Computer Networking as a Career – Certifications Review

The networking area of IT has always been in demand with increasing scope for network requirements and advancement of cloud networking, and SAAS models. A few entry level certifications are given below for starters.

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA): This is widely regarded as a staple network certification, and for good reason. The CCNA validates your knowledge of networking fundamentals, including IP addressing, network security, and troubleshooting. It’s a vendor-specific certification, meaning it focuses on Cisco technologies, which are widely used in the industry.

CompTIA Network+: This is a vendor-neutral certification, which means it covers a broader range of networking concepts and is not tied to a specific vendor’s products.  CompTIA Network+ is a good option for those who are new to networking or who want to work with a variety of networking technologies.

Juniper Networks Certified Associate (JNcia-Junos): This certification validates your knowledge of Juniper Networks Junos operating system, which is a popular alternative to Cisco IOS. If you’re interested in working with Juniper technologies, then the JNCIA-Junos is a great certification to get.

Study Resources:

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA): 

Certexams.com CCNA NetSim – Provides easy to use interface for hands on practice, no other software needed to run the NetSim. Optional CCNA Exam Sim offers best in class questions with answers and scenario based questions.

Boson NetSim: [Boson NetSim] – Offers highly realistic simulations that mimic the real CCNA exam environment.

Cisco Learning Network Practice Tests: [Cisco Learning Network practice tests] – Official practice tests from Cisco themselves, ensuring alignment with the exam content.

MeasureUp: [MeasureUp practice tests] – Provides practice tests with detailed explanations for each answer.

CompTIA Network+:

Simulationexams.com [Sim-Ex Practice Tests for Network+] – Offers hundreds of most relevant questions with answers and explanations. Network+ Labsim is available optionally, in addition to Examsim.

Exam Compass: [Exam Compass practice tests] – Known for their large question banks and customizable practice tests.
CompTIA CertMaster: [CompTIA CertMaster] – Official practice tests and study materials from CompTIA.
Professor Messer: [Professor Messer practice tests] – Offers free practice tests along with video lectures and study guides.

JNCIA – Junos:

Cert-Ex Exam Sim for JNCIA and JNCIA Netsim – Certexams.com offers both the exam sim and net sim for Juniper JNICA exam.

Juniper Networks Practice Tests: [Juniper Networks practice tests] – Official practice tests from Juniper to ensure they match the exam format.

IPexpert: [IPexpert practice tests] – Provides practice tests with explanations and focuses on real-world scenarios.

Firebrand Training: [Firebrand Training practice tests] – Offers practice tests alongside other study resources like bootcamps.

Given below are the Advantages of Networking Certification:

Boosts employability: Certifications validate your networking skills and knowledge, making you a more attractive candidate to employers. They can help you stand out from the competition, especially for entry-level or specialized positions.

Salary increase potential: Earning a networking certification can put you in line for a higher salary. Studies have shown that certified professionals often command higher salaries than their non-certified counterparts.

Career advancement: Certifications demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning and professional development. This can open doors for promotions and leadership roles within your organization.

Stronger foundation: The process of preparing for a certification exam strengthens your core networking knowledge. This can make you a more confident and effective network administrator or engineer.

Industry recognition: Many certifications are well-respected within the IT industry. Earning one shows that you possess the skills and knowledge that employers are looking for.

Networking opportunities: Some certifications offer access to online communities or user groups. This allows you to connect with other professionals in the field, share knowledge, and learn from each other.

References:

Cloud Infrastructure and Career Certifications

Server Cloud administration is crucial for ensuring the smooth operation of any organization that relies on digital infrastructure. Given below are the most important aspects of server infrastructure maintenance:

Maintains Business Continuity: Servers store and manage critical data and applications that keep businesses running. Server administrators ensure these systems are up and running to avoid costly downtime that disrupts operations.

Enhances Data Security: Data breaches can be devastating. Server administrators implement security measures like firewalls and access controls to safeguard sensitive information from cyberattacks.

Optimizes Performance: Servers need regular maintenance and optimization to function efficiently. Server administrators monitor performance, troubleshoot issues, and apply updates to keep everything running smoothly.

Supports End Users: Employees rely on servers to access files, applications, and other resources. Server administrators provide technical support, troubleshoot user issues, and ensure everyone has what they need to be productive.

Manages Scalability and Growth: As businesses grow, their IT needs evolve. Server administrators plan for future needs, scale server capacity, and implement new technologies to accommodate changing demands.

In short, server administration is the backbone of a healthy IT infrastructure. It keeps businesses operational, protects valuable data, and ensures users have the resources they need to succeed. Here, we discuss about some of the most widely taken Server side certifications from career perspective. These certifications are greatly perceived as a value addition for those seeking server side roles, such as Server Admin, Cloud Admin, Data Center Administrator.

