Networking careers and certifications
Network certifications, such as CCNA, CCIE, CCNP and DevNet, are important achievements that help advance the careers of networking associates and professionals. See how networking careers are changing and what skills are in demand. Discover the latest changes to certification tracks and take quizzes to test your network skills.
Top Stories
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Tip
05 Feb 2024
How to close the networking skills gap
The networking skills gap stems from tech shifts, generational turnover and hiring complexities. Bridge the gap with skills gained through study, training and employer support. Continue Reading
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Tip
30 Jan 2024
Effective soft skills for network engineers
Soft skills such as empathy, active listening and problem-solving can be valuable assets to network engineers who interact with nontechnical business stakeholders. Continue Reading
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25 Jan 2024
15 server and networking interview questions and answers
When interviewing for server and networking job positions, most interviewers look for knowledge in three main areas: servers, systems design and networking. Continue Reading
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Quiz
16 Jan 2024
8 practice network hardware questions for CCST exam
Prepare for the CCST Networking exam with this network hardware quiz from Chapter 10 of 'Cisco Certified Support Technician CCST Networking 100-150 Official Cert Guide.' Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Jan 2024
Introduction to network hardware components
This excerpt from 'Cisco Certified Support Technician CCST Networking 100-150 Official Cert Guide' provides beginners with knowledge and best practices on network hardware. Continue Reading
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Feature
16 Jan 2024
Best practices to install network hardware
Network practitioners might get tangled in the confusion of wires, switches and other hardware components. A networking expert offers best practices for network hardware. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 Jan 2024
What the networking job market looks like for 2024
Networking trends around cloud, NaaS and security are influencing the job market and required skill sets among enterprise employers, but networking fundamentals are still a priority. Continue Reading
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Definition
14 Dec 2023
massive open online course (MOOC)
A massive open online course (MOOC) is a typically free web-based distance learning program that's designed for large numbers of geographically dispersed students. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 Dec 2023
What 5G skills are most in demand?
In the evolving 5G job market, service providers, systems integrators and enterprises are looking for applicants who have experience and aspirations in five broad areas. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Nov 2023
MCSA (Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate)
MCSA (Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate) was a certification program offered by Microsoft and intended for people seeking entry-level jobs in an IT environment. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Oct 2023
network engineer
A network engineer is a technology professional who has the necessary skills to plan, implement and oversee the computer networks that support in-house voice, data, video and wireless network services. Continue Reading
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Tip
25 Sep 2023
What does a cloud network engineer do?
A cloud network engineer juggles a number of responsibilities -- from network design and troubleshooting to learning about specific cloud providers and platforms. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Jul 2023
An introduction to Git for network engineers
Git can be a useful tool for network engineers who manage complex infrastructure, especially as networking increasingly overlaps with software, automation and DevOps. Continue Reading
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Feature
11 Jul 2023
Network engineer vs. software engineer: What's the difference?
Despite potential overlaps in software skills, the roles of network engineers and software engineers vary in terms of skill sets, salaries, certifications and more. Continue Reading
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Quiz
06 Mar 2023
9 practice questions on twisted-pair network cables
Take this practice quiz on twisted-pair cables, sampled from 'Networking Essentials: A CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Textbook,' to test your understanding for the certification exam. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 Mar 2023
An introduction to twisted-pair cable wiring
This excerpt from 'Networking Essentials: A CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Textbook' provides an overview of twisted-pair network cables and acts as a study tool for the exam. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 Mar 2023
Considerations for configuring twisted-pair cables
In this Q&A, author Jeffrey Beasley discusses what students who plan to take the CompTIA Network+ exam should know about twisted-pair cables, from configuration to troubleshooting. Continue Reading
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Guest Post
07 Feb 2023
CIOs must support multi-cloud training for network engineers
Many enterprises are shifting to multi-cloud environments, but they must enable proper training. Here's how they can be proactive and support multi-cloud network training. Continue Reading
