‘Cisco certification good to have for computer network administrators’
Computer system networking has been of the major fundamentals of information communication and technology, which provides a series of job opportunities for computer network administrators. Temitope Ajayi, an ICT computer-networking administrator in an int
What’s computer system networking all about?
COMPUTER SYSTEM NETWORKING is all about the digital telecommunications network, which allows computers to share resources. In computer networks, computing devices exchange data with each other using connections between nodes. For instance, if you want 1000 systems to be connected and share information or any files together you would be able to do that through networking. It sounds easy but trusts me it’s a complex skill that can be nurtured over time.
What’s your personal experience as a computer network administrator?
I worked as a network and computer systems administrators in South Africa before coming back to Nigeria and I was basically responsible for the day-to-day operation of the organization’s computer networks. Like I said it’s about communication amongst different computers. It’s about organizing, installing and supporting an organization’s computer systems, including local area networks (LANs) wide area networks (WANs).
As a computer network administrator, it behooves you to have the basic understanding of anything computer. It is important to go beyond networking and have a total feel of ICT. For instance, if there is an issue where you work, maybe in a cybercafé, all eyes will be on you to provide a solution to the problem.
What is the limitation of computer networking and how vast can it be?
I have said any form of digital interaction, which deals with sharing information together is networking. It doesn’t matter if it’s two systems or more. Computer system networking is not limited to either big or small organization. It just depends on the type of network either WAN or LAN instance, it’s a concept that is needed in small cybercafés, an office building this is just to buttress the fact that it’s not limited but it has a scope.
Like I mentioned earlier, there is the local area network (LAN) and wide area network (WAN). For instance, a LAN is a form of connection, which requires some relatively simple things to set it up. LAN is a computer network that spans a relatively small area just like a cafe. As far as am concerned all you need is some Ethernet cables, a network switch, and you are good to go. With these items, you can set up a LAN. LAN could be confined to a single room, building or group of buildings.
The major issue with LAN is - it is only good as far as you can reach an Ethernet cable or Wi-Fi signal. Simply put, you cannot buy an Ethernet cable that will reach throughout an entire building, and a Wi-Fi connection starts to lose signal once you a few dozen meters away.
However, the wide area network (WAN) is different from LAN. WAN network exists over a large-scale probably when you see CISCO engineers for example.
How complex is computer networking, is it a skill that is difficult to learn?
Some people will tell you that the logic is quite simple - once you get a grasp of it then you can move from there. But I see it as a skill that is a bit difficult but anybody who wishes to learn it can do it, it just depends on how badly the person wants it. Once you learn it, it’s likely not so hard anymore.
However, it is complex in the sense that there is a certification for it, CISCO certifications, which I strongly recommend for anybody interested. So, even when you learn the basics on your own you need certification as well. You will have to prove that you understand it by saying “I have acquired so certifications.” Remember, technology is something that you need to keep updating yourself.
I repeat, I strongly recommend CISCO certification for anybody aspiring to become a professional in this field. And the good thing here is that networking standards are global especially CISCO. Your skills and certifications are recognized anywhere in the world. For instance, if one finally get different certifications from Cisco such person will work their way up through global corporations in places all over the world.
The same certification in the US is the same thing in Nigeria. No form of distinction.
How big is the demand for computer networking services?
Here in computer village, there is no demand for it because people come here to do other things like fixing their PC, buying smartphones, software, hardware etc. Most of the demands for our service are usually from companies and not individuals from computer village. Meanwhile, for those who have an interest in acquiring the skills, there are whole lots of opportunities for them.
The current number of people working and studying computer networking simply won’t match the expected demand. Individuals who choose to add networking to their studies or professional skills can transform their lives.
If I told you how much CISCO professionals earn you will marvel. I wouldn’t disclose that but I need you to go find out for yourself.