Introduction

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.

About This Book

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:

  • If you're a student or recent graduate, you'll get real-life information on what it's like in the networking profession.
  • If you're already getting your start in networking, you can chart your career path and decide what kind of an organization you may want to work in.
  • If you're in the networking job market, you'll understand different types of networking jobs in different types of organizations.
  • If you need to hire a networking professional, you'll find lots of information to help you focus on what kind of candidate you need and to better understand the people who are applying for your positions.

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.

Foolish Assumptions

While writing this book, we've made some assumptions about you:

  • You are curious about technology and how things work. Even if you're looking to get into the management aspect of networking, having a healthy appreciation for how technology supports an organization is important.
  • You enjoy helping others. Anyone in a networking job is part of information technology, a service organization that supports the business and the people trying to get things done. With technology so important in business, networking professionals are on the front lines helping others get their jobs done every day.
  • You enjoy learning. My first clue: You're reading this book! Being in networking — or any branch of information technology — demands continuous learning. Networking and technology itself change rapidly, and continuous learning is needed just to keep up!
  • You like Dr. Who and his problem-solving capabilities, even if some of the scenarios he finds himself in are a little odd.

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.

Icons Used in This Book

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.

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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!

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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.

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Whatever I'm warning you about isn't that hazardous. These helpful alerts point out easily confused or difficult-to-understand terms and concepts.

Beyond the Book

In additional to the material in the print or ebook you're reading, this product comes with more online goodies:

Where to Go from Here

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.

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