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Tip
27 Jan 2023
Compare 6 major network certifications for 2023
Network certifications can span networking fundamentals to product-specific knowledge. Evaluate six certifications, and weigh factors like job roles, cost, prerequisites and skills. Continue Reading
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Tip
01 Dec 2022
5 most valuable wireless network certifications
Wireless networking skills are in high demand. Having a top-notch wireless network certification can help networking newbies and pros stand out among job candidates. Continue Reading
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News
01 Nov 2022
Cisco Networking Academy offers rookie cybersecurity classes
Cisco's cybersecurity track equips students for entry-level positions, including cybersecurity technician, junior cybersecurity analyst, and tier 1 help desk support role. Continue Reading
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Definition
03 Oct 2022
Request for Comments (RFC)
A Request for Comments (RFC) is a formal document from the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) that contains specifications and organizational notes about topics related to the internet and computer networking, such as routing, addressing and transport technologies. Continue Reading
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Feature
24 Aug 2022
A look inside the Cisco DevNet Professional study guide
Learn how network automation works with software development in this chapter excerpt from 'Cisco Certified DevNet Professional DEVCOR 350-901 Official Cert Guide.' Continue Reading
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Quiz
24 Aug 2022
11 practice questions for Cisco DEVCOR 350-901 exam
Think you know network automation? Take this practice exam from Chapter 10 of 'Cisco Certified DevNet Professional DEVCOR 350-901 Official Cert Guide' to test your expertise. Continue Reading
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Feature
24 Aug 2022
DevNet authors discuss Cisco DEVCOR book, automation
The authors of a Cisco DevNet Professional DEVCOR study guide provide insights about the growth of network automation, CI/CD and programmability. Continue Reading
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Definition
21 Mar 2022
What is NetOps? Everything you need to know
NetOps, also referred to as NetOps 2.0 and NetDevOps, is an approach to networking operations that uses DevOps tools and techniques to make network changes more efficiently and effectively than in the past. Continue Reading
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Tip
09 Mar 2022
The rise of the NetOps engineer
The need for NetOps engineers with network automation and software development skills is rising with the continued drive to create more flexible networks. Find out what it takes. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Mar 2022
Study various network types, topologies for configuration
Those looking to earn a Network+ certification need to learn about network types, topologies, network design best practices and more. James Pengelly's book covers those topics. Continue Reading
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Tip
24 Feb 2022
How NetOps differs from traditional network operations
When comparing NetOps and conventional network operations, network teams focus on automating repeatable tasks that correct problems rather than introducing new ones manually. Continue Reading
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Tip
03 Feb 2022
10 basic network management interview questions and answers
Job interviews should be a two-way conversation. Here are some common network management interview questions for both hiring managers and job applicants. Continue Reading
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Tip
26 Jan 2022
Intro to encapsulation and decapsulation in networking
Encapsulation adds information to a packet as it travels to its destination. Decapsulation reverses the process by removing the info, so a destination device can read the original data. Continue Reading
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Answer
13 Jan 2022
Network engineer vs. network administrator: What's the difference?
The difference between a network engineer and network administrator is an engineer is focused on network design, while an administrator is more focused on operations. Continue Reading
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Quiz
01 Dec 2021
9 wireless questions for Cisco's CCT, CCNA exams
Those looking to pass the Cisco CCT and CCNA certification exams will need to understand how wireless networking works. This practice quiz covers the basics of wireless networking. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Dec 2021
Guide on wireless networking concepts for CCT, CCNA exams
Cisco's CCT and CCNA exams include wireless networking questions. Use this excerpt from Glen Clarke's 'CCT/CCNA Routing and Switching All-in-One Exam Guide' as a tool to prepare. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Dec 2021
Learn the basics of wireless networking for exam prep
In this Q&A, author Glen Clarke introduces readers to wireless networking and outlines what CCT and CCNA test-takers should study when prepping for their exams. Continue Reading
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Feature
26 Aug 2021
CompTIA Cloud+ tips to troubleshoot cloud networks
The CompTIA Cloud+ exam covers a range of topics, including how to secure and troubleshoot cloud networks. Some of the first steps: Start simple, and isolate the problem. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Aug 2021
Virtualization concepts to study for CCNP and CCIE exams
