Top 11 NOC Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a NOC Manager in the job market because they demonstrate to potential employers that an individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the duties of a NOC Manager. Certifications show that a person has received formal training and has been tested on their knowledge, which is often required by employers. Having certifications can also be beneficial when applying for higher-level positions or promotions as they demonstrate a commitment to professional development.

The article reviews some of the top certifications for NOC Managers and explains how they can help to further a noc manager's career.

What are NOC Manager Certifications?

NOC Manager Certification is a specialized certification program that provides training and recognition for individuals who manage or lead Network Operations Centers (NOCs). The certification focuses on the technical, operational and managerial aspects of running an effective NOC, including best practices for operations, service delivery and support. It also covers topics such as troubleshooting techniques, network topology, network security, system performance monitoring and more. By completing the certification program, NOC Managers gain knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage their organization's networks and ensure optimal performance.

The benefits of having a certified NOC Manager include improved customer satisfaction levels due to better quality of service; increased efficiency in network operations due to better understanding of how networks function; improved problem-solving capabilities; greater ability to anticipate potential problems before they occur; reduced downtime due to better preventive measures; improved communication between teams internally and externally; and more. With a certified NOC Manager on staff, organizations can be assured that their networks are being managed in the most efficient manner possible.

Pro Tip: When considering noc manager certification, make sure to research the various certifications available and choose one that best fits your experience and career goals. Additionally, focus on continuing education and staying up-to-date with industry trends in order to remain competitive in the job market.

Related: What does an NOC Manager do?

Top 11 NOC Manager Certifications

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

1. Certified NOC Manager (CNOCM)

Certified NOC Manager (CNOCM) is a certification program designed to provide recognition for network operations center (NOC) professionals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage a NOC. The CNOCM credential is offered by the International Association of Network Operations Centers (IANOC).

To become certified as a CNOCM, individuals must meet certain prerequisites and pass an exam. Prerequisites include at least two years of experience in managing a NOC or related field, plus completion of IANOC's Certified NOC Manager course. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as network operations center management, system administration, network security, and customer service.

The cost to take the CNOCM exam varies depending on the country in which you take it. In the United States, the cost is $400 USD. It typically takes four to six weeks to receive your results after taking the exam.

Once you have passed the exam, there are no additional fees required to maintain your certification status. However, IANOC does offer continuing education courses that can help you stay up-to-date with industry trends and best practices.

2. Certified Network Operations Center Manager (CNOCM)

Certified Network Operations Center Manager (CNOCM) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have the knowledge and skills necessary to manage a network operations center. The CNOCM certification program is offered by the International Association of Network Operations Centers (IANOC).

The CNOCM certification requires that applicants have at least three years of experience in managing a network operations center or related field and demonstrate their knowledge of best practices, processes, and procedures for managing a NOC. Applicants must also pass an exam that covers topics such as incident management, problem management, service level agreements, monitoring tools, change management and more.

It typically takes about six months to complete the certification process. To get certified, applicants must first submit an application form along with any required supporting documents. Once approved, they can register for the exam which is administered online. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their official certificate from IANOC.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on the type of membership you choose. For non-members it costs $350 USD while members pay $250 USD.

3. CompTIA Network+ Certification

CompTIA Network+ is a vendor-neutral certification designed to validate an individual’s knowledge and skills related to computer networks. It is a globally recognized credential that validates the ability to troubleshoot, configure, and manage common network devices; understand network technologies; and understand network security concepts.

The CompTIA Network+ certification exam typically takes 90 minutes to complete and consists of 90 multiple-choice questions. To obtain the certification, you must pass the exam with a score of at least 720 out of 900.

To get the CompTIA Network+ certification, you must first register for the exam through Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers. After registering, you can take the exam at one of these centers or online from your home or office. The cost of the exam varies depending on your location but generally ranges from $200-$300 USD.

Once you have passed the exam, you will be issued a certificate indicating your achievement as well as an official transcript from CompTIA. This transcript can be used to prove your credentials when applying for jobs or other certifications.

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

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Cloud Platform and Infrastructure is a certification that validates an individual’s ability to design, build, and maintain cloud-based solutions. This certification covers topics such as virtualization, networking, storage, identity management, monitoring and operations of cloud-based solutions. It also includes the ability to deploy and configure Windows Server 2012 and Windows Azure technologies.

To obtain this certification, you must first pass two exams: 70-413 Designing and Implementing a Server Infrastructure and 70-414 Implementing an Advanced Server Infrastructure. After passing these two exams, you can then become certified by completing one of the elective exams in the MCSE: Cloud Platform and Infrastructure track. The elective exam options are: 70-331 Core Solutions of Microsoft SharePoint Server 2013; 70-332 Advanced Solutions of Microsoft SharePoint Server 2013; 70-341 Core Solutions of Microsoft Exchange Server 2013; 70-342 Advanced Solutions of Microsoft Exchange Server 2013; or 74-324 Administering Office 365 for Small Businesses.

