There are nine categories of computer certification exams, including security, vendor-based, and skill set-based certifications. CIW, CompTIA, Microsoft, Unix, Linux, Novell, Cisco, and Oracle offer various certifications based on their software offerings. Professionals choose certifications based on their role and software programs they use.
There are nine basic computer certification exam categories, each centered on a specific area of expertise or a specific software vendor. Certifications based on skill sets include security certifications, CIW (Certified Internet Web) certifications, and ComputTI Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) certifications. Vendor-based certifications are provided for Microsoft, Unix, Linux, Novell, Cisco, and Oracle products. Most computer professionals will base the types of certifications they choose on a combination of their current or intended role, as well as the specific software programs or operating systems they will be using in the performance of their roles.
Security certifications are aimed at professionals responsible for day-to-day network and data security. The pinnacle of available security certifications is the Professional Information Security Systems Professional (CISSP®) certification. CISSP® focuses on key areas of expertise, including areas such as network security, application development security, cryptography, and operations security. To qualify to sit for the CISSP e reg exam, an individual must have extensive knowledge of at least two of the 10 skill sets.
CIW’s computer certification exams are aimed at professionals in the field of web development and Internet technologies. They are considered vendor-neutral, and CIW certifications are recommended for individuals with some experience with Linux/Unix and Windows operating systems. They are offered in a variety of specialization classifications, ranging from associate level to master’s level, and focus on a wide range of topics including enterprise management, network architecture, and database management.
The CompTIA certifications are an extensive group of computer certification exams that cover one of the widest selections of topics. With over 10 certifications to choose from, IT professionals can become certified in a variety of job specialties such as Network+, Security+, or Project+. Some CompTIA computer certification exams will focus on a combination of software and hardware knowledge. The A+ certification is an example of this.
For vendor-related certifications, those under the Microsoft umbrella are generally the most widely recognized in software-based computer certification exams. Common certification offerings include Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist, Microsoft Certified IT Professional, and Microsoft Office Specialist certification. Each certification is offered in three levels of specialization, the Architect, Professional, and Technology series.
For people seeking certifications in open source operating systems, there are several computer certification exams that specialize in Unix, Linux, and Novell. These certifications are aimed at a wide range of professionals, including computer engineers, technicians and programmers. They can also focus on specific versions of programs, such as Solaris, the Unix-based operating system produced by Sun Microsystems.
Novell, Cisco, and Oracle also offer a number of certifications based on their specific software offerings. Oracle, for example, offers three basic levels of certification, Oracle Certified Master, Oracle Certified Associate, and Oracle Certified Professional. Popular offerings from Novell include the Certified Novell Administrator and Certified Novell Engineer certification exams. Cisco offers a variety of certifications in four categories, each geared toward a specific level of expertise, including technical, associate, professional, and expert-level certifications.
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