In this Q&A, author Patrick Gargano discusses the importance of virtualization in networking and offers studying advice for aspiring CCNPs and CCIEs in preparation for the exams. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Aug 2021
Explore virtualization study topics for CCNP, CCIE exams
Aspiring CCNPs and CCIEs will need to grasp one of networking's most important topics: virtualization. 'Day 7' from Patrick Gargano's '31 Days' explains the subject in detail. Continue Reading
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Definition
04 Aug 2021
system administrator (sysadmin)
A system administrator (sysadmin) is an information technolog professional who supports a multiuser computing environment and ensures continuous, optimal performance of IT services and support systems. Continue Reading
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Feature
19 Jul 2021
Experts discuss stretched VLAN use cases, MEC and more
In this networking blog roundup, experts give reasons to stretch VLANs, discuss benefits of deploying private MEC with 5G, and differentiate between junior and senior IT engineers. Continue Reading
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Feature
06 Jul 2021
Top 20 strategic L&D terms learning pros should know
Career development is key to employee retention, and effective L&D initiatives start with an understanding of important learning concepts. Here are 20 of the most important. Continue Reading
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Quiz
30 Jun 2021
12 official practice questions for the CCNA 200-301 exam
These practice questions for CCNA 200-301 lay out what readers need to know about network security and IP routing in the LAN, from 'CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide, Volumes 1 and 2.' Continue Reading
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Definition
24 May 2021
CCNA certification
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is a technical certification that Cisco offers for early-career networking professionals. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 Apr 2021
Getting started with a career in IT infrastructure: A brief guide
Learn about the jobs available, skills required/in demand and the most popular relevant certifications/certificates/degrees as you consider infrastructure as an IT career path. Continue Reading
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Definition
07 Apr 2021
CompTIA Network+
The CompTIA Network+ is an IT certification exam that confirms an individual possesses the skills in networking required to develop a career in IT infrastructure. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Mar 2021
Black network engineers juggle building networks, being seen
2020 didn't transform diversity and inclusion in companies, according to some Black network engineers. But diversity in their careers and networks goes beyond hiring practices. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Feb 2021
10 best IT certs for beginners
Certifications and courses from companies including CompTIA, AWS, Microsoft, Cisco and Oracle can provide a solid foundation when beginning to pursue a career in IT. Continue Reading
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Answer
12 Feb 2021
DevNet vs. CCNA: What's the difference?
While CCNA certification concentrates on foundational network engineering knowledge, DevNet certification focuses on modern networking concepts, like automation and software. Continue Reading
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Feature
28 Jan 2021
How to learn networking fundamentals, from a software pro
Networking basics include protocols, network layers and processes that must happen for computers to communicate across a network. Here's how to start learning these basics. Continue Reading
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Feature
25 Nov 2020
Network pros share Cisco DevNet certification advice
Cisco DevNet certifications require a lot of time investment, but network pros who pursue the certifications say the gained skills and knowledge are worth it. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Nov 2020
A look inside the official Cisco DEVASC 200-901 guidebook
In this book excerpt, readers can explore the Cisco DEVASC 200-901 official guide and get a flavor of one of Cisco's newest exams and its blend of networking and software topics. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Nov 2020
Is Cisco DevNet worth it? Experts say yes, it's the future
Any IT professional who's heard the hype for Cisco's newest certification track may wonder, 'Is Cisco DevNet worth it?' Some experts say it's the future. Find out more in this Q&A. Continue Reading
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Quiz
20 Nov 2020
7 practice questions for Cisco 200-901 DevNet Associate exam
Ready for Cisco's introductory DevNet exam, DEVASC 200-901? Start your Cisco DevNet Associate training with this practice quiz directly from the official exam guidebook. Continue Reading
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Definition
11 Nov 2020
Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT)
Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT) is a now-retired certification offered by Cisco, as part of their certification program. Continue Reading
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Feature
23 Oct 2020
The power and plights of female network engineers
Impostor syndrome burdens female network engineers, due to discrimination, as well as a lack of representation and education. But many of these women are working to change that. Continue Reading
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Answer
22 Oct 2020
What network automation certification options are available?
