Top 11 Storage Administrator Certifications

Certifications are important for a storage administrator in the job market as they demonstrate a certain level of knowledge and skill in the field. Employers value certifications because they show that an individual has taken the time to learn and understand specific storage technologies and best practices. Certifications also provide employers with assurance that an individual is capable of performing complex tasks related to storage administration, such as installing, configuring, and troubleshooting various storage systems. In addition, certifications are often seen as a sign of commitment, dedication, and expertise. As such, having one or more certifications can greatly increase an individual's chances of getting hired for a storage administrator position.

The article reviews some of the top certifications for Storage Administrators and explains how they can help to advance a storage administrator's career.

What are Storage Administrator Certifications?

Storage administrator certification is a type of certification that validates an individual's skills and knowledge in the area of storage administration. This certification provides individuals with the credentials necessary to prove their expertise in areas such as capacity planning, backup and recovery, storage security, data protection and disaster recovery. Holding this certification demonstrates to employers that an individual has the necessary qualifications to manage a storage infrastructure efficiently and securely.

This certification can help individuals who are looking to get into or advance in the field of storage administration. By having this certification on their resume, individuals will stand out among other applicants for positions in this field. Furthermore, holding this certification may open up opportunities for promotions or higher-level positions within organizations that require specialized knowledge in storage administration. Additionally, having this certification can help individuals stay up-to-date on the latest industry trends and technologies related to storage administration, which can be beneficial when working with new systems or leading projects involving these technologies.

Pro Tip: Take advantage of free online resources, such as vendor websites and educational websites, to help you prepare for storage administrator certification. Many vendors offer practice exams and tutorials to help you become familiar with their products before taking the certification exam. Additionally, many educational websites provide helpful study guides and review materials for storage administrator certification exams.

Related: What does a Storage Administrator do?

Top 11 Storage Administrator Certifications

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

1. CompTIA Storage+

CompTIA Storage+ is a certification program designed to help IT professionals understand the fundamentals of storage technology and related topics. It covers topics such as storage architectures, data protection, virtualization, security, and cloud storage. It is designed for IT professionals who are looking to gain expertise in the field of storage technology.

The CompTIA Storage+ certification exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and consists of 90 multiple choice questions. To become certified, you must pass the exam with a score of 750 or higher on a scale of 100-900.

You can get CompTIA Storage+ certification by taking an online course or attending a classroom training session. The cost of the course depends on the provider and can range from $500-$1000 USD. Additionally, you will need to purchase an exam voucher which typically costs around $200 USD.

2. SNIA Certified Storage Professional (SCSP)

SNIA Certified Storage Professional (SCSP) is a professional certification program offered by the Storage Networking Industry Association (SNIA). It is designed to recognize storage professionals who have demonstrated their knowledge and expertise in storage technology. The SCSP certification is the highest level of recognition for storage professionals and provides them with an industry-recognized credential that validates their skills and experience.

It typically takes 12-18 months to complete the SCSP program. To get started, individuals must first take an online assessment test to determine if they meet the prerequisites for the program. Once accepted into the program, individuals must complete a series of courses, exams, and hands-on labs to demonstrate their mastery of storage technologies. Upon successful completion of all requirements, individuals will receive their SCSP certification.

The cost of obtaining the SCSP certification varies depending on where you take your courses and exams. Generally speaking, it can range from $2,000 - $3,000 USD for all course materials and exam fees.

3. NetApp Certified Data Administrator (NCDA)

NetApp Certified Data Administrator (NCDA) is a certification program designed to validate an individual’s knowledge and skills in the administration of NetApp storage systems. It is the highest level of certification available from NetApp and demonstrates an individual’s ability to configure, manage, and maintain NetApp storage solutions.

To become certified as a NCDA, individuals must pass two exams: NS0-155 (NetApp Certified 7-Mode Data Administrator) and NS0-157 (NetApp Certified Data Administrator, Clustered Data ONTAP). Both exams are administered by Pearson VUE.

The NS0-155 exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and covers topics such as system installation and configuration, data protection, performance tuning, troubleshooting, and system management. The NS0-157 exam takes approximately 120 minutes to complete and covers topics such as clustered data ONTAP architecture, storage virtualization technologies, SAN protocols, system administration tasks, data protection options, performance tuning techniques, troubleshooting procedures, system security features and more.

The cost of each exam is $200 USD. In order to become certified as a NCDA you must pass both exams within 18 months of each other.

4. EMC Proven Professional Data Scientist Associate (EMCDSA)

EMC Proven Professional Data Scientist Associate (EMCDSA) is an industry-recognized certification program that validates a data scientist’s ability to design, develop, and deploy predictive analytics solutions. It is designed for professionals who want to demonstrate their expertise in the field of data science. The certification requires candidates to successfully complete two exams: the EMC Proven Professional Data Scientist Foundation Exam and the EMC Proven Professional Data Scientist Associate Exam.

