What to go for next???

mweaver84

Little Background: In 2011 I graduated with a Bachelor's in Computer Information Systems and right after I graduated I got my A+. Since then I have been working level 1 helpdesk (little over 2 years now). I recently have been studying for my Network+ and am taking the exam this Friday.

What I want to get into is Network Security. To do this, I'm assuming that I first would have to move my way up the help desk ladder to a System Administor role, then Networking position, then Network Security.

So right now I am debating if I should go for MCSA: Windows 7 certification then CCENT or go right into the CCENT then CCNA Security?

the_hutch

If you are wanting to do network security, I'd recommend the Cisco track over Microsoft.

clarknova

Agreed - although CCNA is a pre-req for CCNA Security I believe. Unless this has changed with the recent Cisco update.

DoubleNNs

CCNA is no longer a pre-req for CCNA Sec as per the new version just released.

bigmantenor

I personally don't see System Admin as a necessary step towards a Network Security position. It would not HURT you, but it would probably delay your entry to the field. I think going for the CCNA is wise advice. With you CCNA and your IT help desk experience, you could probably get a job in a Datacenter or NOC doing something more networking-related, which would be a faster entry point to Network Security than going SA. I personally work in Network Security, and while I do see traffic involving servers on a daily basis, it is much more useful to me to have a wide range of knowledge regarding firewalls, proxies, routers, etc. Again, not a bash at all on going SA first; just saying it's not necessarily a must.