The 2 exams are 640-802, & they are divided like this - 'Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices' Part one and Part two, or 'ICND1' (640/822) and 'ICND2' (640/816). Another name for Part 1 is 'Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician' or CCENT for short. This might appear very confusing, but basically the certification is better when tackled as a combined examination - the 'CCNA' 640-802. Cisco students should find it very useful to begin their training with the 'CompTIA' qualifications A+ & Network+ . That will provide them with excellent vendor-neutral training prior to entering in to the 'Cisco' area itself. Count on putting in close to 400 to 500 hours of study (approx a year part-time) to finish a course of this type. In common with all of the 'technical' career training courses, be sure to decide on one that provides twenty four hour real time availability to tutor assistance, to problem-solve any kind of training challenges that come up. The proper study materials are essential - look for inter-active multi-media disc-based programs, & an accredited & effective examination preparation system.

Trainees looking to begin an Information Technology career often have no idea of what route to follow, or what sector to obtain accreditation for. Consequently, if you have no experience in the IT industry, how can you expect to know what any qualified IT worker fills their day with? How can you possibly choose which certification program would be most appropriate for success. Achieving a well-informed resolution can only grow through a systematic investigation covering many altering factors:

- What nature of person you reckon you are - which things you get enjoyment from, and conversely - what you hate to do.

- Why you want to consider getting involved with computing - maybe you want to conquer a long-held goal like firing your boss and working for yourself for example.

- The income requirements you may have?

- Learning what the main career areas and sectors are - including what sets them apart.

- The level of commitment and effort you'll put into getting qualified.

To cut through the confusing industry jargon, and uncover the best path to success, have an informal meeting with an advisor with years of experience; an individual who appreciates and can explain the commercial realities as well as each qualification.

To get a really well rounded networking career-track, you might consider including either the Microsoft MCSE or MCSA to your A+, Network+ & 'CCNA' program. Whatever your thoughts, a discussion of your career-path and learning-style, with an experienced IT expert or advisor, must be at the top of your list of priorities, in order to make sure that you get off to a great start and prevent any expensive blunders.

Some training providers have a handy Job Placement Assistance service, to help you into your first commercial role. Don't get caught up in this feature - it's easy for their marketing department to make too much of it. In reality, the huge shortage of staff in this country is the reason you'll find a job.

Whatever you do, don't procrastinate and wait until you have qualified before updating your CV. As soon as your training commences, mark down what you're doing and tell people about it! It's possible that you won't have even taken your exams when you will get your initial junior support role; however this is not possible unless you've posted your CV on job sites. The top companies to help you land that job are normally local IT focused employment agencies. As they're keen to place you to receive their commission, they're perhaps more focused on results.

Many trainees, so it seems, are prepared to study their hearts out (for years sometimes), and just give up when it comes to looking for a job. Promote yourself... Do your best to let employers know about you. Good jobs don't just knock on your door.

Home-Study Training Courses In Adobe Dreamweaver & Flash >>