|
Home > Archive > General Discussion > October 2000 > Advice on where to start?
You are viewing an archived Text-only version of the thread.
To view this thread in it's original format and/or if you want to reply to
this thread please [click here]
| Author |
Advice on where to start?
|
|
|
| I have a Helpdesk background from my last job which I was in charge of hardware, printer, PC, software, dial-up, hub, router, csu/dsu and various other areas. I am currently in a position that I monitor all the Lan/Wan conectivity, server health, gateways routers, hubs, and switches in another comapny. I have a base knowledge in many areas and am finding it hard to move on without being an expert in one.
I want to take a course that will get me started and lead to bigger and better things in a new company, but am not sure where to start. Any suggestions? I would like to move positions asap as my current employer does not offer much for advancement, but pays good money. The problem I am having is finding a new job at around the same pay for what I do. I figure I need a valueable asset to seel myself to a new employer. What are your views?
Thanx | |
|
| Sounds like you are off to a good start. It all depends on what direction you want to go.
If you want to do network and system administration, you need to take more software oriented classes. Certifications in that area would include the MCSE and CNE. If you want to do network support, engineering type work, take hardware related courses. Cisco certifications are hardware related.
How much working experience do you have? Do you have a degree or any certifications? Those are just two of the things that recruiters will look for. It is hard to say if you will find a job making the same pay, but it should be pretty close. | |
|
| I have been in the IT industry for over 2.5 years now. I currently have a Computerized Business Systems degree from CLC, which back then was mopstly MS office and it products and currently do not posess any certs. I do study books of interest. I am looing more on the hardware and Networking side. I seems to get more self enjoyment out of it. I was considering the CNA to start because many employers are wanting admins to start and I think it is a highly visible step. ??? | |
|
| Yep, you are definately off to a good start:-)
First, check to see if your current employer will foot the bill on any training. Even though you are ready to leave, if they are willing to pay for training take advantage of it before you leave.
Take a couple of contiuing education courses that are related to your goals.
The best advice I can give you is to read, read, read. Also if you have access, play around and "break" stuff. That is the best way to learn.
If you should decide to go the certification route, take a look at the CCNA and the other Cisco certifications. Also, look into the CNA and/or MCP to give you a basic taste of system administration.
Good Luck:-) | |
|
| I have been thinking of getting my CNA for sometime now. How do I start? What do I need to start? Where do I take the tests? Should I stress the Netware part to start? | |
|
| So I take it you work in a Novell shop. This link should provide all the info you would need: http://www.novell.com/education/index.html
Purchase a good CNA Study Guide/book and start reading. I personally like the Sybex books. Also, check the Novell site for a copy of Netware. They used to sell at three or five client copy for about $25.00. This will give you a chance to practice. |
|
|
|
|