The cost of the MCSE: Cloud Platform and Infrastructure certification varies depending on the country you are located in but typically ranges from $150-$200 USD per exam. The total cost for all three exams would be between $450-$600 USD.

The time it takes to get this certification will depend on how much time you have available to study for each exam. Typically it takes around 3 months if you are studying full time or 6 months if you are studying part time.

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

Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Routing and Switching is a professional-level certification designed to validate an individual’s ability to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot medium-sized routed and switched networks. It is one of the most sought after certifications in the networking field.

It typically takes around 6 to 12 months of study and practice to prepare for the CCNP Routing & Switching exam. The exam consists of three tests: 300-101 ROUTE (Implementing Cisco IP Routing), 300-115 SWITCH (Implementing Cisco IP Switched Networks), and 300-135 TSHOOT (Troubleshooting and Maintaining Cisco IP Networks).

To get your CCNP Routing & Switching certification, you must first pass all three exams. You can register for the exams through Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers. Each exam costs $300 USD. After passing all three exams, you will be awarded your CCNP Routing & Switching certification from Cisco.

6. ITIL Foundation Certification

ITIL Foundation Certification is a globally recognized certification that validates an individual’s knowledge of the IT Infrastructure Library (ITIL) best practices framework. ITIL is a set of detailed practices for IT service management (ITSM) that focuses on aligning IT services with the needs of business. It provides guidance on how to use IT as a tool to facilitate business change, transformation, and growth.

The ITIL Foundation Certification is the entry-level qualification in the ITIL certification scheme and is designed for those who have a basic understanding of the principles and core elements of IT service management (ITSM). It requires no prior experience or knowledge of ITSM and can be completed in just two days. The exam consists of 40 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within 60 minutes.

To obtain the certification, individuals must successfully complete an accredited training course, pass the exam, and pay any applicable fees. The cost of obtaining the certification varies depending on provider but typically ranges from $500-$1,000 USD.

In addition to demonstrating knowledge of ITSM principles, having an ITIL Foundation Certification can help individuals stand out from other job applicants when applying for roles within organizations that are actively using or transitioning to ITSM frameworks such as ITIL.

7. Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification

Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification is a globally recognized certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in project management. It is awarded by the Project Management Institute (PMI) and is one of the most sought-after certifications for professionals who wish to demonstrate their skills and knowledge in the field of project management.

The PMP certification requires applicants to have a certain amount of experience in managing projects, as well as passing an exam. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within four hours. In order to qualify for the PMP certification exam, applicants must have either a secondary degree and at least five years of project management experience with 7,500 hours leading and directing projects, or a four-year degree and at least three years of project management experience with 4,500 hours leading and directing projects.

In order to get the PMP certification, applicants must first apply for it through the PMI website. Once approved, they can then register for the exam through Prometric or Pearson VUE testing centers. The cost of registering for the exam is $405 for members of PMI or $555 for non-members.

The entire process from application to taking the test can take up to two months depending on availability of test slots at your chosen testing center. After taking the test, it usually takes about four weeks before you receive your results. If you pass, you will receive your official PMP certification in another four weeks or so.

8. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is an internationally recognized information security certification that demonstrates a person’s knowledge and experience in the field of information security. It is administered by the International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium (ISC2).

The CISSP exam covers eight domains: Security and Risk Management, Asset Security, Security Engineering, Communications and Network Security, Identity and Access Management, Security Assessment and Testing, Security Operations, and Software Development Security. The exam is six hours long and contains 250 multiple-choice questions.

In order to become a CISSP certified professional, you must have at least five years of cumulative paid work experience in two or more of the eight domains covered by the CISSP exam. Alternatively, you can have four years of work experience plus a college degree or an approved credential from ISC2.

The cost for taking the CISSP exam varies depending on where you take it. In the United States, it typically costs around $699 USD.

9. AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate

AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate is an industry-recognized certification that validates a candidate’s technical skills and expertise in designing, deploying, and managing applications and infrastructure on the Amazon Web Services (AWS) platform. The certification is designed to help IT professionals demonstrate their knowledge of AWS services, architecture best practices, and the ability to design solutions that are secure, reliable, and cost-effective.

It typically takes around 3 months of preparation to get the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate certification. Candidates should have at least one year of experience working with AWS services before attempting the exam. It is recommended that candidates take an AWS training course or use online resources such as practice tests to prepare for the exam.

The AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate exam costs $150 USD for each attempt. After passing the exam, candidates receive a digital badge that can be shared on social media and other professional networks.

