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Best network architect certifications
The best certifications for a network architect are CCIE Routing & Switching (CCIE), Certified Information Systems Security Professional - Architecture (CISSP), and Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA).
Network architect certifications demonstrate your competency as a network architect to employers. However, not all network architect certifications provide the same value.
Below is a list of the best network architect certifications. Obtaining a network architect certification will give you a leg up when you apply for jobs and increase your potential salary.
5 best certifications for network architects
| Rank | Network architect certification | Organization |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | CCIE Routing & Switching (CCIE) | Cisco |
| 2 | Certified Information Systems Security Professional - Architecture (CISSP) | (ISC)2 |
| 3 | Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) | Global Knowle... |
| 4 | Cisco Certified Voice Professional (CCVP) | Global Knowle... |
| 5 | Network 5 Certification | EC-Council |
5 best network architect certifications
1. CCIE Routing & Switching (CCIE)
Cisco CCIE Routing and Switching certifies expert-level knowledge of networking across various LAN and WAN interfaces, and a variety of routers and switches.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 2 year(s)
2. Certified Information Systems Security Professional - Architecture (CISSP)
CISSP-ISSAP requires a candidate to demonstrate 2 years of professional experience in the area of architecture and is an appropriate credential for Chief Security Architects and Analysts who may typically work as independent consultants or in similar capacities. The architect plays a key role within the information security department with responsibilities that functionally fit between the C-suite and upper managerial level and the implementation of the security program. The candidate would generally develop, design, or analyze the overall security plan. Although this role may typically be tied closely to technology, it may be fundamentally closer to the consultative and analytical process of information security.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
3. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
CCNA certification is the first level of Cisco Career certification and indicates a foundation in and apprentice knowledge of networking. CCNA certified professionals can install, configure, and operate LAN, WAN, and dial access services for small networks (100 nodes or fewer), including but not limited to use of these protocols: IP, IGRP, Serial, Frame Relay, IP RIP, VLANs, RIP, Ethernet, Access Lists.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
4. Cisco Certified Voice Professional (CCVP)
The CCVP certification recognizes the increased importance placed on IT professionals of today who are responsible for integrating voice technology into underlying network architectures. Individuals who earn a CCVP certification can help create a telephony solution that is transparent, scalable, and manageable.Earning a CCVP certification validates a robust set of skills in implementing, operating, configuring, and troubleshooting a converged IP network.The certification content focuses on Cisco Systems CallManager, quality of service (QoS), gateways, gatekeepers, IP phones, voice applications, and utilities on Cisco routers and Cisco Catalyst switches.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
5. Network 5 Certification
Technology today is 'networked' - even in the literal sense. Networks have become an integral part of mundane existence. It is inconceivable to think of communications exclusive of networks. Network 5 serves to expose the learner to basic networking concepts.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required?
What is the best certification for a network architect?
The best network architect certification is CCIE Routing & Switching (CCIE). The CCIE Routing & Switching (CCIE) is awarded by the Cisco Systems, Inc. this certification tests for knowledge about the use of proprietary software or hardware products. It is used primarily for computer-related companies.
Here's a bit more background on how to obtain this network architect certification:
- To become a certified CCIE Routing & Switching (CCIE), you need to pass the exam.
- Lucky you - certification doesn't require more than two years of work experience.
- Renew certification every 2 year.
What are some of the most in-demand certifications for network architects?
The most in-demand network architect certification is CCIE Routing & Switching based on all active job postings. Having this network architect certification will give you access to more network architect jobs with higher salaries.
What certifications can impact a network architect career and salary?
The Cisco Certified Network Associate Security certification will help you to secure a senior network engineer position, which will increase your pay and career trajectory. A senior network engineer's average salary is $106,494 whereas network architects make an average salary of $105,375.
The most common combination of network architect certifications include: CCIE Routing & Switching (CCIE), Certified Information Systems Security Professional - Architecture (CISSP), and Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA).
Online courses for network architects to earn certifications
1. Networking and Security Architecture with VMware NSX
This 8 week online course equips learners with the basics of network virtualization with VMware NSX. To get the most of this course, you should have familiarity with generic IT concepts of routing, switching, firewalling, disaster recovery, business continuity, cloud and security. At the end of the course, you will be able to: • Understand network virtualization basics • Describe NSX business value and use cases • Explain how NSX is different from traditional networking • Summarize networking...
2. Cloud-Based Network Design & Management Techniques
This 2-part eLearning course builds an understanding of modern cloud-network design and management techniques, crystalizing lofty ideas of "cloud" and "edge" so you can embrace the latest industry trends and best-practices. A successful modern network architect requires a keen understanding of business requirements, network components, and the challenges of architecting good solutions. In the 1-hour Aruba Modern Cloud Network Design course you’ll get a high level overview of key network design...
3. Microsoft Networking Fundamentals
Learn Windows-based networking, network management tools, DNS, TCP/IP, network protocols and much more!...
4. General Networking - wireless, routers, firewalls, Cisco NAS
Port forwarding? Dynamic DNS? Home NAS Server? Slow Wireless? Learn how to fix your home nework. Includes 802.11ac!...
5. Java Network Programming - TCP/IP Socket Programming
Learn how to write powerful network applications...
6. Networking Concepts with Socket Programming - Academic Level
Networking course with socket programming concepts in depth with TCP/UDP/HTTP Socket Programming for beginners to expert...
7. Design & Deploy an Enterprise WiFi Network
Design, Deploy, & Maintain a Wi Fi Network for any industry and any building type...
8. Cisco ASA Firewall Training
This course will cover functionality , setup, configuration, troubleshooting and Failover of Cisco ASA Firewall...
9. Virtual Private Networks for beginners - VPN, Cisco training
Learn how VPN works and discover protocols like PPTP, L2TP, IPSec and SSL. Build your own VPN network at home. Security...
10. Computer Networks Foundations - Best Starter Course [2023]
Learn foundations of computer network systems in a simplified manner...
11. IT Networking Fundamentals For Complete Beginners
Understand all the IT Networking Fundamentals and learn how the computer network functions...
12. Computer Network: Networking fundamentals + Wireshark Basics
Learn Computer Networks fundamentals and Wireshark Basics; Build Strong, Successful Foundation in Computer Networking...
13. Mastering Modbus TCP/IP Network Communication
Learn how to design, build and troubleshoot Modbus TCP/IP client-server networks...
14. Python Network Programming - TCP/IP Socket Programming
Python Networking Programming is simple for beginners, powerful for the pros. Use it to create tools, sockets and more...
15. TCP/IP Training Video A Definitive & Easy To Follow Course
Essential TCP/IP Training Course For Professionals Who Manages Servers, Networks Or Any Other Network Connected Device...
16. CCNA Security Real World Labs - Cisco ASA, Network Security
Identify, lock down, and secure vulnerabilities in a small to medium enterprise branch network - real world training...
17. Java Network Programming - Mastering TCP/IP: CJNP+ 2023 JVA
Learn Java network programming by practical example applications You will develop Client Server,GUI Chat and other apps...
18. Introduction to Networking 2 Hour Crash Course
Learn the basics of IP, Ethernet, VPNs, WANs, DHCP, DNS, and more with no prior knowledge required...
19. The World of Computer Networking. Your CCNA starts here
Learn everything about Internet - Ethernet, IP, Routing, Switching, TCP, UDP, NAT, DHCP and DNS, prepare for CCNA exam...
20. The Complete Cyber Security Course: Network Security!
Volume 2 : Network Security, Wi Fi Security, Wi Fi Hackers, Firewalls, Wireshark, Secure Networking. + Password Managers...