Top 11 Network Project Manager Certifications

Certifications are an important part of a network project manager's career development. They demonstrate a certain level of expertise and knowledge in the field, which is essential for success in the job market. Certifications can help a network project manager stand out from the competition and show potential employers that they have the skills necessary to manage complex projects. They also provide evidence of professional growth, which can be attractive to employers looking for experienced staff who can hit the ground running. Finally, certifications serve as a valuable resource for networking with other professionals in the industry, providing an opportunity to build relationships and stay up-to-date on trends and technologies.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Network Project Managers and explains how they can help advance a network project manager's career.

What are Network Project Manager Certifications?

Network project manager certification is a professional certification that is designed to help professionals who manage and oversee computer networks. This certification helps demonstrate an individual's knowledge and understanding of the principles, technologies, and techniques used in managing network projects. It also shows potential employers that the individual has taken the time to gain additional knowledge in this field.

The certification covers topics such as risk management, budgeting, scheduling, technical requirements gathering and analysis, resource planning and management, quality assurance, testing and deployment strategies, network security and troubleshooting. Candidates must have a minimum of three years of experience in managing network projects before they can apply for this certification.

Having this certification will help individuals stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs as a network project manager or related roles. It provides evidence that an applicant has relevant experience in the field by demonstrating their comprehension of the topics required to manage a successful project. Furthermore, it proves that they have taken initiative by taking additional steps towards gaining specialized knowledge in the area. Employers may be more likely to hire those with this type of certification over those without it due to the added value it offers them.

Pro tip: When considering network project manager certification, make sure to research the various certifications available and find one that meets your specific career goals. Look for certifications that provide specialized skills in areas like project management, network architecture, and security. Additionally, pay attention to the requirements of each certification and ensure that you meet all of them before applying.

Related: What does a Network Project Manager do?

Top 11 Network Project Manager Certifications

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

1. Certified Network Professional (CNP)

Certified Network Professional (CNP) is a certification program that certifies individuals in the knowledge and skills required to design, deploy, manage, and troubleshoot networks. It is offered by the International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium (ISC2).

The CNP certification requires passing a two-hour exam with a minimum score of 700 out of 1000. The exam covers topics such as network architecture, routing protocols, security protocols, network management tools, and troubleshooting techniques.

To get the CNP certification, you must first complete an approved training course or equivalent experience. You can find approved courses online or through your local college or university. After completing the course or gaining the equivalent experience, you must then register for and pass the CNP exam.

The cost of taking the CNP exam varies depending on where you take it and how you prepare for it. Generally speaking, it costs around $400 to take the exam and additional fees may apply if you need to retake it or if you use an online proctoring service.

2. Certified Network Security Manager (CNSM)

Certified Network Security Manager (CNSM) is a professional certification program designed to help IT professionals acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively manage network security. The CNSM program is offered by the International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium (ISC2). The program focuses on the fundamentals of network security management, including risk assessment, policy development, incident response, and system monitoring.

The CNSM certification requires three years of experience in network security management or five years of experience in information technology with at least one year in network security management. Candidates must also pass an exam to demonstrate their understanding of the principles and practices of network security management.

To get the CNSM certification, candidates must first register for and complete an online application form. Once approved, they can then purchase the exam voucher from ISC2 and schedule their exam appointment. The cost of the exam voucher varies depending on location but typically ranges from $400-$500 USD. After passing the exam, candidates must submit proof of their work experience before being awarded the certificate.

In total, it can take up to six months to obtain the CNSM certification after registering for it.

3. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is a globally recognized credential for project management professionals. The PMP certification demonstrates that you have the experience, education and competency to lead and direct projects.

To become certified as a PMP, you must meet certain educational and professional experience requirements. You must have at least 4,500 hours of project management experience over the last 8 years, or 7,500 hours if you do not hold a four-year degree in any field. You must also have 35 contact hours of formal project management education.

Once you have met the eligibility requirements, you can register for the PMP exam through PMI's website. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that are designed to assess your knowledge and skills related to project management processes, tools and techniques. The exam fee is $405 USD for members of PMI and $555 USD for non-members.

The exam takes about 4 hours to complete and results are available within 5 business days after completion. If you pass the exam, you will be awarded the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification from PMI.

4. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is an internationally-recognized certification that demonstrates a professional’s knowledge and experience in the field of information security. The CISSP is designed to provide individuals with the necessary skills to develop, implement, and manage an effective security program for any organization.