Network automation certifications and training include vendor-specific commercial credentials, as well as open source options. Which career path is right for you? Continue Reading
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Answer
14 Aug 2020
The future of networking jobs in the new normal
Soft skills will grow in relevance as network pros adapt to a post-pandemic world that includes more remote troubleshooting and the move away from a hard network edge. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 May 2020
Network engineer career advice amid the COVID-19 pandemic
As COVID-19 dramatically affects the global economy, people may ask, 'What's next for my career?' No one is sure, but these tips can help network engineers feel and stay secure. Continue Reading
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Tip
11 May 2020
Pair programming pros and cons for network automation
Pair programming is an Agile software development technique that reduces bugs and produces better software. Can pair programming work between networking experts and programmers? Continue Reading
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News
17 Apr 2020
Cisco online certification tests are now available
Cisco online certification testing launched April 15. To prevent cheating, the Pearson VUE testing software commandeers the video cameras and microphones on candidates' home PCs. Continue Reading
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Feature
05 Mar 2020
A roundup of the Cisco certification changes in 2020
The network industry is changing and so are required network engineer skills. Here's how Cisco redesigned its certification programs to keep up with industry goals. Continue Reading
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Quiz
18 Feb 2020
Try 10 practice questions for the CCNP, CCIE ENCOR 350-401
This practice quiz for CCNP and CCIE ENCOR 350-401 explores what readers must know about IP routing essentials -- including BGP and OSPF -- from the new certification guidebook. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Feb 2020
How Cisco certification changes alter CCNP and CCIE tracks
Here's what to expect from the colossal Cisco certification changes to the CCNP and CCIE tracks that aim to increase material relevance and benefit network engineers' daily lives. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Feb 2020
Prepare for CCNP, CCIE ENCOR 350-401 with this guide preview
Here's an excerpt from the new 'CCNP and CCIE ENCOR 350-401 Official Cert Guide' that provides the key IP routing essentials network engineers require for their job roles. Continue Reading
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Tip
04 Feb 2020
Understand business value to advance your networking career
Network pros can use the CAR mindset -- challenge, action and result -- to better match their networking initiatives with business goals and advance their career opportunities. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Jan 2020
A look inside 'CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide, Volume 2'
Network security is a crucial skills area for network engineers, and the CCNA 200-301 reflects this. Here's a chapter excerpt on network security from the new guide. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 Jan 2020
Traditional, emerging topics unite in the new CCNA exam
As of Feb. 24, all eyes are on the CCNA 200-301 exam -- Cisco's latest update to the CCNA track. Here's a look at what's on the exam and how it compares to previous CCNA exams. Continue Reading
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Answer
25 Oct 2019
What SD-WAN certifications and courses are available?
A few SD-WAN certifications do exist, but they're heavily focused on specific vendors and their respective products. Find out why market-wide certs are unlikely. Continue Reading
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Quiz
19 Sep 2019
Cisco CCNA practice test: Try these 20 exam questions
Use this CCNA practice test as study material to prepare for the Cisco CCNA Routing and Switching 200-125 exam. With 20 questions on a range of topics, we're not playing around. Continue Reading
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Quiz
18 Sep 2019
Try a CCNA 200-301 practice quiz from the official cert guide
This practice quiz provides a sneak peek into the new 'CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide, Volume 1,' which reflects Cisco's CCNA certification and exam redesigns. Continue Reading
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Feature
18 Sep 2019
Prepare for the CCNA 200-301 exam with this guide preview
Here's a sneak peek at what to expect from Cisco's redesigned CCNA exam directly from 'CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide, Volume 1' by author Wendell Odom. Continue Reading
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Feature
17 Sep 2019
Cisco author says new CCNA exam undergoes largest change ever
Cisco said goodbye to most CCNA tracks, and hello to a consolidated exam. Here's what you need to know about the new CCNA, from the author of every official CCNA guidebook. Continue Reading
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Feature
03 Sep 2019
Learn how to get started with your networking career
Wherever you are on your networking career path, these expert insights can help you decide where to go and give advice about job requirements, certifications and industry changes. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Aug 2019
Network pros on new Cisco DevNet certification: 'Finally!'
Want to learn infrastructure as code? Now, there's a Cisco cert for that. Learn more about the new network automation certification suite, plus changes to the CCNA, CCNP and CCIE. Continue Reading
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Feature
27 Aug 2019
Software drives changes in network engineer skills, certifications
Learn what network analysts think about network engineer skills and certifications in the modern networking industry. Hint: Proprietary hardware is in the rearview mirror. Continue Reading
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Feature
20 Aug 2019
Top enterprise network challenges include agility, product hype
Product hype and network agility are some of the primary network challenges for modern enterprises, according to networking experts. Read up on their insights and advice. Continue Reading
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Feature
24 Jul 2019
Network teams spend more time than ever on network security issues
The workloads of network teams have evolved from their original objectives because of network security threats. Yet teams are still expected to maintain their initial goals. Continue Reading
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Tip
18 Jul 2019
Learn about the top telecom certifications
Use this expert advice to wade through myriad telecom certifications and pinpoint the top certifications for the industry, like TCO, iNARTE and BICSI certifications. Continue Reading
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Opinion
03 Jul 2019
Why networking certifications no longer matter
Networking certifications have consistently been an important milestone for network professionals. But diverse network infrastructure, automation and UI upgrades could change that. Continue Reading
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Answer
19 Jun 2019
What roles are included in a network engineer job description?
What is a network engineer? The role can encompass several disciplines, especially as new technologies emerge. Software knowledge, in particular, is in high demand. Continue Reading
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Opinion
07 Jun 2019
Tech communities offer more than just a quick fix
IT professionals who join tech meetups and online communities might find there's more than just troubleshooting help available when they invest their time in a group. Continue Reading
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Feature
30 May 2019
System administrator resources you'll actually use
The learning resources available for IT administrators are more plentiful than the technology that admins manage. How do they sift through the inundation of information? Continue Reading
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Answer
14 May 2019
Will 5G networks require new network engineer skills?
