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Best network associate certifications
Network associate certifications allow job seekers to demonstrate their competency as an network associate to employers. However, not all network associate certifications provide the same value for job seekers.
The best certifications for a network associate are Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT), and CCNA Routing and Switching Certification (CCNA RS).
Below is a list of the best network associate certifications. Obtaining an network associate certification will give you a leg up when you apply for jobs and increase your potential salary.
5 best certifications for network associates
| Rank | Network associate certification | Organization |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) | Global Knowle... |
| 2 | Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT) | PTCB |
| 3 | CCNA Routing and Switching Certification (CCNA RS) | Cisco |
| 4 | Certified Network Computer Technician (CNCT) | ETA |
| 5 | CompTIA Network+ | CompTIA |
5 best network associate certifications
1. 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)
2. Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT)
PTCB's pharmacy technician certification program enables technicians to work more effectively with pharmacists to offer safe and effective patient care and service. Certification is achieved by meeting specific eligibility requirements and earning a passing score on the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE). The PTCB certification program is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA).
- 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)
3. CCNA Routing and Switching Certification (CCNA RS)
As Enterprises migrate toward controller based architectures, the role and skills required of a core network engineer are evolving and more vital than ever. To prepare for this network transition, the CCNA Routing and Switching certification will not only prepare you with the knowledge of foundational technologies, but ensure you stay relevant with skill sets needed for the adoption of next generation technologies.
- 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? No
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
4. Certified Network Computer Technician (CNCT)
Certified Network Computer Technicians are expected to obtain knowledge of computer electronics basic concepts, Internet and networking technology applicable to various areas of the computer industry. Once the CNCT has acquired these skills, abilities and knowledge, he or she will be able to enter employment in any part of the computer industry. With minimal training in areas unique to the specific products, the CNCT should become a profitable and efficient part of the computer industry workforce.
- 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 4 year(s)
5. CompTIA Network+
The CompTIA Network+ certification is the sign of a qualified networking professional.
- 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)
What is the best certification for a network associate?
The best network associate certification is Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA). The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is awarded by the Global Knowledge.
Here's a bit more background on how to obtain this network associate certification:
- To become a certified Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), you need to pass the exam.
- Lucky you - certification doesn't require more than two years of work experience.
- Renew certification every 3 year.
What certifications can impact a network associate career and salary?
The Cisco Certified Network Professional certification will help you to secure a network engineer position, which will increase your pay and career trajectory. A network engineer's average salary is $75,181 whereas network associates make an average salary of $67,481.
The most common combination of network associate certifications include: Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), Certified Pharmacy Technician (CPhT), and CCNA Routing and Switching Certification (CCNA RS).
Online courses for network associates to earn certifications
1. Network Support Fundamentals
Dive into the realm of network support with the Network Support Fundamentals course. This online course is meticulously designed to introduce you to the essential skills needed for supporting enterprise networks - one of the most in-demand skill sets in the digital landscape. By the end of this course you will be able to explain network security basics, monitor network performance, and provide essential professional support. Ideal for beginners aiming for an entry-level IT career or current IT...
2. Dynamic VPN Gateways - Cloud Routers
This is a self-paced lab that takes place in the Google Cloud console. In this lab you connect two networks using Cloud Routers. Cloud Routers build on top of VPN by enabling BGP Routing that dynamically discovers changes in network topology and passes updates to peers...
3. Master Class: TCP/IP Mechanics from Scratch to Expert
Networking Course, UDP, TCP IP protocol Suite, Flow and Congestion Control, CCNA and others, TCP/IP Complete Course...
4. Microsoft Networking Fundamentals
Learn Windows-based networking, network management tools, DNS, TCP/IP, network protocols and much more!...
5. Introduction to Networking
IPv4, Subnetting, DNS, DHCP, IPv6, Routing and Switching...
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. 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...
8. Mastering Modbus TCP/IP Network Communication
Learn how to design, build and troubleshoot Modbus TCP/IP client-server networks...
9. Java Network Programming - TCP/IP Socket Programming
Learn how to write powerful network applications...
10. 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...
11. Introduction to Networking 2 Hour Crash Course
Learn the basics of IP, Ethernet, VPNs, WANs, DHCP, DNS, and more with no prior knowledge required...
12. Computer Networks Foundations - Best Starter Course [2023]
Learn foundations of computer network systems in a simplified manner...
13. 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...
14. IT Networking Fundamentals For Complete Beginners
Understand all the IT Networking Fundamentals and learn how the computer network functions...
15. Networking Essentials
Gain the essential knowledge and skills required to configure, troubleshoot, manage and protect a data network...
16. 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...
17. Computer Network: Networking fundamentals + Wireshark Basics
Learn Computer Networks fundamentals and Wireshark Basics; Build Strong, Successful Foundation in Computer Networking...
18. 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...
19. Aviatrix ACE - Multi-Cloud Network Associate Certification
The Aviatrix Multi-Cloud Network Certification Training Lectures - Associate Level...
20. 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!...