The next step

VhD2012

Hello,

My goal is to be ready/find a job in network/server administration field (with later plans to advance into the IT security field).

I have taken CompTIA Network+ and Security+ certifications so far. I am not sure about my next certifications/steps. I was thinking and consequently studied for MTA Windows server administration fundamentals certification, but it seems only students of accredited academic institutions are eligible to apply for this exam. I am kind of puzzled, where, in which direction to move, from where to proceed, what other certifications to look for in orther to get ready for looking a job in network/server administration field, to start a career from that field (without having work experience in that field before).

Please help me out, give me some suggestions, I think some experienced in the field will have some suggestions.

Thank you,
VhD

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Comments

cyberguypr

What's you experience like? MTA is not very popular when job hunting and you may not see much ROI our of it. I am inclined to recommend other exams (70-680 or 640) instead but would like to know your background.

b321618

some solid work experience may direct and motivate you.

Psoasman

VhD2012 wrote: »

Hello,

My goal is to be ready/find a job in network/server administration field (with later plans to advance into the IT security field).

I have taken CompTIA Network+ and Security+ certifications so far. I am not sure about my next certifications/steps. I was thinking and consequently studied for MTA Windows server administration fundamentals certification, but it seems only students of accredited academic institutions are eligible to apply for this exam. I am kind of puzzled, where, in which direction to move, from where to proceed, what other certifications to look for in orther to get ready for looking a job in network/server administration field, to start a career from that field (without having work experience in that field before).

Please help me out, give me some suggestions, I think some experienced in the field will have some suggestions.

Thank you,
VhD

You might start with the 680 or 685 exams. Passing both would earn you the MCITP:Enterprise support tech and give you a solid Win7 foundation. If you are leaning towards networking, then the CCENT/CCNA might be a good option for you.

VhD2012

Thank you for replies. My background is in mathematics and informatics, which is not really related to IT administration.

VhD2012

I just want to know what certifications I have to pass in order to be qualified for entry level jobs in Network/server administration field, that is the starting point I want to get, and wonder if I am able to get there by passing certifications (and which certifications).

Psoasman

VhD2012 wrote: »

I just want to know what certifications I have to pass in order to be qualified for entry level jobs in Network/server administration field, that is the starting point I want to get, and wonder if I am able to get there by passing certifications (and which certifications).

You will most likely to start off in Help Desk or something similar.

That way I see certs is that they validate the knowledge you already have. A company is more likely to hire you with network+ and security+ to work at a Help Desk than someone with an MCSE, who has never touched a production server. The A+ is still one of the most popular certs for entry-level IT positions, that with your other 2 certs would help with getting your foot in the door.

As I stated in a previous post, the Windows 7 certs (680 and 685) will also be helpful in building your foundation, too.

the_hutch

Psoasman wrote: »

You will most likely to start off in Help Desk or something similar.

True story. Most places don't offer server administration as an entry level position

MeanDrunkR2D2

And they won't even let you start in server administration unless you have some experience in that, or other IT experience and a server certification.

Find a good company to get your foot in the door as helpdesk and move up within the company as that will be your fastest path to your goal. I have 7 years experience and have done helpdesk, desktop, and other random IT positions and am about 6 months or less from finally being a full fledged SA with my company. It can be a rocky road, but I at least won't be coming in as an entry level here.

MAC_Addy

Yep - unfortunately this isn't like any other job. Example, you want to be an accountant, go to school, pass the tests and then you're an accountant.

IT - go to school, get certifications - almost always start out on a help desk or entry level experience. You have to gain a few years experience before you can move up to network/systems admin. Unfortunately this is the only way. Unless you get extremely luck, which happens every now and then. But the percentages are in favor for starting out as a helpdesk technician.