If you’re interested in ITIL, don’t forget about these options…

While it’s certainly true that ITIL has become one of the top certifications for aspiring IT professionals and seasoned veterans alike, many might not realize just how many options they have at their disposal. Sure, there are individual categories of ITIL training products which detail specific tiers of the discipline (Service Transition, Service Operation, etc…just to name a couple), but there are also specific items which can drastically improve your learning experience as well.

If you’re planning on making ITIL a focus in your career you’re probably going to want to invest in a comprehensive ITIL certification package. Such a collection should include not only your study materials and an interactive portion, but perhaps an exam voucher and maybe even a practice test. Although these packages certainly help to prepare professionals for certification, they might not be a good fit for everyone. For those who find complete cert courses to be too pricey, why not give a foundation e-learning bundle a shot?

Here’s a common predicament that some ITIL learners encounter:  

Let’s say you’re a very busy professional; with a full-time job and a hectic social schedule. You’ve been adamantly training for your ITIL exam, but haven’t been able to devote quite as much time as you would like (or need) in order to truly absorb the materials. What do you do in this type of situation, go ahead and try to pass the exam anyway? For anyone experiencing this sort of problem, I have three words for you, extend your enrollment. That’s right; there are ultra-affordable enrollment extension packages available for those who need a little more time to prepare for their exam(s). Likewise, they come in several different formats; there’s the 90-day extension, the 60-day ext and the 30-day ext.

A great number of prospective ITIL candidates are perfectly apt to seek out ITIL V3 instead of the more recent ITIL 2011. This is perfectly understandable considering that the 2011 edition isn’t so much a completely new edition as it is a minor overhaul of V3. But who says you can’t, or shouldn’t certify in ITIL 2011 anyway? This package offers you a pathway toward certification in the latest ITIL release (2011) and includes a digital copy of the textbook, 3 months of access to e-learning, and 3 months of access to online exam preparation. Moreover, since this is a digital cert package, it comes at a significantly reduced price and is arguably the most conveniently accessible.

Finally, we come to our last selection, which is an ITIL cert package that’s been specifically designed for iPad users. However, this course isn’t solely accessible by those with iPads; regular PC, Mac, tablet and smartphone users can also deploy this course. These browser-based learning / training programs are becoming increasingly prevalent these days; and for good reason, they’re affordable, mobile, thorough, and can be deployed on nearly any type of browser.

Hopefully your progress in ITIL is coming along as expected, but if it isn’t you shouldn’t hesitate to check out some additional products. Sometimes all it takes to embolden your educational approach is some new learning materials, other times; an entirely new approach may be warranted. For some, being able to learn-on-the-go in a highly mobile manner provides them with the edge they need in order to be able to absorb a new subject. Others however might find that there is no substitute for physical copies of texts and a little solitude. Regardless of what type of student you are, there are plenty of course options and products available here which can greatly enhance the time you spend studying ITIL

If you’re looking for online ITIL learning, then look no further…Click Here Now.  

An MCSE certification allows IT professionals to better approach Cloud transitions

Depending on who you are, the acronym ‘MCSE’ might mean two entirely different things. In other words, the MCSE certification of the 90’s is completely different from the one we have today (2012). So, before we explore the most recent version, let’s clear up some of the confusion…

The older program trained individuals as Microsoft Certified System Engineers; likewise, it dealt with operating systems and software that are largely obsolete (though some might still be in professional use today). This older version of the MCSE taught respondents to apply creative use of Microsoft technologies to create specific business solutions. Needless to say, it was a very broad certification which was beneficial for not just IT personnel, but also service professionals, analysts, consultants, software engineers, and others. There are a number of reasons why the program was discontinued, one of the most oft-referenced being that more hands-on training is required with regards to utilizing Microsoft’s newer products.

In April of this year (2012) the MCSE certification suite was officially re-branded; now those carrying the title of MCSE are known as Microsoft Certified Solutions Experts. Unlike its predecessor/namesake, this version of the MCSE is narrower in scope, but ultimately (or arguably) more powerful. Today’s MCSE is angled toward cloud computing; more specifically, their on-site abilities as well as use of Microsoft technologies to help organizations move into the cloud. Simply put, anyone who completes one of the specialized MCSE areas will be more than prepared not only in terms of qualifications, but also in terms of experience.

