Non-Security IT Certifications

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Routing and Switching

A “go-to” certification for entry-level network engineers and specialists working with Cisco routers and network systems. CCNA certificate holders have proven their ability to install, configure, operate and troubleshoot medium-size routed and switched networks.This qualification is on par with CCNA Security, which emphasizes core security technologies, confidentiality, the availability of data/devices and competency in the technologies that Cisco uses in its security structure. Experienced Cisco engineers can aim for the higher level Professional and Expert levels.

CompTIA A+

CompTIA A+ is one of the most common baseline certifications for IT professionals, especially IT support specialists and technicians. The exams cover the maintenance of PCs, mobile devices, laptops, operating systems and printers.

A+ is required for Dell, Lenovo and Intel service technicians and recognized by the U.S. Department of Defense. Many folks follow it up with Network+ and Security+.

  

CompTIA Network+

The second in CompTIA’s trinity of qualifications (which includes A+ and Security+). Network+ is an ISO-17024 compliant certification that tests a professional’s knowledge of data networks. This includes building, installing, operating, maintaining and protecting networking systems.Network+ fulfills U.S. DoD Directive 8570.01-M and is held by nearly half a million people worldwide. It’s often recommended for network administrators, technicians and installers.

Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) Foundation

ITIL certifications focus on ITIL best practices. Foundation is the basic level and the ITIL credential most frequently seen on job requirements.The exam tests candidates in key elements, concepts and terminology used in the ITIL service lifecycle, including the links between lifecycle stages, the processes used and their contribution to service management practices. If your company is using ITIL processes to handle their services to internal/external customers, then Foundation is worth considering.

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

Anyone working with Microsoft technologies should take a close look at the Microsoft Certificate Solutions Associate (MCSA) and the expert MCSE. You must complete the MCSA before tackling the MCSE.Widely respected in the industry, MCSE demonstrates a professional’s ability to build, deploy, operate, maintain and optimize Microsoft-based systems. For the MCSE, you can choose one of nine certification paths, including Server Infrastructure, Private Cloud, SharePoint and more.

Project Management Professional (PMP)

PMP is aimed at mid-level project managers. Candidates without a bachelor’s degree must have at least five years of project management experience (7,500 hours leading and directing projects); bachelor’s degree holders must have at least three years (4,500 hours leading and directing projects).Successful PMP holders have demonstrated they have the experience, education and competency to handle project teams. It’s not a “must-have” by any means, but it can certainly help you zip through the résumé screening process and proceed into discussions about salary.

Red Hat Certified Architect (RHCA)

Interested in becoming a Linux expert? Take a look at RHCA, probably the most challenging qualification in the Red Hat certification program. To attain RHCA status, Red Hat Certified Engineers (RHCEs) must pass at least 5 exams and demonstrate their skills in performance-based tasks. Beginners should consider the RHCAS and the CompTIA Linux+ certification.

VMWare Certified Professional 5 – Data Center Virtualization (VCP5-DCV)

VCP5-DCV is expensive, but probably worth it if you’re interested in virtualization. To obtain this foundation-level certification, candidates must demonstrate hands-on experience with VMware technologies, complete a VMware-authorized training course and pass an exam. This proves a certificate holder’s ability to install, deploy, monitor, scale and manage VMware vSphere environments.Once you have the VCP5-DCV, you might wish to consider more advanced levels of VMWare DCV certification. In addition to data centers, VMWare also offers credentials in the cloud, end user computing and network virtualization.