2 answers
Angelous
Student
Little Rock, Arkansas
5
Questions
Asked
262 views
What is the best way to start out in this feild?
I am a high school graduate in Jobcorps, wanting to know some information on the happening from anyone in the cisco certified networking profession.
2 answers
Chris Niggel
Information Security
2
Answers
Bend, Oregon
Updated
Chris’s Answer
Thanks for the question. I see you're in Little Rock - there are a lot of opportunities there because of the insurance industry. Working for a consulting or implementation company will give you the ability to experience a lot of different workplaces and challenges, and help you determine what direction you'd like to go. Talking to companies like KPMG and Optiv at local job fairs is a great start.
As you're coming out of High School now, something to consider is how quickly the networking field is changing right now. As companies move towards Zero-Trust networking models, there is becoming less need for networking security experts in offices, but a greater need for those individuals in datacenters. Corporate environments need individuals who can help build network infrastructure (things like traffic quality of service), and then implementing Software-Defined Networks, and Secure Access Service Edge (SASE). Set yourself up a LinkedIn profile, and connect with the local Cloud Security Alliance chapter: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9185301/. They can help, and even point you towards local meetings.
In the meantime, continue on your education path. Higher education helps give you an understanding of the big picture. By learning why something is done, rather than just the how, you set yourself up for being able to change and adapt to new technologies.
As you're coming out of High School now, something to consider is how quickly the networking field is changing right now. As companies move towards Zero-Trust networking models, there is becoming less need for networking security experts in offices, but a greater need for those individuals in datacenters. Corporate environments need individuals who can help build network infrastructure (things like traffic quality of service), and then implementing Software-Defined Networks, and Secure Access Service Edge (SASE). Set yourself up a LinkedIn profile, and connect with the local Cloud Security Alliance chapter: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/9185301/. They can help, and even point you towards local meetings.
In the meantime, continue on your education path. Higher education helps give you an understanding of the big picture. By learning why something is done, rather than just the how, you set yourself up for being able to change and adapt to new technologies.
Jacob Taylor
Production Manager
523
Answers
Stafford, Virginia
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Starting a career in the Cisco certified networking profession can be a rewarding path, and it's great that you're seeking advice. Here are steps and tips to help you get started:
1. **Education and Training:**
- Begin with a strong foundation in networking fundamentals. Consider enrolling in courses or pursuing certifications such as CompTIA Network+ or Cisco's CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate).
- Look for local community colleges, technical schools, or online programs that offer networking courses. Many offer flexible schedules to accommodate your needs.
2. **Certifications:**
- Earning Cisco certifications is key in this field. Start with the CCNA certification, which covers the basics of networking. Study materials and practice exams are available online to help you prepare.
- After CCNA, you can specialize further by pursuing advanced certifications like CCNP (Cisco Certified Network Professional) or CCIE (Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert) if you wish to become a top expert in the field.
3. **Hands-On Experience:**
- Hands-on experience is crucial. Consider building a home lab with networking equipment or use simulation software to practice configuring routers and switches.
- Seek internships or entry-level positions in IT departments or at tech companies. Even help desk roles can provide valuable experience.
4. **Networking Communities:**
- Join networking communities and forums online. Sites like Cisco Learning Network, Reddit's r/ccna, or Stack Overflow can be excellent resources for learning and networking with professionals.
5. **Stay Updated:**
- Networking technologies evolve rapidly. Stay up-to-date by reading industry blogs, subscribing to newsletters, and attending webinars or conferences.
6. **Lab Exercises and Practice:**
- Regularly practice configuring and troubleshooting networks. This hands-on experience is essential for skill development.
7. **Soft Skills:**
- Develop soft skills like problem-solving, communication, and teamwork. These skills are just as important as technical knowledge in the IT industry.
8. **Resume Building:**
- Build a strong resume that highlights your education, certifications, and any relevant experience or projects. Tailor your resume for networking positions.
9. **Job Search:**
- Look for entry-level networking positions such as network technician, junior network administrator, or help desk roles. Job search websites, LinkedIn, and networking events are excellent places to start.
10. **Networking Events:**
- Attend IT and networking-related events, conferences, and meetups in your area. These provide networking opportunities and a chance to learn from professionals.
11. **Continual Learning:**
- Networking is an ever-evolving field. Commit to continuous learning and consider pursuing additional certifications as you progress in your career.
12. **Mentorship:**
- Seek out mentors or advisors in the field who can provide guidance, advice, and insights based on their experience.
Remember that building a career in networking takes time and dedication. Stay persistent, keep learning, and don't be discouraged by challenges. With determination and the right skills, you can find success in the Cisco certified networking profession.
1. **Education and Training:**
- Begin with a strong foundation in networking fundamentals. Consider enrolling in courses or pursuing certifications such as CompTIA Network+ or Cisco's CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate).
- Look for local community colleges, technical schools, or online programs that offer networking courses. Many offer flexible schedules to accommodate your needs.
2. **Certifications:**
- Earning Cisco certifications is key in this field. Start with the CCNA certification, which covers the basics of networking. Study materials and practice exams are available online to help you prepare.
- After CCNA, you can specialize further by pursuing advanced certifications like CCNP (Cisco Certified Network Professional) or CCIE (Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert) if you wish to become a top expert in the field.
3. **Hands-On Experience:**
- Hands-on experience is crucial. Consider building a home lab with networking equipment or use simulation software to practice configuring routers and switches.
- Seek internships or entry-level positions in IT departments or at tech companies. Even help desk roles can provide valuable experience.
4. **Networking Communities:**
- Join networking communities and forums online. Sites like Cisco Learning Network, Reddit's r/ccna, or Stack Overflow can be excellent resources for learning and networking with professionals.
5. **Stay Updated:**
- Networking technologies evolve rapidly. Stay up-to-date by reading industry blogs, subscribing to newsletters, and attending webinars or conferences.
6. **Lab Exercises and Practice:**
- Regularly practice configuring and troubleshooting networks. This hands-on experience is essential for skill development.
7. **Soft Skills:**
- Develop soft skills like problem-solving, communication, and teamwork. These skills are just as important as technical knowledge in the IT industry.
8. **Resume Building:**
- Build a strong resume that highlights your education, certifications, and any relevant experience or projects. Tailor your resume for networking positions.
9. **Job Search:**
- Look for entry-level networking positions such as network technician, junior network administrator, or help desk roles. Job search websites, LinkedIn, and networking events are excellent places to start.
10. **Networking Events:**
- Attend IT and networking-related events, conferences, and meetups in your area. These provide networking opportunities and a chance to learn from professionals.
11. **Continual Learning:**
- Networking is an ever-evolving field. Commit to continuous learning and consider pursuing additional certifications as you progress in your career.
12. **Mentorship:**
- Seek out mentors or advisors in the field who can provide guidance, advice, and insights based on their experience.
Remember that building a career in networking takes time and dedication. Stay persistent, keep learning, and don't be discouraged by challenges. With determination and the right skills, you can find success in the Cisco certified networking profession.
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