The MCSE program is currently comprised of 7 different areas of interest or specialization, they are:

MCSE – Server Infrastructure

MCSE – Desktop Infrastructure

MCSE – Private Cloud

MCSE – SQL Server 2012

MCSE – Messaging

MCSE – Communication

MCSE – SharePoint

Naturally, if you exhibit talent or experience in any of the aforementioned areas it’s probably best to look to become certified in that specialization. However, it should be noted that each division does deal directly with cloud-related concepts and technologies. Truly, this is a certification suite that’s aimed at producing competent professionals who are on the cutting edge. What’s more, the new MCSE program is really an excellent amalgamation of the best approaches, whether they are older or more recently discovered. Moreover, this new approach makes room for any new developments which might take place; you could hardly say that cloud computing is finished growing, and Microsoft is certainly taking future expansions into account with these latest MCSE offerings.  

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Interested in Cloud Computing Certification?  Click here!

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So, what’s the point of an MCSE certification, you ask?  Or rather, what ultimate purpose do these MCSE programs serve? Well, the bottom line is that the entire world and global business infrastructure is on pace to fully adopt cloud computing; and we’re not talking about a timeline including multiple decades. The truth is that we may very well see over 50% of organizations adopt some complete or partial form of cloud computing well within the next few years (if we haven’t already seen it, that is). Simply put, we live in the age of the cloud, and more and more IT professionals are tuning into this fact and taking the appropriate steps to protect their careers and/or dramatically improve them with cloud-specific training and/or certification. The point is, all of these organizations are going to need quality assistance when it comes to transitioning over to cloud computing infrastructures. Employers are already on the lookout for those with MCSE qualifications, who might be able to ensure a smoother and more sustainable experience with cloud computing.  

On the technical side of things, MCSE certification programs will actually train professionals in various disciplines which are used to help companies transition to the cloud. In other words, showing IT workers how to handle specific cloud issues and problems is part of the imperative of the program itself. You’ve really got to hand it to Microsoft; they’re tackling the shortage of IT workers with cloud computing experience head on with these certifications while at the same time promoting some of their flagship products (like server 2012) which employ cloud technologies.

Who should pursue an MCSE certification? In reality, anyone who works in IT should at the very least consider an MCSE certification, but the program itself is more-or-less designed for those with experience in the field. Having said that however, it should be obvious that any younger, more inexperienced IT professional that successfully pursues and completes an MCSE program will undoubtedly be looked upon favorably by a great number of potential employers (hint, hint).  

If you’re studying for your MCSE, check out this powerful assistance tool which is designed to increase your comprehension and help you pass your exam on your very first attempt…

Dell’s CSSA certification is a great way for security specialists to expand their horizons

Certainly Dell is one of the most recognizable computer manufacturers around, but what many outside of the IT field (and some inside) don’t know is that they also promote some excellent certification courses. The SonicWALL certification programs are primarily aimed at two different training areas, technical and sales. As you might expect, the purpose of both of these programs is to promote the sale and/or service of SonicWALL products.

Before we get into what the CSSA certification entails, let’s back up and examine what SonicWALL has to offer first. In the simplest terms, Dell’s SonicWALL offerings deal primarily in internet, data and network security. However, we’re not just talking about paid scalable services here; they also sell a barrage of hardware that’s suitable for most any security-related task(s). In order to both promote and protect their products and service programs, Dell wisely decided to create two separate training / certification programs to achieve these ends, they are of course; sales certification and technical certification.

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Learn more about System Administration – Click Here

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The first group, sales, provides its proponents with all the information they need in order to truly understand how their products work and function. Needless to say, this is a novel means of ensuring that one’s customers receive the information that they’re after, and of course it goes a long way toward making sure that salespeople have excellent points and tactics to market to consumers. Dell’s CSSA certification

Our second group, technical certification, is where the fun really is. These individuals will come to understand the finer points of all or most of Dell’s SonicWALL products, how they are utilized, serviced and implemented as part of a dedicated security infrastructure. Not surprisingly, those who have training in the technical area tend to land employment rather easily and even make excellent SonicWALL sales representatives.

The CSSA certification itself represents a person’s successful attempt at passing one of Dell’s cert exams. If you’re interested in becoming a CSSA you should know that there are basically three types of approaches – classroom (with instructor), virtually, or through a scripted e-learning course. Naturally, each training style will be more-or-less suited toward different types of individuals. Those that are more independent will likely be satisfied with the e-learning option, while anyone with tons of questions who requires constant guidance would be better served by physical classroom attendance. Splitting the difference between the two approaches is of course the virtual classroom option, which is essentially an online class that’s taught in real-time by a knowledgeable instructor.

