The information technology (IT) industry is fast growing and rapidly changing. More than a decade ago, the demand on computer-skilled professionals has increased as well as computer-related careers. And with that, IT Certifications was introduced to be the standard when hiring IT professionals.
The following are the top certifications that one has to get to upgrade his profile:
1. CCNA or Cisco Certified Network Associate
This is valid only for three years. This certification validates the ability of a person when it comes to install, troubleshoot, configure and operate switched networks and medium-size route. It also includes validating the ability of a person to implement and verifying connections on to remote sites in a Wide Area Network (WAN).
2. MCITP of Microsoft Certified IT Professional
This Microsoft certification validates the capability of an individual to perform different IT roles such as enterprise messaging administrator or database administrator. It is designed for all IT professionals and software developers. The good thing about MCITP is that you do not need to retake it if Microsoft will have newer versions unlike other vendor-owned certifications. Some vendor-owned certifications will ask you to retake the certification once a new version of their software is launched.
3. CompTIA A+ Certifications
This is one of the vendor-neutral certifications and is therefore independent from the upgrade changes of different vendor software. Since they are neutral to vendors, their certification is used more compared to others. Many companies use their certification for new entry level when it comes to hiring process.
The certification validates the competency of the individual when it comes to troubleshooting, installation, security maintenance, and networking. You have to take two exams to get the certification:
• CompTIA A+ Essentials, exam code 220-701
• CompTIA A+ Practical Application, exam code 220-702
However, in the past 5 years, a debate on whether certifications are important or not arose. Some say that certifications and even degree in IT are not really helpful nowadays since the standard of certifications vary from one software vendor to another. Cisco Press even released an article which contained the loopholes of certifications.
So are computer certifications helpful or not? The answer is YES, if you have the skills as well. It will open more doors of opportunities for you. And NO, if you are not using what you have learned from the certification process. Some just take the certification and then leave what they have learned behind.
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