Top 11 Network Support Engineer Certifications

Certifications are important for a network support engineer in the job market because they demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and expertise in networking. Employers want to hire qualified professionals who have the necessary skills and experience to set up, manage, and troubleshoot networks. Certifications provide validation that an individual has met specific requirements for knowledge and proficiency in a particular technology or platform. Additionally, certifications show employers that an individual is committed to staying current with the latest technologies and trends, which can be beneficial when looking for new job opportunities.

The purpose of the article is to review some of the top certifications for Network Support Engineers and explain how they can contribute to a network support engineer's career advancement.

What are Network Support Engineer Certifications?

Network support engineer certification is a formal credential that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and ability to provide technical support for computer networks. This certification is usually obtained through a combination of academic coursework, hands-on experience, and exams. By obtaining this certification, engineers are able to demonstrate their expertise in network support and operation.

The benefits of having this certification include being able to work as a certified professional in the field of network engineering, as well as providing valuable credentials when looking for higher paying jobs or promotions. Having the certification can also give potential employers more confidence in your abilities and make you more attractive to them. It also provides a way to stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices, which can be beneficial when troubleshooting complex network problems. In addition, many organizations require network engineers to have certifications in order to work on their systems or networks.

Overall, having a network support engineer certification provides numerous benefits for individuals looking to advance their career in the IT field. Not only does it demonstrate mastery of the necessary skills required for network support roles, but it also provides proof of your commitment to keeping up with industry developments and staying ahead of the competition.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the different network support engineer certifications available, as some may be more suitable for certain job roles than others. Consider the type of experience you have and the specific technologies you are working with when making your decision. Additionally, look into any prerequisites or additional training that may be required in order to obtain certification.

Related: What does a Network Support Engineer do?

Top 11 Network Support Engineer Certifications

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

1. CompTIA Network+

CompTIA Network+ is an industry-recognized certification that validates the knowledge and skills of network professionals. It is designed to ensure that network professionals have the necessary skills to manage, maintain, troubleshoot, install, and configure basic network infrastructure.

It typically takes around 40 hours of study time to prepare for the CompTIA Network+ exam. However, this can vary depending on your existing knowledge and experience.

To get CompTIA Network+, you must pass the N10-007 exam. The exam consists of 90 multiple choice questions and a maximum duration of 90 minutes. The cost of the exam varies by country but generally ranges from $200-$300 USD.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your CompTIA Network+ certification which is valid for three years. After three years, you will need to take a continuing education course or retake the N10-007 exam in order to maintain your certification status.

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

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Server Infrastructure is a certification from Microsoft that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in designing, deploying, and managing Windows Server infrastructures. This certification is for IT professionals who have experience with Windows Server and want to demonstrate their technical skills and knowledge.

To get the MCSE: Server Infrastructure certification, you must pass two exams. The first exam covers core infrastructure topics such as networking, storage, virtualization, identity management, system management and security. The second exam focuses on advanced topics such as disaster recovery planning, high availability solutions, server virtualization and private cloud computing.

The amount of time it takes to get the MCSE: Server Infrastructure certification varies depending on your experience level and how much time you can dedicate to studying for the exams. Generally speaking, it takes around three months of dedicated study to prepare for the exams.

The cost of taking the two exams required for the MCSE: Server Infrastructure certification is $165 each. Therefore, the total cost of getting this certification is $330 USD plus any additional fees that may be associated with registering for or taking the exams.

3. Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Routing and Switching

Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Routing and Switching is a professional-level certification for network engineers who work with Cisco technologies. This certification validates the ability to plan, implement, verify and troubleshoot local and wide area enterprise networks. The CCNP Routing and Switching certification is designed for professionals who are responsible for the planning, implementation, verification and troubleshooting of complex enterprise routing and switching solutions.

It typically takes about 12 months to complete all of the requirements for CCNP Routing and Switching certification. To become certified, you must pass four exams: 300-101 ROUTE, 300-115 SWITCH, 300-135 TSHOOT, and one elective exam from a list of approved topics.

To get started on your path to becoming a CCNP Routing and Switching certified professional, you will need to purchase the appropriate training materials from Cisco or an authorized training provider. You can also find online resources such as practice tests that can help you prepare for the exams. Once you have completed your training materials and passed all four required exams, you will be eligible to receive your CCNP Routing and Switching certificate.

The cost of becoming a CCNP Routing and Switching certified professional varies depending on where you take your training courses from and which exams you choose to take. Generally speaking, it costs around $2,000-$3,000 USD in total for the entire process (including training materials).

4. Juniper Networks Certified Internet Professional (JNCIP)

Juniper Networks Certified Internet Professional (JNCIP) is a certification program offered by Juniper Networks that validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in designing, implementing, and troubleshooting complex network solutions based on Juniper technologies.