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Click here to “learn what you need to know about wireless security”

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Among those who pass their exams and become certified, there are a number of perks. For example, CSSA holders can use the CSSA logo on their resume’, documents or web pages. While this might not seem like a big deal, it could very well mean the difference between getting hired and being overlooked. Graduates also receive a number of other benefits like; access to SonicWALL beta programs / testing, special newsletters, direct access to the SonicWALL community forum, as well as advanced notifications and the assistance of 2nd level tech support. For those that are serious about a career in IT security, all of these bonuses might provide a significant advantage in the workplace or out in the field.  

According to marketresearchmedia.com, the IT industry is:

“…a cumulative market valued at $65.5 billion (2013 – 2018), the U.S. Federal Cybersecurity market will grow steadily – at about 6.2% CAGR over the next six years.”

What does this mean, exactly? Quite simply, this means that IT security is going to continue to be an area of growth. Likewise, recently gathered statistics and trending predictions have been made by experts who seem to confirm that cybersecurity concerns are going to continue to escalate to a point where the demand for skilled and certified workers in this area also increases.

Getting your CSSA certification is perhaps a great way to hedge against future uncertainties with a wide variety of internet and IT-based career choices. Certainly employers like the idea of hiring or (at the very least) having security specialists on hand for diverting problems and dealing with those that crop up. The bottom line is that a CSSA certification is an excellent addition to nearly anyone’s list of qualifications and according to industry insiders, security is still one of the top three issues to contend with.

Interested in Network Security?  Check out this helpful text that outlines “what you need to know” along with other high-impact strategies…

Advanced IT professionals should consider becoming a Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE certification)

Ask yourself this question, “Where would we be without Linux?” Since the inception of the internet, Linux kernels have been helping to make it more stable and open-ended. TCP/IP went global in 1989, helping to make the internet what it is today; soon thereafter, in 1991, we saw Linux emerge and since that time it has become an integral part of our collective technological sphere.

According to a web survey conducted by Netcraft this year (September, 2012), when you look at the percentages of active sites across all domains, around 55% of servers are running Apache. Now, given that Apache is intricately tied to Linux, it’s fairly obvious that Linux is still extremely powerful and influential. Likewise, the 500 most powerful supercomputers use some variation of Linux (and this includes those in the top 10). The bottom line is that those who are serious about IT and networking should familiarize themselves with Linux.

What makes the Red Hat RHCE certification such a powerful addition to one’s credentials, you ask? Well, for starters it is largely considered to be the best Linux-based cert that you can attain. Unlike virtually every other program out there, the Red Hat Certified Engineer exam is conducted in real-time; that is to say, you are tested on your actual performance knowledge. Needless to say, if you can demonstrate your abilities on a live system, you’ve certainly proved that you have what it takes to businesses, wouldn’t you agree?

Most of those in Admin or Managerial positions generally possess a deep understanding of Linux; once again, because it’s a very common component or aspect that’s generally integrated in a number of different ways. Therefore, it makes sense for a person who’s interested in advancing their career beyond the initiate and mid-level stages to broaden one’s understanding of it (Linux).

Passing the RHCE exam will however require more of a commitment than some individuals might be used to. The truth is, if you want to pass that exam on your first attempt, you’re going to have to get your hands on some good learning materials and study hard. But before you are even technically eligible to take the RHCE exam, you must first have an RHCSA certification to your credit. The RHCSA program (Red Hat Certified Systems Administrator) is designated as an entry-level cert that measures candidates’ skills with basic system administration tasks. Like the RHCE, its’ corresponding exam is also conducted in a hands-on fashion as well. Those who pass the exam have demonstrated their ability to install and configure a Red Hat Linux system, which includes joining it to a live, functional network that’s fully operational.

Once an individual has achieved their certification as a RHCE, they’ll be covered for a period of 3 years. In other words, the certification is good for 3 annual cycles after which, additional training will be required in order to maintain its status.

