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Explore seven valuable networking certifications across cloud, security, and infrastructure. From beginners to seasoned IT professionals, these credentials can unlock opportunities in network management, cloud services, and cybersecurity careers.
Every time a video streams smoothly, an online game doesn’t lag, or a payment goes through on a banking app, there’s a strong network working behind the scenes. The people who build, manage, and protect these networks are called network administrators, and companies everywhere need them. Some of the top certifications and most popular network certifications worth trying out are:
Provided by: Cisco
Duration: Approximately 3 to 6 months
Ideal for: Newbies and individuals wanting a small amount of experience
This is one of the most recognized networking certifications out there. It covers how networks work, how data travels, security basics, and even some automation. Cisco is a major player in networking gear, so getting this certification can lead to jobs like network technician, system admin, or IT support.
Provided by: CompTIA
Duration: Approximately 3 to 5 months
Most suitable for: Individuals just entering IT
Network+ is a great place to start, particularly for those who have not worked in IT previously. It's not specific to any one company's systems or tools, so it covers the fundamentals that can be used nearly everywhere. It also provides a foundation for more advanced courses such as CCNA.
Provided by: Microsoft
Duration: Approximately 2 to 4 months
Best for: Those who work with cloud services
This certification is concerned with network management within Microsoft Azure, one of the largest cloud environments. As businesses migrate to the cloud, knowing how to establish secure, high-speed connections within a cloud environment is a useful skill.
Provided by: Red Hat
Duration: Typically, 3 to 6 months
Ideal for: Linux system administrators
Lots of companies host their servers on Linux, and Red Hat is one of the big players in that market. RHCE covers how to handle sophisticated systems and apply tools such as Ansible to automate tasks. It's a good fit for people already working with Linux or looking for more advanced system admin positions.
Issued by: ISC²
Duration: Typically takes 6+ months; prior experience needed
Best for: Experienced IT and security professionals
CISSP is more advanced and leans heavily into cybersecurity. Although it's not all about networking, it addresses network security in a major way. It's for individuals who've already spent a few years working in tech and want to transition into security-related positions.
Provided by: Google Cloud
Duration: Approximately 2 to 3 months
Best for: IT professionals who work with Google Cloud
This certification is all about the management and creation of networks on the Google Cloud Platform (GCP). With more organizations employing cloud services, particularly Google's, this is a good choice for professionals seeking to specialize in contemporary, cloud-based network careers.
Provided by: Juniper Networks
Duration: Varies by level
Best for: Professionals who work with Juniper systems
Juniper may not have as much popularity as Cisco, yet it's found in a significant number of huge data centres as well as telephone companies. Juniper certifications are more specific in nature but worthwhile in companies using Juniper hardware.
Networks are the backbone of modern technology. Whether it’s keeping a business online, protecting data from hackers, or making sure users can connect without issues, network administrators play a key role. As cloud computing grows and security becomes more important, skilled network pros will stay in demand. The right certification depends on experience, interests, and career goals. But all of these options offer a strong path into a tech career that keeps changing—and growing—with the times.
