Wednesday, March 7, 2012

What qualification should I go for: MSc Networking or CCNP?

I already have a degree in electrical engineering and I want to get a higher qualification before I start working as a networking engineer.

Is it better to get a Masters degree or complete CCNA and CCNP?What qualification should I go for: MSc Networking or CCNP?
I am with the others - the masters. For one it is permanent. It is also non vendor-specific. A CCNA won't help get a job at a juniper or Extreme based network the Masters will. It also looks good after your name on business cards, alongside other accreditations.



As for CCNA being in depth - Synful is plain wrong, it is a junior level qualification from Cisco. The description he used applies more to the CCIE If you can handle a masters, you should be able to knock off CCNA while waiting for the results.What qualification should I go for: MSc Networking or CCNP?
Both?



Get the CCNA/P while you are in grad school.





Make sure you study your *** off for the CCNA. It is one of the most difficult tests I have ever taken. It bears no relation to real world networking, and will drill you on protocols and topologies that you just don't ever see. Inch deep, mile wide. The network manager at my datacenter failed the exam. He is one of the most qualified and experienced people in the world when it comes to Cisco.What qualification should I go for: MSc Networking or CCNP?
Synful is stretching things a bit. Apparently he hasn't taken any of the CCNP tests or heard about the CCIE lab. CCNA is quite possible for most, CCNP is quite a bit more in depth, CCIE is reserved for the top few. Masters is probably a better route as you keep that forever, certs you have to keep renewing. Certs can come later.
Most companies would rather higher someone with a degree and will pay for you to get your certifications later. Plus if you don't already have experience in the field it will be hard getting a good starting job even with the certifications. Go for the degree.

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