Nice post Scott.

On SDN, who do you think is automating the network - some are certified professionals given the opportunity based on certifications.

Even I'm doing it myself... It's happening but if you don't understand what's going on under the sheets you probably won't get invited to bed.

On salary, a properly seasoned and certified CCNP can earn upwards of $120-150k plus these days base pay and say 15 per cent bonus etc as W-2 employee. I'd suppose CCIE's earn better.

Maybe a college graduate can earn that but a 3-7 year certified Cisco professional can still afford a nice vehicle if the drive is there. And does not mind working from his/her home office to get it.

The job opportunities are literally endless. A CCNP can expect maybe 1-5 opportunities a day to cross his or her inbox and I can count the number of in-direct opportunities for a skilled and motivated professional. Pick and choose.

Choosey certified professional certify with Cisco.

Darby Weaver
CCNP