Top 11 Network Systems Administrator Certifications

Certifications are important for network systems administrators to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in the industry. They can help job seekers stand out amongst other applicants, as employers often look for certified professionals with proven skills and qualifications. Certifications also provide evidence that a candidate has the necessary technical knowledge and experience to perform certain tasks, such as configuring networks, maintaining security measures, troubleshooting hardware and software problems, and more. Additionally, certifications can open up opportunities for career advancement or higher salaries.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Network Systems Administrators, and explain how they can help to advance a network systems administrator's career.

What are Network Systems Administrator Certifications?

Network systems administrator certification is a type of professional certification that verifies a person’s knowledge and skills in managing, maintaining and troubleshooting network systems. It is most often obtained through an accredited institution or through the completion of a special certification program. The certification demonstrates to employers that an individual has the necessary knowledge and experience to handle the tasks associated with managing and maintaining networks.

Having this type of certification can help individuals stand out in the job market and increase their chances of getting hired for certain positions. Network systems administrators are responsible for ensuring that computer networks run efficiently, which requires a great deal of technical skills. By having this type of certification, employers will be able to quickly identify potential candidates who have the knowledge and experience needed to effectively manage their network systems.

In addition, having network systems administrator certification can also help individuals stay up-to-date on new technologies and trends in the industry. As technology continues to evolve at an incredibly rapid pace, having this type of certification can ensure that individuals remain current on the latest advancements in networking technology so they can better serve their clients or employers.

Pro Tip: When considering a network systems administrator certification, research the certification and make sure it is up to date with the latest technology. Ensure that the certification is recognized by potential employers in your field and will allow you to advance your career. Additionally, consider taking advantage of any free resources available to prepare for the certification exam.

Related: What does a Network Systems Administrator do?

Top 11 Network Systems Administrator Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Network Systems Administrators today.

1. CompTIA Network+

CompTIA Network+ is a certification program designed to validate an individual's knowledge and skills in network technologies. It covers topics such as network design, installation, configuration, troubleshooting, maintenance, security and management. The certification is vendor-neutral and validates the ability to maintain, configure and troubleshoot any wired or wireless networks.

The CompTIA Network+ exam consists of 90 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 90 minutes. To receive the certification, an individual must pass the exam with a score of 720 or higher on a scale of 100-900.

In order to take the CompTIA Network+ exam, individuals must first register for an account on the CompTIA website. Once registered, they can purchase vouchers for the exam from Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers. The cost of the exam varies depending on location but typically ranges from $200-$300 USD.

It typically takes around three months of study to prepare for the CompTIA Network+ exam. This includes studying topics such as networking concepts, media types, cabling standards and protocols; understanding how routers and switches work; configuring IP addressing; understanding routing protocols; setting up firewalls; configuring virtual private networks (VPNs); managing network performance; troubleshooting common network issues; understanding wireless networking concepts; implementing security measures; and more.

2. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is a certification offered by Cisco Systems that validates an individual's skills and knowledge in networking. It is designed to help professionals demonstrate their ability to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot medium-sized routed and switched networks.

It typically takes around six months of study and preparation to obtain the CCNA certification. This includes taking courses, studying for the exam, and completing hands-on labs.

To get the CCNA certification, you must pass one or more exams administered by Cisco Systems. The most common exam is the 200-301 CCNA exam which covers topics such as network fundamentals, network access, IP connectivity, automation and programmability, security fundamentals, and more.

The cost of the CCNA exam varies depending on your location but generally ranges from $300-$400 USD.

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

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Server Infrastructure is a certification that validates an individual's expertise in designing, implementing, and managing an organization's IT infrastructure. It covers topics such as networking, virtualization, storage, identity management, system management, cloud technologies, and more.

It typically takes around three to six months to complete the MCSE: Server Infrastructure certification. The amount of time it takes is dependent on the individual’s experience level and how much time they have available to devote to studying for the exam.

To get the MCSE: Server Infrastructure certification, individuals must first pass three exams: 70-410 Installing and Configuring Windows Server 2012; 70-411 Administering Windows Server 2012; and 70-412 Configuring Advanced Windows Server 2012 Services. Once these exams are completed successfully, individuals will be awarded the MCSE: Server Infrastructure certification.

The cost of the MCSE: Server Infrastructure certification varies depending on which training program you choose. Generally speaking, it can range from $1,000 - $2,500 USD for all three exams plus any additional materials you may need for studying.

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 demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and skills in networking technologies, specifically those related to Juniper products. The JNCIA certification validates the ability to configure, monitor, and troubleshoot Juniper networks.

The JNCIA exam typically takes about 90 minutes to complete and consists of 65 multiple-choice questions. To get certified, individuals must pass the JNCIA exam with a score of 70% or higher.

To prepare for the exam, individuals can take online courses or attend instructor-led training sessions through authorized Juniper training partners. The cost of the exam varies depending on where it is taken but typically ranges from $150-$200 USD.

