The CompTIA A+ certification is the industry standard validating the vendor-neutral skills expected of an entry-level computer technician. The CompTIA A+ exam consists of two exams - the A+ Core Hardware exam and the A+ OS Technologies exam. Having an A+ certification proves that you have a broad base of knowledge and competency in core hardware and operating system technologies including installation, configuration, diagnosing, preventive maintenance and basic networking.

The CompTIA Network+ certification is the worldwide standard of competency for professionals with nine months experience in network support or administration. The Network+ certification validates technical competency in networking administration and support. Those holding Network+ certification demonstrate critical knowledge of media and topologies, protocols and standards, network implementation and network support. This certification is geared toward those with nine months field experience in network administration and support.

The CompTIA Security+ certification tests for security knowledge mastery of an individual with two years on-the-job networking experience, with emphasis on security. The exam covers industry wide topics including communication security, infrastructure security, cryptography, access control, authentication, external attack and operational and organization security. Theft and destruction of intellectual property takes place despite the presence of firewalls, encryption and corporate edicts. Neither technologies nor policies alone offer effective information security. The IT industry must have a well-trained work force to effectively combat hackers and decrease financial losses. CompTIA Security+ is being used as an elective or prerequisite to advanced vendor specific and vendor neutral security certifications.

The Microsoft Certified Professional credential is for individuals who have the skills to successfully implement a Microsoft product or technology as part of a business solution in an organization. MCP’s have demonstrated in-depth knowledge of Microsoft operating systems and products. These individuals have also achieved proficiency and knowledge in PC essentials and server/networking basics.

The Network System Administration program is designed to prepare the student for entry into the computer technology marketplace as a Windows LAN/WAN Network Administrator. Subjects included in this program are Personal Computer Essentials, Network +, Windows 2000 Professional or Windows® XP Professional, Windows® 2000 Server or Windows® .NET Server, Network infrastructure implementation, and Active Directory implementation and Managing a Windows Environment. Topics include the planning and configuration of Local Area Networks (LAN) and Wide Area Networks (WAN), troubleshooting, network analysis and optimization, domain management and network architecture.

Microsoft® has introduced a new specialization to its Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA) certification. It identifies systems administrators who demonstrate deep, role-based security skills on the Microsoft Windows® 2000 operating system.

The new MCSA: Security on Microsoft® Windows® 2000 certification identifies systems administrators who specialize in implementing, managing, and maintaining security on the Microsoft platform and who focus on creating a secure computing environment

The Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) on Microsoft® Windows® 2000 credential is the premier certification for professionals who design and implement the infrastructure for business solutions based on the Microsoft Windows 2000 platform and Microsoft® Windows® Server System™. The MCSE credential is one of the most widely recognized technical certifications in the industry. By earning the premier MCSE credential, individuals are demonstrating that they have the skills necessary to lead organizations in the successful design, implementation, and administration of the most advanced Windows operating system and Microsoft Windows Server System.

Cisco Certified Network Associate

The CCNA certification (Cisco Certified Network Associate) 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.

CISSP Certification was designed to recognize mastery of an international standard for computer and network security and understanding of a Common Body of Knowledge (CBK). Certification can enhance a professional’s career and provide added IS credibility. Ten CISSP information systems security test domains are covered in the examination pertaining to the Common Body of Knowledge. (Security Management Practices, Security Architecture and Models, Access Control Systems & Methodology, Application Development Security, Operations Security, Physical Security, Cryptography, Telecommunications, Network, & Internet Security, Business Continuity Planning, Law, Investigations, & Ethics.)

Prior to sitting for the CISSP exam, candidates must possess at least three years of professional experience in at least one of the 10 information security domains of the Common Body of Knowledge.

SSCP Certification was designed to recognize an international standard for practitioners of information security [IS] and understanding of a Common Body of Knowledge (CBK). It focuses on practices, roles and responsibilities as defined by experts from major IS industries. Certification can enhance an IS career and provide added credibility. Seven SSCP information systems security test domains are covered in the examination pertaining to the Common Body of Knowledge: (Access Controls; Administration; Audit and Monitoring; Risk, Response and Recovery; Cryptography, Data Communications; Malicious Code/Malware.)