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Best network support engineer certifications
Network support engineer certifications allow job seekers to demonstrate their competency as an network support engineer to employers. However, not all network support engineer certifications provide the same value for job seekers.
The best certifications for a network support engineer are CCNP Service Provider Operations (CCNP), Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), and CCNA Routing and Switching Certification (CCNA RS).
Below is a list of the best network support engineer certifications. Obtaining an network support engineer certification will give you a leg up when you apply for jobs and increase your potential salary.
12 best certifications for network support engineers
| Rank | Network support engineer certification | Organization |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | CCNP Service Provider Operations (CCNP) | Cisco |
| 2 | Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) | Global Knowle... |
| 3 | CCNA Routing and Switching Certification (CCNA RS) | Cisco |
| 4 | Cisco Certified Network Associate Security (CCNA) | Cisco |
| 5 | Network 5 Certification | EC-Council |
| 6 | Certified Network Computer Technician (CNCT) | ETA |
| 7 | Software Engineering Master Certification (SEMC) | IEEE |
| 8 | Cisco Networks Certified Professional | Learning Tree... |
| 9 | CompTIA Network+ | CompTIA |
| 10 | Cisco Certified Design Associate (CCDA) | Cisco |
| 11 | CCIE Routing & Switching (CCIE) | Cisco |
| 12 | Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) | Global Knowle... |
12 best network support engineer certifications
1. 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)
2. 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)
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. 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. 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?
6. 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)
7. Software Engineering Master Certification (SEMC)
This professional competency certification requires successful completion of Certificates of Proficiency in twelve key knowledge areas: Software Engineering Requirements, Software Engineering Design, Software Engineering Construction, Software Engineering Testing, Software Engineering Maintenance, Software Engineering Configuration Management, Software Engineering Quality, Software Engineering Processes, Software Engineering Models & Methods, Software Engineering Management, Software Engineering Project Management, Software Engineering Economics and the successful completion of two advanced applied modules.
- 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)
8. Cisco Networks Certified 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? No
9. 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)
10. Cisco Certified Design Associate (CCDA)
Cisco Certified Design Associate (CCDA) validates knowledge required to design a Cisco converged network. With a CCDA certification, a network professional demonstrates the skills required to design routed and switched network infrastructures and services involving LAN, WAN, and broadband access for businesses and organizations. The CCDA curriculum includes designing basic campus, data center, security, voice, and wireless networks.
- 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)
11. 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)
12. Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE)
Global Knowledge can get you on your way to your MCSE! Global Knowledge will help you create a development track suitable to your job responsibilities and career advancement goals. Our real-world training will provide you with the knowledge needed to obtain your MCSE certification.This certification includes the following tracks: Microsoft 2003 MCSE Boot Camp, Microsoft Windows 2003 MCSE Upgrade Boot Camp, MCSE: Messaging Specialization, and Windows 2003 MCSE.
- 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 support engineer?
The best network support engineer certification is CCNP Service Provider Operations (CCNP). The CCNP Service Provider Operations (CCNP) is awarded by the Cisco Systems, Inc. this certification is great to have as it shows an improvement in your competency to perform your role. You can earn this certification at the beginning of your career, as it often doesn't require a minimum education level and work experience.
Here's a bit more background on how to obtain this network support engineer certification:
- To become a certified CCNP Service Provider Operations (CCNP), 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 are some of the most in-demand certifications for network support engineers?
The most in-demand network support engineer certification is Cisco Certified Network Associate based on all active job postings. Having this network support engineer certification will give you access to more network support engineer jobs with higher salaries.
What certifications can impact a network support engineer career and salary?
The Network 5 Certification 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 support engineers make an average salary of $86,406.
The most common combination of network support engineer certifications include: CCNP Service Provider Operations (CCNP), Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), and CCNA Routing and Switching Certification (CCNA RS).
Online courses for network support engineers 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. Network Security Support Fundamentals
Explore network security with the Network Security Support Fundamentals online course. Designed to offer a comprehensive understanding of network security, this course is crucial in today's digital world. By the end of this course, you will be able to describe the role of enterprise networks, explain enterprise network security basics, and understand network security operations. Perfect for beginners aiming for a cybersecurity career or professionals looking to enhance their skill set, this...
3. Computer Network Fundamentals- IT Helpdesk & Desktop Support
Learn the basic fundamentals of computer networking & OSI model for desktop support and IT service desk technicians...
4. Computer Hardware, Operating System and Networking
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5. Desktop IT Support Level 1 & 2 in real life (Troubleshooting
Learn everything in real life Troubleshooting for IT Help Desk , Helpdesk , IT Support , System Administration and IT...
6. IT Support Technical Skills Bootcamp
Hands-on Technical skills for IT Support Professionals...
7. Introduction to Networking 2 Hour Crash Course
Learn the basics of IP, Ethernet, VPNs, WANs, DHCP, DNS, and more with no prior knowledge required...
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. 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...
10. 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!...
11. IT & Technical Support Guide to Helpdesk, Desktop & Servers
Learn how the different levels of IT technical support work, from service desk to infrastructure and server support...
12. Python Programming for Network Engineers: Cisco, Netmiko ++
Network Programmability and Network Automation using GNS3 and Python for Cisco engineers: Telnet, SSH, Paramiko, Netmiko...
13. Ansible for Network Engineers: Quick Start GNS3 & Ansible
Ansible for Network Engineers with GNS3, Ansible and Cisco IOS. Learn Network Automation & Programmability = the future...
14. Python Network Programming for Network Engineers (Python 3)
Program networks using Python version 3. Learn network programmability with this practical GNS3 and Cisco course...
15. IT Support Technical Skills Helpdesk
Hands-on Technical skills for IT Support Learners...
16. Java Network Programming - TCP/IP Socket Programming
Learn how to write powerful network applications...
17. Introduction to Networking
IPv4, Subnetting, DNS, DHCP, IPv6, Routing and Switching...
18. Fundamentals of Network Engineering
Understanding the first principles of networking to build low latency and high throughput backends...
19. Linux for Network Engineers: Practical Linux with GNS3
Linux for Networking Engineers (CCNA, CCNP, CCIE etc). Practical Linux with GNS3 = network programmability & automation...
20. GCP - Google Cloud Professional Cloud Network Engineer
Pass Google Cloud Professional Network Certification with 15+ Hours of HD quality video and 90+ Hands-on Practical labs...