Computer Networking Training

Computer networking training is a must have for any professional in the IT (Information Technology) field today.  Networks are connecting almost everything we use in the computer world.  Printers are connected via networks, computers are networked together, we connect to servers the world over through the largest network in the world (the Internet).  Networking is the basis for some of the most revolutionary information sharing in the modern world.  Computer networking training can provide the skills and knowledge needed to set up, troubleshoot, and repair networking issues.  The technician who can successfully do this will be in great demand for some time to come.  Even the home office worker will benefit from obtaining computer networking training, as many home offices are now equipped with pre-installed network jacks and / or wireless network systems.

Computer networking training is just like any other kind of training.  You want to check out all of your options and available resources before signing the dotted line for any classes.  In the IT industry, any type of training courses that you take should be taught by certified instructors, and even the school should have some certification behind it.  It is important when evaluating computer networking training that you take both of these into account.  It won't do you any good to take a class from an accredited school, only to be taught by someone who isn't fully qualified to teach the class.  In fact, this could be a violation of the school's accrediting agency's requirements.  Likewise, if your computer network training is provided by a top-notch certified instructor, but the school isn't accredited, then you will get a certificate of completing the course that is virtually useless.  Don't waste your money if you're not sure.

You will also want to make sure that the school provides an affiliation with an outside certification for you once you complete the computer networking training.  In the field of networking, the major players for certifications are CompTIA, Cisco, and Novell.  While there is some debate among the various governing agencies, a quick glance on the search engines seems to point towards an edge for Cisco's certification and CompTIA's Network + certification.  So why is your opportunity for certification so important when selecting computer networking training?  It is simple.  Certification is your means of proving you know what you say you know.  Without being certified, you are simply another voice on the IT landscape, drowned out amongst the crowds.

So, as we have seen, computer network training is a requirement for any individual who is serious about being a computer professional.  While the options may seem endless, the qualifications you need to look for are very specific, and should not be ignored.  A final consideration to make when evaluating your choice of training providers is, of course, the final cost.  This should include taking into account any discounted certification programs that are available at the end of the course.  Obtaining good computer networking training does not have to become a chore, but should benefit everyone involved in the end.

Computer IT Training

Computer IT training seems to be one of the waves of the future.  IT (or Information Technology) represents quite a broad spectrum of services within the computing field.  A typical IT job may include network troubleshooting, upgrading PC systems, launching a software platform across multiple user terminals, or wiring up a dozen new terminals to the patch panel.  Because of this multiplicity of jobs that an IT professional may encounter in the day-to-day grind, computer IT training must be just as diversified and broad, covering an extensive group of subjects.

In fact, a lot of IT professionals find it advantageous to participate in a continuing education program where they can continue to get updated computer IT training on a regular basis.  Many companies, realizing the speed at which technology is changing in today's fast paced world, will actually require their IT workers to enroll in such classes.  Some companies are going so far as to actually sponsor their employees in regularly scheduled computer IT training.  This is seen as a win-win situation, as it is a free benefit for the employee, while the employer can ensure they have professionals who have received the most up-to-date information in the field.

Some areas receive more attention than others in computer IT training classes, simply because these are the areas that are more rapidly advancing than others.  For example, in the networking arena, wireless networking has taken off.  In many office environments, using wiring run through the walls and ceiling to connect the computers to a common server is considered 'old school' technology.  More and more companies are transforming their workplaces into wired hot spots, allowing more freedom of movement and productivity of employees.  In order to be able to understand and troubleshoot this type of work environment, the IT professional(s) working in the company making this transition will want to attend a computer IT training class that is tailored to meet their needs. 

Often, there will be seminars in may cities of various sizes, sponsored by some of the larger hardware and software manufacturers.  These computer IT training seminars will present the latest and greatest developments to the IT professionals in the area.  Some times the seminars are free, in which case they will attempt to sell you something after the class.  However, many of these computer IT training seminars are very professionally produced, and will cost hundreds of dollars to attend.  This tab for this type of seminar is very often picked up by the company and accounted for as employee training costs.

Computer IT training is far reaching, and has an impact on the career of anyone who is involved in the Information Technology field.  To stay on top of their game, it is no longer an option, but considered an necessity, for IT professionals to attend a regularly scheduled computer IT training class.  Don't miss out on your next promotion or career opportunity because you are unaware of the latest and greatest development in your particular niche of the IT field.  Sign up for a computer IT training class today, and check out the new technology that just might make the difference for you!

Computer Consultant Training

There are a variety of things you can learn about computers.  Some people go to school just to learn how to give other people advice about their computers.  This person would be considered a computer consultant.  Computer consultant training is becoming as popular as some of the other types of computer training that is out there.  The primary reason for this is that computer consultants are in demand, helping people decide on what type of system and / or software is needed for their personal or business use.

