What Certs Should I get?

zdx

I've been working IT for about 4 years. First as a helpdesk intern at a IT dept at my college and then as jack of all trades IT tech at a municipality. I want to find another job elsewhere and become a network engineer. What certs should I look into getting? Should I start with an A+? CCNA? Network+?

scaredoftests

What are you interested in?

zdx

networking and security

636-555-3226

For security I'll generically point you to

http://www.techexams.net/forums/security-certifications/113328-what-information-security-certifications-should-i-get.html

danny069

Networking: N+, CCENT, ICND2, CCNP Routing & Switching, CCIE, WCNA, JNCIA, etc.
Security: Security+, CEH, CASP, OSCP, CISSP, CISM, etc.

cyberguypr

Also, make sure you take the pulse of your local market. Go to Indeed or similar and search for the position you want. That will help you understand what employers are looking for.

NVLady

If you are new to networking, I would recommend splitting the CCNA portion into ICND1 & ICND2. While more expensive, I think you will get more out of it.

dublate

In my area, there are way more desktop support roles rather than things like networking and system admin positions. Networking is hard to get into if you are trying to work your way up.

bpenn

In that case, many companies will hire from within and you may be able to make lateral moves to infrastructure roles from the service desk. If you are struggling to find networking roles in your area, consider relocating an option if that career path is something you truly desire.

As others have said, definitely get your CCNA. That is a good starting point.

OmniTech

I'd also try to diversify if you can. Start with with Cisco, then work your way with Juniper, etc. Taking a look locally what employers are looking for will give you some good insight.