4 answers
Uhay
Student
Kiamba, SOCCSKSARGEN
1
Question
Updated
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I need advice, this year i finish the degree in Information Technology, and i want to continue my study with cisco network. What should i do first?
I need advice, this year i finish the degree in Information Technology, and i want to continue my study with cisco network. What should i do first?
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4 answers
Ashish Tiwari
Software
23
Answers
Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
Updated
Ashish’s Answer
Hi Uhay,
Congratulations on being close to finishing your Information Technology degree! That’s a great achievement, and it’s good that you’re already thinking about your next steps.
If you’re interested in Cisco networking, I’d recommend continuing down that path. Start by earning the CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) certification, as it’s one of the most recognized certifications for entry-level networking roles. While studying, don’t just focus on passing the exam—build hands-on experience by practicing with Cisco Packet Tracer, GNS3, or a small home lab. The more you configure and troubleshoot networks yourself, the more confident you’ll become.
At the same time, begin applying for entry-level positions such as Network Support Technician, IT Support, Help Desk, or Junior Network Administrator. Real-world experience is just as valuable as certifications, and many networking professionals begin their careers in these roles before moving into network engineering.
I’d also suggest strengthening related skills like basic Linux administration, networking security, cloud fundamentals, and scripting with Python. These skills are becoming increasingly valuable as modern networks continue to evolve.
Most importantly, don’t wait until you feel “ready” before applying for jobs. Keep learning while you apply. Every interview and every new project will help you grow.
You’re already heading in the right direction. Stay consistent, keep building your skills, and don’t be discouraged if your first opportunity isn’t your dream job. Every step will bring you closer to your goal of becoming a networking professional.
wish you the best for your career
Congratulations on being close to finishing your Information Technology degree! That’s a great achievement, and it’s good that you’re already thinking about your next steps.
If you’re interested in Cisco networking, I’d recommend continuing down that path. Start by earning the CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) certification, as it’s one of the most recognized certifications for entry-level networking roles. While studying, don’t just focus on passing the exam—build hands-on experience by practicing with Cisco Packet Tracer, GNS3, or a small home lab. The more you configure and troubleshoot networks yourself, the more confident you’ll become.
At the same time, begin applying for entry-level positions such as Network Support Technician, IT Support, Help Desk, or Junior Network Administrator. Real-world experience is just as valuable as certifications, and many networking professionals begin their careers in these roles before moving into network engineering.
I’d also suggest strengthening related skills like basic Linux administration, networking security, cloud fundamentals, and scripting with Python. These skills are becoming increasingly valuable as modern networks continue to evolve.
Most importantly, don’t wait until you feel “ready” before applying for jobs. Keep learning while you apply. Every interview and every new project will help you grow.
You’re already heading in the right direction. Stay consistent, keep building your skills, and don’t be discouraged if your first opportunity isn’t your dream job. Every step will bring you closer to your goal of becoming a networking professional.
wish you the best for your career
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
1403
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hi Uhay,
You’re in a great position; finishing an IT degree and already thinking about specializing in Cisco networking is a smart, focused next step. Before diving right into the advanced Cisco curriculum, you need to first establish a solid foundation in networking fundamentals. Make sure you understand ideas like network protocols, subnetting, routing, switching, and IP addressing. Everything else will be far easier after this.
The best course of action after that is to begin training for a Cisco certification, starting with the CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate). It is well-known and equips you with the skills and credibility needed to pursue networking positions. Don't rely solely on theory when studying; instead, focus on practical application. Utilise programs like GNS3 or Cisco Packet Tracer to set up switches and routers, simulate networks, and observe how things operate. Employers truly value this real-world experience.
At the same time, start thinking about entry-level positions that you can pursue, such as network support, IT support, or junior network administrator responsibilities. They assist you in gaining practical experience while you continue to learn, even if they aren't entirely Cisco-focused. A strong approach would be the following:
- Study networking fundamentals
- Prepare for and pass the CCNA
- Practice consistently with labs and simulations
- Apply for entry-level roles to gain experience
Don't wait to apply for employment until you "know everything," which is an important mentality change. Learn and work at the same time, so start early. Instead of beginning from scratch, you are expanding on your IT background and entering a specialty. If you remain consistent in your studies and practical experience, you will be well positioned for networking opportunities.
Best wishes!
You’re in a great position; finishing an IT degree and already thinking about specializing in Cisco networking is a smart, focused next step. Before diving right into the advanced Cisco curriculum, you need to first establish a solid foundation in networking fundamentals. Make sure you understand ideas like network protocols, subnetting, routing, switching, and IP addressing. Everything else will be far easier after this.
The best course of action after that is to begin training for a Cisco certification, starting with the CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate). It is well-known and equips you with the skills and credibility needed to pursue networking positions. Don't rely solely on theory when studying; instead, focus on practical application. Utilise programs like GNS3 or Cisco Packet Tracer to set up switches and routers, simulate networks, and observe how things operate. Employers truly value this real-world experience.
At the same time, start thinking about entry-level positions that you can pursue, such as network support, IT support, or junior network administrator responsibilities. They assist you in gaining practical experience while you continue to learn, even if they aren't entirely Cisco-focused. A strong approach would be the following:
- Study networking fundamentals
- Prepare for and pass the CCNA
- Practice consistently with labs and simulations
- Apply for entry-level roles to gain experience
Don't wait to apply for employment until you "know everything," which is an important mentality change. Learn and work at the same time, so start early. Instead of beginning from scratch, you are expanding on your IT background and entering a specialty. If you remain consistent in your studies and practical experience, you will be well positioned for networking opportunities.
Best wishes!
Atul Bhankharia
Sales
505
Answers
Mount Laurel, New Jersey
Updated
Atul’s Answer
Cisco is moving towards AI technology, so getting certified in this area can be very beneficial. Focus on learning Python and AI in cybersecurity. Whatever path you choose, make sure it involves AI. It will be a great advantage for your future.
Andrew Luo
Technology
3
Answers
McLean, Virginia
Updated
Andrew’s Answer
To add on, I think the best thing to do for an entry-level professional is to get CCNA certified, as the other comment mentioned. If you want to broaden your expertise to cyber as well, look into CompTIA certifications like the Network+ or Security+ as well. Most of the certification vendors also offer student discounts, so make sure you look into those as well!