It typically takes around 6-12 months to complete the JNCIP certification program depending on the individual's experience and commitment to studying for the exam. To get certified, individuals must pass two exams: JN0-103 (Service Provider Routing and Switching) and JN0-662 (Enterprise Routing and Switching). The cost of each exam varies but is usually around $200 USD per exam.

In order to prepare for the exams, individuals should take advantage of online courses, instructor-led training sessions, or self-study materials available from Juniper Networks or other providers. Additionally, individuals should become familiar with Junos software as well as networking concepts such as routing protocols, switching technologies, security policies, network design principles, etc.

5. VMware Certified Professional – Network Virtualization (VCP-NV)

VMware Certified Professional – Network Virtualization (VCP-NV) is a certification program designed to help IT professionals gain the necessary skills and knowledge to design, deploy, configure, manage and troubleshoot VMware NSX virtual networks. The certification validates an individual’s ability to install, configure and manage VMware NSX environments for both vSphere and non-vSphere platforms.

It typically takes about four months of dedicated study in order to pass the VCP-NV exam. To get started with the program, individuals must first complete an approved training course from a VMware Authorized Training Center (VATC). After completing the course, they must pass two exams: VMware Certified Professional 6 – Network Virtualization (VCP6-NV) and VMware Certified Associate 6 – Network Virtualization (VCA6-NV).

The cost of the VCP-NV certification varies depending on where you take your training course. Generally speaking, it will cost around $3,000-$4,000 for tuition and materials. Additionally, there is an exam fee of $250 per exam that must be paid when taking each test.

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

Citrix Certified Professional – Networking (CCP-N) is a certification program offered by Citrix Systems, Inc. It is designed to validate the skills and knowledge of networking professionals who install, configure, manage, and troubleshoot Citrix products and solutions. This certification is ideal for IT professionals who want to demonstrate their expertise in deploying and managing Citrix networking solutions.

The CCP-N exam consists of 60 multiple choice questions that must be completed within 90 minutes. To pass the exam, candidates must score at least 70%. The exam covers topics such as network architecture, installation and configuration of Citrix products, troubleshooting techniques, performance optimization, and security best practices.

In order to get certified as a CCP-N, candidates must first complete the prerequisite training course from Citrix Education or an authorized training partner. After completing the training course, candidates can register for the CCP-N exam through Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers. The cost of the exam is $200 USD.

Once certified as a CCP-N professional, individuals will be able to demonstrate their expertise in deploying and managing Citrix networking solutions. They will also gain access to exclusive resources such as product updates, technical support forums, webinars, and more.

7. Check Point Security Administrator (CCSA)

Check Point Security Administrator (CCSA) is a certification program that provides an in-depth understanding of Check Point Security solutions. It is designed to help IT professionals understand the fundamentals of network security, including how to install and configure Check Point Security Gateway, manage user access, and troubleshoot common security issues.

The CCSA certification requires passing a single exam which consists of multiple-choice questions about Check Point technologies and concepts. The exam typically takes between 90 minutes and two hours to complete.

In order to get the CCSA certification, individuals must first register for the exam online through the Check Point website or through a third party testing center. After registration, individuals can schedule their exam at a testing center near them or take it online with Pearson VUE.

The cost of the CCSA exam varies depending on the country in which you are taking it but typically ranges from $150-$200 USD.

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

F5 Networks Certified Technology Specialist (F5-CTS) is a certification program that validates an individual's technical skills and knowledge related to F5 products. It is designed for IT professionals who have experience with F5 technology and want to demonstrate their proficiency in the field. The certification requires passing two exams, which are administered by Pearson VUE.

The first exam, the F5 Certified Technology Specialist: Application Delivery Fundamentals Exam (F5-CTS-ADF), covers topics such as application delivery fundamentals, traffic management, security, performance optimization, and troubleshooting. The second exam, the F5 Certified Technology Specialist: BIG-IP Local Traffic Manager Exam (F5-CTS-LTM), covers topics such as traffic management policies, virtual servers, profiles, pools and nodes.

It usually takes about three months to complete both exams and become certified. To get started on the path to becoming an F5-CTS certified professional, you must first register for the exams through Pearson VUE. You will then need to study for the exams using self-study materials or instructor-led training courses offered by F5 Networks or approved third parties.

The cost of each exam varies depending on your location; however, it typically ranges from $200-$400 USD per exam.

9. HP Accredited Technical Associate – Network Infrastructure (HP ATA-NI)

HP Accredited Technical Associate – Network Infrastructure (HP ATA-NI) is an entry-level certification program designed to provide IT professionals with the knowledge and skills required to install, configure, troubleshoot, and maintain basic network infrastructure. This certification is ideal for those seeking a career in networking or for those who want to enhance their existing skillset.

