Recommended Security Study

[diago]

Hi,

I'm a network engineer with over 7 years experience with manageing communications and security on a medium size network (3500+ clients). I have no people reporting directly to me and my role is essentially 100% technical.

My qualifications are:
Masters in Info. Tech
Grad Cert. Information Security
Diploma Project Management
Diploma in Client Support
CCSA
MCSE 2003
CCNA

I'm considering leaving my current employer and am preparing myself for either another full-time position or contract role in security related roles. I'm booked in for the CPTS course and exam in 1 month and I'll try and knock off the CCSE exam before that.

Looking at what I've done can anyone see any glaring holes or make any other suggestions as to any study I should consider? I'm considering CISSP, CCNP and also ITIL. Has anyone done the Ethical Hacking exam?

I know this is a faige question as security is such a large area but I'm just after general feedback especially on vendor neutral study.

[betski]

Hi Diago

You have similar certs to me and I am also looking at a career change. the most important thing is to have a short(1-2 years) and medium(5 years) term plan and figure out the best way of getting there.

Do you see yourself being techincally hands-on when you're 40-50?? I know i don't and that's why i'm changing direction into the management and auditing area. Ethical hacking and Security auditing are available through EC-Council and others. Whichever way you choose, Good Luck !!

[diago]

Thanks Betski for the reply - much appreciated.

Just passed my CCSE today.

I'm only 30 years old so I want to stick with being a tech for the next 10+ years. Good advise though!

[MarioL]

If you want to keep technical I think you really should get CISSP. It's one important "tick" on the resume.

I'm planning on getting mine this year, most of my mates have got it already.