5. VMware Certified Professional (VCP)

VMware Certified Professional (VCP) is a certification program designed to validate an individual’s expertise in VMware virtualization technologies. It is the most popular and widely recognized certification for IT professionals who use VMware products. The VCP certification is awarded by VMware after successful completion of a course and exam that covers the fundamentals of virtualization, networking, storage, security, and other topics related to the use of VMware products.

The VCP certification process typically takes about two months from start to finish. First, you must complete a training course offered by an authorized VMware training provider. After completing the course, you must pass a proctored exam administered by Pearson VUE or Prometric. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your official VCP certificate from VMware.

The cost of obtaining a VCP certification varies depending on the type of training course taken and whether or not you purchase any additional materials such as practice tests or study guides. The cost can range anywhere from $500-$3000 USD depending on these factors.

In addition to passing the exam and paying for any associated costs, there are also some prerequisites that must be met before taking the VCP exam:

-You must have at least six months of experience using VMware products

-You must have taken an authorized training course

-You must hold either a valid vSphere 6 Foundations or Data Center Virtualization (DCV) certification

-You must agree to adhere to the terms of service outlined in the VMware Certification Agreement

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

Citrix Certified Professional - Networking (CCP-N) is a certification program designed to demonstrate a professional’s knowledge and skills in networking technologies, such as installation, configuration, and troubleshooting of Citrix NetScaler. It is an industry-recognized credential that validates a professional’s expertise in the field of networking.

The CCP-N exam consists of 75 multiple choice questions and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. The exam covers topics such as Citrix NetScaler architecture, basic configuration tasks, advanced features, traffic optimization techniques, and troubleshooting. In order to become certified, candidates must pass the CCP-N exam with a score of 70% or higher.

To get started on your journey to becoming a CCP-N certified professional, you will need to register for the exam through the Citrix Learning Center. You will then be able to purchase a voucher for the exam which will cost $200 USD. Once you have purchased your voucher and scheduled your exam date, you can begin studying for the CCP-N certification using self-study materials available from Citrix or other third party vendors.

It typically takes around two months of study time before taking the CCP-N exam; however this may vary depending on each individual's experience level with networking technologies.

7. Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)

Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) is a certification program designed to demonstrate an individual’s ability to configure, manage, and maintain Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems. The RHCSA certification is the most widely recognized Linux certification in the industry and can open up new career opportunities for those who hold it.

The RHCSA exam typically takes about two hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions. To become certified, you must pass the exam with a score of at least 70%. The exam covers topics such as installation and configuration of Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems, managing users and groups, configuring network services, security administration, troubleshooting system issues, and more.

You can take the RHCSA exam either online or in person at a testing center. Online exams are available through Red Hat's website for an exam fee of $400 USD. If you prefer to take the exam in person at a testing center, you will need to register with Pearson VUE first before scheduling your appointment. The cost for taking the exam at a testing center is $500 USD.

8. Palo Alto Networks Certified Network Security Administrator (PCNSA)

The Palo Alto Networks Certified Network Security Administrator (PCNSA) certification is a professional-level credential that validates an individual’s ability to configure, manage, and troubleshoot Palo Alto Networks next-generation firewalls. The PCNSA exam tests the knowledge and skills of network security administrators in configuring and managing the Palo Alto Networks platform.

To get the PCNSA certification, you need to pass the PCNSA exam. The exam consists of 60 multiple choice questions and must be completed within 90 minutes. It covers topics such as networking fundamentals, firewall installation and configuration, user authentication, content filtering, and VPN technologies.

You can register for the PCNSA exam through the Palo Alto Networks website or through Pearson VUE testing centers. The cost of the exam is $250 USD.

It typically takes between one to two months to prepare for the PCNSA certification exam depending on your experience level with Palo Alto Networks products and services.

9. Check Point Certified Security Administrator (CCSA)

Check Point Certified Security Administrator (CCSA) is a certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to manage Check Point Security Gateway and Management Software Blades. The CCSA certification is designed for security professionals who are responsible for day-to-day management of Check Point security solutions, including installation, configuration, troubleshooting, upgrading, and monitoring of the security policies in order to maintain a secure environment.

The CCSA certification requires a minimum of 60 hours of training in order to prepare for the exam. The training can be taken in an instructor-led classroom setting or online through self-study courses. Once the training is complete, individuals must pass a written exam in order to receive their CCSA certification.

The cost of the CCSA certification varies depending on how you choose to take it. If you choose to attend an instructor-led classroom course, you can expect to pay anywhere from $2,500-$3,500 depending on your location. If you choose to take the self-study route, you can expect to pay around $1,000-$1,200 for all materials and exams needed for certification.

