Top 10 Wireless Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for wireless managers in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and skill that employers look for when hiring. Certifications can provide a competitive edge when applying for a position and allow employers to identify qualified candidates quickly. They also show potential employers that the candidate is up-to-date on industry trends, standards, and best practices. Having certifications can also help wireless managers stay ahead of the competition by providing them with additional knowledge and skills that may be beneficial in their role. Finally, certifications are often required by organizations before they will consider someone for a position, so having one or more can open doors to more opportunities.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Wireless Managers and explains how they can help to advance a career in this field.

What are Wireless Manager Certifications?

Wireless Manager Certification is a professional certification program designed to help individuals and organizations understand the complex world of wireless technology. This certification program helps individuals develop their knowledge, skills, and abilities related to the management of wireless networks. It provides an industry-recognized credential that validates proficiency in the areas of wireless network design, implementation, management, and troubleshooting.

The certification program covers topics such as wireless security protocols and encryption standards; understanding of Wi-Fi technologies; network topologies; access point configuration and installation; RF signal propagation; antenna placement; troubleshooting techniques; and more. By obtaining the Wireless Manager Certification, individuals can demonstrate their expertise in managing wireless networks and show employers that they have the necessary skills to successfully manage a company’s networks. Furthermore, employers can use this certification to ensure that their employees are up-to-date on current best practices for managing wireless networks in order to maintain a secure environment.

Pro tip: Make sure that any wireless manager certification you pursue is up-to-date and covers the latest technologies in the field. It's important to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to wireless management, so ensure your certification is from a reputable organization and includes topics such as security, performance optimization, troubleshooting, and more.

Related: What does a Wireless Manager do?

Top 10 Wireless Manager Certifications

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

1. CWNP Certified Wireless Network Professional (CWNP)

CWNP stands for Certified Wireless Network Professional. It is a certification program designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to design, install, configure, monitor, and troubleshoot wireless networks. The CWNP certification is offered through the CWNP Program which is administered by the CWNP Alliance.

The CWNP certification requires that candidates pass a series of exams in order to become certified. The exams cover topics such as wireless network fundamentals, radio frequency (RF) technologies, wireless LANs (WLANs), security and troubleshooting. Candidates must also demonstrate their ability to implement, manage and maintain WLANs in an enterprise environment.

In order to obtain the CWNP certification, candidates must pass all four exams: PW0-100: Certified Wireless Network Administrator (CWNA); PW0-105: Certified Wireless Security Professional (CWSP); PW0-200: Certified Wireless Design Professional (CWDP); and PW0-205: Certified Wireless Analysis Professional (CWAP). Each exam takes approximately 2 hours to complete and must be taken at an authorized testing center.

The cost of each exam varies depending on the country you are taking it in but typically ranges from $150 - $250 USD per exam. Additionally, there is an annual membership fee of $99 USD which is required for access to study materials and resources as well as discounts on additional certifications or training programs.

2. CompTIA Network+ Certification

CompTIA Network+ is an industry-leading certification that validates the skills and knowledge of IT professionals in networking technologies. It is designed to ensure that IT professionals have the necessary skills to design, configure, manage, and troubleshoot networked systems. The certification is vendor-neutral, meaning it covers multiple vendors and technologies.

The CompTIA Network+ exam consists of 90 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. To earn the certification, you must pass the exam with a score of 720 or higher on a scale of 100-900.

To get CompTIA Network+, you need to take the certification exam at an authorized testing center. You can find a list of testing centers on CompTIA’s website. You should also review the exam objectives before taking the test so that you are prepared for what will be asked on the exam.

The cost of taking the CompTIA Network+ exam varies depending on where you take it, but typically ranges from $200-$300 USD.

3. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Wireless

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Wireless is a certification that validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in the area of wireless networking. This certification covers topics such as wireless LAN technologies, security, mobility, and troubleshooting.

To obtain the CCNA Wireless certification, you must pass one exam: Implementing Cisco Wireless Network Fundamentals (200-355 WIFUND). The exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and consists of 50-60 questions. It costs $150 USD to take the exam.

In order to prepare for the exam, it is recommended that you have at least one year of experience working with wireless networks and understand basic concepts such as 802.11 standards, radio frequencies, antennas, site surveys, etc. Additionally, it is beneficial to have hands-on experience with Cisco wireless products such as Access Points (APs), Controllers (WLCs), Prime Infrastructure (PI), Mobility Express (ME), etc.

It typically takes around 6 months of studying and practice to adequately prepare for the CCNA Wireless exam. There are various resources available online such as study guides, practice exams, video tutorials, etc., which can help you prepare for the exam.

