Top 10 Network Operations Engineer Certifications

Certifications are important for a network operations engineer in the job market because they demonstrate that an individual has the necessary knowledge and skills to perform their duties. Certification programs provide a recognized level of expertise and credibility, which is essential for success in this highly competitive field. Companies want to hire personnel who have proven their ability to maintain and troubleshoot networks, and certifications provide assurance that the engineer has the experience needed to do this effectively. Certifications also indicate that an individual is dedicated to staying up-to-date with industry trends and technologies, which is important for any network operations engineer.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Network Operations Engineers, providing insight on how these certifications can help advance a Network Operations Engineer's career.

What are Network Operations Engineer Certifications?

Network operations engineer certification is a credential that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in managing, maintaining, and troubleshooting networks. This certification validates an individual’s technical skills and knowledge of networking technologies, as well as their ability to use those skills to create or maintain network infrastructure. Network operations engineers are responsible for ensuring the smooth functioning of networks, which can include local area networks (LANs) or wide area networks (WANs).

Having a network operations engineer certification can help individuals secure better job opportunities and higher salaries. Companies may prefer to hire someone with this certification because they know they have the necessary skills and experience to perform the role effectively. It also shows employers that the individual has taken the initiative to gain additional knowledge and training in order to progress their career. Additionally, having a network operations engineer certification can make it easier for employers to trust that an individual will be able to handle any issues that arise with their organization's network infrastructure.

Pro Tip: Network Operations Engineer Certification requires a strong knowledge of network protocols and technologies, so it's important to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the industry. Joining online forums, taking online classes, and attending professional conferences are all great ways to stay knowledgeable about the field. Additionally, gaining hands-on experience with various networking systems can help you develop the skills needed to succeed in this certification.

Related: What does a Network Operations Engineer do?

Top 10 Network Operations Engineer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Network Operations Engineers today.

1. Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)

Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) is an advanced level certification from Cisco that demonstrates a professional’s ability to design, implement, configure, and troubleshoot local and wide area networks. It is designed for networking professionals who are responsible for routing and switching solutions within organizations.

In order to obtain the CCNP certification, you must pass three exams: ROUTE (300-101), SWITCH (300-115), and TSHOOT (300-135). The exams focus on topics such as network security, quality of service, IP addressing, routing protocols, and other related topics. You must also have a valid Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification or equivalent knowledge before taking the CCNP exams.

The CCNP certification typically takes 6–12 months to complete depending on your experience level and how much time you can dedicate to studying. The cost of the CCNP exam varies by country but generally ranges from $150-$400 per exam.

2. CompTIA Network+

CompTIA Network+ is an industry-recognized certification that validates an individual's knowledge and skills in networking. It is designed to ensure that professionals have the necessary skills to manage, maintain, troubleshoot, install, and configure basic network infrastructure. The certification covers topics such as networking technologies, installation and configuration of networks, media and topologies, security, and network troubleshooting.

It typically takes between three to six months to prepare for the CompTIA Network+ exam. It is recommended that individuals have at least nine months of experience in network support or administration before attempting the exam. In addition to hands-on experience, there are a variety of resources available online such as practice tests and study guides to help prepare for the exam.

The CompTIA Network+ exam consists of 90 multiple choice questions and must be completed within 90 minutes. The cost of the exam varies by country but generally ranges from $200-$300 USD. Once an individual has passed the exam they will receive their certification which is valid for three years from the date it was issued.

3. Juniper Networks Certified Internet Associate (JNCIA)

Juniper Networks Certified Internet Associate (JNCIA) is a certification that validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in networking technologies. It is designed for individuals who are new to networking and want to demonstrate their understanding of the fundamentals of Juniper Networks technology. The JNCIA certification covers topics such as network architecture, routing protocols, switching, security, and troubleshooting.

The JNCIA exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and consists of 65 multiple-choice questions. To earn the JNCIA certification, candidates must pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher. The cost of taking the exam varies depending on location but typically ranges from $200-$250 USD.

To prepare for the JNCIA exam, candidates should review the official Juniper Networks training materials as well as any other relevant resources available online. Additionally, there are many practice exams available online that can help prepare for the real exam.

4. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Cloud Platform and Infrastructure

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Cloud Platform and Infrastructure is a certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in deploying, managing, and optimizing cloud-based solutions. It validates an individual’s ability to design, implement, and manage a cloud infrastructure using Microsoft technologies.

