the cost) - when a quality course, support and study, commitment and preparing with good quality mock and practice exams is what will really guarantee success.

All programs you’re considering should always lead to a properly recognised certification at the end - and not a worthless ‘in-house’ plaque for your wall.

Unless your qualification is issued by a big-hitter like Microsoft, Adobe, CompTIA or Cisco, then chances are it won’t be commercially viable - as no-one will have heard of it.

Being at the forefront of revolutionary new technology really is electrifying. You personally play your part in impacting progress around the world.

There are people who believe that the revolution in technology we’ve had over recent years is slowing down. This couldn’t be more wrong. There are huge changes to come, and most especially the internet is going to dominate how we conduct our lives.

Incomes in IT are not a problem either - the income on average in the UK for an average IT employee is much better than in the rest of the economy. Odds are you’ll make a whole lot more than you would in most other jobs.

The search for properly certified IT professionals is assured for many years to come, due to the continuous increase in the technology industry and the vast shortage that remains.

(C) Jason Kendall. Look at LearningLolly.com for great ideas on Cisco Courses and Cisco CCNA Courses.

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