The EMC Proven Professional Data Scientist Foundation Exam covers topics such as data analysis, machine learning, and big data technologies. This exam must be completed before taking the EMCDSA exam. The EMCDSA exam focuses on practical application of data science concepts and techniques, including model building, evaluation, deployment, and optimization.

The EMCDSA certification takes approximately 8-12 weeks to complete depending on your level of experience with data science concepts. To get started with the program you will need to register for the EMC Proven Professional Data Scientist Foundation Exam which costs $200 USD. After passing this exam you can then register for the EMCDSA exam which costs $300 USD. Both exams are administered by Pearson VUE testing centers around the world.

In addition to completing both exams, candidates must also have at least one year of professional experience working with predictive analytics solutions or have completed a recognized academic program in data science or related field prior to taking either exam.

5. HPE Master ASE - Storage Solutions Architect V2

HPE Master ASE - Storage Solutions Architect V2 is a certification offered by Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) that demonstrates an individual's expertise in designing and deploying storage solutions for HPE products. This certification is designed for IT professionals who have experience with HPE storage solutions, such as 3PAR StoreServ and XP P9500.

The HPE Master ASE - Storage Solutions Architect V2 certification requires the successful completion of two exams: HPE0-S50 and HPE0-S51. The exams cover topics such as storage architecture, design, implementation, and management of HPE storage solutions. The exams are available online or through authorized testing centers.

It typically takes about 2-4 months to complete the certification process, depending on the individual’s experience level and study habits.

To get the certification, individuals must register for the exams on the HPE website and pay a fee of $150 per exam. After successfully passing both exams, individuals will receive their official certificate from HPE.

The total cost of the certification program is $300 ($150 per exam).

6. IBM Certified Storage Administrator (ICSA)

IBM Certified Storage Administrator (ICSA) is a certification program designed to validate the knowledge and skills of IT professionals who work with IBM storage systems. This certification is designed to help professionals demonstrate their expertise in managing and configuring IBM storage solutions.

To become an ICSA, you must pass two exams: the IBM Certified Storage Administrator (C9020-660) and the IBM Certified Storage Architect (C9020-661). The C9020-660 exam covers topics such as system installation, configuration, management, troubleshooting, and performance tuning. The C9020-661 exam focuses on architecture design, data protection, replication technologies, and storage virtualization.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for both exams. To get started, you should review the official study guides provided by IBM for each exam. You can also find practice tests online that will help you assess your knowledge and identify areas where you need to focus your studies. Additionally, there are several online courses available that can help you prepare for the exams.

The cost of taking both exams varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD per exam.

7. Oracle Certified Master, Oracle Database 11g/12c Storage Administration

Oracle Certified Master, Oracle Database 11g/12c Storage Administration is an advanced certification that demonstrates a mastery of the Oracle Database 11g/12c Storage Administration product. This certification requires a deep understanding of the Oracle Database architecture, storage administration concepts and best practices, as well as hands-on experience with the product.

To earn this certification, candidates must first pass two exams: 1Z0-062: Oracle Database 12c: Installation and Administration and 1Z0-063: Oracle Database 12c: Advanced Administration. The exams are typically taken in sequence and can take up to 4 hours each to complete.

Once both exams have been passed with a score of 65% or higher, candidates must then submit an application to become an Oracle Certified Master (OCM). Upon approval of the application, candidates must then complete a hands-on practice exam that consists of 10 questions related to Oracle Database 11g/12c Storage Administration topics. Candidates must answer all 10 questions correctly in order to be awarded the OCM certification.

The cost for taking both exams is approximately $400 USD per exam plus any applicable taxes or fees. The cost for submitting an application for OCM status is currently $150 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees.

8. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert: Data Management and Analytics (MCSE: DM&A)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert: Data Management and Analytics (MCSE: DM&A) is a certification program designed to validate the skills and knowledge of IT professionals who are responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining data solutions. This certification demonstrates expertise in Microsoft’s core data management technologies such as SQL Server, Azure SQL Database, and Power BI. It also covers topics related to big data and analytics such as Hadoop and Spark.

In order to obtain the MCSE: DM&A certification, an individual must pass two exams: Exam 70-767 Implementing a SQL Data Warehouse and Exam 70-768 Developing SQL Data Models. These exams cover topics such as data warehouse design, ETL processes, data modeling techniques, query optimization, and performance tuning.

It typically takes around three months to prepare for the MCSE: DM&A exams if you are already familiar with the subject matter. However, if you are completely new to this field it may take up to six months or more depending on how quickly you can learn the material.

The cost of the two exams is $165 each for US residents. The total cost of obtaining the MCSE: DM&A certification is therefore $330 USD.

9. Cisco Unified Computing System Design Specialist (UCSD)

Cisco Unified Computing System Design Specialist (UCSD) is a certification program offered by Cisco that validates the skills and knowledge of IT professionals in designing, deploying, and troubleshooting Cisco Unified Computing Systems. The UCSD certification is an intermediate-level certification that requires a professional to have at least one year of experience in designing and deploying Cisco Unified Computing Systems.