The CISSP exam consists of 250 multiple-choice questions and takes 6 hours to complete. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have at least five years of cumulative paid work experience in two or more of the eight domains of the Common Body of Knowledge (CBK). Alternatively, applicants can substitute one year of experience with a four-year college degree or an approved credential from the International Information System Security Certification Consortium (ISC2).

To get CISSP certified, you must first register for the exam through ISC2. The cost for registration is $699 USD. After passing the exam, you will need to pay an annual maintenance fee of $125 USD in order to maintain your certification status.

In addition to passing the exam, applicants must also agree to abide by ISC2's Code of Ethics and Continuing Professional Education (CPE) requirements. Once all requirements are met, applicants will receive their official CISSP certificate within 4-6 weeks.

5. Certified Wireless Network Professional (CWNP)

Certified Wireless Network Professional (CWNP) is a professional certification program that provides training and certifications for IT professionals in the field of wireless networking. It is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the technology, protocols, and tools used in wireless networks. CWNP certifications are recognized and respected by employers worldwide.

It typically takes between three to six months to complete the CWNP certification process, depending on the level of certification sought. To get certified, individuals must first take an online assessment, which tests their knowledge of wireless network fundamentals. Once they pass the assessment, they can then begin studying for the specific CWNP exam they wish to take.

The cost of taking a CWNP exam varies depending on the level of certification sought. The cost ranges from $150 USD for entry-level exams up to $500 USD for more advanced exams.

To maintain their certification, individuals must recertify every three years by either taking an additional exam or completing continuing education credits.

6. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is a certification offered by Cisco Systems, Inc. It is an entry-level certification that validates the ability to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot medium-size routed and switched networks. The CCNA certification is globally recognized as the industry standard for entry-level network professionals.

It typically takes about 6 months to prepare for the CCNA exam. To get certified, you must pass one of the two available exams: 200-301 or 200-125. You can choose to take either exam depending on your current knowledge level and experience with networking technologies.

The cost of taking the CCNA exam varies depending on which country you are in and where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs around $300 USD to take the exam in most countries.

7. CompTIA Network+

CompTIA Network+ is a certification that validates a professional’s knowledge and skills in networking. It is an industry-recognized credential that verifies an individual’s ability to:

• Design and implement functional networks
• Configure, manage, and maintain essential network devices
• Use devices such as switches and routers to segment network traffic and create resilient networks
• Identify benefits and drawbacks of existing network configurations
• Implement network security, standards, and protocols
• Troubleshoot network problems
• Support the creation of virtualized networks.

The CompTIA Network+ exam typically takes 90 minutes to complete. The exam consists of 90 multiple choice questions covering topics such as networking concepts, infrastructure, network operations, security, and more. To pass the exam you must score at least 720 out of 900 points.

To get CompTIA Network+, you must first purchase a voucher from CompTIA's website or from an authorized reseller. Once you have your voucher code you can register for the exam on CompTIA's website or via Pearson VUE's website. You will need to provide your name, address, email address, phone number and payment information when registering for the exam.

The cost of the CompTIA Network+ exam varies depending on where you take it but generally ranges from $250-$300 USD.

8. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert: Networking Infrastructure (MCSE:NI)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert: Networking Infrastructure (MCSE:NI) is a certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in designing, implementing, and managing the network infrastructure for Microsoft-based solutions. The MCSE:NI certification validates an individual’s ability to design and implement a secure Windows Server 2012/2016 network infrastructure, identity management with Active Directory Domain Services (AD DS), systems management, virtualization, storage solutions, and networking services.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete the requirements for the MCSE:NI certification. To get certified as a Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert: Networking Infrastructure (MCSE:NI), you must first pass two exams—one on Windows Server 2012/2016 and one on networking fundamentals. After passing these two exams, you must then pass three additional elective exams that cover topics such as advanced networking services, security fundamentals, and cloud services.

The cost of the MCSE:NI certification depends on the number of exams you need to take and how many times you need to take them. Each exam costs around $165 USD. Additionally, there may be fees associated with registering for the exam or obtaining study materials.

9. Juniper Networks Certified Internet Associate (JNCIA-Junos)

Juniper Networks Certified Internet Associate (JNCIA-Junos) is an entry-level certification that validates a candidate’s understanding of the Juniper Networks Junos operating system and related network technologies. It is designed for networking professionals who are new to Juniper Networks technology and want to demonstrate their knowledge of the platform.

