Should I take A+ first or CCNA first?

[JackZ]

Hey guys, should i take A+ first or just start with CCNA? I want to be in Network.
Any suggestions?

[GroundZero3]

A+ is for computer maintenance/repair so that will wont really get you started in networking. Depending on familiar you are with networking right now you can look at the Network+

CompTIA Network+ Certification

[Interrupt]

I disagree a bit. A+ all the way first then go with N+. Without that you won't even be considered by most employers as having any real world experience. Is the A+ some holy grail of certifications? Hell no. Basic as heck and deals with repairing and maintaining hardware components and their interconnected software. So why do it even if you're studying Networking or Cisco telephony? Because you need to show you have foundational knowledge of modern technology.

A+, N+, CCNA or A+, N+, Sec+, CCNA... or anything like that. Diversify even if you do specialize in Cisco. And also combine that with foundational work experience. If you do already have technical computer-based work experience you could forego the A+ I guess... but to be honest I still advise the A+ and N+ for anyone attempting to get into networking.

[GroundZero3]

It depends on the job, if the job is mainly doing networking then the A+ certification isnt gonna get him that job over the CCNA

[Interrupt]

If you think an employer is going to hire an N+ and CCNA without a foundational cert then fine. You might be right. One time. Two times. It's an exception not the rule: most employers I've come across want to see a foundational certification. But that's just my two cents.

I don't suggest getting the A+ instead of the CCNA, I mean get the A+ first then N+ and CCNA. And also let's face it - if it is his first job in the field he'll be working in tech support NOT networking. But hey, it's all opinions, right? The final determining factor is simply whether or not you'll get hired with or without the certifications you have. No one on a forum can tell you the "right way" to do things, just their experience.

[GroundZero3]

Again it depends on what his background is and what the job is. His post was so short and he never replied he probably never even came back.


*shrug*

[nemowolf]

It depends on the job, if the job is mainly doing networking then the A+ certification isnt gonna get him that job over the CCNA

Again it depends on what his background is and what the job is. His post was so short and he never replied he probably never even came back.


*shrug*

Im with GZ. I didnt have either nor an education in computers and i was hired to do my job. Ive been with the company almost 5 years and i have only received the A+ but have studied for the N+, CCNA, MCSA/MCSE, MCDST, etc. Dont have the cert but i have the knowledge to back anything i have done.

Again, since the OP hasnt come back to add additional details, hard to say where he falls. Many people are transitioning from their current careers in their mid years to try something new and dont have the paper to back what they have learned over the years. It entirely depends on the OP.

Hopefully they can flesh out their story a bit more so we can find out more info to help advise.