| By :
Dirik Hameed
The most renowned networking company in the world which is also considered the best in the market is CISCO. Its hardware and software solutions are among the most sought after in networking circles. Besides these high end solutions is the need to make sure that the technical support providers are of high qualification. CISCO consultancy is a highly lucrative affair that requires proficiency in courses that are moderated by the company. One must first be certified in order to work as a CISCO consultant in any country around the world. This internationally recognized certification holds great promise and potential for successful candidates. There are some qualities expected of a qualified consultant both by the clients and the company. The first thing that a CISCO consultant must be able to deliver on is in the areas of routing and switching. Among the most crucial requirements of a consultant are configuring and trouble shooting of CISCO network. The basic understanding of the different networking protocols like IS-IS, BGP, EIGRP, RIP and Policy based routing is required of them. Ability to work with different network management platforms like Cisco Works is also expected of a CISCO network consultant. A proficient consultant of the CISCO program should also be capable of handling network security as well as general network management. At all levels, this is a highly critical and sensitive feature of computing. There are a number of security solutions which consultants can use in this particular area which are put at their disposal by CISCO. CISCO Security Manger, CISCO IDS, CISCO Firewalls, CISCO Iron port Email are some of these solutions. Not having a secure network makes users easy prey for hackers and virus threats. Thus, it is important a responsibility and a critical feature on network consultancy. Another area where CISCO consultants are required to have a high level of competency is client support. Every consultant should have an excellent understanding of the various products offered so as to be in a position of providing clients with the support they need. Besides just being competent in the different products, configurations and protocols, they also need to be well versed in other IT areas. This is important where the problems that need to be resolved are not purely of a networking nature. One such situation would be where the network issue is caused by a non network resource. Being a CISCO consultant also calls for the capability to handle wireless networks, data centers, VoIP and other networking services. This ensures that the client receives a comprehensive service any time they call in the consultant. In addition to technical capability, a CISCO consultant will also need to have business and communication skills. These are very important in handling clients before, during and after attending to their issues. A Highly flexible and adaptive approach is required in the kind of roles a consultant is called upon to handle. It is however important to note that working in the area of CISCO consultancy can be very rewarding in the areas of career as well as finances.
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