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Best network manager certifications
Network manager certifications allow job seekers to demonstrate their competency as an network manager to employers. However, not all network manager certifications provide the same value for job seekers.
The best certifications for a network manager are Network 5 Certification, Project Management Professional (PMP), and CompTIA Network+.
Below is a list of the best network manager certifications. Obtaining an network manager certification will give you a leg up when you apply for jobs and increase your potential salary.
15 best certifications for network managers
15 best network manager certifications
1. 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?
2. Project Management Professional (PMP)
The PMP designation following your name tells current and potential employers that you have demonstrated a solid foundation of knowledge from which you can competently practice project management.To be eligible for a PMP Credential, you must first meet specific educational and project management experience requirements and agree to adhere to a code of professional conduct. The final step to becoming a PMP is passing a rigorous multiple-choice examination designed to objectively assess and measure your ability to apply project management knowledge in the following six domains: initiating the project, planning the project, executing the project, monitoring and controlling the project, closing the project, and professional and social responsibility. This computer-based examination is administered globally with translation aids in 10 languages.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
3. 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)
4. Cisco Certified Network Associate Security (CCNA)
Cisco Certified Network Associate Security (CCNA Security) validates associate-level knowledge and skills required to secure Cisco networks. With a CCNA Security certification, a network professional demonstrates the skills required to develop a security infrastructure, recognize threats and vulnerabilities to networks, and mitigate security threats.
- 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?
5. 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)
6. 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)
7. 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)
8. Management Consultant Professional (MCP)
- 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 1 year(s)
9. Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT)
The Cisco CCENT (Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician) certification validates the skills required for entry-level network support positions, the starting point for many successful careers in networking. Candidates should have the knowledge and skill to install, operate and troubleshoot a small enterprise branch network, including basic network security. CCENT certification is the first step toward achieving CCNA, which covers medium size enterprise branch networks with more complex connections.
- 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)
10. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
The Certified Information Security Manager® (CISM®) certification program is developed specifically for experienced information security managers and those who have information security management responsibilities. The CISM certification is for the individual who manages, designs, oversees and/or assesses an enterprise's information security (IS). The CISM certification promotes international practices and provides executive management with assurance that those earning the designation have the required experience and knowledge to provide effective security management and consulting services. Individuals earning the CISM certification become part of an elite peer network, attaining a one-of-a-kind credential. The CISM job practice also defines a global job description for the information security manager and a method to measure existing staff or compare prospective new hires.
- 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 1 year(s)
11. CCNP Service Provider Operations (CCNP)
The Cisco Certified Network Professional in Service Provider Operations (CCNP SP Operations) validates knowledge and skills required (of a Tier II or Tier III support engineer) to troubleshoot and maintain service provider IP NGN core (PE-PE and PE-CE) network infrastructures. With a CCNP SP Operations certification, a network professional demonstrates knowledge and skills required to isolate network performance problems, implement proactive fault measures using operations management processes, frameworks, and network management systems.
- 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)
12. 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)
13. CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP)
The CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner certification is an international, vendor-neutral exam that proves competency in enterprise security; risk management; research and analysis; and integration of computing, communications, and business disciplines.
- 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)
14. Information Systems Security Management Professional (ISSMP)
Demonstrates competence in the rigorous requirements for information security management.
- 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?
15. Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician (MCDST)
Boost your IT support career with unmatched validation as a Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician (MCDST). This credential proves your ability to successfully troubleshoot desktop environments that run on the Microsoft Windows operating system. It also shows you have the necessary soft skills to educate users and help them solve hardware and software operation and application problems on Windows.
- 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? No
What is the best certification for a network manager?
The best network manager certification is Network 5 Certification. The Network 5 Certification is awarded by the EC-Council.
Here's a bit more background on how to obtain this network manager certification:
- To become a certified Network 5 Certification, you need to pass the exam.
- Lucky you - certification doesn't require more than two years of work experience.
- Renew certification every year.
What are some of the most in-demand certifications for network managers?
The most in-demand network manager certification is Project Management Professional based on all active job postings. Having this network manager certification will give you access to more network manager jobs with higher salaries.
What certifications can impact a network manager career and salary?
The Project Management Professional certification will help you to secure a senior project manager position, which will increase your pay and career trajectory. A senior project manager's average salary is $108,931 whereas network managers make an average salary of $97,578.
The most common combination of network manager certifications include: Network 5 Certification, Project Management Professional (PMP), and CompTIA Network+.
Online courses for network managers to earn certifications
1. Managing Network Security
Almost every organization uses computer networks to share their information and to support their business operations. When we allow network access to data it is exposed to threats from inside and outside of the organization. This course examines the threats associated with using internal and external networks and how to manage the protection of information when it’s accessible via networks. In this course, a learner will be able to: ● Describe the threats to data from information communication...
2. Windows Server 2019: Active Directory, GPO, R. Server Access
Training For Beginners - Become a Network Administrator in Microsoft Windows Server 2019 with Remote Server Access!...
3. Active Directory on Windows Server
Learn how to deploy and manage all aspects of Active Directory, Group Policy, DNS and many more technologies...
4. Computer Hardware, Operating System and Networking
For Any Graduates/Engineering/Diploma/Arts & Science/Freshers/Home Users/Individuals/Desktop Support/FM/Service Engineer...
5. TOTAL: Active Directory with Windows Server 2016
Identity, Access, and Authentication with Microsoft AD and Identity with Windows Server 2016...
6. Remote Desktop Services Windows Server 2016
Learn RDS Sessions and Application on Windows Server 2016 and Get Everything You Need To Start Deploying RDS...
7. [Active Directory] Management using Windows PowerShell
[Power Shell] Simplified practical knowledge for automation & management of [Active Directory] using Windows Power Shell...
8. Basic Computer Course - Windows 7/10 - IT & Desktop Support
Basic computer course with troubleshooting skills -computer hardware and computer networking, for IT support technicians...
9. Computer Networking Fundamentals
Learn all about the basics of computer networking fundamental concepts and network security concepts...
10. Microsoft windows server 2016 industry lab MCSA fast track
Building your own network from scratch, study MCSA and get ready for your interview and next job, 2022 updates...
11. Microsoft 70-741 - Networking with Windows Server 2016
Networking with Windows Server 2016 MCSA Training Course...
12. Computer Network: Networking fundamentals + Wireshark Basics
Learn Computer Networks fundamentals and Wireshark Basics; Build Strong, Successful Foundation in Computer Networking...
13. Microsoft Networking Fundamentals
Learn Windows-based networking, network management tools, DNS, TCP/IP, network protocols and much more!...
14. 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!...
15. Computer Network Fundamentals- IT Helpdesk & Desktop Support
Learn the basic fundamentals of computer networking & OSI model for desktop support and IT service desk technicians...
16. 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...
17. Computer Network Cabling: Ethernet Wiring Infrastructure
The Physical Side of Computer Networking; Wire Ethernet Cables from Scratch and Master the Fundamentals of RJ-45 Ports...
18. Mastering Group Policy on Windows Server
An IT person's guide to managing Active Directory Users and Computers with Group Policy...
19. Networking Essentials
Gain the essential knowledge and skills required to configure, troubleshoot, manage and protect a data network...
20. Computer Networks Fundamentals
Use this course to cover your Computer Networking basics!...