Today's Most Valuable Network Certifications for IT Professionals

Network technology is always evolving. Network certifications help professionals develop a deep knowledge of new and current tools, technologies, and practices.

The challenge facing any pro considering network certifications is finding the program that most closely matches their career goals. Unfortunately, the certification market is both challenging and confusing. To help guide you through the labyrinth and its positive and negative aspects, here's a quick guide to your current top options.

CCIE: A Hands-on Network Certification

The Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) is the most significant network credential available today, says Larry Hartman, chief strategic officer at Pixel Free Studio, a firm that develops UI/UX and graphic designer software development tools. "Its strict criteria and great depth of knowledge reflect high respect," he notes in an email interview.

CCIE distinguishes itself as a practical, hands-on certification, proving a candidate's aptitude to manage challenging networking problems, Hartman says. "Globally, certified experts are regarded as top-notch personnel with the ability to construct and oversee most advanced networks."

CCIE shows that its holder has a thorough, practical grasp of difficult networking concepts," Hartman says. "It's well known worldwide, and individuals with this certification are usually regarded as elite experts, able to manage the most demanding network environments."

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CCIE holders can use their certification to advance into a variety of different high-level positions, such as senior network engineer, network architect, network consultant, and even CTO, Hartman states.

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