Learn how to read and decipher log files (IPMI, dmesg, Wireshark, SEL, etc.) Learn virtualization of some kind (VMware, Docker, AWS, etc.) Learn some version of Linux (RedHat, Centos, etc.) Just have some knowledge of the processes. You don't need to be an expert in everything. To give some unwarranted advice to new candidates who really want to stand out when it comes time for second/third interviews. You need the job to get the experience, but can't get the job unless you have experience. Having the correct certs will get you pass HR but you better know what you are doing when it comes to getting into the more advanced levels of the field. I can't count the times HR will send a new, potential employee down to my lab for me to interview, be told they hold all the certifications we require, only to find out they can't troubleshoot the simplest of issues.

I've been working in this field for 25+ years now. But I find it exhausting when a person comes into my company to apply for a network admin position after passing the Network+ exam, just to find out the only real world experience they have is building their gaming PC to play Minecraft. I wish more people had this drive in todays day and age. Trying to get into a career rather than just having a job.

Now, I'm all for people trying to better themselves. Some people I've met do have an innate ability when it comes to the world of computers and have managed to pull this off, but this isn't an expected result, as most won't. Please understand though, that just having a bunch of certs under your belt does not mean you can walk into a high level job and believe you should be paid a huge salary. I never renewed as my position doesn't require them but they are a good starting point. I took the 'trilogy' of CompTIA exams a few years back and they do cover the basics.

Having certs just tells me you can read a book or watch some videos and pass an exam. 'I passed all these exams in two months with no experience' You've all seen the posts on this sub-reddit. I hope this opens a discussion and not seem like a rant as that is not my intent.

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