The CCNA qualification is your entry level for Cisco training. This will enable you to handle maintaining and installing network switches and routers. Fundamentally, the internet is based upon huge numbers of routers, and commercial ventures who have a number of branches use them to connect their computer networks.

Routers connect to networks, so look for a program that covers networking fundamentals - perhaps Network+ and A+, and then do a CCNA course. You'll need some knowledge of how networks operate before getting going with Cisco or you may encounter problems. In the commercial environment, networking skills will be valuable in addition to the CCNA.

It's advisable to do a specially designed course that will take you through a specific training path prior to commencing your Cisco training.

Exam 'guarantees' are sometimes offered as part of a training package - they always involve paying for the exam fees up-front, when you pay for the rest of your course. However, prior to embracing this so-called guarantee, be aware of the facts:

Certainly it isn't free - you're still footing the bill for it - it's just been wrapped up in the price of the package. Trainees who take each progressive exam, paying for them just before taking them are much better placed to get through first time. They're aware of their spending and so are more inclined to be ready for the task.

Look for the very best offer you can when you take the exam, and keep hold of your own money. You'll then be able to select where you take your exam - meaning you can choose a local testing centre. Paying in advance for exams (plus interest - if you're financing your study) is insane. Resist being talked into filling the training company's account with your money simply to help their cash-flow! There are those who hope that you won't get to do them all - but they won't refund the cash. In addition to this, you should consider what an 'exam guarantee' really means. Many training companies won't be prepared to pay for re-takes until you have demonstrated conclusively that you won't fail again.

Paying maybe a thousand pounds extra on 'Exam Guarantees' is foolish - when hard work, commitment and the right preparation via exam simulations is what will really guarantee success.

One feature that several companies offer is job placement assistance. It's intention is to help you get your first commercial position. Don't get caught up in this feature - it isn't unusual for their marketing department to overplay it. In reality, the huge shortage of staff in Britain is what will make you attractive to employers.

Bring your CV up to date as soon as possible however - you should get plenty of help from your training provider on this. Don't put it off until you've graduated or passed any exams. It's not uncommon to find that junior support jobs are offered to students who are in the process of training and have still to get qualified. This will at least get your CV into the 'possible' pile and not the 'no' pile. You can usually expect quicker results from a specialist independent regional employment service than any course provider's recruitment division, because they'll know local industry and the area better.

Fundamentally, as long as you focus the same level of energy into securing your first IT position as into studying, you're not going to hit many challenges. A number of men and women curiously put hundreds of hours into their training and studies and do nothing more once they've passed their exams and would appear to think that businesses will just discover them.

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