CompTIA and Cisco are likely to continue to compete as their main point for contact is the networking certifications. CompTIA’s Network+ accreditation is what is most renowned. While Cisco is focused on issuing networking designations to candidates with different skill sets, CompTIA is not. This certificate is often compared to the Cisco CCNA. The main difference is that the first is vendor-neutral and the second is vendor-specific. Is this the main criterion that determines whether a candidate chooses to earn the accreditation? Or is there something else? Let’s find the answer!
It’s clear that Network+ certifications are vendor-neutral while CCNA certifications are vendor-specific. The main criteria are the basis for the rest. Vendor-neutral is closely linked to the breadth and variety of technologies. Network+ certified professionals are able to work with any technology in any company, regardless of its vendor. This certification allows you to be hired by companies such as Apple, Dell and Intel. The CCNA certification is vendor-specific. This means that candidates can only work with Cisco products and solutions after they have earned it.
Network+ certification opens up many opportunities for its candidates. Being CompTIA certified, they can make a successful career as a Junior Network Administrator or System Administrator, Network Engineer and NOC Technician, Datacenter Support Tech, Cable Technician, or Telecommunications Technician. The Cisco CCNA job listing is not very long. It only includes positions for Entry-level Network Engineers, Network Support Technicians, Help Desk Technicians, and Network Administrators. This means that if a hiring manger urgently needs a network specialist, it’s likely that the Network+ professional will get priority as he/she has the skills to work with all equipment. CCNA certified professionals with extensive knowledge of Cisco products will be preferred if the vacancy is for specialists.
This is a list of essential business skills that Network+ certified candidates will acquire. Employers are increasingly looking for skills in business continuity, change management, troubleshooting and disaster recovery. Cisco, on the other hand, places emphasis on technical skills in the CCNA certificate. This is where you will need to decide which skills you should be focusing on.
Salaries is a key factor in deciding whether to pursue an IT certification. It is a motivator for many to become certified. According to PayScale, CompTIA Network+ certified candidates earn an average of $69,000 per year, while Cisco CCNA certified candidates earn $80,000 per year. It’s not the best way to make money, but it’s possible to earn more depending on your skills.
Another distinctive feature is the exam content. To gain any of the covered certifications, one must pass one exam. It’s either N10-007 for Network+ or a newer version N10-008. This exam tests your ability to manage, configure, solve, and resolve various problems that can occur in wired and wireless network environments in any company in the world. Candidates will also be able to use emerging technologies such as virtualization or cloud. Another distinctive feature is the topics covered. The 200-301 evaluation covers the following topics in greater detail: routing, switching and VLAN. Sub-netting is also covered. Cisco is able to focus both on the theoretical and the practical aspects of these skills.
What about the experience you must have before you can take any of these exams? Before you decide to enroll in the certification process, or pass the Network+ exam. You should have 1-3 years experience in dealing with Cisco solutions before you can enroll in the 200-301 exam.
Both certifications are highly valued by networking professionals. Any of these certifications will increase your chances of being hired. It’s a highly regarded mark of your IT expertise that is issued by a real IT giant. It shows that you have the most current skills and can complete the tasks within the timeframe. The Network+ certification demonstrates that you are well-versed in networking concepts and technologies. CCNA requires more detailed knowledge and skills.
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