In this article, I will discuss the best networking certifications in 2024. As the demand for skilled network professionals continues to grow, obtaining the right certifications can open doors to exciting career opportunities.
I will highlight top certifications that can enhance your expertise in networking, security, cloud computing, and more, helping you stay ahead in this ever-evolving field.
Key Point & Best Networking Certifications List
| Certification Name | Key Focus Area | Level |
|---|---|---|
| Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) | Networking fundamentals and routing protocols | Entry |
| Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) | Advanced routing, switching, and network design | Intermediate |
| Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) | Expert-level networking, enterprise solutions | Expert |
| CompTIA Network+ | Networking concepts, troubleshooting, and security | Entry |
| CompTIA Security+ | Cybersecurity principles and risk management | Entry |
| CompTIA CySA+ | Cybersecurity analysis and threat detection | Intermediate |
| CompTIA CASP+ | Advanced security solutions for enterprise systems | Advanced |
| Juniper Networks Certified Specialist (JNCIS) | Juniper-specific networking technologies | Entry |
| Juniper Networks Certified Professional (JNCIP) | Intermediate-level networking and configuration | Intermediate |
| Juniper Networks Certified Expert (JNCIE) | Expert-level expertise in Juniper networking | Expert |
| Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) | Information systems auditing and controls | Expert |
| Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) | Security management and risk assessment | Expert |
| Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals | Basics of cloud computing on Microsoft Azure | Entry |
| Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert | Designing and implementing Azure solutions | Expert |
| AWS Certified Advanced Networking – Specialty | Advanced networking skills for AWS environments | Advanced |
| F5 Certified Administrator, BIG-IP | Managing F5’s BIG-IP platform for application delivery | Entry |
| F5 Certified Technical Specialist, BIG-IP | Advanced troubleshooting and performance tuning for BIG-IP | Intermediate |
| Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) | System administration for Red Hat Enterprise Linux | Entry |
| Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) | Advanced system administration and automation | Advanced |
| Huawei Certified ICT Associate (HCIA) | Networking and telecommunications with Huawei | Entry |
20 Best Networking Certifications In 2024
1.Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
Top networking certification, the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), is best for beginners and professionals. Validation of skills in network fundamentals, security, automation and programmability.
It provides career opportunities by demonstrating knowledge in optimizing network infrastructure management. Employers have high regard for this qualification; hence it is very significant for one’s career growth within IT industry especially Networking.
2.Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)
The Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) is an advanced IT professional certification designed to validate a candidate’s ability in implementing and troubleshooting complex network solutions based on multi-protocol systems using routing protocols such as BGP4+, OSPFv2/v3 or IS-IS; switching technologies like
VLANs, STP/RSTP/MSTP etc., security mechanisms against threats like DDoS attacks among others; wireless LANs including VoIP deployments over WLAN infrastructure but not limited thereto.
It also covers areas such as IPv6 deployment strategies for enterprise environments among other topics related to large scale IP networks with its primary focus being routed data traffic optimization techniques through WAN links connecting different sites within organizations operating internationally across various geographical regions having diverse cultures backgrounds languages religions races ethnicities genders ages disabilities socio-economic statuses etc
3.Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE)
The Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) is indicative of the highest level of networking knowledge a professional can acquire. It proves that one is able to create, implement and repair complex infrastructures.
The world’s greatest employers will vie for those with this qualification who often earn leadership positions and high salaries. This certificate is useful for anyone hoping to reach the apex of their career in computer networks because it ensures unparalleled skills and industry recognition.
4.CompTIA Network+
CompTIA Network+, an entry-level certification for IT professionals, establishes foundational knowledge in networking. Individuals with this credential know how to troubleshoot, configure and manage networks as well as any expert should.
Network+ is internationally recognized which means its applicable across different vendors’ systems; it doesn’t favor any particular hardware or software company over another.
Those looking to start out as network technicians will find that this certification opens up more job opportunities while also acting as a stepping stone towards.
Higher level certifications later on down the line –basically without having Net+ under your belt then chances are slim-to-none when trying get them other kinds such as CCNP R&S so yeah… you better believe its important!
5.CompTIA Security+
The CompTIA Security+ certification is a must-have for IT experts concentrating on cyber security. It certifies basic skills needed to secure networks, manage risks, analyze threats and encrypt data cryptographically among others.
Being universal and vendor-neutral, it suits well for positions like safety manager or system administrator where candidates are required to have wider knowledge in different areas of information technology industry such as compliance with policies, protection against unauthorized access etcetera which can be gained through this course.
This also broadens one’s career opportunities by showcasing necessary abilities in securing systems; thus making them more employable within any organization that deals with matters concerning computer safety measures since the demand for such professionals is increasing day by day due rapid growth experienced within cybersecurity sector.
