Getting Your Cisco Certification

Cisco, a San Jose, California-based multinational corporation, is one of the world's largest designers and sellers of network and communications technology and services. It also offers a system of certifications for networking and information technology professionals. Graduates achieve Cisco certification upon the completion of a proctored, timed certification exam.
Cisco divides their certification into two branches: specialist certifications and general certifications. The completion of a specialist certification course signifies mastery in a specific and more particular set of skills. Cisco is constantly updating its list of specialist certifications to keep IT professionals up to date with advances in technology.

General Cisco Certification

General certification is available in seven subjects, which Cisco refers to as "paths." These paths include:

• Routing and Switching
• Design
• Network Security
• Service Provider
• Storage Networking
• Voice
• Wireless

For each path, Cisco offers three levels of certification. Associate certification, the first level of certification, is a foundation or apprentice level of certification. Cisco refers to the second level of certification, professional certification, as a journeyman or advanced level of certification. Expert certification is the highest level of the three and certifies its holder as an expert or a master.

Cisco Certification Programs: Online Degree Programs

If you are interested in taking a Cisco certification exam, you should first enroll in and complete a certification program. These programs traditionally provide excellent subject training and prepare students in all areas covered by the certification exam. For most learners, completing an online program is the most convenient option. Today, nearly all Cisco training courses, in all paths and levels of certification, are available through online education programs.

Cisco Certification Programs: What Certification Means for Your Career

Whatever your specific area of the IT field may be, Cisco certification should shine a spotlight on your resume--and also keep your wallet full. In these tough economic times, information technology is one of the fields in which salaries have remained stable. According to Certification Magazine's December 2008 salary survey, the U.S. overall average salary of those holding popular certifications rose from $75,640 to $84,500 in the past year.
Source:
Certification Magazine

Brandon Bond is a freelance writer living in Columbia, Missouri, with his wife and two dogs.