4. CWNE Certified Wireless Network Expert (CWNE)

CWNE stands for Certified Wireless Network Expert. It is a professional certification program offered by the CWNP (Certified Wireless Network Professional) organization that recognizes expertise in wireless LAN technology, design, implementation, security, and troubleshooting. The CWNE is the highest level of certification available in the industry and requires a minimum of five years of experience in wireless networking.

The CWNE exam consists of four parts: theory, practical application, troubleshooting and design. Each part must be completed within six months to obtain the certification. The exam fee is $499 USD per part.

To become a CWNE certified expert you must have at least five years of experience in wireless networking and pass all four parts of the exam with a score of 80% or higher. After passing all four parts you will receive your CWNE certificate from the CWNP organization.

The cost for becoming a CWNE certified expert can vary depending on how long it takes you to complete each part of the exam and if you need any additional training or resources to help you prepare for the exam. Generally speaking, it may cost around $2,000-$3,000 USD to become a certified expert depending on your individual circumstances.

5. Aruba Certified Mobility Professional (ACMP)

Aruba Certified Mobility Professional (ACMP) is a certification program designed to recognize and validate the skills of networking professionals in deploying, managing, and troubleshooting Aruba wireless networks. The ACMP certification is intended for network engineers, system administrators, and support personnel who are responsible for the design, implementation, management, and maintenance of Aruba wireless networks.

To get an ACMP certification, candidates must pass the ACMP exam. The exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 90 minutes. Candidates must score at least 75% to pass the exam.

The cost of taking the ACMP exam is $125 USD. It can be taken online or in person at an authorized testing facility.

The time it takes to get an ACMP certification depends on how quickly you study for and take the exam. Generally speaking, it should take about two weeks to prepare for the exam if you have experience with Aruba products and technologies.

6. Aruba Certified Solutions Professional (ACSP)

The Aruba Certified Solutions Professional (ACSP) is a certification program designed to validate an individual’s knowledge and skills in configuring, managing, and troubleshooting Aruba wireless networks. It is the highest level of certification offered by Aruba.

To obtain the ACSP certification, an individual must pass two exams: the Aruba Certified Mobility Associate (ACMA) exam and the Aruba Certified Mobility Professional (ACMP) exam. The ACMA exam covers basic concepts related to wireless networking, while the ACMP exam focuses on more advanced topics such as security, quality of service, and troubleshooting.

It takes approximately 8-12 weeks to prepare for both exams. During this time, individuals should review course materials provided by Aruba and practice with hands-on labs using real equipment. Additionally, individuals can take online courses or attend instructor-led training sessions for further preparation.

The cost of obtaining the ACSP certification depends on how an individual prepares for the exams. The cost of taking the two exams is $250 each ($500 total). In addition to this fee, individuals may need to purchase additional books or materials or pay for online courses or instructor-led training sessions if they choose to do so.

7. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert: Mobility (MCSE: Mobility)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert: Mobility (MCSE: Mobility) is a certification program designed to validate the skills and knowledge of IT professionals who are responsible for designing, deploying, managing, and troubleshooting mobile device solutions in an enterprise environment. The MCSE: Mobility certification requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to configure and manage Windows 10 devices, deploy enterprise mobility solutions with Microsoft Intune, integrate identity management solutions such as Azure Active Directory (AAD), secure data access and applications with Enterprise Mobility + Security (EMS), and configure remote access solutions such as DirectAccess.

To get the MCSE: Mobility certification, candidates must first pass two exams: Exam 70-695: Deploying Windows Devices and Enterprise Apps and Exam 70-697: Configuring Windows Devices. Both exams have a duration of two hours each. Candidates must also have at least one year of experience working with Windows 10 devices in an enterprise environment.

The cost of the MCSE: Mobility certification varies depending on the country you live in. In the United States, it costs $165 per exam or $330 total for both exams.

8. Juniper Networks Certified Wireless Specialist (JNCWS)

Juniper Networks Certified Wireless Specialist (JNCWS) is a certification program designed to help wireless network professionals demonstrate their expertise in designing, deploying, and managing Juniper Networks wireless solutions. The JNCWS certification validates the knowledge and skills required to effectively design, deploy and manage Juniper Networks wireless solutions.

The JNCWS certification requires passing one exam: the JN0-412. This exam tests a candidate’s knowledge of Juniper Networks wireless solutions, including configuration, troubleshooting, management, and security. The exam consists of 65 multiple choice questions that must be completed within 90 minutes.

In order to get the JNCWS certification, candidates must first register for the exam with Pearson VUE or Prometric Testing Centers. The registration fee for the exam is $200 USD. Once registered and paid for, candidates can schedule their exams at any available testing center.

