Cisco training is the way to go for those who want to learn about routers and switches. Routers join up computer networks via the internet or lines dedicated for that purpose. It's advisable that you should first attempt your CCNA. Don't be tempted to go straight for a CCNP as it's a considerable step up - and you really need experience to take on this level.

To take this course, you should be clear on the operation and function of computer networks, because computer networks are joined to routers. If not, the chances are you'll fall behind. Better to look for a course covering basic networking skills (CompTIA Network+ as an example - maybe with the A+ as well) and then do a CCNA course. You may find training companies will put such a package together for you.

The CCNA qualification is the right level in this instance - you're not ready for your CCNP yet. After gaining experience in the working environment, you can decide if this next level is for you. Should that be the case, you'll have significantly improved your chances of success - as your working knowledge will put everything into perspective.

One useful service offered by some training providers is a Job Placement Assistance program. This is to assist your search for your first position. With the massive need for more IT skills in the United Kingdom right now, there's no need to get too caught up in this feature though. It isn't such a complex operation to find the right work as long as you're correctly trained and certified.

Work on polishing up your CV right away however - you should get plenty of help from your training provider on this. Don't delay for when you're ready to start work. Various junior support roles are offered to students who are still studying and haven't even passed a single exam yet. This will at the very least get your CV into the 'possible' pile and not the 'no' pile. The most efficient companies to help you land that job are most often specialist independent regional recruitment consultancies. Because they get paid commission to place you, they have more incentive to get on with it.

Many men and women, apparently, are prepared to study their hearts out (sometimes for years), and then just stop instead of trying to get a job. Promote yourself... Do your best to put yourself out there. A job isn't just going to bump into you.

People attracted to this sort of work are usually quite practically-minded, and won't enjoy sitting at a desk in class, and endless reading of dry academic textbooks. If you're thinking this sounds like you, use multimedia, interactive learning, where learning is video-based. Studies have repeatedly demonstrated that becoming involved with our studies, to utilise all our senses, is far more likely to produce long-lasting memories.

Modern training can now be done at home via interactive discs. Through instructor-led video classes you'll absorb the modules, one by one, via their teaching and demonstrations. Knowledge can then be tested by using practice-lab's. Each company you're contemplating should be able to show you some examples of their courseware. You're looking for evidence of tutorial videos and demonstrations and a variety of interactive modules.

It's unwise to go for purely on-line training. Because of the variable quality and reliability of all internet service providers, it makes sense to have actual CD or DVD ROM's.

Most people don't even think to ask about something of absolutely vital importance - the way their training provider actually breaks down and delivers the courseware sections, and into how many parts. Individual deliveries for each training module piece by piece, according to your exam schedule is the usual method of releasing your program. Of course, this sounds sensible, but you should consider these factors: How would they react if you didn't complete every section at the proposed pace? Sometimes their preference of study order doesn't work as well as some other structure would for you.

The ideal circumstances are to get every piece of your study pack delivered to your address right at the beginning; the entire thing! This way, nothing can happen down the line which could affect your capacity to get everything done.

Think about the points below in detail if you think that over-used sales technique about 'guaranteeing' exams sounds like a benefit to the student:

Everybody's aware that they're still being charged for it - it's quite obvious to see that it's already been included in the gross price invoiced by the course provider. It's absolutely not free - don't think these companies are so generous with their money! It's well known in the industry that if students pay for their relevant examinations, at the time of taking them, the chances are they're going to pass first time - since they'll think of what they've paid and their application will be greater.

Look for the very best offer you can at the appropriate time, and avoid college mark-up fees. You'll then be able to select where you take your exam - which means you can stay local. Big margins are made by many companies that get money upfront for exam fees. For various reasons, many students don't take their exams but the company keeps the money. Astoundingly enough, providers exist that rely on that fact - and that's how they increase their profits. It's worth noting, with the majority of Exam Guarantees - the company decides when you are allowed to have another go. You'll have to prove conclusively that you can pass before they'll pay for another exam.

Paying maybe a thousand pounds extra on an 'Exam Guarantee' is naive - when a commitment to studying and the use of authorised exam preparation tools is what will really guarantee success.

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