The Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) certification is widely considered a standard credential for any network engineer or administrator. Having a valid certification shows your proven ability to design and implement network solutions for a company. The MCSE certification process tests the applicant's knowledge of Windows Server 2003 networks.
For those who want an advantage over the standard MCSE holder, Microsoft also offers the Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP) certificate. To obtain this certificate, you must first have an MCSE and then also be able to demonstrate proficiency with Windows Server 2008, Microsoft SQL Server 2008 and Microsoft Exchange Server 2010. These requirements will change periodically as new technologies come onto the market.
Cisco is the premier brand for network hubs, routers and switches. The brand is so widely implemented that almost any network engineer will encounter Cisco equipment on a regular basis. Having a special certification for working with this hardware will give a network engineer a definite advantage over other candidates in the workforce and may also lead to a higher salary. Cisco accommodates the need for this certification by offering the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certificate.
To obtain CCNA certification, an engineer must demonstrate the ability to install and configure network switches and routers, as well as to perform routine operational tasks and to troubleshoot any system errors. The testing is done for both single networks and Wide Area Networks (WAN), which consist of networks at multiple locations communicating via routers and switches.
Storage networking is a young technology that has gained a strong foothold in the IT market. Offsite storage of media, documents and presentation has created a demand for network engineers with expertise in advanced storage techniques. Obtaining a certificate from a Storage Networking Certification Program (SNCP) will provide the credentials that show you have storage networking expertise. The SNCP credentials are available exclusively through the Storage Networking Industry Association.