The HP ATA-NI certification requires passing two exams: HP2-N49 – Selling HP Networking Solutions and Services, and HP0-Y50 – Implementing HP Network Infrastructure Solutions. The exams are administered by Pearson VUE and cost $150 each. It typically takes around 6 months of studying to prepare for the tests.

The cost of obtaining the HP ATA-NI certification varies depending on where you take the tests. In some locations, there may be additional fees such as proctoring fees or exam registration fees. However, most test centers offer discounts if you purchase both exams at once.

In addition to taking the two exams, candidates must also complete an online application form and submit it to HP along with proof of passing scores on both exams. Once your application has been approved by HP, you will receive your official certificate in the mail within 4-6 weeks.

10. Avaya Certified Support Specialist – IP Office Platform

Avaya Certified Support Specialist – IP Office Platform is a certification program offered by Avaya, a leading provider of communication solutions. This certification is designed to validate the skills and knowledge of IT professionals who support Avaya IP Office Platform solutions. It is an intermediate-level certification that requires candidates to demonstrate their expertise in configuring, administering, and troubleshooting Avaya IP Office Platform solutions.

The certification exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. Candidates must answer at least 65% of the questions correctly in order to pass the exam. The cost of the exam is $125 USD.

In order to become certified, you must first complete an approved training course from an authorized Avaya Learning Partner or purchase self-study materials from the Avaya Learning Center website. Once you have completed your training or self-study material, you can then register for and take the exam online through Pearson VUE or in person at a testing center near you.

11. Brocade Certified Network Engineer (BCNE)

Brocade Certified Network Engineer (BCNE) is a certification program that validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in designing, implementing, and troubleshooting Brocade-based networks. The BCNE certification is designed to enable IT professionals to demonstrate their ability to design, implement, configure, and troubleshoot Brocade-based networks.

The BCNE exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. To become certified, individuals must pass the BCNE exam with a score of at least 70%.

To get the BCNE certification, you need to purchase the official study guide from Brocade or from an authorized reseller. The cost of the study guide is around $200 USD. After studying for the exam using the study guide materials, you can register for the exam through Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers. The cost of taking the BCNE exam is around $150 USD.

Once you have passed the BCNE exam, you will receive your certificate in 4-6 weeks via mail. Your certificate will be valid for three years before needing to be renewed by taking a new version of the BCNE exam.

Do You Really Need a Network Support Engineer Certificate?

In today's increasingly digital world, the need for qualified network support engineers is growing. As businesses move more and more of their operations online, the need for personnel who can ensure that networks are secure, efficient and reliable has become even greater. Network support engineers play an important role in keeping businesses up and running while protecting them from cyber threats.

The answer to whether or not you need a network support engineer certificate depends on your particular career goals. If you're looking to enter this field, having a certificate will demonstrate to employers that you have the necessary skills and knowledge required to do the job effectively. It can also make you stand out from other applicants when competing for jobs.

However, even if you don't possess a certificate in network engineering, there are still ways to prove your competency in this field. Having a degree in computer science or IT can help give employers confidence in your abilities as well as provide some industry-specific training. Additionally, having relevant experience working with networks or computers can also be beneficial when applying for positions as a network support engineer.

Ultimately, it's up to each individual to decide if they need a network support engineer certificate in order to pursue their desired career path. Although having one may be beneficial in certain circumstances, it isn't necessarily required for all roles within this profession.

Related: Network Support Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Network Support Engineer Certifications

Q1. What types of certifications are available for network support engineers?

A1. Popular certifications for network support engineers include Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), CompTIA Network+, Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE), Juniper Networks Certified Internet Associate (JNCIA) and VMware Certified Professional (VCP).

Q2. How long does it typically take to become certified as a network support engineer?

A2. The amount of time it takes to become certified as a network support engineer depends on the certification program and your experience level. Generally, expect to spend several months studying and preparing for the exam before you are ready to take the test.

Q3. Do I need any prior experience in order to get certified as a network support engineer?

A3. Yes, most certification programs require some level of experience or knowledge in networking concepts before you can be eligible to sit for an exam. However, some certification programs may offer entry-level exams that don’t require any prior experience or knowledge in networking concepts.

Q4. Are there any online courses or resources that can help me prepare for my certification exams?

A4: Yes, there are many online courses and resources available to help candidates prepare for their certification exams, including video tutorials, practice tests and study guides from vendors such as Cisco, CompTIA and Microsoft. Additionally, many universities offer courses specifically focused on preparing students for certain certifications such as CCNA or MCSE.

Q5. How much do network support engineer certifications cost?

A5: The cost of each certification varies depending on the program and vendor offering the certification; however, most certifications range from $150 - $500 USD per exam. Additionally, some vendors may have discounts available if you purchase bundles of multiple exams at once or if you purchase training materials along with your exam registration fee.