Your Future Awaits With a Network+ Certification
[Posted 12 September 2013 by Kathy Yale]
Successfully passing the Network+ certification exam can open doors to new careers and give job candidates an edge in today’s competitive market. The Network+ certification allows those who are seeking jobs in the computer field to show potential employers that they have the skills needed to succeed in a variety of jobs.
What Is Network+ Certification?
The Network+ certification exam was developed to showcase proficiency in basic networking skills. The certification exam covers a variety of knowledge and techniques, including understanding of network technologies; knowledge of installation methods and network configurations; understanding media and topologies; and a foundational grasp of management and security.
Does Network+ Certification Help Candidates Get Jobs?
Network+ certification is not always required for entry-level jobs in the computer industry but it is certainly helpful in separating candidates with proven skills from those without. Many employers who do not require Network+ certification still give preference to job applicants who have it over those who do not.
Network+ certification is not designed to indicate expert status in networking or computer applications. Rather, it is intended to show basic proficiency in certain areas of training. Upon successfully passing the Network+ certification exam, candidates may be able to secure the following positions.
Network Technicians
Most job candidates with Network+ certification will find work in entry-level jobs as network technicians. Technicians are usually training for a higher-level job such as a network administrator and gain valuable experience by working with staff with more knowledge and skills. Network+ certification may be required for some entry-level network technician positions with large companies.
Help Desk Technician
For those interested in working in the help section of a large retailer or computer company, Network+ certification can be very useful. Help desk technicians benefit from having a global understanding of exactly how the computer systems they deal with actually work and Network+ certification can give them that edge. Network+ certification is especially helpful for candidates who plan to move into management positions at a call center.
IT Cable Installer
Cable installers benefit greatly from the knowledge assessed in this exam. By understanding exactly how networks operate, cable installers get a much more comprehensive picture of how their work affects the total network operation. Cable installers with Network+ certification may not only find it easier to get a job but may also find that they are eligible for promotion as a result of their more extensive knowledge of the network.
Network Administrator
Network administrators in large companies often have graduate degrees and much higher certifications than Network+. However, for small companies, a graduate with Network+ certification may be appropriate as a network administrator. Network administrators have the job of overseeing all aspects of a network’s operation, so for a small company the knowledge tested by the Network+ certification exam may be sufficient.
Network+ certification is a good way to start on the journey to higher-paying jobs in the IT industry. By obtaining a Network+ certification, candidates show employers that they are professionals who are serious about their careers and proud of the knowledge they have obtained through their studies.
Prove Your Tech Worth with a Network+ Certification
[Posted 8 August 2013 by Kathy Yale]
Information technology (IT) is expanding and continues to be the home of all innovation. It has, therefore, become important to remain well-versed in these advances. In order to pursue a career in the field of IT many professionals are finding it necessary to achieve a Network+ certification. This particular level of certification a vital credentialing one can add to their portfolio in order to transcend the upper rankings of the job market. The following will list advantages of receiving the Network+ certification and the many reasons IT professionals seek to go through this particular exam.
A Wide-Range of Job Opportunities
The number one reason for becoming certified is to open a host of job opportunities available on the market. Employers are looking for bright minds that are able to handle a plethora of tasks ranging in the specialization in which they are hired. Professionals are often seen seeking the Network+ certification as a means of improving their overall competency and IT literacy in the eyes of employers. After becoming certified, many individuals are given the opportunity to pursue high-paying positions at companies such as Dell or Xerox; or become eligible for pay increases at their current places of employment.
Offer Diverse Learning Opportunities
The Network+ certification covers a variety of topics such as network technologies, installation and configuration, securities, and more. This will not only award individuals credentialing in their field, but it will offer them further knowledge in areas of IT they may not have been familiar with before they took the exam. This will ensure literacy in every facet of the specialization, in addition to giving individuals the opportunity to pursue careers of positions outside of the specialization.
This is especially useful if there is a job shortage in a particular area of IT. It will ensure that the individual who has taken the exam has a greater chance of becoming employed.
