What are the top cloud network training programs for Network Administrators?

1 AWS Certified Advanced Networking - Specialty

One of the most popular and respected cloud network certifications is the AWS Certified Advanced Networking - Specialty. This certification validates the ability to design, implement, and troubleshoot complex network architectures on AWS. It covers topics such as hybrid network connectivity, network security, network optimization, automation, and monitoring. To earn this certification, network administrators need to have at least two years of hands-on experience with AWS networking and pass a 170-minute exam. The exam costs $300 and can be taken online or at a testing center.

2 Google Cloud Network Engineer

Another leading cloud network certification is the Google Cloud Network Engineer. This certification demonstrates the proficiency to design, plan, and implement Google Cloud network solutions. It covers topics such as network infrastructure, network services, hybrid and multi-cloud scenarios, network security, and network operations. To earn this certification, network administrators need to have at least one year of experience with Google Cloud networking and pass a two-hour exam. The exam costs $200 and can be taken online or at a testing center.

3 Microsoft Azure Network Engineer Associate

A third option for cloud network certification is the Microsoft Azure Network Engineer Associate. This certification verifies the skills to implement and manage Azure network resources and services. It covers topics such as virtual networks, load balancers, VPN gateways, firewalls, network security groups, and network monitoring. To earn this certification, network administrators need to pass two exams: AZ-303 and AZ-304. Each exam costs $165 and can be taken online or at a testing center.

4 Cloud Networking with Cisco

For network administrators who want to learn more about cloud networking with Cisco, there are several training options available. One of them is the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Cloud. This certification validates the ability to perform basic tasks such as provisioning, monitoring, and troubleshooting cloud networks and services. It covers topics such as cloud characteristics, cloud deployment models, cloud service models, cloud networking concepts, and Cisco cloud solutions. To earn this certification, network administrators need to pass two exams: 210-451 CLDFND and 210-455 CLDADM. Each exam costs $300 and can be taken online or at a testing center.

Another option is the Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Cloud. This certification demonstrates the ability to design, implement, and manage cloud networks and services. It covers topics such as cloud automation, cloud orchestration, cloud security, cloud service quality, and cloud migration. To earn this certification, network administrators need to pass four exams: 300-460 CLDINF, 300-465 CLDDES, 300-470 CLDAUT, and 300-475 CLDACI. Each exam costs $300 and can be taken online or at a testing center.

5 Cloud Native Computing Foundation (CNCF)

The Cloud Native Computing Foundation (CNCF) is a non-profit organization that promotes the adoption of cloud native technologies such as Kubernetes, Docker, Prometheus, and Envoy. It also offers several certifications and training programs for network administrators who want to learn more about cloud native networking. One of them is the Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA). This certification validates the ability to configure, deploy, and manage Kubernetes clusters. It covers topics such as cluster architecture, installation, networking, security, storage, troubleshooting, and administration. To earn this certification, network administrators need to pass a two-hour practical exam. The exam costs $300 and can be taken online.

Another option is the Certified Kubernetes Network Specialist (CKS). This certification verifies the skills to secure Kubernetes clusters and network resources. It covers topics such as network policies, service meshes, network encryption, network troubleshooting, and network monitoring. To earn this certification, network administrators need to have the CKA certification and pass a two-hour practical exam. The exam costs $300 and can be taken online.

6 Here’s what else to consider

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