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

F5 Networks Certified Technology Specialist (F5-CTS) is a certification that validates the technical knowledge and skills of IT professionals who install, configure, and manage F5 products. This certification is designed to demonstrate that an individual has the expertise necessary to deploy, maintain, troubleshoot, and optimize F5 solutions.

To become an F5-CTS certified professional, you must pass two exams: the F5-101 Exam (Application Delivery Fundamentals) and the F5-201 Exam (TMOS Administration). Both exams are administered by Pearson VUE. The exams are multiple choice and cover topics such as architecture, product features, configuration tasks, troubleshooting scenarios, and best practices for deploying F5 solutions.

It typically takes about 3-4 months to prepare for both exams. To get started on your journey towards becoming an F5-CTS certified professional, you should first review the exam objectives for each exam to ensure that you understand what topics will be covered in each exam. You can then use online resources such as study guides or practice tests to further your understanding of the material. Additionally, attending a training course or workshop may be beneficial if you want more hands-on experience with F5 technologies.

The cost of taking both exams is $400 USD per exam ($800 USD total). After passing both exams, you will be awarded the title of “F5 Networks Certified Technology Specialist” and receive a digital badge that can be used on your resume or social media profiles.

11. Amazon Web Services Certified SysOps Administrator – Associate

Amazon Web Services Certified SysOps Administrator – Associate is a certification program designed to validate an individual’s technical expertise in deploying, operating, and managing applications on the Amazon Web Services (AWS) platform. The certification covers topics such as deployment and management of systems on AWS, monitoring and automation of operations on AWS, security in the cloud, and troubleshooting.

It typically takes around 3-6 months to prepare for the AWS Certified SysOps Administrator – Associate exam. This preparation time can vary depending on an individual’s experience with AWS. To get certified, you must pass the AWS Certified SysOps Administrator – Associate exam which consists of multiple choice and multiple answer questions.

The cost of taking the exam is $150 USD. You can purchase vouchers from Amazon or other online stores that will provide discounts when purchasing multiple exams at once. Additionally, some employers may cover the cost of taking the exam if it is related to your job duties.

To get certified as an Amazon Web Services Certified SysOps Administrator – Associate, you must demonstrate knowledge in areas such as deploying applications on AWS, configuring networks and storage on AWS, managing user access control for applications running on AWS, monitoring performance metrics for applications running on AWS, automating operational tasks using scripts or tools such as CloudFormation or Chef/Puppet/Ansible/SaltStack etc., ensuring security compliance for applications running on AWS, and troubleshooting issues related to applications running on AWS.

Do You Really Need a Network Systems Administrator Certificate?

Network systems administrators are responsible for the maintenance, installation, configuration, and troubleshooting of computer networks. As such, they play an essential role in the success of any business or organization that relies on computers to conduct their operations. For those interested in entering this field, many wonder if a network systems administrator certificate is necessary.

The answer depends on the individual’s experience and qualifications. If someone already has a degree in computer science or engineering, then they may not need a certificate to become a network systems administrator. However, if they do not have any formal education in this area, then obtaining a certificate could be beneficial. This will demonstrate that the individual has obtained specific knowledge related to network systems administration and can help them stand out from other applicants who do not possess this certification.

For those who want to pursue a career as a network systems administrator but lack the requisite qualifications or experience, obtaining a certificate is often recommended. This type of credential provides an opportunity for individuals to learn about various aspects of networking technology and gain practical skills needed for success in this field. A certificate can also open up more job opportunities since many employers prefer candidates with some kind of formal training or certification in this area.

In conclusion, whether or not someone needs a network systems administrator certificate depends on their background and experience level. For those without much technical knowledge or experience in IT, obtaining such a credential can be highly beneficial as it will demonstrate their commitment to learning new skills and provide evidence of their proficiency in the subject matter.

Related: Network Systems Administrator Resume Examples

FAQs About Network Systems Administrator Certifications

1. What certifications are available for network systems administrators?

Answer: The certifications for network systems administrators vary depending on the type of system and hardware you are working with. Some popular certifications include CompTIA Network+, Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE), Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), Juniper Networks Certified Internet Professional (JNCIP), and Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA).

2. How long does it take to become certified?

Answer: The length of time required to become certified varies depending on the type of certification and your current level of experience. Generally, most certifications require between six months and two years of study.

3. What types of jobs can I get with a network systems administrator certification?

Answer: With a network systems administrator certification, you can work in many industries, including IT departments in businesses, government agencies, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities. Some common job titles include network engineer, system analyst, computer technician, and IT manager.

4. Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified?

Answer: Most certifications have some prerequisites in terms of knowledge or experience before you can take the exam or apply for the certification itself. Check with the provider to find out what is required for each specific certification path before beginning your studies.

5. How much do network systems administrators make?

Answer: Salaries for network systems administrators vary based on geographical location, education level, experience level, and other factors such as industry or company size. According to Glassdoor data from 2020, the average salary range is between $60k - $90k per year in the United States depending on these factors mentioned above.