Of all the IT sectors ruling the modern world stage, this field is one of the largest and most all encompassing. Because there are so many advanced skill-sets to embrace, a certain amount of specialist training is the only sensible solution. Both Cisco & Microsoft make systems for this market. MS create Network & Server software, while Cisco concentrate primarily on the hardware end of networking: Routers, data-switches, controllers and so forth. 'Security' has grown to be a huge challenge in recent years, which has led both companies to move in to the sector in a massive way. We also need to notice the the more professional use of WiFi today, which is basically wireless-connections & hardware. And then we have the dark art of Hacking (legitimately) & Forensics : each very complex & incredibly specialised subjects themselves, & take a considerable amount of working experience and knowledge.

Some of the finest industry-recognised qualifications now are produced by the independent 'Computing Technology Industry Association' (CompTIA). There are also various other companies, such as the ISC2 (shortened from the rather long winded: International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium!) and CWNP ('Certified Wireless Network Professional'). Obviously Cisco & Microsoft provide a full range of professional level accreditations. Because of the range & number of qualification paths available in this sector, it's a good idea to discuss this sort of career move with an industry experienced advisor. This will likely prevent you from getting into a costly mistake, both in terms of money & time spent.

You will find various specialist MCSEs from Microsoft, that look after areas like Messaging or Security if that's the path you want. You might elect to opt for Security+ from 'CompTIA', and follow that with the 'Certified Information Systems Security Professional' ('CISSP'). Before you choose this particular path though you need to be aware of the exact level of professional experience necessary for the 'CISSP'. Our advice is of course to have an educated discussion prior to starting any new career-training.

Recently, Computer or Digital Forensics is a frequently used expression that has been made popular by TV shows such as "Crime Scene Investigation - CSI". Obviously though the actual work in real life won't be quite so stylised as the programmes would have us believe! And yet, forensic-investigation by means of advanced technologies can provide a very rewarding profession. The basic principle being to gather & analyse digital-footprints, to provide evidence in either a criminal or civil legal case.

Sitting between Computer Forensics & Security, is the new field of 'Ethical Hacking'. The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) and the 'Computer Hacking Forensic Investigator'('CHFI') are mid - advanced level certifications provided by the EC Council.

There are now wider options in addition to Microsoft & Cisco to become trained within each of these disciplines. Actually, there's a wide range of certification that is provided by very well regarded impartial bodies - & this is becoming more and more significant. It's now become extensively recognised that understanding inter connectivity & technological-convergence has become exceedingly fundamental in networking. There are currently a number of important shifts coming about in the world of networking - both in processing terms & in the storage of data, with internet based computing gaining momentum and 'green IT' becoming increasingly relevant. From a commercial point of view, greener technology has to be built to be a lot more cost effective, as well as being more gentle towards the planet. Lower power processors & computer systems generate less heat, which means much less cooling is needed. These two things together vastly lower the energy expenditure, & therefore impact upon a corporation's bottom-line - in particular in data-centres and high-volume processing areas.

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