Of all the I.T. areas dominating the modern world stage, this particular field is one of the biggest and most all encompassing. Generally, some degree of specialisation is needed, since to cover every component could take too many years of learning. Cisco & Microsoft are essentially the two significant corporations ruling this sector. Microsoft produce Network & Server Software, whilst Cisco concentrate largely on the hardware end of networking: Routers, data-switches, controllers and so on. It's become commercially essential for Microsoft and Cisco to get into Security during the last several years. Also in this field we're observing the substantial growth of wireless-networking. And next we come on to Hacking (legitimately) and Computer Forensics - both very complex & highly specialised subjects themselves, & take a considerable amount of experience and understanding.

One of the newest areas in this discipline is called Digital Forensics. We connect forensics with television programmes such as CSI (Crime Scene Investigation). There may well though be a tad less glamour with the actual work than that executed by the characters on our screens! Nevertheless, technological forensics is providing an intriguing career for a lot of people right now. The work involves seeking and interpreting digital-footprints that can be used for data-recovery or legal cases.

Located in a similar field to Computer Forensics & IT Security is 'Ethical Hacking' - which is another fairly new discipline to control crime. These are accreditations provided through the EC-Council that teach advanced students the dark principles of 'hacking' - but with the purpose of employing these abilities to safeguard & increase the security of a system, rather than damage it.

Microsoft provide various MCSE specialism's, for example in Messaging or in Security for those with a particular interest. You might elect to go for Security+ from 'CompTIA', and follow that with the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP). Prior to choosing this route though you need to be aware about the amount of work experience necessary for the CISSP. As usual, we advise that you speak with a knowledgeable industry advisor to avoid any mishaps.

The vendor-neutral international institution CompTIA now delivers perhaps the most recognised & highly-regarded independent IT accreditations. In addition there are various other establishments, such as the ISC2 (shortened from the somewhat long winded: 'International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium'!) and 'CWNP' (Certified Wireless Network Professional). Needless to say Microsoft & Cisco provide a comprehensive selection of professional level qualifications. The options might be rather mind-boggling, & therefore we advise you to go carefully & go through all of your options with an expert who knows the process very well. You could save yourself a great deal of money & time, not to mention stress & disappointment.

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