CompTIA Server+ is a vendor-neutral certification that validates a candidate’s ability to install, configure, and manage servers across various platforms. It’s a good entry-level certification for IT professionals who want to get into server administration.

Microsoft Certified Azure Administrator Associate is a certification that validates a candidate’s ability to manage Azure subscriptions, implement and manage Azure resources, and configure and manage Azure virtual machines. This certification is a good option for IT professionals who want to specialize in Microsoft Azure cloud computing.

Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) is a certification that validates a candidate’s ability to perform basic system administration tasks on Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL). This certification is a good option for IT professionals who want to work with Red Hat Linux systems.

VMware Certified Professional – Data Center Virtualization (VCP-DCV) is a certification that validates a candidate’s ability to deploy and manage VMware vSphere, a virtualization platform. This certification is a good option for IT professionals who want to work with VMware virtualization technologies.

Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified SysOps Administrator – Associate is a certification that validates a candidate’s ability to manage and deploy applications on AWS. This certification is a good option for IT professionals who want to work with AWS cloud computing.

The best server certification for you will depend on your experience, skills, and career goals. If you’re just starting out, then a vendor-neutral certification like CompTIA Server+ is a good option. If you have experience with a particular vendor’s products, then a vendor-specific certification like Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate or Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) may be a better option. Checkout TutorialsWeb.com for free Server plus notes and other articles.

References:

  1. Comptia Server+ Certification
  2. AWS Certifications
  3. Free Server+ Exam Notes

Top 5 Smart Phone Brands 2024

Top 5 smartphones, combining the best aspects of various sources like TechRadar, CNET, ZDNet, and Stuff:

  1. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: This phone is considered the best overall due to its powerful processor, excellent camera system, large and beautiful display, and S Pen support.
  2. iPhone 15: This is the best iPhone for most people, offering a balance of excellent performance, a great camera system, and a long software support timeline.
  3. Google Pixel 8 Pro: This phone boasts the best camera on the market, along with clean software and a unique design.
  4. OnePlus 12: This phone offers flagship-level performance at a more affordable price, with incredibly fast charging.
  5. Nothing Phone 2: This phone stands out for its unique design with transparent back and competitive price, making it a compelling option in the mid-range segment.

Consider factors like budget, desired operating system (iOS or Android), camera quality, battery life, and preferred features before making your choice. The one suitable finally depends on your exact requirements like primary use of the smart phone, and other features that you are looking for.

Feature

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

iPhone 15

Google Pixel 8 Pro

OnePlus 12

Nothing Phone 2

Display 6.8″ AMOLED, 1440 x 3200 pixels 6.1″ OLED, 1170 x 2532 pixels 6.7″ AMOLED, 1440 x 3200 pixels 6.7″ AMOLED, 1440 x 3200 pixels 6.5″ OLED, 1080 x 2400 pixels
Processor Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Apple A17 Bionic Google Tensor 3 Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
RAM 8GB, 12GB, 16GB 6GB, 8GB 8GB, 12GB 8GB, 12GB, 16GB 8GB, 12GB
Storage 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, 1TB 128GB, 256GB, 512GB 128GB, 256GB, 512GB 128GB, 256GB
Rear Camera 200MP main + 50MP telephoto + 12MP ultrawide + depth sensor 48MP main + 12MP ultrawide + 12MP telephoto 50MP main + 12MP ultrawide + 48MP telephoto 50MP main + 50MP ultrawide + 48MP telephoto 50MP main + 8MP ultrawide
Front Camera 40MP under-display 12MP TrueDepth 12MP 16MP 16MP
Battery 5000mAh 4200mAh 5000mAh 4600mAh 4500mAh
Operating System Android 14 iOS 17 Android 14 Android 14 Android 13
Starting Price $1,199 $999 $899 $749 $499

iphone

Highlights:

  • Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Powerful processor, best display, S Pen support, high megapixel camera.
  • iPhone 15: Excellent performance, long software support, strong ecosystem.
  • Google Pixel 8 Pro: Unmatched camera quality, clean software.
  • OnePlus 12: Powerful specs at a lower price, super fast charging.
  • Nothing Phone 2: Unique design, competitive price in the mid-range.

Please note: This is a general comparison based on currently available information.

Remember, choosing the best phone depends on your individual needs. Consider factors like:

  • Budget: Prices can vary significantly.
  • Operating System: Do you prefer Android or iOS?
  • Camera: How important is camera quality?
  • Battery Life: How long do you need your phone to last on a charge?
  • Other Features: Does the phone offer specific features you need, like expandable storage or water resistance?

It’s recommended to research each phone further and read reviews to determine the best fit for you.