To get the UCSD certification, you must first pass the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Data Center exam. After passing the CCNA Data Center exam, you must then pass the Implementing and Operating Cisco Data Center Core Technologies (DCICT) exam. Once both of these exams are passed successfully, you will be eligible to take the Designing Cisco Data Center Infrastructure (DCID) exam. Passing this exam will earn you your UCSD certification.

The cost for taking all three exams is approximately $1,500 USD. Depending on how much time you dedicate to studying for each exam, it can take anywhere from 3 months to 1 year to complete all three exams and earn your UCSD certification.

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

VMware Certified Professional 6 – Data Center Virtualization (VCP6-DCV) is a certification program designed to validate the skills and knowledge of IT professionals in virtualizing and managing data center environments using VMware vSphere 6.x. The VCP6-DCV certification requires passing two exams: a qualifying exam and a hands-on lab exam.

The qualifying exam is the VMware Certified Professional 6 – Data Center Virtualization (VCP6-DCV) Exam, which tests your knowledge of vSphere 6.x features, components, and architecture. It takes about two hours to complete this exam and costs $250 USD.

The hands-on lab exam is the VMware Certified Professional 6 – Data Center Virtualization (VCP6-DCV) Lab Exam, which tests your ability to install, configure, manage, troubleshoot, and optimize vSphere 6.x environments. It takes about four hours to complete this exam and costs $450 USD.

In order to become certified as a VCP6-DCV professional, you must pass both exams within 12 months of taking the first one. The total cost for both exams is $700 USD.

11. Brocade Network Advisor Advanced Fabric Professional

Brocade Network Advisor Advanced Fabric Professional is a comprehensive network management solution that allows users to monitor, manage, and troubleshoot their entire Brocade fabric-based network. It provides advanced features such as real-time monitoring of the entire fabric, automated configuration management, and deep visibility into the health and performance of the fabric.

It takes approximately one hour to download and install Brocade Network Advisor Advanced Fabric Professional. This can be done through the Brocade Support website where it is available as a free download. The software also requires an activation key which can be obtained by registering on the Brocade Support website.

The cost of Brocade Network Advisor Advanced Fabric Professional is free for all customers who have purchased a valid support contract from Brocade.

Do You Really Need a Storage Administrator Certificate?

Storage administrators are responsible for the efficient and secure storage, retrieval, and management of data in an organization's information systems. As the amount of data being stored continues to increase, the need for qualified storage administrators has grown. As a result, many organizations now require that their storage administrators have a certificate in order to ensure that they possess the necessary skills and knowledge to do their job effectively.

Whether or not you need a storage administrator certificate depends on your experience level and specific job requirements. If you already have extensive experience working with storage systems, then it is likely that you won't need a certificate to demonstrate your proficiency in this field. However, if you are new to this field or if your employer requires it, then obtaining a certificate can be beneficial. It can provide proof of your technical expertise and allow you to stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs.

In addition to demonstrating your technical abilities, having a storage administrator certificate can also help boost your career potential by making you more attractive as an applicant for higher-level roles within an organization. By obtaining certification, you show employers that you are dedicated to staying current with the latest technologies and best practices in the industry. This can give employers confidence in hiring you as they know that you will be able to handle any challenges related to managing their data systems efficiently and securely.

Overall, whether or not you need a storage administrator certificate depends on your individual situation. If it is required by your employer or if it could help boost your career prospects, then it may be worth investing time and money into obtaining one.

Related: Storage Administrator Resume Examples

FAQs About Storage Administrator Certifications

1. What are the different types of storage administrator certifications?

Answer: There are several different types of storage administrator certifications, including CompTIA Storage+, NetApp Certified Data Administrator (NCDA), EMC Proven Professional Data Scientist (EMCDSA), Cisco Certified Network Associate Storage (CCNA-Storage), and IBM Certified Storage Administrator (ICSA).

2. How do I become a certified storage administrator?

Answer: To become a certified storage administrator you must pass the appropriate certification exam for your chosen certification. You will also need to meet any prerequisites required by the vendor or organization offering the certification.

3. What is covered in a storage administrator certification exam?

Answer: The content of each storage administrator certification exam varies depending on the specific credential. Generally speaking, exams will cover topics such as data center infrastructure, SAN concepts and components, RAID configurations, backup & recovery procedures, virtualization technologies, server hardware & software troubleshooting, and data security best practices.

4. How long does it take to get a storage administrator certification?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to obtain a storage administrator certification can vary depending on the individual's experience level and study habits. Generally speaking, it typically takes 3-6 months of dedicated study to pass the necessary exams for most credentials.

5. Does having a storage administrator certification help with job prospects?

Answer: Yes! Having a recognized storage administration credential can give you an edge over other candidates when applying for jobs in the IT field as employers often look favorably at individuals who have achieved this type of professional recognition. Additionally, many employers may offer higher salaries or additional benefits to those who hold certifications in their field of expertise.