Key Player in the Job Market
As the economy in the United States is still undergoing extensive repairs, it is necessary for all professionals to be equipped with as much knowledge in their respective fields as possible. This will make each individual a force to be reckoned with when applying for jobs. The certification may also increase job security for individuals. It is necessary for all employees, both current and potential, to be up-to-speed regarding the technology of their individual fields. The Network+ certification will give individuals the tools they need to be successful and primary candidates when employed or seeking employment.
Pursue Further Credentialing
Many individuals find it helpful to become certified in other areas in addition to the Network+. Coupled with CompTIA A+, the Network+ certification can be a stepping stone towards acquiring MCSA qualifications. This combination of credentialing shows an aptitude in networking and will serve to make the individual an in-demand professional.
The sky is the limit for those who become Network+ certified. They will not only learn the tools and skills they need to succeed in their position, but they will become a respected professional in the field of IT.
What Will A Network+ Exam Test You On?
[Posted 18 July 2013 by Kathy Yale]
The Network+ CompTIA certification exam is a comprehensive test that leads to certification in the network computing field. A person holding the Network+ CompTIA certification is marked out as a qualified networking professional who understands the latest in computer network technology and procedure.
What Does The Network+ CompTIA Certification Cover?
The Network+ CompTIA certification covers a variety of network technologies and procedures. The current exam contains items pertaining to:
Network Technologies
The test contains questions about the basics of network technologies: how networks are set up, how they work with the Internet and other networks, and how code controls the performance of a network. Most of the questions on the test will deal in some way with the most common network technologies of the past few years. Therefore, it is important for candidates to be abreast of the latest technological developments.
Installation and Configuration
The test also contains questions on the installation and configuration of networks. Candidates are asked basic questions about the roles administrators play in configuring networks for various uses. Performance-based questions may ask candidates to hypothetically configure a basic network and describe the steps used to do so.
Media and Topologies
Candidates are questioned about the media used by computer networks as well as the topology or how computers are connected to a hub. Commonly-used setups and programs are the subject of most questions, although there may be questions about more remote media. There are also questions about virtual setups on the new version of the exam.
Management
Candidates also find questions on the management of a network and how network administrators should make various decisions about the setup and operation of network services. Management questions are given on the test even if the candidate is pursuing only an entry-level networking position.
Security
Finally, candidates are questioned about keeping networks secure as well as how to identify and handle potential network threats. Special attention is paid to the security of virtual networks in the new version of the test.
Who Benefits from the Network+ CompTIA Certification?
Candidates who are seeking jobs as network administrators or technicians, network installers, help desk technicians and IT cable installers may all benefit from the information contained in the Network+ CompTIA preparation materials.
Currently, several major companies require Network+ CompTIA certification, including Dell, HP, Ricoh, Sharp and Xerox. IT technicians at Apple are strongly recommended to have Network+ CompTIA certification, and it is also recognized by the U.S. Department of Defense.
How Is the Network+ CompTIA Certification Test Structured?
The Network+ CompTIA Certification exam has a maximum of 100 multiple-choice and performance-based questions. Candidates have 90 minutes to complete the test. Passing scores are 720 and above on a scale of 100 to 900. This equates to a “grade” of 80 in order to pass.
Candidates can prepare for the Network+ CompTIA Certification test in several ways. Many candidates work at entry-level networking jobs for a few years before attempting to take the test. Others study with a guide based on the test content to concentrate their efforts on the material needed to pass the exam. Some candidates combine book study with hands-on experience in order to get the most out of their study time.
How Will a Network+ Prepare Me for the Workforce?
[Posted 2 July 2013 by Kathy Yale]
For many computer network professionals, taking an examination to become certified after receiving extensive training or gaining years of hands-on experience in information technology (IT) and computer networking may seem like an unnecessary extra step to the education and training process. However, certification as an expert in computer networking can help an individual get ahead in today’s challenging work environment. Earning a Network+ certification is one way that a computer network specialist can set herself or himself apart as an expert in this field.
What Is Network+ Certification?
Network+ is a certification program administered by CompTIA, a leading provider of computer certification examinations. The Network+ examination covers a range of computer networking and related topics, including installation and operation of both hard-wired and wireless networking systems, network administration, network configuration, security and troubleshooting. Unlike computer network certification programs offered by computer manufacturers, the CompTIA Network+ certification is not geared toward a specific computer brand. Many private IT companies and leading technology manufacturers recognize the Network+ certification, and the United States Department of Defense accepts Network+ certified individuals as qualified to work as IT network specialists. In addition to Network+, CompTIA offers certification in a number of other areas of computer technology.
