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With three years experience in IT, what certs should I start with?

I have been working in the IT field for three and a half years. I started out as a computer operator and moved up to a help desk position. (Let's say level three, but I have been doing the job of a LAN administrator.) I want to pursue my certifications and want to know what would be the best to start with?
In general, I'd recommend starting with A+ and Network+ then moving into some vendor program -- be it Microsoft, Novell, Cisco or whatever (Linux/Unix, telephony, etc.) -- depending on what kinds of systems and platforms you'd like to manage in your next position. By the time you get the A+ and Network+, you may also have a better idea about what kind of platform choice you'd like to make for your next certification. If you're still uncertain at that point, write me again with more specifics, and I'll be happy to advise you further.

Good luck!
--Ed--

This was first published in November 2002

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