If it's Cisco training you're after, but you've not yet worked with network switches or routers, it's likely you'll need the CCNA training. This educates you in the knowledge you need to understand routers. The internet is constructed from huge numbers of routers, and large commercial ventures with several different sites also utilise routers to allow their networks of computers to communicate.

It's vital that you already know a good deal about the operating and functioning of computer networks, because computer networks are joined to routers. If not, the chances are you'll fall behind. Why not find training that also includes the basics in networking (CompTIA Network+ as an example - maybe with the A+ as well) prior to starting your CCNA. Some providers offer this as a career track.

Should this be your first introduction to routers, then qualifying up to the CCNA level is the right level to aim for - don't be pushed into attempting your CCNP. Once you've worked for a few years, you will have a feel for if it's appropriate for you to go to the level of CCNP.

One area often overlooked by new students thinking about a course is the concept of 'training segmentation'. This is essentially the way the course is divided up to be delivered to you, which makes a huge difference to where you end up. Training companies will normally offer a 2 or 3 year study programme, and courier the materials in pieces as you finish each section. Sounds reasonable? Well consider these facts: What if there are reasons why you can't finish all the sections or exams? What if you don't find their order of learning is ideal for you? Because of nothing that's your fault, you may go a little slower and consequently not get all your materials.

An ideal situation would be to have every piece of your study pack sent to your address right at the beginning; every single thing! This prevents any future issues from rising that will affect your progress.

Only consider study courses which grow into industry approved qualifications. There's an endless list of trainers offering minor 'in-house' certificates which will prove unusable when you start your job-search. Only properly recognised qualifications from the likes of Microsoft, Cisco, CompTIA and Adobe will open the doors to employers.

Sometimes trainees assume that the school and FE college track is the right way even now. So why then are qualifications from the commercial sector slowly and steadily replacing it? With an ever-increasing technical demand on resources, the IT sector has moved to the specialised core-skills learning that can only come from the vendors - that is companies like CISCO, Adobe, Microsoft and CompTIA. This usually turns out to involve less time and financial outlay. Patently, a reasonable amount of background knowledge has to be taught, but essential specialised knowledge in the areas needed gives a commercially trained person a real head start.

The bottom line is: Accredited IT qualifications tell an employer precisely what skills you have - everything they need to know is in the title: as an example - I am a 'Microsoft Certified Professional' in 'Designing Security for a Windows 2003 Network'. So companies can look at the particular needs they have and what certifications are needed for the job.

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