Top Wireless Networking certifications in 2014

As the world of wireless networking continues to expand and grow, professionals with certifications in this area are in high demand, especially in new and innovative areas such as 802.11ac version LAN and 4G wireless networks where professionals need to be on the ball with all different types of new and exciting developments. The Certified Wireless Network Professional’s organization is a well-respected and fairly recent organization which provides a range of entry-level certifications such as the Certified Wireless Technology Specialist (CTWS).

This is tested using an exam covering wireless hardware and software and Wi-Fi technology, site installation techniques, troubleshooting and wireless monitoring. This qualification does not require re certification after a period of time and so is good for life. Another certification offered by the CWNP is the Certified Wireless Network Administrator or CWNA qualification, which is geared specifically towards those who wish to work alongside wireless networks.

This covers such areas as wireless network implementation, security, site surveying and other essential skills for wireless network administrators, making it a very worthwhile certification for anybody wishing to work in this area. It is a great place to start if you are not too sure about wireless networking in general, and will help you to establish and prove your initial skills and knowledge before leading on to other, more advanced certificates such as the Certified Wireless Network Expert (CWNE). From Cisco, the CCN Wireless certifications at Associate, Professional and Expert levels.

These certifications are highly in demand and very well paid in most jobs, and covers not only the specifics of Cisco systems but also more general wireless design, installation, configuration and communications. These certifications are more in depth than a lot of others, all requiring a number of exams and written examinations, but once obtained can lead to jobs with salaries starting easily in the range of $80,000 per year.

From a security perspective, SANS focuses largely on allowing individuals the change to prove their skills in evaluating the security of wireless networks, identifying risks and troubleshooting, and showing knowledge of protocols and evaluating skills.

The GIAC Assessing and Auditing Wireless Networks credential (usually known as GAWN) is especially useful for any IT professionals who wish to work in security auditing and security maintenance with particular focus on wireless networks and systems, and are willing to renew the certification every four years. With regards to other wireless systems, the International Association for Radio, Telecommunications and Electromagnetic (iNARTE) offer a range of training covering all types of wireless technologies including wireless networking.

This includes the Wireless Device Certification Professional (WDCP) which is designed for both IT and Engineering professionals, and covers a range of skills such as the testing and planning of wireless systems, using licensed and unlicensed devices, planning and reporting on wireless systems and RF exposure.

Certification from iNARTE is very frequently a prerequisite for any job as a wireless technician at telecommunications companies, especially those involving installing and maintaining large or small professional or private wireless networking systems.