6.CompTIA CySA+
The CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) certification is perfect for information technology professionals who specialize in recognizing threats and responding to them accordingly.
Through this, they are able to learn how to apply behavioral analytics in order to heighten their IT security. The areas covered by the CySA+ consist of threat management, vulnerability management as well as security architecture
Thus making it a good choice for those working as security analysts and incident responders too. This credential also promotes one’s career development since it shows that he/she has mastered various skills needed for proactive measures against cyber-attacks while still having knowledge on different defense strategies which can be used when need be.
7.CompTIA CASP+
A certification for people who work in cybersecurity is the CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+). This certification proves that someone knows about different types of securities such as enterprise security, risk management and incorporating them into complicated settings.
It doesn’t support any specific vendor but it’s best suited for security architects or technical leads. Being recognized around the world shows how well one can evaluate and put into operation safety measures which match up with company objectives; this means they have mastered them.
Additionally, it also helps individuals find better jobs because employers see that they possess more advanced knowledge when it comes to protecting their systems against cyber threats. In other words, what this certificate does is that it makes known a person’s elevated skills in areas like Strategic Security Planning or Cybersecurity Strategy & Management among others
8.Juniper Networks Certified Specialist (JNCIS)
To get the JNCIS certification, candidates must prove their skills in Juniper technology. This is important because it helps them understand some of the concepts related to routing, switching and network security.
It provides one with such knowledge that they can be able to configure as well as troubleshoot products from Juniper Networks.
The credential holder’s ability in doing this increases his or her chances of employability in any networking position since employers believe those who have certifications are more likely knowledgeable than others who do not possess any form of formal education regarding networks.
Additionally, being internationally recognized means that people from different parts of the world can gain knowledge about advanced network solutions through this qualification thereby making it an important tool for everyone interested in becoming an expert within such areas.
9.Juniper Networks Certified Professional (JNCIP)
JNCIP (Juniper Networks Certified Professional) certification is a step further in Junos-based networking skills. It is made for network engineers and administrators who work with Juniper systems like routers, switches and firewalls.
JNCIP holders have proven their ability to deploy, configure and troubleshoot complex networks that use Junos OS devices from various vendors such as Cisco or Hewlett-Packard.
This credential can open up new job opportunities by showing employers you have deep technical expertise in Juniper’s networking products-and that it’s necessary if you want any position where understanding how things are connected on an infrastructure level matters
10.Juniper Networks Certified Expert (JNCIE)
The Juniper Networks Certified Expert (JNCIE) is the best certificate for network professionals who are specialized in Juniper technologies.
It authenticates advanced level capabilities in planning, deploying and fixing intricate systems of interconnecting networks. These experts have profound knowledge and proficiency in Juniper Networks solutions hence they can be employed as top level engineers or architects.
This certification sets apart individuals by showing that they can efficiently deal with complicated network environments which are more developed than usual ones and also ensure their maximum performance.
11.Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
It is important for professionals in the field of information technology who specialize in auditing, control, and assurance to have a Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) qualification.
The CISA credential certifies competencies in appraising weaknesses, conformity with standards as well as the establishment of IT governance systems.
Those who hold this certification are acknowledged internationally as experts in auditing information systems and ensuring that security controls are consistent with the objectives of an organization.
Career opportunities such as auditor, advisor or manager for IT assurance can be pursued by individuals with this certification because it shows their ability to sustain and observe computer systems.
12.Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
For IT professionals in charge of, creating and supervising information security programs, being certified as an Information Security Manager (CISM) is very important.
This accreditation confirms knowledge in areas such as risk management, governance frameworks and incident handling; besides that it also highlights abilities useful for aligning security policies with business objectives.
Thus improving organizational resilience towards threats. Ideal for top-level security executives who need to show proficiency in strategic leadership within the context of enterprise-wide protection systems.
This qualification will significantly improve one’s chances of getting employed into such positions while at the same time expanding his or her career horizons around safeguarding corporate assets.
13.Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals
For IT professionals who are new to cloud computing, Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals is a must-have. It confirms one’s grasp of basic Azure services, pricing, support and general cloud concepts.
The certification suits beginners in this sector as it ensures they have a strong grounding with the foundations of Microsoft azure which can propel them into jobs that require such skills within clouds.
This certificate acts as an entry point globally signifying competence in Microsoft Azure (the most widely used system worldwide) thereby opening opportunities for higher level Azure certifications.
14.Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert
One must have Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert if he is an IT specialist responsible for creating and executing Azure solutions.
It shows higher level knowledge about Azure architecture, infrastructure, security and compliance. This cert is good for architects and engineers who work with cloud technology as well as those who design scalable azure solutions.
It has a worldwide reputation which can help people get higher paying jobs related to azure cloud architecture or make companies switch over their systems to it faster.