The 5G network will likely affect network engineer skills in areas such as security, physical appliances and software. But enterprise teams won't see too much change, for now. Continue Reading
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Feature
29 Apr 2019
Specialized network engineer skills deemed unnecessary by 2020
Common networking roles are shifting to keep up with network transformation and a changing industry. Challenges include new monitoring tools and increased complexity. Continue Reading
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Tip
15 Feb 2019
How to improve your networking career path in 3 steps
Network technology is always changing. As a result, your IT network skills need to evolve, as well. Take a look at three steps you can take on your networking career path. Continue Reading
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Infographic
14 Dec 2018
10 metrics to drive a NetOps 2.0 culture shift
If an object at rest tends to stay at rest, how can IT leaders get the network moving at the speed of DevOps? Start with performance review metrics that reflect NetOps goals, experts suggest. Continue Reading
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Quiz
12 Dec 2018
Test your knowledge of VoIP fundamentals
Do you want to test your knowledge of VoIP fundamentals and how VoIP works? Take this VoIP quiz and see what areas of voice technology elude you. Continue Reading
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Feature
09 Aug 2018
What it takes to be a steward of your SDN career
When it comes to SDN careers and training, the impetus is on vendors, enterprises and individual network professionals to create and pursue training and certification opportunities. Continue Reading
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Opinion
25 May 2018
The growing ties between networking roles and automation
Network automation is here, bringing with it new demands for network professionals. But these changes should go beyond shifting networking roles, responsibilities and skills. Continue Reading
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News
24 May 2018
IDC, Cisco survey assesses future IT staffing needs
New IDC survey on digital transformation's effects on future IT staffing outline technology trends affecting IT hiring and 20 roles that emphasize need for expanded skill sets. Continue Reading
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Feature
22 May 2018
Network engineering skills should include software fluency
Network engineers need to rethink their network engineering skills and embrace software fluency training to meet business needs for modern network infrastructure. Continue Reading
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Answer
22 May 2018
How do I improve my network programming knowledge?
When it comes to SDN and programmable network skills, combining training with practice and hands-on experience can help advance your programming knowledge. Continue Reading
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Tip
07 May 2018
The importance of staying up to date with Wi-Fi training
Wireless networking is changing at breakneck speeds, but Wi-Fi training isn't keeping up. Find out why firms must pay more attention to ensuring engineers are properly trained. Continue Reading
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News
11 Apr 2018
MEF launches SDN certification and specs for Presto APIs
MEF worked with The Linux Foundation and ETSI to develop an NFV and SDN certification to focus on related knowledge and skills. Meantime, MEF published specs for its Presto APIs. Continue Reading
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Tip
05 Apr 2018
How to bridge the network engineering skills gap
Training for new network engineering skills should emphasize basic concepts behind building a network, whether it's software-defined, intent-based or disaggregated. Continue Reading
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Tip
29 Dec 2017
Information security certification guide: Intermediate level
Part two of this information security certificate guide looks at vendor-neutral intermediate certifications for IT professionals interested in midlevel positions. Continue Reading
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Tip
12 Dec 2017
Information security certifications: Introductory level
This series looks at the top information security certifications for IT professionals. Part one reviews basic, vendor-neutral certifications for entry-level positions. Continue Reading
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Answer
10 Aug 2017
Why some Wi-Fi jobs are best for WLAN professionals to avoid
Some Wi-Fi jobs can become nearly impossible to complete. When engineers contend with inflated expectations or bad designs, it may be best to walk away. Continue Reading
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Definition
25 May 2017
Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE certification)
Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE certification) is a series of technical certifications for senior networking professionals who design, build, implement, maintain and troubleshoot complex enterprise networking infrastructures. Continue Reading
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Tip
16 Nov 2016
Network engineering tools changing as cloud shift pressures profession
As more companies examine the cloud, network engineering tools are changing, requiring engineers to rethink and recraft their job descriptions. Continue Reading
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Feature
01 Aug 2014
Network programming skills from scripting to DevOps: What to learn
Networking pros don't need to become code monkeys, but a little network programming can go a long way toward advancing their careers. Continue Reading
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Opinion
18 Nov 2013
Your next job may be 'network programmer': What you'll need to know
SDN brings flexibility to networking, but this will require engineers to gain new skills in order to fill the emerging role of network programmer. Continue Reading