What are the benefits of RHCE certification? First off, those who have completed this program have verified proof that they are qualified to operate on applicable systems. The RHCE cert is well-known among employers and industry insiders and is held in high regard as well; what better way is there to achieve recognition in your industry than attaining a widely respected certification? Likewise, businesses will be much more eager to employ you because they will be able to display Red Hat logos as well as gain the ability to tap into Red Hat social networks. In the end, having a certified Red Hat on board often allows companies to increase customer confidence in their products and/or services. On a personal level, individuals will benefit in obvious ways; for instance, after passing the RHCE exam you will be able to place the badge/logo on your business card (that’s a very solid, yet subtle way of advertising your skills, to say the least). Red Hat Certified Engineer RHCE certification

Who should pursue RHCE certification? In all honesty, RHCE might not be for everyone. Some individuals might find it to be too challenging or simply too ambitious for their needs; however, the most intrepid and career-oriented IT professionals and students will jump at the chance to scoop this certification up ASAP.

There are basically 5 different types of people who ultimately want to become a RHCE:

1. Veteran Linux pros

2. Initiates who have completed the system administration suite

3. Those who are mandated to become certified

4. Anyone who has a great deal of experience and seeks accreditation / validation

5. Someone who previously attained their RHCE and is revalidating / updating their qualifications

Rest assured, those who qualify as RHCE generally have higher salaries and more involved responsibilities to contend with. Moreover, businesses tend to be more impressed by candidates with Red Hat certifications. Additionally, all Red Hat certifications, particularly RHCE, are among the hottest and most highly sought-after programs currently available. If you’re looking for a simple way to super-charge your career, become a RHCE.

CCDA certification is a great primer for those who want to design networks

In the professional world of IT, you’ve got to start somewhere. No one enters their chosen career field knowing everything. In other words, you don’t rise to the rank of IT manager by not being a team player. For those that have an interest in designing networks, there are certain hurdles that must be overcome as well; namely, certification.

The CCDA certification (Cisco Certified Design Associate) is a foundation-level program which seeks to train students in the tenets of basic network design. As part of the program, the initiate learns to establish and run networks for businesses, campuses, and data centers. Additionally, a CCDA cert holder should also be able to tackle most wireless, voice and security networks / issues.

Like many other certifications offered by private tech companies, the CCDA incorporates a 3-year renewal system. However, there are several restoration options available and at least 7 different approaches (exams) one can use toward reinstating your CCDA qualifications.

How do you know if a CCDA is right for you? Well, simply put, anyone employed in the IT field (and particularly in the context of a larger company) will likely need several advanced certifications. Keep in mind that there is quite a lot of competition out there amongst those professionals who have virtually no experience and possess only an undergraduate degree. CCDA Cisco Certified Design Associate certification

Certifications like the CCDA allow intrepid IT professionals to separate themselves from the rest of the pack in a fairly obvious way. However, the CCDA itself is really a certification that’s nearly perfect for individuals who are more interested in actually setting up networks as opposed to maintaining them. This doesn’t mean that a CCDA holder cannot function as a regular IT worker, only that their certification is ‘angled’ more toward creation and design.

Those with a ‘mind for design’ might find themselves better served by remaining somewhat independent. If you’re the type of person who has the qualifications, you can actually be quite successful as a design consultant / specialist. Here’s an example:  let’s say you have a CCDA, right? You could very well spend your time appealing to smaller businesses, universities/community colleges, and professional groups.

There are hundreds, if not thousands of small businesses and organizations who routinely require new networks to be installed. An interesting and apt comparison might be the relationship between mechanics and automotive repair shops. In other words, mechanics can be either independent or work for a company; the same exact situation applies to those who might have a penchant for IT network design.

Regardless, there are plenty of businesses and employers out there who have absolutely no problem with hiring someone with a CCDA. Although actual salaries will vary greatly from region to region, country to country, most of those with a CCDA make between $70k – $100k (USD) per year (according to data gathered via bls.gov). In fact, some companies are actually taking a more proactive approach and are requiring their employees to get their CCDA certification.

Passing your CCDA exam might not be nearly as straightforward as you might expect however. This is why it is absolutely imperative that one employ the use of supplementary training materials, such as a prep book. Keep in mind though, not all of these preparation courses and books are equal; some are much more thorough than others. Naturally, you need to absorb as much information as possible, but special focus must also be placed on the information that’s likely to be featured on the cert exam itself. This CCDA exam prep book is an excellent example and will (in all likelihood) allow you to pass the test on your first attempt.

If your interest in IT lies with design, you really cannot afford to dodge a solid certification like the CCDA. Not only is this cert fairly accessible to experienced IT pros, it’s also suitable for those who might be just starting out in their career. Fundamental certifications such as this allow the IT community to keep its understanding of basic foundations in check; which is going to become even more important as we move forward and the level of complexity rises.