Top 10 Network Operations Manager Certifications

Certifications are an important credential for a network operations manager in the job market as they demonstrate to employers that the individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in the role. Certifications provide evidence of expertise, which is essential in today's competitive job market. Additionally, certifications can provide access to valuable resources and career paths, as well as open doors to higher paying positions. They also give employers peace of mind that their investment in hiring a qualified network operations manager will pay off. In short, certifications are a valuable asset for any network operations manager looking to secure a job and advance their career.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Network Operations Managers, providing insight into how they can help to advance a network operations manager's career.

What are Network Operations Manager Certifications?

Network Operations Manager Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and experience in managing and maintaining networks. This type of certification is typically earned through a combination of formal training, hands-on experience, and successful completion of an exam. Network operations managers are responsible for the performance, availability, and security of enterprise networks. Having a Network Operations Manager Certification can help to demonstrate an individual's qualifications for this important role.

The knowledge gained from obtaining this certification can help network operations managers better understand how to design, deploy, configure, troubleshoot, and maintain networks with minimal disruption to business operations. It will also provide them with the tools they need to identify best practices that ensure maximum efficiency and reliability while minimizing downtime or outages. With this certification, network operations managers can stay up-to-date on industry trends and the latest technologies available to improve their organization’s network performance. In addition, it can open up job opportunities at larger companies who require certifications as a prerequisite for hiring candidates in this field.

Pro Tip: Network operations manager certification is a great way to gain the necessary skills and knowledge to manage complex network infrastructures. Before you begin your certification process, make sure to research the requirements, costs, and job opportunities associated with the credential. Additionally, take advantage of online resources such as practice tests and study guides to ensure that you are prepared for the exam.

Related: What does a Network Operations Manager do?

Top 10 Network Operations Manager Certifications

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

1. Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)

Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) is a professional-level certification offered by Cisco Systems. It is designed to demonstrate an individual’s ability to design, implement, configure, and troubleshoot local and wide area networks of varying complexity. To earn the CCNP certification, candidates must pass four exams: two core exams (ROUTE and SWITCH), one concentration exam (SELECT), and one elective exam.

It typically takes six months to a year to prepare for the CCNP exams. Candidates should have at least three years of experience working with networking technologies before attempting the certification. The best way to prepare for the exams is to take a course from Cisco or an authorized training partner.

The cost of the CCNP certification varies depending on which exam you choose and where you take it. Each core exam costs $300 USD, while each concentration or elective exam costs $200 USD. You can also purchase practice tests for each exam that cost between $50-$100 USD.

2. CompTIA Network+

CompTIA Network+ is an industry-recognized certification that validates the knowledge and skills of IT professionals in networking technologies. It proves a technician's competency in managing, maintaining, troubleshooting, installing, and configuring basic network infrastructure. The certification covers topics such as network architecture, network operations, network security, and network troubleshooting.

The CompTIA Network+ exam typically takes 2 hours to complete and consists of 90 multiple choice questions. To earn the Network+ certification, candidates must pass the exam with a score of 720 or higher on a scale from 100-900.

To get CompTIA Network+, you need to register for the exam online through CompTIA’s website or through an authorized training provider. You will then receive an authorization code which you can use to schedule your exam at a local testing center or online proctored exam session.

The cost of taking the CompTIA Network+ exam varies depending on where you take it and how you register for it. Generally speaking, the cost ranges from $200-$300 USD per attempt.

3. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Server Infrastructure

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Server Infrastructure is a certification program designed to provide IT professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to build, manage, and maintain a Windows Server infrastructure. It covers topics such as networking, virtualization, identity management, storage solutions, system security, disaster recovery, and more.

To become an MCSE: Server Infrastructure certified professional typically takes between 6-12 months of study and preparation. The exam requires candidates to have hands-on experience in configuring Windows Server 2012 or 2016 systems. To get started on the path to earning this certification it is recommended that individuals first earn the Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) certification in Windows Server 2012 or 2016.

The MCSE: Server Infrastructure certification exam consists of two parts: 70-410 Installing and Configuring Windows Server 2012/2016; 70-411 Administering Windows Server 2012/2016; 70-412 Configuring Advanced Windows Server 2012/2016 Services; and 70-413 Designing and Implementing a Server Infrastructure. Each exam costs $165 USD for each attempt.

In order to maintain your MCSE: Server Infrastructure certification you must pass one recertification exam every three years or complete 20 hours of continuing education credits within three years of passing the exams.