The MCSE: Cloud Platform and Infrastructure certification requires passing two exams: Exam 70-535 Architecting Microsoft Azure Solutions and Exam 70-473 Designing and Implementing Cloud Data Platform Solutions. Both exams are available for purchase through the Microsoft website. The cost of each exam is $165 USD.

It typically takes about 3 months to prepare for the exams depending on your prior experience with the technology covered in the exams. To get certified, you must pass both exams within 12 months of starting your first exam. After passing both exams, you will receive your MCSE: Cloud Platform and Infrastructure certification from Microsoft.

5. Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified Solutions Architect – Associate

Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified Solutions Architect – Associate is an industry-recognized certification that validates a professional’s ability to design and deploy applications on the AWS platform. The AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate exam tests a candidate’s knowledge of the AWS platform, including its services, tools, and best practices.

The exam typically takes about 80 minutes to complete and consists of multiple-choice and multiple-answer questions. To be eligible for the exam, candidates must have at least one year of hands-on experience designing distributed applications and systems on the AWS platform.

To get the certification, candidates must pass the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate exam. The exam costs $150 USD and can be taken online or in person at an authorized testing center. Candidates who pass the exam will receive their certificate within two weeks of completing it.

In addition to passing the exam, candidates must also meet certain prerequisites such as having a valid credit card or debit card for payment purposes, agreeing to Amazon's terms and conditions, and having access to an internet connection during the duration of the test.

6. Citrix Certified Professional – Networking (CCP-N)

Citrix Certified Professional – Networking (CCP-N) is a certification program designed to validate the skills and knowledge of IT professionals in the areas of networking, server virtualization, and application delivery. The CCP-N certification is intended for network engineers and system administrators who are responsible for deploying, configuring, and managing Citrix products such as Citrix NetScaler, Citrix XenServer, and Citrix XenApp.

The CCP-N certification requires that candidates pass two exams: 1Z0-062: Oracle Database 12c: Installation and Administration (or equivalent), and 1Y0-312: Implementing Citrix NetScaler 10.5 for App and Desktop Solutions (or equivalent). The exams must be taken at an authorized testing center or online through Pearson VUE.

The time required to complete the CCP-N certification depends on the individual's experience level with networking technologies. It typically takes between four to six months to prepare for the exams. Candidates should plan to spend at least 30 hours studying for each exam.

The cost of the CCP-N certification is $500 USD per exam plus any applicable taxes or fees associated with taking the exam at a testing center or online through Pearson VUE.

7. Check Point Certified Security Administrator (CCSA)

Check Point Certified Security Administrator (CCSA) is a certification program designed to validate the skills and knowledge of IT professionals who install, configure, manage, and troubleshoot Check Point security systems. The CCSA certification is recognized worldwide as an industry-standard for network security professionals.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for the CCSA exam. To get certified, you must pass the CCSA R80 exam, which consists of multiple-choice questions and hands-on labs. The exam covers topics such as installing and configuring Check Point Security Gateway, managing user access with SmartDashboard, configuring VPNs, using advanced routing features, and troubleshooting security policies.

The cost of the CCSA certification varies depending on your location. In the United States, it costs around $400 to take the exam. You can also purchase study materials from Check Point or third-party vendors to help you prepare for the exam.

Once you have successfully passed the CCSA exam, you will be awarded a certificate that is valid for two years from the date of issue. After two years, you will need to retake the exam in order to maintain your certification status.

8. VMware Certified Professional 6 – Network Virtualization (VCP6-NV)

VMware Certified Professional 6 – Network Virtualization (VCP6-NV) is a certification that is designed to validate an individual’s skills and knowledge in the deployment, configuration, and management of VMware NSX virtual networking solutions. This certification proves that an individual has the ability to design, deploy, configure, manage and troubleshoot VMware NSX environments.

It typically takes about two months to prepare for the VCP6-NV exam. It is recommended that individuals have at least six months of experience with VMware vSphere and VMware NSX before attempting this certification. In order to obtain the certification, individuals must pass two exams: the VMware Certified Professional 6 – Data Center Virtualization (VCP6-DCV) exam and the VMware Certified Professional 6 – Network Virtualization (VCP6-NV) exam.

