Of all the I.T. sectors ruling the global stage, this field is one of the biggest and most all-encompassing. Because there are so many complex skills to embrace, some specialisation is the only realistic option. Cisco and Microsoft are the two main businesses who rule this field. The actual software program side of Networking is MS's department, & the hardware side (routers, controllers & data switches etc.) is where Cisco mainly works. It's become commercially essential for both MS and Cisco to get into Security over the last decade. Another fast growing market within this field is wireless-connectivity & devices. Lastly, 2 crucial & growing fields within the security market are Computer Forensics & Ethical Hacking.

Of course, Digital or Computer Forensics is a frequently used expression that has been popularised via Television shows like "CSI". The physical reality of Computer Forensics is very much less glamorous than the portrayal in these types of programmes (of course!) And yet, forensic investigation employing sophisticated technology can provide a hugely satisfying profession. A Digital Forensics professional will trace and interpret 'digital artefacts' that are frequently utilised to solve criminal offences.

Seated somewhere between Digital Forensics and Security, comes the developing field of 'Ethical Hacking'. Experienced I.T. professionals can learn the concepts of 'criminal' hacking for ethical security reasons. The EC Council provides mid-high level certifications, entitled the CEH ('Certified Ethical Hacker') and the CHFI ('Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator').

'CompTIA' (the 'Computing Technology Industry Association') is a global business that right now supplies many of the most reputed vendor neutral accreditation paths out there. Additional establishments also supply deserving accreditations, for example 'CWNP' (Certified Wireless Network Professional) & ISC2 ('International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium'). As you would expect Microsoft and Cisco provide a comprehensive array of professional accreditations. The choice might be somewhat over-whelming, and so we urge you to go cautiously & go through all of your alternatives with an expert who understands the procedure very well. You might save yourself a great deal of money & time, to say nothing of frustration and discouragement.

Microsoft offer a variety of specialisations within MCSE, such as in Messaging or in Security for trainees with a particular interest. You might decide to look at Security+ from CompTIA, and then the 'Certified Information Systems Security Professional' (CISSP). Prior to choosing this path though you ought to be aware of the exact level of professional experience necessary for the CISSP. Discussing your needs with our industry specialists will shed more light on everything for you personally.

A basic idea of networks is a great first-base for anyone coming into the IT industry. You must know how PC's operate and connect with each other before you consider anything else. Providing you have decent literacy skills, you'll find programs that include CompTIA's A+ & 'N+' will provide you with a superb grounding to begin your career path. They're covered on the CompTIA pages on this website.

Taking things further you'll choose to go down the Microsoft MCSE or MCSA track if you're keen on 'software', or the Cisco 'CCNA' or 'CCNP' track if you're interested in hardware. However, an in depth understanding of Microsoft's operating-systems is very advantageous as they are such an important aspect of the majority of networking-environments. Again, these qualifications are written about in depth on their respective sections on this site.

Alternatively, you might choose to continue on the 'ventor-neutral' track with further 'CompTIA' certification (e.g. Linux+, Security+ and Server+ ) or possibly have a go at the wireless (Wi-Fi) area of things with the 'CWNP'/'CWNA'.

There are now greater alternatives over and above Microsoft and Cisco for getting certified within each of these disciplines. In fact, some highly respected associations are essential players now where accreditation is involved. It is now extensively accepted that knowledge of inter connectivity and technological convergence is becoming incredibly important in networks. There are currently some important changes taking place in the world of networking : notably the movement towards 'cloud' or internet-based computing (both in terms of data-storage, and also processing-power), and the mental change towards 'green' I.T.. Green IT doesn't specifically signify 'saving the planet' - it does have elements designed to minimise the carbon dioxide impact etc., but its also solidly installed in the economic reality of cost reduction. Computer systems generate much less heat (and so require less cooling) when they have lower-power processors. Businesses with large networks of computers can bring down their electricity bills significantly with greener and more efficient PC's.

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