4. Juniper Networks Certified Internet Associate (JNCIA)

Juniper Networks Certified Internet Associate (JNCIA) is a certification program offered by Juniper Networks. It is designed to provide IT professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to configure, troubleshoot, and manage Juniper networks. The JNCIA certification validates a candidate’s ability to understand networking fundamentals and apply them in a Juniper environment.

The JNCIA exam typically takes around 90 minutes to complete and covers topics such as network architecture, routing protocols, switching technologies, security policies, and more. The exam consists of 65 multiple-choice questions that must be answered within the allotted time frame.

To become certified, candidates must pass the JNCIA exam which is available through Prometric or Pearson VUE testing centers. The cost of the exam varies depending on your geographic location but typically ranges from $200 - $300 USD.

In order to prepare for the JNCIA exam, candidates should have a solid understanding of basic networking concepts as well as an understanding of Juniper's products and services. Additionally, it is recommended that candidates take an official training course offered by Juniper Networks or another authorized provider in order to gain hands-on experience with configuring and managing Juniper networks.

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

Citrix Certified Professional – Networking (CCP-N) is a certification program offered by Citrix Systems, Inc. that validates an individual’s expertise in the planning, implementation and management of Citrix technologies. The certification is designed to demonstrate proficiency in the areas of networking, systems engineering, virtualization, and security.

To become certified as a CCP-N, individuals must pass two exams: one focused on networking fundamentals and one focused on Citrix technologies. The first exam covers topics such as TCP/IP protocols, routing protocols, switching concepts, network design principles and troubleshooting techniques. The second exam covers topics such as XenServer installation and configuration, XenDesktop deployment and management, NetScaler setup and administration, StoreFront configuration and optimization, HDX protocol optimization and more.

The CCP-N certification requires approximately 40 hours of study time depending on prior experience with the technology covered in the exams. It typically takes between two to four weeks to prepare for the exams depending on how much time an individual can dedicate to studying each day.

The cost for taking the CCP-N exams is $200 per exam or $400 for both exams if taken together.

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

F5 Networks Certified Technology Specialist (F5-CTS) is a certification program that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and skills in the installation, configuration, and maintenance of F5 products. It is designed to provide customers with assurance that those who possess this certification have the necessary skills to properly deploy F5 solutions.

To earn the F5-CTS certification, individuals must pass a series of exams that cover topics such as installation, configuration, troubleshooting, and security. The exams are administered by Pearson VUE and typically take between 60 and 90 minutes to complete.

In order to get certified, individuals must first register for the exam on the Pearson VUE website. They will then need to pay for the exam fee which varies depending on the country or region in which they are taking it. The cost for most countries is $200 USD per exam.

Once registered and paid for, individuals can schedule their exam at any authorized testing center or online from home or work. After passing all required exams, individuals will receive their F5-CTS certification via email within 10 business days.

7. Riverbed Certified Solutions Associate (RCSA)

Riverbed Certified Solutions Associate (RCSA) is a certification program designed to help IT professionals demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the Riverbed product suite. The RCSA program recognizes individuals who have achieved a level of proficiency in the configuration, deployment, and troubleshooting of Riverbed products.

The RCSA exam consists of multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as product architecture, installation, configuration, performance tuning, troubleshooting, and security. It typically takes around two hours to complete the exam.

To get certified, candidates must pass the RCSA exam with a score of 70% or higher. The cost of the exam varies depending on location but is generally around $150 USD. Candidates can register for the exam online at Riverbed’s website or through an authorized testing center.

8. Brocade Certified Network Engineer (BCNE)

Brocade Certified Network Engineer (BCNE) is a professional certification program designed to validate the skills and knowledge of network engineers who design, implement, maintain, and troubleshoot Brocade networks. This certification is administered by the Brocade Certification Program (BCP). It is an industry-recognized credential that validates an individual’s expertise in designing and managing Brocade networking solutions.

The BCNE exam consists of 65 multiple-choice questions and takes 90 minutes to complete. The exam focuses on topics such as configuring, monitoring, and troubleshooting Brocade products; understanding Layer 2/3 switching concepts; configuring IP routing; implementing Quality of Service (QoS); and configuring VLANs.

To obtain the BCNE certification, applicants must first pass the BCNE exam. The exam fee is $150 USD. Once the exam has been successfully completed, applicants will receive their official certificate from Brocade within 4-6 weeks after passing the exam.

9. Palo Alto Networks Accredited Configuration Engineer (ACE)

Palo Alto Networks Accredited Configuration Engineer (ACE) is a certification program designed to validate an individual’s expertise in configuring and managing Palo Alto Networks products. The ACE certification validates the knowledge, skills, and abilities of an individual to configure and manage Palo Alto Networks products.

