Cisco training is fundamentally for those who want to learn about routers and network switches. Routers join up computer networks via dedicated lines or the internet. It's a good idea that you should start with your CCNA. It's not advisable to launch directly into a CCNP as it's a considerable step up - and you really need experience to take on this level.
Routers are linked to networks, so seek out training that includes basic networking skills - perhaps Network+ and A+, prior to starting your CCNA course. You'll need an understanding of the basics prior to starting your Cisco training or you could find yourself a little lost. At interview time, you'll benefit from having a good knowledge of networks alongside your CCNA.
You should get a specially designed course that will take you through a specific training path to make sure that you have comprehensive skills and knowledge prior to embarking on the Cisco skills.
For the most part, your typical trainee has no idea what way to go about starting in a computing career, let alone what area is worth considering for retraining. As without any commercial background in IT, how can most of us be expected to know what a particular job actually consists of? Often, the key to unlocking this dilemma properly comes from an in-depth discussion of a number of areas:
* Your personality can play a significant role - what gets you 'up and running', and what tasks really turn you off.
* Are you aiming to reach a closely held dream - for example, becoming self-employed as quickly as possible?
* Where is the salary on a scale of importance - is it very important, or is day-to-day enjoyment higher up on the priority-scale?
* Considering all that computing encapsulates, it's a requirement that you can see what is different.
* You'll also need to think hard about any sacrifices you'll need to make, as well as what commitment and time that you will set aside for your education.
For most of us, considering each of these concepts tends to require the help of someone that has direct industry experience. And not just the certifications - you also need to understand the commercial requirements and expectations of the market as well.
An area that's often missed by trainees mulling over a new direction is the concept of 'training segmentation'. This is essentially the way the course is divided up for delivery to you, which vastly changes how you end up. Many think it logical (with a typical time scale of 1-3 years to gain full certified status,) for many training providers to send out one module at a time, until you've passed all the exams. But: Often, the staged breakdown prescribed by the provider doesn't suit you. And what if you don't finish all the elements within their timetable?
Put simply, the best option is to have a copy of their prescribed order of study, but get everything up-front. You then have everything if you don't manage to finish at their required pace.
Any program that you're going to undertake has to build towards a nationally (or globally) recognised qualification as an end-goal - and not some unimportant 'in-house' diploma - fit only for filing away and forgetting. Unless your qualification is issued by a company like Microsoft, Cisco, Adobe or CompTIA, then you'll probably find it will have been a waste of time - because no-one will recognise it.
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