[midPYRO84]

:wave:

I am new to this site and reasonably new to the networking field. I need some help figuring out what would be the most time efficient/quick/well-payed route to a career in networking.
I currently have an AAS 'Computer Programmer' and find it quite challenging to get even an internship/entry level programming position. My best guess for this difficulty would be lack of REAL WORLD EXPERIENCE, which is so hard to obtain especially in this economy. Another problem is the need to have a full time job to pay the bills and for my new 09 WRX

For the above mentioned reasons and many others I am seriously considering getting some certifications and diving into the networking world with hopes that: a couple certifications can get my 'foot in the door' at a starting wage of $20/hour, it is more hands on and straight forward knowledge(a matter of learning) career than programming(which could take long time to be 'good' at to be even considered for a position unless it is too late because now you have to relocate... if you follow my drift...), and is a rewarding in terms of day-to-day work versus compensation.

Thanks to all who read this far as this isn't short. Here are my questions:
1. would going straight for CCNA be too difficult and can it be done without enrolling in their 'approved' academy programs at 'XXX' college? Can I prepare for the exam with books(which ones?) and maybe purchasing equipment(or some software) for practice purposes.
2. is it better to get A+ plus Network+(since from what I have read they are easier to get) for a help desk position of some sort and then move on to CCNA. If so what method would you recommend to prepare?
3. is there another time efficient/quick/well-payed method or secret that you know of to land me that first job with adequate pay? :sigh:

THANKS in advance!!! :beerchug:

 

[AdrecYrrah]

Your right about the "REAL WORLD EXPERIENCE" you must have experience to get any kind of job.

CCNA deals with only networking theory and configuration of Cisco's routers and switches and the troubleshooting of network protocols and internet security. With your AAS computer programming skills it will not have any advantage in getting a job (My opinion). CCNA is not hard just informative. If you have an good computer background, then CCNA will be easy. I only talking about the CCNA self-study. If you enroll in College for CCNA, there are two options. One just CCNA (no requirements, and there are some part-time course onsite or online) or the full 2 to 4 years of Networking Course. which, you will learn Windows Servers / Lunix Server / Client / Technology / Code Language and your field of chose. There are two book to look at ICND1 640-822 (ISBN-13:978-1-58720-182-0), ICND2 640-816 (978-1-58720-181-3). These are the official book from Cisco. Skim though it in your local book store. The books come with practice questions and simulation. Don't purchase any equipment for practice propose. The simulation from the book or from boson is significant.
Here a more detail description on CCNA. http://www.techhandbook.com/certification/3029-The-Road-CCNA.html

A+ and CCNA is two totally different careers. Help desk require A+ certification, but not CCNA. CCNA will advance you later on. Now, A+ certification will be a great advantage with your programming skills. They related in some job preferences. Read the A+ book it straight forward. Any book will be fine sufficient. I recommend A+ certification for dummies it has great depth of detail and information, but the practice test are not that relevant to the actual A+ exam (There are two exam you must passed) or have the exam experience. Use Transcender.com. The Network+ is some what the equivalency of CCNA.

I recommend getting your A+ certification, then apply for some jobs. But, the real world experience thing is again in effect. Volunteer during weekends or evening that helps in your career chose. To really get any kind of experiences in any computer related careers is to enroll in College. Because, the opportunity of co-op or student work placement might be available. It will give you the experience you need, not including the lab work and exercise experience you'll gain.

I hope this help you out.