The ACE program consists of two levels: Associate and Professional. Candidates must pass both the Associate and Professional examinations in order to become certified as an ACE. The Associate level focuses on basic configuration tasks while the Professional level covers more advanced topics such as troubleshooting, security policy design, and network optimization.

The ACE certification process takes approximately 6-8 weeks from start to finish. During this time, candidates must complete a series of online courses, self-study materials, practice exams, and hands-on labs. Candidates must also pass both the Associate and Professional examinations before being awarded their ACE certification.

The cost for the ACE program varies depending on which course packages are purchased. The most common package is the “Complete Package” which includes all required courses, self-study materials, practice exams, hands-on labs, and both exams for $2199 USD. Other packages are available at lower prices but may not include all components needed for certification.

In addition to the cost of the course package itself, there is also a fee associated with taking each exam ($150 USD per exam). This fee is paid directly to Palo Alto Networks upon registering for each exam.

10. Check Point Security Master Certification

Check Point Security Master Certification is an advanced certification program designed to provide IT professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to successfully design, deploy, and manage Check Point security solutions. The certification is designed for experienced IT security professionals who are responsible for designing, deploying, and managing Check Point security solutions.

The certification consists of three levels: Certified Security Administrator (CCSA), Certified Security Expert (CCSE), and Certified Security Master (CSM). The CSM level is the most advanced level of certification and requires a minimum of two years of experience working with Check Point products.

To obtain the CSM certification, you must pass both the CCSA and CCSE exams. The exams cover topics such as network security, firewall management, VPN configuration, intrusion prevention systems, content filtering, and endpoint security. You must also have hands-on experience working with Check Point products in order to qualify for this certification.

It typically takes around six months to complete the training required for the CSM certification. This includes completing online courses or attending instructor-led classes at a certified training center. After completing the training, you will need to pass both the CCSA and CCSE exams in order to receive your CSM certification.

The cost of obtaining a CSM certification varies depending on which type of training you choose. Online courses typically range from $1,000 - $2,000 while instructor-led classes can cost up to $4,000 or more depending on where you take them. In addition to these costs there may be additional fees associated with taking the exams such as registration fees or proctoring fees.

Do You Really Need a Network Operations Manager Certificate?

No, you do not need a Network Operations Manager Certificate to be successful in this field. While having a certificate may demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to the profession, there are other ways to prove your ability and expertise. For example, experience in the field is often more valuable than any certificate or degree you may have. With the right combination of skills, knowledge, and experience, you can become an effective network operations manager without a certificate.

In addition, networking certifications are often expensive and time-consuming. Depending on the program you choose, it could take months or even years to complete all of the courses required for certification. This could be difficult if you're already working full-time in the industry as many employers won't allow employees to take time off for further education.

Finally, most employers understand that certifications don't always guarantee success or expertise. Many will look at your experience level and prior accomplishments when hiring someone for a network operations role rather than just looking at certifications alone. Therefore, while having a certificate may be beneficial in some cases, it is not always necessary for success as a network operations manager.

Related: Network Operations Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Network Operations Manager Certifications

1. What is a Network Operations Manager Certification?

Answer: A Network Operations Manager Certification is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates a professional’s knowledge and skills in managing and maintaining computer networks. The certification enables professionals to develop, configure, monitor, and troubleshoot networks in order to ensure optimal performance.

2. What qualifications do I need to become certified as a Network Operations Manager?

Answer: To become certified as a Network Operations Manager, you must have at least two years of experience in network operations and management or related fields, pass the required examinations from an accredited organization such as CompTIA or Cisco, and complete any required continuing education courses.

3. How much does it cost to get certified as a Network Operations Manager?

Answer: The cost of certification depends on the organization offering the certification program. Generally, certification exams can range from $100-$500 depending on the provider. Additionally, some organizations may require additional fees for continuing education or other materials associated with the program.

4. How long does it take to become certified as a Network Operations Manager?

Answer: The time frame for becoming certified will vary depending on your experience and training level prior to beginning the program. Generally speaking, most people are able to complete the necessary steps within one year if they are dedicated to studying and preparing for their certifications exams.

5. What type of jobs can I get with a Network Operations Manager Certification?

Answer: With a Network Operations Manager Certification you can qualify for various positions such as network administrator, network engineer, systems analyst, IT manager or director, systems integrator or consultant, technical support specialist and more!