Why Do I Need Network+ Certification?
Although certification is not required by all employers, many private businesses and government entities prefer to hire employees with proven knowledge in network and information technology. Given the choice between a prospective employee who has no specialized certification and one with a CompTIA Network+ certification, most employers would rather hire the individual who has passed an examination and received certification as a computer network expert. Becoming certified as a specialist also boosts personal confidence because an individual who has earned a Network+ certification knows that he or she possesses the critical knowledge needed to perform well on the job.
How Do I Become Network+ Certified?
The first step to earning a Network+ certification is to complete one or more computer network training courses. In some cases, coursework may not be necessary if an individual has long-term, hands-on experience with computer networking. Such on-the-job training can be sufficient if the training is in-depth and covers a range of networking issues. Many companies also offer training courses and preparation materials designed to help individuals prepare to take the Network+ examination. Extremely experienced individuals may find that they need minimal preparation for the examination. However, most people who are planning to take the Network+ examination benefit from purchasing guides and practice tests to become familiar with the types of questions presented on the test and the format in which the test is conducted. The Network+ examination and other computer specialist examinations are offered by CompTIA at testing locations around the country. The Network+ examination consists of 100 multiple choice questions and takes about an hour and half to complete. Cost of the examination varies—package deals combining preparation materials and the examination fee may be available at discounted rates when purchased together.
Certification as a computer network specialist can make the difference between landing a great job and being passed over for employment. Network+ certification can also help a person who is already employed in IT advance in his or her career. With so many potential benefits to earning professional certification as a network specialist, a Network+ certification is something that no IT network professional should be without.
What Kind of Jobs Usually Require a Network+ Certification?
[Posted 20 June 2013 by Kathy Yale]
Across various industries today, the tight labor market is causing both employers and employees to take a closer look at the skills and educational background of job candidates. Employers want to hire the most qualified candidate for the position; with competition for jobs fierce, employees must do what they can to differentiate themselves from others in some way. While the competition for positions varies from industry to industry, competition for positions in the IT industry is often competitive. For IT professionals who want to improve their likelihood of getting hired, one great option to consider is to earn a Network+ certification.
What is Network+?
The Network+ certification is a general certification that is not designated for any specific vendor or operating system, and this makes it a popular certification for many employers to look for regardless of the type of system they are running. It is an entry-level certification that covers networking topics like installation, configuration, troubleshooting, maintenance, and management of the network. While it can stand alone for professionals seeking an entry-level IT position, it also can be used as a stepping stone to the more coveted MCSA, or Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator, certification. It also is recognized by other system brands like Cisco, HP, and Novell. The certification can provide the basis for further growth, development, and specialization in the IT field.
Job Positions that May Require Network+
The Network+ certification is an entry-level certification, and it can help new IT professionals prove their knowledge and proficiency in entry-level IT tasks and topics. It may be required for positions like a PC tech, help desk administration, or network administration. It should be noted that even when the certification is not a requirement, it can give job applicants a competitive edge over others. This is because a certification proves to employers that certain objectives they may be looking for in a candidate have been mastered. Employers know when they hire a professional who has this certification that they do have a certain knowledge base in subject matter that is relevant to the position.
How to Get the Certification
To pass the certification exam, you will need to study hard. There are numerous classes available online and in classroom settings that cover all of the material found in the certification exams. There are also training DVDs and instructional books available to help those who are interested in passing the exam. However, this is one of the few certification exams in the industry that can be taken without any formal training. It is not required that students sit through a class before taking the test. Studying the material may increase the likelihood of passing the test and will ensure that students with weak areas in the material are fully ready. However, those who feel that they are proficient in the material can sign up to take the test when ready.
For IT professionals who are struggling to find a position in their field, who want to move into a new position, or who are just getting started in the IT industry, earning a Network+ certification may help. This certification can help IT professionals to meet their current goals, and it can also provide them with a wonderful stepping stone to earn more advanced certifications in the future.