Question 1

What does a data center technician actually do?

Accepted Answer

Exactly what a data center technician does varies a lot from one place to the next, but all data center technicians keep the brain of big computer networks healthy. Techs often walk around large data centers, visiting hardware and appliances to make sure they're operating correctly. But some data center technicians spend a lot of time at a computer, using command line interfaces to ensure the digital health of the network.

Question 2

What does Cisco have to do with being a data center technician?

Accepted Answer

Cisco is one of the world's largest networking hardware manufacturers, Cisco devices can be found in most of the data centers all over the world. It's not quite a sure thing, but new data center technicians can be pretty confident they'll work with Cisco tech throughout their careers. There are some data center technicians who set up, configure, troubleshoot and maintain network infrastructure on nothing but Cisco equipment.

Question 3

Are there good certifications for a brand-new IT data center technician?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there are some certifications aimed at brand-new, entry-level technicians with little formal training or previous IT experience. Cisco offers two CCST (Cisco Certified Support Technician) certs that are designed for brand-new data center techs that need something to prove they have a basic competency with installing and configuring cybersecurity and networking equipment. The CCNA from Cisco is another great early-career certification but will require substantially more prep than the CCSTs.

Question 4

Are Cisco certifications worth it?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Cisco certifications are respected representations of the skills and knowledge relevant to networking careers. The CCSTs are broad tests of directly applicable skills related to keeping data centers running. CCNA is an industry standard for basic familiarity with protocols, configurations and security. Their more advanced certifications (like CCNPs) quickly get much more complicated and require much more time, but Cisco certifications – especially entry-level ones – are definitely worth it.

Question 5

How long does it take to become a Cisco certified technician?

Accepted Answer

Earning the Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) in networking can be accomplished in 2-6 weeks, depending on how much experience you have with computers and technology, how much time you can devote to studying each week, and how naturally IT comes to you. This course on data center basics is designed to accelerate the learning process with hands-on virtual labs, where you actually practice configs and applying settings in realistic scenarios.

How to Become a Data Center Technician: Cisco Data Center Networking Basics Online Training

Who This Course Is For

Course Curriculum

Platform Features

This course is included with every subscription

Small Team

Team

Enterprise

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Courses

CCNP Data Center

CCNA

Ready to upskill your team?