Career in CCIE or Cloud Computing : Which One Should You Choose?

Are you a skilled IT professional trying to decide between a career in cloud computing and becoming a certified CCIE? Both of these paths offer exciting opportunities for career advancement in the fast-paced tech industry. However, it can be difficult to decide which one to pursue. 

As the tech industry continues to evolve and grow, professionals in the field are faced with a multitude of career paths to choose from. Among these, cloud computing and CCIE (Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert) certifications are two of the most sought-after and lucrative career paths. However, deciding between the two can be challenging. 

In this article, we will explore the benefits and unique aspects of each career path, helping you make an informed decision about which path is the best fit for you.

What Are CCIE Certifications and Cloud Computing?

Before diving into the differences between cloud computing and CCIE certifications, let's define each term.

Cloud computing refers to the delivery of computing services, including servers, storage, databases, software, and more, over the internet. This allows users to access powerful computing resources and software from anywhere, at any time, without the need for on-site hardware or software.  

On the other hand, CCIE is a certification program offered by Cisco Systems that validates the skills and expertise of IT professionals in designing, building, implementing, maintaining, and troubleshooting complex enterprise networking infrastructures.

What Are the Benefits of CCIE Certification?

The CCIE certification is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious and challenging certifications in the IT industry.

Achieving this certification demonstrates a high level of expertise in network engineering and can lead to a variety of benefits, including - 

• High Earning Potential: CCIE-certified professionals are in high demand and can command a high salary, with an average annual salary of 5-12 lakhs per annum..  

• Career Advancement: CCIE certification can lead to opportunities for career advancement, including roles such as network architect, network engineer, and IT director.  

• Credibility: Achieving CCIE certification is a testament to a professional's dedication, hard work, and expertise, providing a level of credibility and respect within the industry.

CCIE Vs. Cloud Computing: Which Career Path Is Right for You?

Now that we have defined each career path and explored the benefits of CCIE certification, let's compare CCIE with cloud computing to help you determine which path is right for you.  

• Skills Required

CCIE requires a deep understanding of complex networking protocols, routing, switching, and security concepts. To excel in this field, you need strong analytical and problem-solving skills, as well as extensive knowledge of various network technologies and architectures.  

On the other hand, cloud computing requires proficiency in various cloud service models, such as SaaS, PaaS, and IaaS, as well as knowledge of cloud security and management tools. Cloud computing professionals also need strong coding and scripting skills, as well as experience with DevOps and automation tools.  

• Job Scope

CCIE-certified professionals can find work in various roles, including network architect, network engineer, and network administrator. These roles typically involve designing, building, maintaining, and troubleshooting complex network infrastructures for large enterprises and service providers. 

They are highly valued in the networking industry and can often advance to more senior roles, such as network architects, network managers, and network consultants. According to Glassdoor, there are 17323 jobs for network engineers in US . 

Cloud computing professionals, on the other hand, cloud computing certified professionals work with cloud-based technologies such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud Platform.

They can find work as cloud architects, cloud engineers, cloud administrators, and more. These roles typically involve designing, building, and maintaining cloud infrastructures, as well as developing and deploying cloud-based applications.  

• Growth Opportunities

CCIE certified professionals are highly regarded in the networking industry and can expect to earn a higher salary than cloud computing certified professionals. As on date, there are 45,000 CCIE certified engineers around the globe, whereas the demand for CCIE certified engineers is nearly 3,00,000.

As the demand for secure and scalable networking solutions continues to grow, CCIE certified professionals will likely continue to be in high demand. 

On the other hand, the demand for cloud computing professionals is expected to continue to grow as more and more companies are investing in IT security. Additionally, cloud computing professionals may also have the opportunity to work with emerging technologies such as machine learning and artificial intelligence, which are often integrated with cloud-based services. 

Ultimately, both CCIE and cloud certifications offer excellent growth opportunities for professionals in the IT industry. . 

• Salary

The average salary of CCIE certified professionals in India varies based on their experience, skills, and job role. According to data from Payscale, the average salary for a CCIE certified professional in India is around INR 2.4 million per year, while the average salary for a cloud computing certified professional is around INR 1.5 million per year.

However, it is important to note that these are just averages and that individual salaries can vary widely depending on various factors. 

How to Become CCIE Certified?

Becoming a CCIE (Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert) requires a combination of experience, knowledge, and passing a rigorous examination.

Here are the steps to become CCIE certified -  

• Networking Fresher: To be eligible for CCIE certification, you must have Knowledge of Complete Computer networking no matter your are from IT or non IT background. You must have knowledge of designing, deploying, and managing enterprise-level network infrastructures.  

• Prepare for the Exam: Cisco offers training courses and materials to help you prepare for the CCIE exams. You can also enroll for a CCIE certification course at Network Bulls that prepares you for the exam. 

• CCIE Written Exam: The first step in becoming CCIE certified is to prepare for the CCIE written exam. The exam tests your knowledge of networking concepts and technologies. You can register for the exam on the Cisco website.  

• CCIE Lab Exam: After written exam, you must prepare the CCIE lab exam, which tests your ability to design, configure, and troubleshoot complex network scenarios. The lab exam is an 8-hour hands-on exam that requires you to configure and troubleshoot network devices in a simulated network environment.  

• Register for the Exam: Once you have prepared for the written and lab  exam, you can register for the CCIE written exam and the CCIE lab exam on the Cisco website.

• Pass the Exam: The final step in becoming CCIE certified is to pass both the CCIE written exam and the CCIE lab exam. Once you have passed both exams, you will be awarded the CCIE certification.  

About Network Bulls CCIE Course

Network Bulls is a Cisco training institute in India that offers a range of courses for networking professionals, including CCIE Enterprise Integrated and CCIE Security V6 Integrated courses.  

Download PDF Career in CCIE or Cloud Computing : Which One Should You Choose?

The CCIE Enterprise Integrated course is designed for network engineers who want to gain advanced knowledge and skills in designing, deploying, and managing complex enterprise network infrastructures.

The course covers a wide range of topics, including network automation, network programmability, SD-WAN, and network security. In this course, students will learn how to design, implement, and troubleshoot enterprise-level network infrastructures using Cisco technologies.  

The CCIE Security V6 Integrated course is designed for network security professionals who want to gain advanced knowledge and skills in designing, deploying, and managing secure network infrastructures.

The course covers a wide range of topics, including network security protocols, firewall technologies, VPN technologies, and network access control. In this course, students will learn how to design, implement, and troubleshoot secure network infrastructures using Cisco technologies.  

Both courses are taught by experienced and CCIE certified trainers who have extensive knowledge of Cisco technologies and real-world experience in designing and implementing network infrastructures.

The courses are designed to prepare students for the CCIE certification exams, which are widely recognized as the most prestigious certifications in the networking industry. By completing these courses, students can gain the knowledge and skills needed to advance their careers in networking and become experts in Cisco technologies.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing a career in cloud computing or CCIE depends on your personal career goals and interests. Both fields offer excellent growth opportunities and high earning potential. A career in cloud computing is ideal for those who are interested in working with emerging technologies and want to build skills in cloud-based services, data management, and virtualization.

On the other hand, a career in CCIE is ideal for those who are interested in networking and want to become experts in Cisco technologies. CCIE certification is highly regarded in the networking industry, and there is a high demand for professionals with the skills to design, implement, and troubleshoot complex network infrastructures.

It is essential to do your research and consider your long-term career goals before making a decision.