15.AWS Certified Advanced Networking – Specialty
AWS Certified Advanced Networking – Specialty is a must-have for IT professionals who have specialized in AWS networking. It is an attestation of advanced knowledge in designing and implementing networking solutions based on AWS cloud.
The certification suits network architects and engineers best as they can showcase their skills about various Amazon Web Services like VPCs (Virtual Private Cloud), Direct Connects or Route 53s among.
Others while also working towards globally-accepted qualifications that will open up better jobs within this field where people need someone capable of optimizing performance alongside security measures related to Amazon’s Web Service Provider Network across different regions worldwide, especially those enterprises that heavily rely upon it.
16.F5 Certified Administrator, BIG-IP
The BIG-IP F5 Certified Administrator certification is necessary for those who work in the information technology industry. The course focuses on managing and maintaining F5’s BIG-IP application delivery controller (ADC), which is an advanced networking and application delivery solutions system.
If you want to be successful as a network administrator or engineer then this program will help your career prospects greatly because employers are always looking for people with experience in optimizing application performance and security using F5 technologies.
This also means that individuals who have earned their certificate can expect more job opportunities related to these areas of expertise within modern enterprise infrastructures.
17.F5 Certified Technical Specialist, BIG-IP
F5 Certified Technical Specialist (BIG-IP) is a credential that confirms one’s ability to configure and fix the F5 BIG-IP application delivery controller (ADC). This qualification is necessary for network and application delivery solution IT professionals.
Such certified people are skilled in planning and maintaining intricate settings of BIG-IP that guarantee best performance as well as security standards.
It is an excellent opportunity for technical consultants or experts who want more job prospects by being involved in implementing scalable & secure app infrastructures based on F5 technologies for various companies.
18.Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)
The Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) certification is used to verify the skills needed for managing Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems.
This credential is a must-have for any IT professional who deals with Linux-based network environments because it demonstrates their knowledge of file systems, user management and security configuration among other system administration tasks.
Being internationally recognized, RHCSA is perfect for administrators who want to improve their skills in this area so as to be able work with larger enterprises that have many servers running on Linux operating systems across wide areas covered by computer networks.
19.Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE)
The Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) accreditation verifies expertise in advanced administration of Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems as well as networking knowledge.
This is very important for IT people who deal with setting up networks based on Red Hat among other things. Individuals with an RHCE are skilled in areas like optimizing servers, implementing security measures and configuring networks.
The certificate carries a lot weight within the industry thus opening up more job prospects for one to work in higher positions that need extensive experience with Linux networks while managing large scale corporate systems strategically.
20.Huawei Certified ICT Associate (HCIA)
HCIA (Huawei Certified ICT Associate) certification is the initial level of Huawei’s ICT infrastructure and network technology qualifications.
It is necessary for individuals who have just started their career in the IT field with a Huawei foundation on network. This includes routing, switching, and basic security of networks among others.
The competence to configure devices and solutions by Huawei is shown when one passes their HCIA exams; therefore preparing them for jobs such as Network Administration or Support.
Being an international recognition also provides excellent grounds for further knowledge acquisition through other advanced levels within this program which can lead into wider job opportunities across different regions worldwide where Huawei operates as well as within organizations having adopted such systems locally or internationally.
What Should I Look For When Choosing Best Networking Certifications
Industry Recognition: Make sure that the industry recognizes and respects this certification.
Relevance: Select certifications in line with your career goals as well as current trends within the sector.
Prerequisites: Check whether you meet these requirements before applying for any qualification or accreditation.
Content Coverage: Ensure that what is taught matches what should be learned on the basis of topics and skills covered under a given program.
Costs: Evaluate all costs associated with earning such recognition including examination fees, study materials etcetera.
Career Advancement Opportunities: Seek those qualifications which provide scope for professional growth while promising better remuneration packages.
Renewal Requirements: Be aware about how long it lasts and how you can renew its validity.
What Make These Best Networking Certifications?
Networking certifications are regarded as the top ones because they are connected with industries, recognized worldwide and able to confirm skills that pertain to current information technology systems.
They improve job opportunities by showing knowledge concerning advanced networking technologies, security practices and cloud solutions.
These qualifications keep experts competitive ensuring that they can design reliable network infrastructures which meet organization’s requirements for security while still being instrumental in contributing towards business continuity as well as success.
Conclusion
If you want to progress in your IT career, it is critical that you select the right networking certifications. The importance of these qualifications cannot be overstated as they cover various areas like network security or cloud technology among others.
Additionally, they provide a wider range of employment opportunities by proving one’s ability to build secure modern infrastructures for example.
It is also worth noting that these certificates are recognized globally and valued universally hence making them very useful tools in keeping up with changing needs of information technology industry while at the same time succeeding in different job environments anywhere in the world.
