To specialise or not to specialise...

darkfibre

Just wanted to gather your thoughts on this. In your opinion, would it be better to specialise in one area of technology (Cisco Security, etc) or is it better to know a wash of everything (bit of MS, bit of Cisco, etc). I know ultimately everyone does what they love to do, but I'm just thinking in terms of marketability/security reasons?

Mishra

No matter what you do, you should always listen, ask questions, and try to pick up on the technologies that other people aren't using. Don't be one of those people that says "Windows sucks, I don't care anything about it. If you want windows help, go talk to John". Try to be involved and learn some of the key points.

Other than that it is pretty much your decision. Specializing in Cisco can earn you lots of money but is difficult, gives lots of responsibility, and takes a long time to master.

Being a jack of all trades makes it harder to land that great paying job but makes it easier to find jobs.

And so on.

sthomas

The best thing to do is to specialize in what ever interests you the most and what is in demand. It is also good to learn all you can about different technology and never limit yourself. You can't really go wrong with Microsoft of Cisco as it is pretty much everywhere. And then there is always Linux which there doesn't seem to be as many people going that route but there is always a need for good Linux Admins.

Smallguy

I agree with the posts above

being a specialist in one thing is great but being able to work in other ares is also important

hypnotoad

Specialize in something you like!

Networkhead

Learn a bit of several areas and then specialize in one later in your career. Being a jack of all trades in IT is good early in your career. Specially in the first 5 years of your career. For example, being a net/systems admin requires a broad knowledge. Later on when you've paid your dues, you can specialize in the branch that interests the most.

KGhaleon

Trying to specialize in both server management and cisco is MADNESS.

protocol167

KGhaleon wrote:

Trying to specialize in both server management and cisco is MADNESS.

Madness!!, Madness =P!!!, This is Sparta!!!! *Kicks KGhaleon into the pit* =P

mikej412

darkfibre wrote:

would it be better to specialise in one area of technology

At least one.....

darkfibre wrote:

is it better to know a wash of everything (bit of MS, bit of Cisco, etc)

Yes. Its fun when the network guys blame the server guys and the server guys blame the programmers..... but its a lot more fun to go in someplace and be able to find and fix the real problems.

KGhaleon wrote:

Trying to specialize in both server management and cisco is MADNESS.

But that's MADNESS in a good way, right?