A Secret about Comptia Network+

In my own pursuit of Network+ certification, I first began with a simple interest in the N10-004 certification. I was looking for a summer job but was unable to really provide a reasonable list of qualifications, other than "many years of experience working with computers." For some reason, employers seemed to take my "qualifications" at face value. So, I felt that it would be necessary for me to attain some kind of universally recognizable certification in the IT field so that I could at least begin a career as a PC technician. The CompTIA A+ and Network+ certification seemed to be most relevant; after all, they cover the basic fields of on-site troubleshooting: PC hardware/software and networking. And, as I was seeking a quick job at the time, it didn’t hurt to know that A+ and Network+ are totally vendor-neutral and universally recognized. However, when I discovered that the classes for these certifications were in the $1000+ range, I felt a bit disheartened by the prospect of having to attend night classes and waste valuable time I could be earning money. Now, I will let you in on a secret of sorts. For this exam, as for virtually any other IT-related certification exam, it is ''not a requirement'' to enroll in a costly course or to purchase time with an expensive trainer to pass the examination. While a course can certainly ease your path to certification, the knowledge required to pass and even excel in the Comptia Network+ exam can be attained through experience as an IT professional. The examination tests you on what is truly important - the experience that is derived from hands-on field training.

Let’s be realistic - having the network+ 2011 certification will not significantly alter the course of your life, demonstrate your total proficiency in networking concepts, or automatically earn you a top job. So what will it do for you?

Signal to potential employers that you have the initiative to differentiate yourself
Provide a bridge to other certifications and opportunities to demonstrate initiative
Acquiring, in the process, knowledge and expertise in the networking field
Counts as a credit (in some cases) towards other, more involved certifications
Being certified can be a great confidence booster and lead to salary raise

I truly believe that anyone who has the slightest desire to earn his or her Network+ certification can do so with minimal effort and commitment. Comptia Network+ is a certification that covers a finite amount of information and does not require complex logical analysis, though analytical thinking is required on some questions. What it does require, however, is for the candidate to be well-versed in networking standards and concepts; this means that you must approach this certification with an open mind. Your best friends are the resources on the World Wide Web - take practice tests anywhere you can find them and always review your incorrect answers; read multiple study guides on parts of the Network+ certification curriculum you feel shaky on. Remember that no material is "off-limits" in your pursuit of the certification. Earning the comptia security+ exam did not change my life, but it did open up doors to new opportunities to improve my life. And, it can do the same for you.