If you want training in Cisco, the chances are you're looking for a CCNA. The Cisco training is the way to go for those who wish to understand and work with routers and switches. Routers connect computer networks to another collection of computer networks over dedicated lines or the internet.

Jobs that need this knowledge mean the chances are you'll work for big organisations that are spread out geographically but need their computer networks to talk to each other. On the other hand, you might end up joining an internet service provider. Jobs requiring these skills are plentiful and well remunerated.

Achieving CCNA is where you should be aiming; don't be pushed into attempting your CCNP. After gaining experience in the working environment, you'll know whether you need to train up to this level. If so, you will have developed the skills you require to take on your CCNP - because it's far from a walk in the park - and shouldn't be taken lightly.

It would be wonderful to believe that our careers will remain secure and our work prospects are protected, however, the truth for most jobs throughout England at the moment seems to be that there is no security anymore. Of course, a marketplace with high growth, where there just aren't enough staff to go round (because of an enormous shortage of commercially certified staff), creates the conditions for lasting job security.

Offering the computer market as an example, a key e-Skills study brought to light a skills deficit throughout the UK of over 26 percent. Essentially, we only have the national capacity to fill just 3 out of each four job positions in the computing industry. This alarming certainty highlights the requirement for more technically accredited IT professionals throughout Great Britain. Without a doubt, now really is the very best time for retraining into the computer industry.

The sometimes daunting task of securing your first IT job can be relieved by training colleges, through a Job Placement Assistance programme. Because of the growing demand for appropriately skilled people in the United Kingdom even when times are hard, it's not necessary to make too much of this option though. It's actually not as hard as some people make out to find employment as long as you're correctly trained and certified.

Get your CV updated straight-away though (advice can be sought on this via your provider). Don't put it off till you've finished your exams. Various junior support jobs have been bagged by students who're still on their course and haven't even passed a single exam yet. This will at least get you on your way. In many cases, an independent and specialised local employment agency (who will, of course, be keen to place you to receive their commission) will be more pro-active than a recruitment division from a training organisation. It also stands to reason that they'll be familiar with the area and local employers better.

Do be sure that you don't spend hundreds of hours on your training and studies, just to give up and imagine someone else is miraculously going to land you a job. Stand up for yourself and get out there. Invest as much energy and enthusiasm into securing your new role as you did to gain the skills.

OK, why is it better to gain commercial certification instead of more traditional academic qualifications taught at schools, colleges or universities? Industry is of the opinion that for an understanding of the relevant skills, the right accreditation from companies such as CISCO, Adobe, Microsoft and CompTIA often is more effective in the commercial field - at a far reduced cost both money and time wise. University courses, for example, become confusing because of a great deal of loosely associated study - with a syllabus that's far too wide. Students are then prevented from understanding the specific essentials in enough depth.

If an employer understands what areas they need covered, then they just need to look for someone with a specific qualification. The syllabuses are set to exacting standards and do not vary between trainers (as academic syllabuses often do).

Always expect the current Microsoft (or Cisco, CompTIA etc.) authorised simulation materials and exam preparation packages. Avoid depending on non-accredited exam preparation systems. Their phraseology is often somewhat different - and often this creates real issues in the actual examination. For many reasons, it's very important to ensure that you've thoroughly prepared for your commercial exam prior to going for it. Rehearsing simulated tests helps build your confidence and helps to avoid unsuccessful attempts at exams.

Ignore a salesperson that offers any particular course without a thorough investigation to better understand your current abilities plus your level of experience. They should be able to select from a generous range of products so they can give you a program that suits you.. If you have a strong background, or maybe some work-based experience (possibly even some previous certification?) then it's more than likely your starting level will be very different from someone who is just starting out. Commencing with a basic PC skills program first is often the best way to get up and running on your computer training, but really depends on your level of familiarity with computers.