Net+ Certification
The Net+ Certification is a benchmark of professional networking skills that is vendor-neutral and internationally accepted. Once you have taken and passed the Net+ Certification exams, you show your prospective employers that you know the trade-specific skills for installing, configuring, troubleshooting, and maintaining the basic protocols, hardware, and services demanded of key professionals.

Net+ Certification preparation courses are intended for working technicians who already have up to 24 months of experience. The Net+ Certification exam is a 65-question test administered by the Computer Technology Industry Association (CompTIA). Many candidates for training have already attained an A+ Certification from CompTIA. It is the entry-level certification that many networking professionals take before pursuing a Net+ Certification.

During your exam preparation course, you should expect to receive training in physical, data-link, network, and transport layers. You'll also need to learn TCP/IP fundamentals and suite utilities, knowledge in operating systems, WAN and LAN elements, segments, and backbones. The Net+ Certification exam will also test your knowledge of remote connectivity and security.

Net+ Certification Benefits
Professionals holding a current Net+ Certifications not only find it easier to land network systems and support jobs with employers, they often find it helps when they seek promotions. The baseline certification also puts you in line for pursuing advanced vendor-specific certifications with Microsoft, Cisco, Sun, and others.

If you choose to work as a network or system support administrator, the job outlook is exceptional. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that some 155,000 new jobs will open during the 2006-2016 decade--or a net increase of 18 percent.