Becoming a computer consultant is not exactly easy, as this is a field that is under constant change.  Computer consultant training is something that a consultant should undergo at least once a year.  While there is no 'official' industry standardized test or certification, there are several certifications that come to mind based on a manufacturers recommendations.  For example, if you are primarily concerned with working with Microsoft software products and machines that are compatible with them, you might consider becoming a MCSE, or Miscrosoft Certified Systems Engineer.  On the other hand, if you are a Dell man (or woman), then you would be more interested in getting Dell certified as a DCSE, or Dell Certified Systems Engineer.  Basically both of these titles mean that you know how to tear down a system and put it back together again.  Ideally, you would have some overall knowledge and idea of what type of functionality a system would be capable of, or what it can be used for.

Computer consultant training can be accomplished in a variety of ways.  If you are looking for an actual certification program such as one of those mentioned in the preceding paragraph, you can go online and do a search.  Simply go to one of the major search engines, such as Google, and do a search for 'computer consultant training' or the actual name of one of the certifications you are seeking.  There are a couple of things you should know about certifications with big names, however.  Most of these certifications are done in a strict testing environment at a local facility.  However, the payment for the tests is usually done online.  Shop around.  Don't buy the voucher, or payment coupon, from the actual site itself.  A lot of times if you take the time to shop around you will be able to find computer consultant training at a discounted rate, through a third-party vendor.

Computer consultant training can also be accomplished by the tried and true method of internship, or learning from someone else.  If you are serious about becoming a computer consultant, but are short on cash and don't really feel like going through an official training program, consider taking a job in a local computer shop.  You will be pleasantly surprised how much you can learn in a short period of time working in a shop where you have a computer consulting training mentor.  Computer consulting can be a very lucrative field to get into, but you have to know your stuff.  Taking a class or mentoring under someone are the best methods available to go from novice newbie to avid computer consultant in the shortest period of time.

Avoiding Improprieties In Online Computer Training Courses

Online computer training courses are offered by both reputable institutions and sometimes not-so-reputable sources.  The problem in determining which is which can be determined through appropriate resources.  The purpose of this article is to provide a few guidelines as to what to look for when you are looking for online computer training.  Regardless of the course taken, this may prove helpful. 

More and more students are taking to the internet to solve a common dilemma:  lack of time to obtain classroom instruction.  This has created a niche for education professionals:  online computer training courses.  These courses are numerous and cover topics from astrology to zoology and everything in between.  Starting with the information provided below may prove helpful:  

Reputation:  One of the first signs or signals of impropriety to look for when evaluating an online computer training course is reputation.  Are there reviews available for the company or group offering the training?  If not, this may be a negative indication.  If there are, do they post both favorable and unfavorable reviews?  If so, this may indicate an open-mindedness towards criticism on the part of the staff. 

Accredited or Not:  Is the particular online computer training course accredited?  If not, depending on your needs, this may prove to be a wasted effort on your part.  Though you may feel as though you've learned something, it may prove to be worthless as it pertains to advancing a degree.  Accreditation should be looked at with scrutiny.  A good source for determining accreditation is through a Google search for accredited online colleges. 

Physical Location:  Is the staff located in one physical location or does correspondence go to a post office box?  A company that doesn't have a physical location on a map could be another sign of impropriety.  Without a physical location to visit and or lodge a complaint can prove to be difficult in the event of legal problems such as settling a dispute.  Some online computer training courses offer interaction through electronic mail (Email), this should not be taken as a negative unless there is no corresponding physical address. 

Contact Information:  Is telephonic conversation done through a 1-800 number?  Often times dummy corporations and other illegal activities are coordinated through 800 numbers.  That's not to say that this by itself should be a deciding factor:  some operate call centers through a network of 800 numbers to lessen expenses.  Is there an alternate contact phone number?  Again, not solely a disqualifying factor however it is a plus to find that there is a non 800 number available.   

Catalog:  Is the company offering the online computer course, offering only one course or do they possess a catalog of courses available?  Providing a singular course is a bad sign.  Just as a traditional college doesn't concentrate on one discipline of study, neither should a reputable institution offering online computer training courses.

As in any online endeavor that may have an effect on your future, due diligence should be taken prior to a financial commitment.  The suggestions made in this article are not all inclusive and should not be taken singularly as an indication of impropriety; rather in whole or in combination.

A Look At The Growth of The Computer Training Industry

It started with a math problem.  That problem brought on the challenge of more complex math problems.  Humans were performing these complex math problems using various methods.  Then came the abacus:  a simple instrument designed to aid in performing mathematical calculations.  One might say that this is where computer training began:  the first teacher training the first student on the operation of the abacus. 

