I'm gearing up for a career in Network Engineering and currently working towards my CCNA, which is my first big goal. I've been advised to also dive into SysAdmin skills (like Linux and Windows) and Cloud fundamentals to boost my job prospects and build a more well-rounded skillset. I'm hoping to find the right balance where I don't end up overwhelmed.
So, here are my two main questions: First, is it wise to study SysAdmin and Cloud stuff at the same time as my CCNA, or should I just focus on networking for now? Second, if I decide to learn Linux, I'm considering the RHCSA course by Sander Van Vugt. Would this be a good fit for someone looking to be a Network Engineer? I'm a bit anxious that the course might be too focused on general sysadmin topics. Are there other Linux courses that might be better suited for networking and Cloud/NetOps? Any tips on how to approach my learning and resources would be really appreciated!
3 Answers
Keep your eye on the prize! Employers care more about candidates who can actually contribute than those with just certifications. Focus on being useful and learn through experience. Networking skills are vital, but remember that certificates alone won't get you far; practical skills and teamwork are what you're after.
Absolutely go for it with Linux! The RHCSA course is great; focus on it for your own comfort and familiarity with Linux rather than as a must-have for network roles. Typically, companies hiring for network engineering won’t expect an RHCSA. Big organizations usually have dedicated SysAdmins who manage the Linux systems, so just get a feel for Linux while concentrating on your CCNA for now. Once you get a sense of the job market, you can decide if the RHCSA is worth the time and investment.
As someone who's been in the IT field for over 15 years, I suggest you get your foundational networking knowledge down first. It's excellent to understand routing and switching, but don’t overlook the importance of knowing the applications that run on these networks. Having insight into things like HTTP, email protocols, and SSH will make you much more valuable. Learn the basics of networking, then add supplementary knowledge when it feels right. Don't try to learn everything at once; you’ll get there!
Totally agree! I want to ensure I have a solid grasp of the basics before diving into more advanced stuff.