Does it make sense to complete CCNA courses?

Question

Computer networks

Good afternoon! I work in the IT department, I plan to further develop in the direction of "network technologies" and "system administration." A colleague claims that CCNA courses are empty, they do not provide real knowledge. Is it so?

Answer 1

Specifically CCNA (I think you mean Routing & Switching) - you will get excellent knowledge of networking basics. It’s not even necessary to take it - it’s a little expensive for 300 greens per attempt if you take it all at once, but for the employer this will be a guarantee that you have something to talk about in terms of networks. Of course, if in your activity you do not actively work with network equipment, then knowledge will quickly disappear, but an understanding of the principles will remain.
I had a colleague who did not set up the network (only routers in small offices) - he went to training courses. I still didn’t understand what he was doing there, because. in practice, there were problems even in basic concepts - however, they helped me a lot to streamline my knowledge, but again, I myself already administered the network on ciscos in parallel and studied courses according to Odom on my own. If the certificate is not the goal, but you are not working closely with the network now, read / look / do "Networks for the smallest" (there is a cycle on Habré, they have grown into an independent project linkmeup.ru). The most convenient and intelligible presentation of the basics, for the start, perhaps the best solution in Russian.

Answer 2

Well, your colleague blurted out garbage. Never listen to incompetent people, go and learn, once you decide to become a professional.

Answer 3

If you plan to develop specifically in the direction of networks (further than small corporate networks), then you probably need it. The CCNA certificate is a prerequisite for passing more senior courses from Cisco. But whether you plan to take further courses is up to you.

Answer 4

I took this course around 2004. At that time, the industry had not yet managed to grow up "professional trainers" who, with the same pinched eyes, can read both CCNA and MS Project, but have no practical experience in either one or the other. I studied at the Educational Center "Specialist" at the Moscow State Technical University. Bauman, the course was taught to us by an uncle who, in his free time from coaching, worked (seemingly) as the technical director of some provider. I can confidently say that this uncle and this course turned my life around and determined the vector of my professional development for many years. So for me it was definitely worth it.
Since then, the level of teaching has changed a lot for the worse,

Answer 5

Since you are leveling up your skill in "network technologies" and "system administration", you should go with the CCNA certification. It will give you good fundamental knowledge, growth and more opportunities in your Networking career.
Also, the majority of the organization have Cisco equipment, CCNA certification will surely add weight to your profile or resume.