Certifications

[SpartonRecords]

I just found out today that IT certifications like CompTIA NETWORK + A+ and CISCO CCNA have a 2-3 year lifespan then  they expire.... my question is do employers really care if your certs are no longer valid....

[SPK]

Some do, yes...others, not so much. It is advisable that when you go for an interview though, that your certs are valid.

[TriniXaeno]

SPK is right on the money.

Keep in mind, most won't even ask whether they are still valid, to be honest.

So don't be too worried about.

[LQDSNK]

The CompTIA certs are supposed to be "lifetime". CCNA, not certain. MS for sure, very short term. For the most part, having had it recently is a bonus, most don't know which ones do (unless it's in an IT Department) at which point that all important "experience" comes in.

[W1nTry]

It depends on the environment you're going into. If you're going to work for a service provider then your certs being up to date are very important. If you're going into a static environment then your certs being up to date are less important. It will also depend on the position, if its a junior position where you will be trained, again certs are not AS important as they will most likely train you, if it's a senior position having relatively recent certs applicable in the field is very relevant.

Outside of T&T in north america, certs are KING, you better have them particularly if you're in IT. There are alot of ppl out there with experience and up to date certs so its critical in those markets.

Cisco, Juniper, Checkpoint, etc etc all of their certs are 2-3 years MAX. But let me say if you made it to CCIE, that by itself could outshine a masters degree. Just my 2c

[SPK]

The CompTIA certs are supposed to be "lifetime".

Not anymore. A+, Network+ and Security+ are now only valid for a period of 3 years, as of December 31, 2010. If you secured your cert before that date, then the lifetime validation will be applicable. I would know, I've taught those courses for years.

CCNA and MCITP - also 3 years, always have been.

[LQDSNK]

Not anymore. A+, Network+ and Security+ are now only valid for a period of 3 years, as of December 31, 2010.

Good to know, i did get mine in the period before that though but at least i can correctly advise persons now, thanks for the heads up.