The cost of taking the VCP6-NV exam varies depending on where you take it. The cost can range from $250-$350 USD.

9. HP Accredited Integration Specialist – Network Infrastructure Design and Implementation

HP Accredited Integration Specialist – Network Infrastructure Design and Implementation is a certification program offered by Hewlett-Packard. It is designed to help IT professionals demonstrate their skills in designing, deploying, and troubleshooting complex network infrastructures. The certification requires individuals to have experience in HP networking products, such as ProCurve switches and routers, as well as knowledge of network topologies, protocols, security measures, and other related topics.

The certification consists of two exams: the HP AIS-Network Infrastructure Design exam (HPE6-A41) and the HP AIS-Network Infrastructure Implementation exam (HPE6-A42). The exams are available online through Pearson VUE or at an authorized testing center. Each exam costs $150 USD.

The certification process typically takes 4–6 weeks from the time of registration to when results are received. Candidates must pass both exams with a score of 70% or higher in order to become certified. Upon successful completion of the program, individuals will receive an official certificate from HP that can be used to demonstrate their expertise in network infrastructure design and implementation.

The cost for the entire certification program is approximately $300 USD including both exams and any applicable taxes or fees.

10. F5 Networks Certified Technology Specialist (F5-CTS)

F5 Networks Certified Technology Specialist (F5-CTS) is a certification program designed to validate the knowledge and skills of IT professionals working with F5 products. The F5-CTS certification is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates an individual's expertise in configuring, managing, and troubleshooting F5 products.

The F5-CTS certification is divided into two levels: Associate and Professional. The Associate level focuses on basic product configuration and troubleshooting, while the Professional level covers advanced topics such as high availability, security, performance optimization, and automation.

To obtain the F5-CTS certification, you must pass a series of exams. The Associate level requires you to pass one exam (101), while the Professional level requires you to pass two exams (201 and 202). Each exam consists of multiple choice questions that are based on real-world scenarios.

The exams can be taken at any Pearson VUE testing center worldwide or online via ProctorU. It typically takes around 3 hours to complete each exam.

The cost of taking the exams varies depending on your location. Generally speaking, it costs around $200 USD per exam ($400 USD for both Associate and Professional levels).

Do You Really Need a Network Operations Engineer Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need a Network Operations Engineer Certificate to be successful in the field. However, having one can definitely give you an edge over other applicants and help you stand out from the competition when applying for jobs.

A Network Operations Engineer Certificate can demonstrate your knowledge and proficiency in network operations, which is essential in this role. It shows employers that you have a comprehensive understanding of networking protocols, hardware configurations, troubleshooting techniques, security measures, and more. This certificate also gives you credibility—it proves that you are capable of performing the tasks required of a network operations engineer.

In addition to the technical skillset that comes with a Network Operations Engineer Certificate, it also provides valuable soft skills such as communication and problem-solving abilities. These skills are necessary for any engineering position and can be invaluable when interacting with clients or colleagues.

Overall, having a Network Operations Engineer Certificate is not necessary for success in the field but it can certainly give you an advantage over other applicants. If you have the time and resources available to pursue this certification then it could definitely be worth it in the long run!

Related: Network Operations Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Network Operations Engineer Certifications

1. What certifications are available for Network Operations Engineers?

Answer: Some of the most popular certifications for Network Operations Engineers include Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), CompTIA Network+, and Juniper Networks Certified Internet Specialist (JNCIS).

2. How much does it cost to get a Network Operations Engineer certification?

Answer: The cost of obtaining a certification varies depending on the type of certification, but typically ranges from $200-$3000 USD.

3. How long does it take to get certified as a Network Operations Engineer?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become certified depends on the type of certification you are pursuing, but generally can take anywhere from several weeks to several months.

4. What is the best way to prepare for a Network Operations Engineering Certification exam?

Answer: It is recommended that individuals studying for a certification exam review course materials, practice labs, and take practice exams in order to become familiar with the topics covered on the exam and gain confidence in their knowledge.

5. Are there any prerequisites for becoming a Network Operations Engineer?

Answer: Generally, no prerequisites are required for becoming a Network Operations Engineer; however, having an understanding of network fundamentals such as routing protocols, switching technologies, and security concepts can be beneficial when attempting to obtain certifications in this field.