Many years hence, other devices were created to aid in mathematical computations, yet the original 'computer' - the abacus - remained.  Through the aid of electronics came the first computer.  This first computer could fill a room.  In fact, there are many from that era in use to this day:  they still fill a room.  The purpose of the first computer was to complete complex mathematical operations in little or no time. 

In the beginning, computers were the forte of scientists and mathematicians.  Then they became more prevalent making their way into universities and other higher learning institutions.  At the universities and other higher learning institutions sat students undergoing their first computer training classes.  Students anxiously stood in line after line to sign up for computer training classes:  many were turned away due to over-crowding.  

As technology advanced, these super computers began shrinking in size.  In fact, computers can now be found that are smaller than a cornflake: they are properly termed microchips or mini-computers.  Along with the shrinking size of the computer came the shrinking price of a computer.  Eventually, computers became affordable enough for the average Joe to own.  Not only were they small and affordable, they were portable (think laptop). 

With all of these computers, somebody needed to know how to use them.  Universities offered computer training courses as well as small colleges and technical colleges.  What was once considered an intellectuals pursuit only, has become commonplace.  High Schools initially offered computer science's where basic computer programming and computer basics were taught.  The computer then made it's way into middle schools and on into elementary schools.  It's come to the point where everyone attending public schooling is exposed to some form or another of computer training. 

It's gotten to the point where young school-aged students began having more experience than the older generation.  In fact, it seemed they were outpacing their elders in at least that one area of expertise.

The older generation began to recognize the need for computer training.  Many were busy raising the younger generation.  This generation found it difficult to take time to attend formal computer training in a classroom environment.  Still others, busied by a full time job faced a similar dilemma.  Computers were in the workplace and the higher paying jobs were going to those with computer knowledge or outright expertise.

Companies, institutions, and computer experts recognized this and took advantage of it.  The lack of computer training and or lack of time created a niche.  Computer training took off.  Online computer training courses became available for just about anyone that could find their way onto the internet.  This truly brought computer's to everyone.

Considering the above account, one can't help but wonder what the next step in the growth of computer training will be.

Computer Training For Emergency Services Personnel

Emergency Services personnel receive extensive training in their respective academy.  In the initial phase of training, the subject matter is mainly academic.  Law enforcement personnel, for one, cover topics such as state law, drug recognition, hazardous materials recognition, and more through hours of classroom instruction.  The remainder of the training cycle is hands-on training.  In a portion of the hands-on training, computers play a major role.  For instance, for law enforcement there are 'shoot or don't shoot' scenarios:  These are played out on a video game like system, in which the officer stands on a padded surface that detects every movement (ducking, kneeling, shifting side-to-side).  While standing on the surface, the officer has a weapon 'holstered' and is provided scenarios in which he or she must decide whether or not to shoot a subject.  During this training, the officers every action or inaction is monitored up to and including verbal commands given to the 'subject'.  This type of computer training has proven vital over the years in terms of evaluating prospective law enforcement officials. 

In the world of Emergency Services, certification is imperative.  Included in the definition of Emergency Services personnel are police, fire, and EMS.  In most states these personnel are required to maintain certification through a points system.  Personnel earn points through course completion; annual certification in different subject matter and annual re-certifications.  In addition to the points earned for required academic subjects, there are points awarded for similar training courses.  These 'extra' subject matter are often considered an acceptable substitution for required subjects.

In the past fifteen years, due to budget constraints and other factors, annual academic subject matter is being rearranged to accommodate computer training.  This has proven cost effective to state and local agencies:  budgets aren't stretched thin, leaving funds available for special projects and such. 

There are many examples of computer training received by Emergency Services personnel.  Of the many important classes, for example, are Hazardous Material recognition courses.  The benefit of completing a course such as this is twofold:  the materials can be covered easily during a shift, and instant results are generated.  The fact that a computer training course can be completed during a shift makes it cost effective for a small department in terms of travel expense, wear and tear on a vehicle, and time lost to training.

For policemen desiring to obtain training on subject matter that would normally require their attendance at a far off training conference, this is a boon.  Computer training courses covering topics such as drug recognition are relatively easy to find.  These courses are generally recognized by the respective law enforcement training division of the given state.  While a policemen may be discouraged from taking such a course during duty hours, it is entirely possible to complete such a course during off-duty hours.  Again, this type of computer training course benefits not only the officer, but the Department.

Perhaps the biggest benefit of computer training for Emergency Services personnel is the one aspect of their lives that become the most neglected:  family time.