The JNCIA-Junos certification requires candidates to pass a single exam, JN0-103. The exam covers topics such as routing fundamentals, security, switching, and troubleshooting. The exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and contains 65 multiple choice questions.

In order to take the JN0-103 exam, you must first register with Pearson VUE, the testing provider for Juniper Networks certifications. You can register online or by phone and will need to pay the exam fee of $200 USD when registering.

Once you have registered for the exam, you can schedule a time at a local testing center or take it online through Pearson VUE’s OnVue service. Once you have taken the exam, your results will be available immediately after completing it.

The cost of taking the JN0-103 exam is $200 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees associated with registering with Pearson VUE.

10. ITIL Foundation Certification in IT Service Management

ITIL Foundation Certification in IT Service Management is an entry-level certification that demonstrates a basic understanding of the ITIL framework and how it can be used to improve the delivery and management of IT services. It is designed for those who are new to the field or have limited knowledge and experience with IT service management. The certification typically takes between two to four weeks to complete, depending on the individual's learning style, background, and availability.

To get certified, individuals must take an accredited course from an approved provider. These courses typically involve lectures, interactive activities, quizzes, exams, and other materials that help students understand the concepts behind ITIL. After completing the coursework, students must pass a final exam in order to receive their certificate.

The cost of taking an accredited course varies depending on the provider and location; however, most courses range from $1,000–$2,000 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the final exam and obtaining your certificate.

11. Telecommunications Management Association's Master of Science in Telecommunications Management Program

The Telecommunications Management Association (TMA) offers a Master of Science in Telecommunications Management program. This program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the telecommunications industry. The program provides a comprehensive overview of the telecommunications industry, including topics such as wireless networks, IP networking, network security, and more.

The program consists of 36 credit hours and can be completed in two years or less. Students can choose from three concentrations: Network Design & Management, Network Security & Compliance, or Business Administration & Leadership. Courses are offered both online and on-campus, depending on the student's preference.

To apply for the program, applicants must have an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher. Applicants must also submit official transcripts, two letters of recommendation, a resume/CV, and a statement of purpose outlining their goals for pursuing the degree.

Tuition for the Master of Science in Telecommunications Management program varies by school but typically ranges between $20,000-$30,000 per year. Financial aid may be available to qualified students who demonstrate financial need.

Do You Really Need a Network Project Manager Certificate?

Whether you need a network project manager certificate depends on your career goals. If you are looking to work as a network project manager, then having a certificate can be beneficial. It demonstrates to employers that you have the knowledge and skills required to successfully manage complex network projects. It may also give you an edge over other applicants who don’t have such credentials.

However, if you already have experience in managing projects, then a certificate may not be necessary. Employers may value your experience more than any certificate or degree. Additionally, if your goal is to move up in the ranks of project management, then having the right connections and relationships within the industry may be more important than having a certificate.

In short, whether or not you need a network project manager certificate depends on your individual circumstances and career goals. If it aligns with your plans, then it could be a great way to demonstrate your expertise and set yourself apart from other job candidates.

Related: Network Project Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Network Project Manager Certifications

Q1. What is a Network Project Manager Certification?

A1. A Network Project Manager Certification is a professional certification that recognizes an individual's experience, knowledge, and expertise in managing network projects. It demonstrates to employers that an individual has the skills and knowledge necessary to successfully manage complex network projects.

Q2. What are the benefits of obtaining a Network Project Manager Certification?

A2. Obtaining a Network Project Manager Certification can help individuals gain recognition for their skills and expertise, increase their earning potential, open up career advancement opportunities, and demonstrate to employers their commitment to the profession.

Q3. How long does it take to complete a Network Project Manager Certification?

A3. The duration of the certification process depends on the specific program or institution offering the certification as well as the individual's prior experience in project management. Generally, it takes between one and two years to complete all of the required courses and exams for a Network Project Manager Certification.

Q4. Is there any cost associated with obtaining a Network Project Manager Certification?

A4. Yes, there are costs associated with obtaining a Network Project Manager Certification, including the cost of tuition for courses and exams as well as any other fees associated with taking part in the certification process such as application fees or membership fees if applicable.

Q5. Are there any prerequisites for obtaining a Network Project Manager Certification?

A5: Yes, most programs require individuals to have at least some prior experience in project management before they can be certified as a Network Project Manager. Additionally, some programs may also require completion of specific coursework or certifications related to project management before applying for certification status.