CCNA is your entry level for training in Cisco. This teaches you how to operate on the maintenance and installation of network switches and routers. Fundamentally, the internet is based upon huge numbers of routers, and commercial ventures that have various regional departments use them to allow their networks to keep in touch.

You must have a good understanding of the operation and function of computer networks, because networks are linked to routers. Otherwise, you'll probably struggle. Why not first take a course in the basics in networking - perhaps Network+ and A+, before getting going with CCNA. Some companies will design a bespoke package for you.

The CCNA qualification is perfectly sufficient to start with; don't be pushed into attempting your CCNP. Once you've worked for a few years, you'll find out if it's relevant for you to have this next level up. Should that be the case, you'll have the knowledge you require to take on your CCNP - because it's a difficult qualification to master - and shouldn't be taken lightly.

Of all the important things to consider, one of the most essential is always full 24x7 support via trained professional instructors and mentors. Far too often we see trainers who will only offer a basic 9am till 6pm support period (maybe later on certain days) with very little availability over the weekend. Never purchase training that only supports you with a call-centre messaging system after office-staff have gone home. Training organisations will give you every excuse in the book why you don't need this. But, no matter how they put it - support is needed when it's needed - not when it suits them.

The most successful trainers incorporate three or four individual support centres active in different time-zones. Online access provides the interactive interface to provide a seamless experience, any time of the day or night, help is just a click away, without any contact issues or hassle. Search out an educator that cares. Because only round-the-clock 24x7 support provides the necessary backup.

The somewhat scary thought of landing your first role in IT can be relieved by some companies, via a Job Placement Assistance service. Often, people are too impressed with this facility, because it's really not that difficult for any motivated and trained individual to get a job in the IT environment - as there is such a shortage of well trained people.

Work on polishing up your CV right away however - look to your training company for advice on how to do this. Don't put it off until you've qualified. Being considered a 'maybe' is more than not being known. Often junior jobs are bagged by trainees who are still at an early stage in their studies. The most reliable organisations to get you a new position are normally specialised and independent recruitment consultants. Because they get paid commission to place you, they're perhaps more focused on results.

A constant grievance for various training providers is how much people are focused on studying to pass exams, but how un-prepared they are to work on getting the role they have qualified for. Have confidence - the IT industry needs YOU.

A sneaky way that course providers make a lot more is via an 'exam inclusive' package and then including an 'Exam Guarantee'. This looks like a great idea for the student, but is it really:

It's very clear we're ultimately paying for it - it's not so hard to see that it's already been included in the gross price invoiced by the training company. It's absolutely not free - don't think these companies are so generous with their money! Passing first time is everyone's goal. Taking your exams progressively one by one and funding them one at a time sees you much better placed to get through first time - you prepare appropriately and are mindful of the investment you've made.

Isn't it outrageous to have to pay the training college in advance for exam fees? Go for the best offer at the time, don't pay mark-ups - and do it locally - instead of miles away at the college's beck and call. Buying a course that includes payments for examinations (and if you're financing your study there'll be interest on that) is insane. Don't line companies bank accounts with extra money of yours simply to help their cash-flow! Many will hope you won't get to do them all - so they get to keep the extra funds. It's worth noting, with most 'Exam Guarantees' - they control when and how often you can do your re-takes. You will have to demonstrate an excellent pass-rate before they'll approve a re-take.

Paying maybe a thousand pounds extra on an 'Exam Guarantee' is remiss - when consistent and systematic learning, coupled with quality exam simulation software is what will really guarantee success.

Trainees looking to get an IT career usually haven't a clue which path to consider, let alone what sector to get certified in. After all, if you have no background in the IT sector, how could you possibly know what someone in a particular field actually does day-to-day? Let alone arrive at which training route is the most likely for success. To come through this, we need to discuss a number of different aspects:

* Your personality can play a major part - what gets you 'up and running', and what are the things that you really dislike.

* What sort of time-frame do you want for the training process?

* What priority do you place on salary vs job satisfaction?

* Some students don't fully understand the amount of work needed to get fully certified.

* You will need to appreciate the differences between each area of training.

The best way to avoid the barrage of jargon, and discover the best path to success, have an informal chat with an experienced professional; an individual that will cover the commercial realities and truth as well as the accreditations.

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