A Guide to Cisco Training
Cisco Systems is a major company that designs and sells consumer electronics, technologies and services throughout the world. Their products encompass a wide variety of categories, including hardware, software, and VoIP services. Given the range and worldwide use of Cisco products, it is advised that IT professionals and developers familiarize themselves with these products. However, it may be difficult to show proficiency, without any formal job experience. Therefore, one popular option to display the ability to handle Cisco products is to engage in Cisco training.
Where to Obtain Cisco Training
The main method to obtain Cisco training is to engage in a Cisco Career Certification program. Directly sponsored by Cisco itself, this certification program is a range of examinations designed to validate the individuals’ knowledge of IT skills and Cisco products. There are a several levels through which a student can progress through, starting from Entry level and ending at the highest level, Architect. In order to move through each level, the student must take a number of examinations or prerequisites. In addition to distinction in level, the student can also choose to follow one of the eight available paths, each with their own specializations. Examples of the various paths include Design, Network Security, Voice and Service Provider.
For students or individuals that have recently entered the field, it may be difficult to take the examinations without any prior knowledge. Luckily, Cisco provides training and curriculum courses designed to prepare the individual for certification. This program, known as the Cisco Networking Academy, offers a wide range of training resources, including courses and syllabuses for the various certification levels. The Academy also boasts an extensive list of events and conferences, allowing students to stay updated with Cisco technologies as well as network with other professionals.
Benefits of Cisco Training
Training and certification in Cisco products can provide the student with a wealth of benefits. One of the main advantages of certification directly from Cisco is the ability to gain validation from a legitimate body. They are able to learn highly relevant skills and knowledge related to a wide variety of Cisco products. In addition, students are also able to stay abreast of current topics and technologies. Other sources of Cisco training may be several years behind, or lack the knowledge of updated Cisco products. However, with Cisco training, the individual is able to learn and gain knowledge directly from the source itself.
The benefits of Cisco training extends well after the student achieves certification. One of the main advantages of Cisco certification is its authority; certified individuals are seen as knowledgeable and capable applicants to any position. In effect, certification shows that the applicants is well versed in Cisco products and possesses the necessary skill set. In addition, Cisco training can connect the individual with a wide network of other professionals and certified individuals. The certification gives like-minded individuals a common ground from which to collaborate with; therefore, they are able to easily connect and engage with one another.