Knowledge of compute hardware is the foundation for a career in computer networking. A good course will familiarize you with the basics of operating systems, microprocessors, peripheral devices, computer architecture, assembly and disassembly, installing various software, configuring PCs, preventive maintenance and troubleshooting. This can be followed by a relevant course/s or certification in networking to gain expertise in LAN and WAN, which is in high demand. LAN shares the information and resources within the premises through the intranet with the help of products like Windows NT or Windows 2003 from Microsoft, Unix from SCO, Solaris from Sun Microsystems, Netware from Novell, etc. It can be further connected to the Internet through internetworking devices such as Routers and Switches. WAN is a combination of Internet and Intranet – a network of networks, as it were. Vendor certifications like Microsoft’s MCSE or Cisco’s CCNA or CCNP or CCIE or Novel’s CNE or Sun Microsystem’s Sun Solaris Administrator at the higher end, are increasingly sought by recruiters. The basic qualification for getting into networking is preferably a Degree/ Diploma in Computer Science/ Electrical/ Electronics/ Telecommunication followed by a course in computer hardware. People with non-Engineering background and who possess good knowledge of computer fundamentals can also enter this field. in addition, recruiters prefer certain global certifications. Or details of some such certifications, log onto:

Cisco: www.cisco.com
Compute Associates: www.computerassociates.com
Juniper: www.juniper.com
Prometric: www.prometric.com
Microsoft: www.microsoft.com
Nortel: www.nortel.com
Novell: www.novell.com
Sun Microsystems: www.sunmicrosystems.com