There are numerous technical certifications out there. Some are simple to obtain, while others are challenging. However, the question you ought to ask is: which certifications will help you in obtaining a promotion or even a job, and which ones will truly enhance your skills? There are ten certifications which are certain to improve your skills along with your professional life.
MCSE
Microsoft implemented scenario questions which were performance-related instead of multiple choice questions in its exams for MCSE. The Microsoft training certification has since garnered considerable respect as an ideal tool for displaying expertise in Microsoft products.
MCA
The MCA is another Microsoft training. It has been designed to help identify the industry’s top experts. To obtain it, you must have three or more years’ experience in advanced IT architecture, and you must pass a thorough review board which experts conduct.
CCIE
The CCIE, or Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert, is a challenging certification to obtain. You must pass written exam and then perform an eight-hour hands-on lab test. Each lab exam costs 1,250 dollars. You must recertify after each two years.
CCSP
The Cisco Certified Security Professional, or CCSP, focuses on skills which link to securing networks running Cisco routers. You must pass five of the exams and recertify after each three years. You can only qualify for CCSP by passing CCIP or CCNA.
CISSP
This is a well-respected certification. Candidates must have garnered four or more years working as a security expert. You must recertify after three years, and you must pay 85 dollars annually to maintain this certification. The exam spans six hours.
SSCP
The Systems Security Certified Practitioner is for the persons who lack the experience required for CISSP. You only require one year of security experience. If you pass it, you must receive endorsement from a person with (ISC)2 certification and who will testify to your professional experience.
GSE
This certification, the GIAC Security Expert, requires passes in GCIA, GCIH, GSEC and GIAC. You must give a personal interview, in addition. Without training, every lower-level exam costs 900 dollars.
RHCA/RHCE
The Red Hat Certified Engineer is performance-based. You must perform actual network configuration, installation, administration tasks and troubleshooting on a live system. You are given an entire day for performing the tasks. The RHCA requires five endorsement exams to be completed, each of them costing 750 dollars. They are also hands-on tests of skill.
ITIL
The Information Technology Infrastructure Library offers demonstration of managerial skills and knowledge. Its certification levels are Foundation, Manager and Practitioner. The Manager certification requires a two weeks of training. You need IT management experience of five or more years to qualify.
Certifications in Special Situations
There are numerous exams for persons who desire to specialize in a particular area. This includes wireless network certifications, database administration certification, VOIP certifications, HIPAA compliance certifications and numerous others. There are also entry-level certifications such as CompTIA for persons with minimal IT experience.
We also prepare sample exams to assist you in evaluating your certification requirements along with the needed field of knowledge.