6 Network Certifications

    Certifications aren't always mandatory, they can swiftly validate your skill set for employers. Network certifications enhance your resume and equip you with essential skills vital for success in the IT industry.

1. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

The CCNA, a cornerstone certification, covers extensive networking fundamentals and is offered by Cisco, a major player in the networking industry. Cisco provides entry (CCT), professional (CCNP), and expert-level (CCDE) certifications in addition to CCNA.

• Cost: $300
• Requirements: One exam, no prerequisites (though one year of Cisco solutions experience is recommended).
• Topics: Network access, IP connectivity, IP services, security, automation, and programmability.

2. CompTIA Network+

This certification assesses your grasp of networking basics, irrespective of the technology's origin. CompTIA also offers the entry-level IT certification, CompTIA A+.

• Cost: $338
• Requirements: One exam, no prerequisites (though 9-12 months of networking experience or CompTIA A+ certification is recommended).
• Topics: Essential networking concepts, cabling, device, and storage technologies, network management, security, and troubleshooting methodology.

3. Juniper Networks Certified Associate - Junos (JNCIA-Junos)

It is an associate-level certification from Juniper Networks, serves as the foundation for advanced certifications in data center, enterprise, or service provider routing and switching technologies.

• Cost: $200
• Requirements: One exam, no prerequisites.
• Topics: Junos OS fundamentals, configuration basics, routing policy, firewall filters, and transit traffic processing.

4. SolarWinds Certified Professional

This certification validates your proficiency in using and maintaining SolarWinds network and system products, widely used in specific sectors like government and accounting.

• Cost: $200
• Requirements: One exam, no prerequisites.
• Topics: Diagnostics, database performance analysis, network configuration, performance monitoring, and network architecture.

5. Aruba Certified Mobility Associate (ACMA)

For those dealing with Aruba networking features, ACMA ensures expertise in designing, setting up, and configuring basic Aruba Wireless Local Area Networks. Earning three out of five associate-level Aruba certifications grants Aruba Edge Associate status.

• Cost: $230
• Requirements: One exam, no prerequisites (though candidates are encouraged to take an Aruba Mobility Fundamentals course).
• Topics: Aruba WLAN essentials, utilizing V8 operating system architecture.

6. VMWare Certified Technical Associate -Network Virtualization (VCTA-NV)

For virtualization enthusiasts, VCTA-NV provides fundamental knowledge of the VMWare NSX network virtualization platform, testing skills in NSX terminology, graphical user interfaces, and core technical aspects.

• Cost: $125
• Requirements: One exam, no prerequisites.
• Topics: Installation, configuration, setup, performance tuning, optimization, fundamental architecture, planning, designing, and troubleshooting.

How to Write a Cybersecurity Resume

Step 1: Generate a Template for Your Cybersecurity Resume

    A crucial attribute of any resume is its readability; hiring managers prefer easy access to essential information. Fortunately, numerous cybersecurity specialist and cybersecurity analyst resume templates, both free and paid, are available online. An effortless option is exploring templates within Google Docs, the online document editor.

Guidelines for Choosing a Template in Google Docs: 

1. Clarity and Simplicity: Opt for designs devoid of clashing colors, cluttered layouts, or disorganization. A clean, focused appearance is key.
2. Resume Formats: Consider your preferred format:

• Chronological Resume: Highlights your career progression, ideal for showcasing skills acquired in recent positions.
• Functional Resume: Emphasizes skills over work experience, suitable for those with limited experience or changing careers.
• Combination Resume: Balances skills and work history, offering flexibility. Avoid excessive length or redundancy, aiming for a concise one to two pages.

Step 2: Input Your Fundamental Cybersecurity Resume Information

All well-crafted resumes commence with basic contact details: name, address, phone number, and email address. Additionally, consider adding links to online profiles, such as LinkedIn and GitHub, showcasing your cybersecurity expertise.

Step 3: Craft Your Resume Summary for Cybersecurity

Compose a succinct resume summary that introduces you as a candidate. Focus on your future career trajectory rather than dwelling extensively on past experiences. Highlight why you would be an invaluable addition to your prospective employer.

Example Cybersecurity Resume Summary: "Results-oriented cybersecurity professional with a passion for safeguarding digital assets. Skilled in threat mitigation and incident response. Eager to contribute cybersecurity expertise to innovative projects in a dynamic team environment."

Step 4: Present Your Cybersecurity Skills

The placement of skills—either preceding or simultaneous to experience—depends on your chosen resume format. Below, we explore cybersecurity skills catering to various experience levels. Ensure a mix of technical and workplace skills, enhancing your resume's comprehensiveness.

Intern or Student Cybersecurity Resume Skills:

• Knowledge of programming languages (C, C++, Java)
• Desire to learn offensive and defensive cyber skills
• Familiarity with computer networks and architecture
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency in data analysis and presentation in collaborative settings
• Patient problem-solving and critical thinking abilities

Entry-level Cybersecurity Skills:

• Understanding secure software development principles
• Knowledge of programming languages (C, C++, Java)
• Proficiency with operating systems (Linux, Microsoft Windows)
• Familiarity with Risk Management Framework (RMF)
• Basic understanding of computer networks and architecture
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving capabilities
• Effective written and verbal communication skills

Mid-level Cybersecurity Skills:

• Experience in penetration testing, architecture assessments, and vulnerability assessments
• Profound understanding of offensive and defensive cybersecurity concepts
• Proficiency in programming languages (C, C++, Java)
• Familiarity with operating systems (Linux, Microsoft Windows) and cloud infrastructure
• In-depth knowledge of Risk Management Framework (RMF) concepts
• Expertise in cyber risk assessment techniques and technologies
• Awareness of security and regulatory industry requirements
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities

Senior-level Cybersecurity Skills:

• Extensive experience with operating systems (Linux, Microsoft Windows)
• Proficiency in secure programming principles and languages (C, C++, Java)
• Familiarity with log management platforms (SIEM)
• Deep understanding of common network services (web, FTP), network security vulnerabilities, and network attack patterns
• Expertise in prevention and management of cyber risks (e.g., network probing, malicious code activity, DDOS)
• Advanced knowledge of emerging technology security solutions and trends
• Working understanding of security and regulatory industry requirements
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Step 5: Document Your Professional Experience

In a chronological resume format, your cybersecurity experience takes precedence. Always begin with your latest position and proceed backward. Include the duration, company name, location, and a detailed account of relevant projects, responsibilities, and achievements.

Step 6: Highlight Certifications and Security Clearances

If you possess certifications or security clearances, dedicate a section to describe them. For security clearances, specify the level and duration. For certifications, include the full certification name, issuing organization, and the date of acquisition. Certificates and clearances serve as compelling evidence of your qualifications, especially if you lack a strong academic background.

Step 7: Detail Your Education

Approximately 61 percent of cybersecurity analysts hold a bachelor's degree, with 19 percent having an associate degree, and 15 percent possessing a master's degree. Academic entries should be listed chronologically, indicating your degree or course, graduation year, and the school's name and location. Additionally, mention relevant coursework or extracurricular activities.

Key Takeaways:

• Utilize a resume template for clarity and organization.
• Opt for a legible 10-12 point font.
• Select a chronological format to emphasize work history or a functional format to spotlight skills.
• Align your skills with those mentioned in job postings for desired positions.
• Limit your resume length to one to two pages.
• Include sections for skills, work history, education, certifications, clearances, and contact information.