Hi all, I have not posted here before, but after parusing thru some of the other posts I feel this board is handled by alot of intelligent, mindful people. So here goes: So far in my career I have passed the A+ and the Network+. I have just relocated to a new state (MS) for a new job. My old post was a PC/Network Tech for a major chicken producer...but my responsibilities were of the SA level. Maintaining server backups, and the servers themselves, physical layer LAN, Cisco switching, fiber you name it except routers. Currently I have a Helpdesk position (which sucks), but what I am wondering is, what should I pursue next? MCSA or CCNA? Which is in more demand nowadays? I know there was an influx of "paper" MCSE's a few years back, and thats definately what I want to be..but I do have more exp in MSFt than Cisco (other than Catalyst switches). I want to migrate towards the server/LAN side of things. Im sick and tired of directly supporting end users. Any insight would be greatly appreciated.

THanks

Ben

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{I know there was an influx of "paper" MCSE's a few years back, and thats definately what I want to be..}

Sorry I meant that thats NOT what I want to be....

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In my opinion, CCNA is better for you as you have experience to back the cert up.

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Gareth Leung
MCSE+I, i-Net+,IT Project+, CIW Associate

Moderator of:
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since you are working with server and backups, I recommand you take the server+ next.

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You're sitting at a fork in the road right now Ben. The only question is which way you're going to go first. I'd agree with Gareth in that the CCNA seems to be more pertinent to your current situation, though obtaining the Server+ would be nice as well. It will validate your current networking knowledge set, give you creditable recognition (Cisco) and give you room to pursue more advanced networking positions. You don't hear about "paper" Cisco CCNAs as you do MSCEs.

Don't let me deter you though as you said you ultimately want to be an MSCE. Being Microsoft certified has its own benefits as well. Good luck!

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Thanks guys for all your input, I have thought alot about the CCNA as well. My problem is, I have never had the pleasure to "play" with a Cisco router before. But after learning that my A+ and Network+ counts as the 1 elective needed for an MCSA, I believe that thats what I will go for next.

Now can anyone point me in the right direction for some good, thorough MCSA related practice testing material? I have already downloaded the 70-270 CBT nuggets videos, along with the entire Transcender Suite for 2000/Server.

Thanks a million!

Ben

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