The networking profession got its start decades ago, even before there were networks as we understand them today. From the 1960s through the 1980s, computer centers (as they were known then) had their support specialists who connected terminals and printers to mainframes through serial lines, and occasionally to modems, multiplexors, and other devices. These technicians were the plumbers of their day, and they're the plumbers today, indispensable in their skill in connecting systems and networks, facilitating the business use of computers. Networking today is a good deal more complicated than it was then, requiring more skills and knowledge.
There are more than enough books on networking, but until now, there was no clear guide to getting into the profession. Delivered in the same rich tradition of the Dummies series, Getting a Networking Job For Dummies is that clear guide on planning your entry into networking, no matter where you are in your career today:
No matter why you're reading this book, you can use it as a networking career reference. Getting a Networking Job For Dummies is written by career IT professionals who have spent years in networking. You'll begin to understand what the networking profession is really like from professionals who have been doing it for years.
While writing this book, we've made some assumptions about you:
How are we doing so far? If all my assumptions are right, you may be networking material and ready to seriously consider a career in networking.
Throughout this book, you'll see icons in the left margin that call attention to information that's worth noting. No smiley faces winking at you or other cute little emoticons, but you'll definitely want to take note! Here's what to look for and what to expect.
This icon identifies general information and core concepts that are well worth committing to your nonvolatile memory, your gray matter, or your noggin' — along with anniversaries, birthdays, and other important stuff!
Thank you for reading; we hope you enjoy the book; please take care of your writers! Seriously, this icon includes helpful suggestions and tidbits of useful information that may save you some time and headaches.
Whatever I'm warning you about isn't that hazardous. These helpful alerts point out easily confused or difficult-to-understand terms and concepts.
In additional to the material in the print or ebook you're reading, this product comes with more online goodies:
If you're wondering what the networking profession is all about, go to Part I. If you want to dive into the education, training, and knowledge required in networking, start with Part II. If you're wondering what life is like in different types of organizations, Part III was written just for you. If you're ready to get out there in the networking job market, go right to Part IV. If you love lists, head for Part V.
And for those who want to take an even deeper dive into the knowledge expected of networking professionals, get a copy of Networking For Dummies, 10th Edition, by Doug Lowe.