For a lot of people contemplating getting into I.T. as a career, basic networking could be the starting point. You need to understand precisely how PCs function and communicate with one another before you do anything else. Presuming at least a basic level of computer literacy, (read the more general I.T. Training pages if not,) the recommended starting-point is almost always the CompTIA A+ & Network+ . Examples of these are covered on the CompTIA section on this web site.

Where you venture next depends mainly upon whether you would like to specialise in 'hardware' or 'software'. With regard to hardware, you are talking about 'Cisco' (CCNA/CCNP), and with regard to software you will need MS ('MCSA'/'MCSE'). Nevertheless, Microsoft boasts a high penetration in the majority of network-environments, therefore an in depth understanding of their 'software' is very useful whatever you specialise in. As before, you'll come across details about each certification on the actual Cisco & MS sections of the web-site.

On the other hand, you may want to remain down the vendor neutral route with more 'CompTIA' accreditation (for example Security+, Server+ & Linux+ ) or maybe try your hand at the wireless ('Wi-Fi') aspect of things by taking the CWNP/CWNA.

For the most part, a everyday person has no idea how they should get into Information Technology, let alone what area they should look at getting trained in. Reading a list of IT job-titles is a complete waste of time. Most of us have no concept what our good friends do at work - so what chance do we have in understanding the intricacies of a new IT role. Contemplation on many issues is imperative when you need to uncover the right answer for you:

- Your hobbies and interests - as they can highlight what possibilities will give you the most reward.

- Do you hope to pull off a closely held aim - for example, becoming self-employed someday?

- How important is salary to you - is it of prime importance, or do you place job satisfaction a lot higher on the scale of your priorities?

- Learning what the normal job areas and sectors are - and what differentiates them.

- The time and energy you're prepared to put into getting qualified.

To cut through all the jargon and confusion, and uncover the most viable option for your success, have an informal chat with an advisor with years of experience; an individual who appreciates and can explain the commercial realities as well as each accreditation.

Kick out any salesman who offers any particular course without performing a 'fact-find' to gain understanding of your current abilities as well as experience level. Make sure they can draw from a wide-enough range of products so they can provide you with what's right for you. With some work-based experience or qualifications, it may be that your starting point of study is now at a different level to a new student. Consider starting with some basic PC skills training first. This can often make the learning curve a a little easier.

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