the_information_nexus/work/starting.md

Here’s the updated certification path that includes the RHCSA, tailored for building a strong foundation in networking while integrating DevOps principles:

1. Foundational Certifications

• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA):

  • Focus: Core networking concepts including network fundamentals, IP connectivity, IP services, security, and automation.
  • Why: Essential for understanding traditional networking, which is foundational for all advanced networking certifications.

• CompTIA Network+:

  • Focus: Broad networking knowledge that covers various networking concepts and practices.
  • Why: Provides a good grounding in networking before moving to vendor-specific certifications like Cisco.

• AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate:

  • Focus: Cloud architecture and networking, focusing on designing and deploying scalable systems on AWS.
  • Why: Cloud knowledge is critical as networking shifts towards cloud-based solutions.

• Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA):

  • Focus: Linux system administration, covering user management, security, and automation using basic scripting.
  • Why: Linux is integral to many network environments, and proficiency in Linux administration is vital for managing network services and implementing automation.

2. Intermediate Certifications with DevOps Integration

• Cisco Certified DevNet Associate:

  • Focus: Network automation, programmability, and development skills, including working with Cisco APIs and automation tools.
  • Why: This certification integrates networking with software development, making it essential for a DevOps-focused networking career.

• Fortinet Network Security Expert (NSE) 4:

  • Focus: Fortinet firewall and network security basics, including automation and integration via APIs.
  • Why: Network security is becoming more intertwined with networking operations, making expertise in a platform like Fortinet valuable.

• Cisco Meraki Solutions Specialist:

  • Focus: Cloud-based network management, focusing on deploying, monitoring, and automating Meraki networks.
  • Why: Meraki’s cloud-managed solutions are increasingly popular, and expertise in this area is crucial for managing and automating modern enterprise networks.

3. Advanced Certifications and DevOps Specialization

• Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Enterprise:

  • Focus: Advanced networking topics, particularly in enterprise environments, with a focus on automation and programmability.
  • Why: Builds on the knowledge from CCNA and DevNet Associate, providing deeper insights into complex networking solutions.

• AWS Certified Advanced Networking – Specialty:

  • Focus: Advanced cloud networking, with an emphasis on automation, hybrid cloud solutions, and security.
  • Why: As networks increasingly move to the cloud, expertise in AWS’s advanced networking services becomes crucial.

• Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE):

  • Focus: Advanced Linux administration with a focus on automation using Ansible.
  • Why: The RHCE emphasizes automation, which is a cornerstone of DevOps practices and is vital for managing modern network environments.

4. DevOps and Automation Skills

• APIs and Automation:

  • Focus: Proficiency in using APIs for network management and automation, including working with JSON and RESTful APIs.
  • Why: APIs are fundamental to automating network operations in a DevOps environment.

• Infrastructure as Code (IaC):

  • Focus: Managing network infrastructure through code to enable version control, repeatability, and automation.
  • Why: IaC allows for agile and reliable network deployments, essential in DevOps practices.

• Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) for Networks:

  • Focus: Automating the testing, deployment, and management of network configurations using CI/CD pipelines.
  • Why: CI/CD pipelines are crucial for ensuring efficient, error-free network changes.

Summary of Certifications with DevOps Focus:

1. CCNA - Core networking skills.
2. CompTIA Network+ - Optional broader networking foundation.
3. AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate - Foundation in cloud networking.
4. RHCSA - Foundation in Linux system administration.
5. DevNet Associate - Automation, APIs, and programmability.
6. Fortinet NSE 4 - Network security with automation.
7. Meraki Solutions Specialist - Cloud-based network management.
8. CCNP Enterprise - Advanced networking with automation.
9. AWS Certified Advanced Networking – Specialty - Advanced cloud networking.
10. RHCE - Advanced Linux with automation.

This path provides a comprehensive approach to building a strong networking and DevOps skill set, with a focus on automation, cloud integration, and security. It equips you to handle the demands of modern networking environments where DevOps practices are increasingly prevalent.