Computer Network Security?
Answers
Justin, the certifications will depend on your own ability and qualifications. If you are really new to the field, you need to start with some basics classes. However, if you have some background in IT, just outside of your MOS, then you may want to start with the COMPTIA Network+ cert and maybe one of the Microsoft IT Professional (MCITP) certs. In order to get a position working on a DoD network, you will eventually need a COMPTIA Security+, which is the next step above Net+ but is also fairly technical for someone who has no Network Admin experience. If you want to work your way into management, you will want a PMI Project Management Professional (PMP) cert but that also takes a bit of experience in order to qualify for the cert. The pinnacle of certs for a Network Security professional is the CISSP, but that will be beyond your grasp without considerable experience. Truly, it is always hard to break into a new field with no experience because certifications are designed to certify an individual's experience and value, not for someone to attain without first having the experience. The real entry-level IT position is going to be a Service/Help Desk position because there are no certs required but experience can be gained. If this is your desire, shoot for Help Desk positions and look at attacking an MCITP and Net+ certs as interim steps toward others down the road.
Agree that network security to include crypto systems. Don't limit yourself to Cisco, though they are the industry leader. CISSP is a good one. Most of these jobs are a combination. Knowing the protocols, and a deep understanding of the various hardware components and how they interact. Anything network is best since most devices all rely on the network, and thus network security.
I would start with Cisco certification. Network understanding is critical for any additional knowledge around security. As part of the certification there is a module for network security. Here is a link to their certification https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/community/certifications
Justin,
Don’t be afraid to start small and think big – start at the beginning.
I started my IT career doing telephone technical support, which is about as low on the information technology totem pole as you can get. I can remember going home and telling my girlfriend (now my wife) that I wasn’t sure if I was going to make it through the week. I was completely overwhelmed because I had no IT experience and was thrown onto the phones after one week of training. It was that first tech support job that gave me the basic skills to build on and the confidence to advance into more technically challenging positions.
An IT career is just like anything else, you need to learn the basics before you get into the more advanced areas. My professional journey to the information security field was just as much fun as working in the information security field.
Keep applying for technical support or helpdesk jobs until you land one. Build your basic skills and progress from there, then think about certifications.
Good luck and enjoy the ride!
I enjoyed everyone's answer, theres so much knowledge, thank you!
As an IT Instructor/Consultant for the past 26 years, I agree the most important thing to know is what do you want to end up doing? That's not always easy to answer if you don't have a lot of prior IT experience. Security itself is really a broad field involving everything from securing hardware, coding, applications, data, white-hat hacking, etc. Individuals would typically excel within a given area or two of security.
So assuming you're really new to the field I'd point out the following:
* Most IT professionals don't necessarily have a college degree directly related to IT so that's not typically critical... experience is.
* Certifications on their own will not get you a job. Unfortunately, there are too many "paper" certified individuals that can pass a test but flunk real-world hands on. Certifications can assist you getting an interview but you'll still have to sell your own capabilities.
* Don't fall for any "we can get you certified in XX weeks" type training. That's fine if you're already starting with a strong background but definitely not for someone new.
* You have to think of the IT field as a progression of jobs. Just like you couldn't start off as a Sergeant in the Army on day one, you can't start off as a security specialist in IT either.
* You need to start by simply getting your foot in the door somewhere. It may be something as simple as unboxing computers and installing the OS. Remember, it's a first step on your career path.
So where would I start?
* CompTia
http://certification.comptia.org
They have certifications covering a wide array of technology fields and are typically vendor neutral. It's been awhile since I've looked closely at their programs but I suggest taking a peek at A+, Network+, Server+, and/or Security+. Preparing for them might help you determine what you truly enjoy. (The deal Kim posted for Groupon is definitely worth a look!)
* Job Boards
http://www.monster.com
http://www.dice.com
Review the types of jobs that interest you and what qualifications they require to give you an idea of your path.
* Network
Put the word our to family, friends, and co-workers that you're looking to get into IT.
Then what?
* From there you can look at specializing. All the major vendors (HP, Cisco, Microsoft, VMware, etc.) have multiple certification paths but they assume you're starting from a position of having IT experience. Before selecting one make sure it's what you want to do and talk to others involved in it. Can they find work? Are they needing to re-certify? What is the pay and career path like? Will it match your goals?
Best of luck!!
For post 9/11 Veterans, VCTP Syracuse is 100% free, no GI Bill required, including one exam fee.
Of course timing and costs is also a factor. I just saw Groupon offering a reduced price for $99. It might not be for everything but if you are new to IT it might give you some ideas of what you like for less dollars.
•$99 for a CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+ bundle (a $599 value)* A+ vendor-neutral certification provides knowledge in installation, preventative maintenence, networking, security, troubleshooting theory, customer service, and client-communication skills
•Network+ vendor-neutral certification validates competence in networking administration and support, as well as critical knowledge of media, protocols, and implementation
•Security+ vendor-neutral certification confirms knowledge of communication security, infrastructure security, cryptography, operational security, and general security concepts
Justin,
Greta question and I applaud your interest in IT and your proactive and constructiuve question.
"It depends" is a good answer. What are your goals and dreams?
Will you or can you return to school and earn a degree?
Where in the ecosystem do you want to add value?
Do you want to be a software programmer? Project manger? IT architect? User-interface design? Other roles?
Do you want to start a business?
The above advice is great. And also:
* Research, email, register and have a phone call with the good folks over at the "Veterans Career Transition Program" (VCTP) at Syracuse University. Schedule a call with one of the VCTP's guidance counselors. The VCTP is experienced in helping Military Veterans utilize their military experience to earn the PMP certification. The next deadline for guided admission is Aug. 26, 2013.
http://vets.syr.edu/education/employment-programs/
* For information about the CISSP and other IT certifications, see:
https://acp-advisornet.org/question/1021/it-certifications-and-how-they-can-help-veterans-get-into-the-it-field
* Also see: "A PMP Checklist For Veterans: "How to Learn More About the Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification:"
and also:
https://acp-advisornet.org/questions/topic/certifications
and
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