move into networking

snunez889

I am currently working as a jr systems admin. I have no plans to leave the company I currently work for any time soon(Only a few short month in), but I would like to eventually work my way into a networking type of position. I have the CCNA,network+,security+, what should be next? What will help me get into a networking gig, and will being a systems admin help at all? I do get to touch routers and switches, but very little and nothing to in depth. Should I start working towards the CCNP while I'm here?

keitaro

I think cert-wise, you're good. I'd advise against going for your CCNP right now (wait until you get some real world experience at the very least).

Why don't you talk to the network engineer(s) that are already there? Let them know of your interest (and certs) in the field and I'm sure when the time comes for when they need another hand you'll be at the forefront of their minds.

Verities

I agree with Keitaro, wait until you get real world networking experience before pursuing CCNP and make yourself known to the current networking department. Personally, I just transitioned into a networking heavy position (I come from a server background) and all of my counterparts have CCNA, a few have CCNA Security and they're working on CCNA Voice.

Hope this helps steer you in the right direction.

DoubleNNs

If you don't plan on leaving your current job, I'd talk to co-workers and management about your aspirations and simply ask what the requirements would be to make that move. Also see if you'd be able to take on some responsibilities there.

Depending on the company, going for the CCNP *might* actually be a good course of action, or even requirement, for moving over to the networking side. Since you want to stay in the company, it's better to get a clear, straight-forward answer as best you can that pertains to your company than to get generalizations from us.

Heero

There is no reason to wait for real world experience before he starts working on his CCNP. He should prioritize the job search, but if studying for the CCNP doesn't have a significant impact on the time and effort he puts into the job search, there is no reason not to start the CCNP now.

snunez889

There really isn't a network team here. Everyone is in charge of their own switches and routers at each facility. I have done a few networking things here and at a three month internship as a NOC at another company. So I do get some exposure, just not where I want it to be.