Of all the I.T. areas ruling the global stage, this field has to be the biggest and most encompassing. Generally, some degree of specialisation is required, as to cover every element would probably take too many years of learning. Both Microsoft & Cisco produce systems to operate in market. MS produce Network & Server software, while Cisco focus largely on the hardware side of Networking: Routers, switches, controllers etc. Both organisations have moved heavily in to security during the last decade, by commercial necessity. Also within this field we're observing the significant development of wireless-networking. Lastly, two crucial & growing sectors within the security market are Digital-Forensics & Ethical Computer Hacking.

We now have greater options over and above Microsoft and Cisco when it comes to becoming certified in each of these areas. A number of well-respected neutral organisations are now providing increasingly more pertinent & essential certifications. The significance about grasping converging technologies and inter connectivity in networks is now firmly recognized. We are experiencing a significant paradigm shift within network technology at this moment, both in processing terms and in data storage, with internet-based computing emerging & 'green IT' becoming increasingly relevant. 'Green' IT does not particularly signify 'saving the earth' - it does have many elements intended to minimise the carbon dioxide impact etc., but it is also strongly placed in the economic reality of cost-savings. Lower power processors and computers produce much less heat, which means less cooling is needed. Companies with huge networks of computers can lower their energy expenditure considerably with 'greener' and more efficient PC's.

One of the latest areas in this subject is known as Computer Forensics. We link 'forensics' with television programmes such as CSI Miami. The reality of 'Digital Forensics' is much less glamorous than pictured in these shows (naturally!) But for many, it offers a very interesting and rewarding career within technology based exploration. The basic principle being to gather & analyse digital-footprints, to provide evidence either in a criminal investigation or civil enquiry.

Located in a related sector to Forensics & I.T. Security comes 'Ethical Hacking' - which is another relatively new discipline to manage crime. The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) & the 'Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator'('CHFI') are medium to advanced level qualifications offered through the EC-Council.

Many of the finest industry-acknowledged certifications today are produced by the independent Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA). There are also various other organisations, such as the 'ISC2' (abbreviated from the rather long winded: 'International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium'!) & CWNP (Certified Wireless Network Professional). Clearly Cisco and Microsoft offer a complete selection of professional level certifications. Because there are so many training and job options available in this area, it is advisable to get more personal help and advice from an experienced industry expert before selecting your specific path. This will likely prevent you from getting into an expensive mistake, both in terms of money and time-spent.

Digital Forensics Security Certification Courses >>