It typically takes around two months to prepare for the JN0-412 exam and pass it successfully. Candidates should plan on studying topics such as Junos OS fundamentals, Junos CLI operations, wireless LAN architecture concepts, WLAN deployment strategies, WLAN security principles, mobility services configuration and troubleshooting techniques.

9. Huawei HCIP-Wireless Certification

Huawei HCIP-Wireless Certification is a professional certification program designed to validate the skills and knowledge of wireless professionals. This certification is intended for those who design, deploy, manage, and troubleshoot Huawei Wireless products and solutions. It covers a wide range of topics related to wireless technologies such as WLANs, Wi-Fi 6, LTE/5G networks, IoT networks, etc.

The Huawei HCIP-Wireless certification consists of two exams: H12-411 and H12-421. The H12-411 exam focuses on basic concepts such as networking principles, radio frequency (RF) technology, antenna technology, network security and more. The H12-421 exam focuses on advanced topics such as network architecture design, network optimization and troubleshooting.

It typically takes around two months to prepare for the Huawei HCIP-Wireless Certification exams. To get certified you must pass both exams with a score of at least 70%. You can register for the exams through the official Huawei website or through authorized training centers.

The cost of getting certified depends on where you take the exams. If you register directly through Huawei's website it will cost around $150 USD per exam plus any applicable taxes or fees. If you take the exams through an authorized training center then it may be more expensive due to additional costs associated with their services.

10. Aerohive Networks HiveManager Certifications

Aerohive Networks HiveManager Certifications are a series of certifications offered by Aerohive that demonstrate proficiency in the use of their network management solutions. The certifications cover topics such as wireless networking, network design, and troubleshooting.

How long does it take to get it?

The length of time required to obtain an Aerohive Networks HiveManager Certification will vary depending on the individual's experience level and the specific certification they are pursuing. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to complete all of the requirements for a certification.

How to get it?

In order to obtain an Aerohive Networks HiveManager Certification, individuals must first pass an online exam. This exam covers topics such as wireless networking fundamentals, network design principles, and troubleshooting techniques. Once the exam is passed, individuals must then complete a hands-on lab exercise in order to demonstrate their understanding of the concepts covered in the exam.

How much does it cost?

The cost for an Aerohive Networks HiveManager Certification varies depending on which certification you are pursuing. Generally speaking, these certifications range from $100 - $500 USD per certification.

Do You Really Need a Wireless Manager Certificate?

A wireless manager certificate is a credential that is becoming increasingly popular among those who work with wireless networks in the IT industry. Wireless networks are used to connect computers and other devices to each other, and they are especially common in businesses and organizations. In order to be successful in this field, it is important for someone to have a good understanding of how these networks work, as well as the ability to manage them.

The answer to whether or not you need a wireless manager certificate depends on what kind of position you are looking for. For example, if you want to become an IT technician or network administrator, then having a certificate may give you an edge over someone without one. On the other hand, if you are already employed in the IT field and just want to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies, then obtaining a certificate may not be necessary.

In general, having a wireless manager certificate can help demonstrate your knowledge of the subject matter and make you more competitive when applying for jobs or promotions. It can also show potential employers that you have taken the time to learn about this particular topic in depth instead of just relying on your current level of knowledge. Furthermore, having a certificate could help open doors for future career development opportunities since employers will know that you have invested time into developing your skillset in this area.

Ultimately, whether or not someone needs a wireless manager certificate will depend on their individual situation and what their career goals are. If they are looking for ways to stand out from other applicants or move ahead in their current job role, then obtaining this type of certification could be beneficial. However, if they don’t feel like it’s necessary for their particular career path then it may not be worth investing their time and money into getting one.

Related: Wireless Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Wireless Manager Certifications

1. What are the requirements for a Wireless Manager Certification?

Answer: Generally, the requirements for a Wireless Manager Certification include knowledge of wireless networks and their components, experience in managing wireless networks, and completion of a certification exam.

2. Is there a specific certification exam I need to take?

Answer: Yes, most certifications require you to take a specific certification exam that covers topics related to wireless network management.

3. How long does it take to get certified as a Wireless Manager?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become certified as a Wireless Manager will depend on the type of certification you pursue and the amount of study and practice you put into preparing for the exam. Generally, it can take anywhere from several months to a year or more.

4. What is the cost of becoming certified as a Wireless Manager?

Answer: The cost of becoming certified as a Wireless Manager varies depending on the type of certification you pursue. Generally, costs range from several hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars.

5. Are there any online courses I can take to prepare for my Wireless Manager Certification Exam?

Answer: Yes, there are numerous online courses available which cover topics related to wireless network management and preparing for your certification exam. Many of these courses are offered by industry-leading organizations such as Cisco or CompTIA.