10. Google Cloud Platform Fundamentals: Core Infrastructure

Google Cloud Platform Fundamentals: Core Infrastructure is a comprehensive set of services, tools and technologies that enable organizations to build, deploy and manage applications on Google's cloud platform. It includes the core infrastructure components such as compute, storage, networking and security. These components are designed to provide an integrated environment for building, running and managing applications in the cloud.

It typically takes between 1-2 weeks to get started with Google Cloud Platform Fundamentals: Core Infrastructure depending on the complexity of the project. The first step is to sign up for a free trial account at cloud.google.com. This will give you access to all of the core infrastructure services available on Google Cloud Platform. Once you have signed up, you will need to configure your project settings and create a billing account if you plan on using any paid services or features. After that, you can start creating virtual machines (VMs) or containers using Compute Engine or Kubernetes Engine respectively, setting up storage buckets with Cloud Storage, creating networks with Virtual Private Cloud (VPC), setting up firewall rules with Cloud Security Groups and enabling identity and access management (IAM).

The cost of Google Cloud Platform Fundamentals: Core Infrastructure depends on which services you use and how much usage they incur. Prices vary depending on region but generally speaking Compute Engine starts at $0.02 per hour for a f1-micro instance while other services like Storage start at $0.026 per GB/month for standard storage class A and $0.073 per GB/month for regional storage class B in US regions. You can find more detailed pricing information here: https://cloudpricingcalculator.appspot.com/.

11. VMware Certified Professional 6 – Data Center Virtualization (VCP6-DCV)

VMware Certified Professional 6 – Data Center Virtualization (VCP6-DCV) is a certification program that validates an individual’s skills and knowledge in deploying, managing and troubleshooting VMware vSphere 6.x environments. It is designed for IT professionals who have experience with virtualization technologies and want to demonstrate their expertise in VMware vSphere 6.x.

In order to get the VCP6-DCV certification, an individual must first attend a required training course or pass the VMware Certified Professional 6 – Data Center Virtualization (VCP6-DCV) exam. After completing either of these requirements, individuals can then take the VCP6-DCV exam. The exam consists of 85 multiple choice questions and must be completed within 90 minutes.

The cost of the VCP6-DCV certification depends on the training course that is taken to prepare for the exam. Generally speaking, courses range from $2,000 - $3,500 USD depending on the provider and location of the course. The cost of taking the VCP6-DCV exam itself is $250 USD per attempt.

In total, it can take anywhere from 2 weeks to 3 months to receive your VCP6-DCV certification depending on how quickly you are able to complete your training course or pass your exam.

Do You Really Need a NOC Manager Certificate?

Yes, an NOC Manager Certificate is essential for those who want to become a Network Operations Center (NOC) Manager. An NOC Manager is responsible for the day-to-day operations of a company’s network infrastructure, including routers, switches, firewalls and other networking devices. The NOC Manager must be able to manage and troubleshoot complex network systems to ensure that they are running efficiently and securely.

Having an NOC Manager Certificate demonstrates that the holder has the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively manage a network operations center. The certificate program covers topics such as TCP/IP protocols, routing protocols, system architecture, security best practices, performance monitoring and management tools. It also provides hands-on experience in configuring and troubleshooting networks.

The certification also provides employers with assurance that the potential hire has the necessary expertise to perform the job successfully. With an NOC Manager Certificate, employers can be confident that their new hire will have the technical know-how to handle complex network issues quickly and accurately while still following industry best practices.

In conclusion, having an NOC Manager Certificate is important for anyone looking to enter into this field or progress further in their career. It demonstrates a level of expertise that shows employers you are qualified for the position and can handle any issue that may arise with the company's network infrastructure.

Related: NOC Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About NOC Manager Certifications

Q1. What is a NOC Manager Certification?

A1. NOC Manager Certifications are professional certifications that validate an individual’s knowledge and skills in managing a Network Operations Center (NOC). It provides the necessary skills to efficiently monitor, manage, and troubleshoot networks and systems from within a NOC environment.

Q2. What qualifications do I need to obtain a NOC Manager Certification?

A2. To obtain a NOC Manager Certification, you must have at least two years of experience in network operations or related field, as well as pass an exam administered by a recognized certification body such as CompTIA or Cisco.

Q3. How long does it take to get certified?

A3. The amount of time it takes to get certified depends on the type of certification you pursue and your current level of knowledge and experience. Generally speaking, most certifications can be completed within 6-12 months depending on how much time you are able to dedicate to studying for the exams.

Q4. Are there any prerequisites for getting certified?

A4. Most certifications require that applicants have some prior experience in network operations or related fields before taking the exam; however, some certifications may not require any prior experience at all depending on the specific certification program you choose to pursue.

Q5. How much does it cost to get certified?

A5: The cost of getting certified depends on which certification program you choose and what materials or exams you need to purchase in order to complete the program requirements. Generally speaking, most programs range from $500-$2,000 depending on what is included in the package deal offered by each program provider.