IT professionals skilled in the areas of networking are always highly demanded in today’s job market. If you are interested in starting a career in this field, you should consider one or more of the best-of-breed networking certifications. The network certifications give you an edge and set yourself apart from the competition. There are a lot of certifications that IT professionals must master especially those who aspire to work as network administrators. Let us find out which network certification is better, Microsoft or Cisco.
1. The Two Networks
Let us introduce you to the two networks and the differences between the two networks.
Microsoft Network
A Microsoft network constitutes Server that is a specially configured computer designed to perform specific functions. Servers can keep track of the computers in its domain or workgroup, users, and their passwords.
Cisco Network
Cisco networks do not keep track of computers, but they keep track of the IP addresses that pass through them and redirect them to different routers. Cisco routers are very limited in function. The Cisco networks are not used for word processing, nor for graphics design. Routers allow traffic from one location to get to another location.
2. Certifications Offered
Let us look at the requirements to become a network professional with the Microsoft or Cisco certifications.
Microsoft MCSE: Microsoft Certified Solution Expert Certification
This is the highest certification that one can get from Microsoft. The Microsoft MCSE certification focuses on the skills such as installing client software or server software; manage and plan networks; troubleshooting network problems; design different network components.
Cisco CCNA: Cisco Certified Network Associate Certification
Cisco CCNA certification validates your understanding of making a point-to-point network, meeting users necessity by determining the network topology, routing protocols keeping in mind the end goal to connect network, and building network addresses, among different topics.
3. Which One Is Better Microsoft or Cisco?
The main difference between the two is the type of work each demand. From a work perspective, the organizations working with the daily operations on the server will prefer Microsoft engineer over Cisco certified professional. The salary difference is also a remarkable thing for the professional. A Cisco engineer will earn lesser than a Microsoft certified engineer. This gap can be wider depending upon the skills.
Finally, Cisco offers other certifications like the CCNP that will help you enhance your career prospects. Microsoft also has other certifications in its library, but the MCSE is their top Cert.
We have given you the knowledge about all the differences between the two certifications. Both the Microsoft or Cisco certs have their advantages and drawbacks. Both the Microsoft or Cisco certifications offer career opportunities in the leading IT fields. You can enroll in the comprehensive course and performance-based labs offered at uCertify. The cert guides will help you prepare and pass the Microsoft or Cisco certification exams.