Defense Department Courses Combine Job Security, National Security

In the 21st Century, America's greatest threat may be lapses in digital security. That's why the U.S. government and military are beefing up information security. Improved security means hiring workers who can keep our national data and technology safe. To make sure it employs skilled personnel, the government requires every employee with privileged access to a Defense Department IT system to get commercial IT certification. From entry-level computer basics to intensive penetration and hacking, this training gives prospective DoD workers comprehensive expertise in national information technology and the security issues that surround it. The U.S. Defense Department is the largest employer in the world. If you want to join the more than 3 million service members, civilians, contractors and foreign nationals on its payroll, you need to take some online coursework first. Directive 8570.1 requires that civilian and military personnel get internationally-recognized professional certifications. The training is for IT personnel working in national defense, but the skills can translate to a wide range of employment opportunities. For example, CompTIA courses that are part of the training are also part of the certification track for Microsoft, HP and Cisco and are mandatory for service technicians at Dell and Intel. The IT training certifications required to meet the requirements of the DoD directive include: CompTIA A+ This certification is useful in careers as a computer support professional or IT technician. In addition to having strong technical knowledge, these professionals have good customer service skills. CompTIA Security+ This entry-level credential covers IT security and paves the way for careers as security engineers, consultants or network administrators. CompTIA Network+ This certification is the foundation for IT networking. It's great for careers as a network administrator or Internet technician. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) This is an advanced certification for IT professionals seeking mastery of information security. CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP) This certification demonstrates competence in enterprise security; risk management; research and analysis. It integrates computing, communications, and business disciplines. The exam covers the technical knowledge and skills required to conceptualize, design, and engineer secure solutions across complex enterprise environments. Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) IT professionals can achieve an international standard for IT security based on a Common Body of Knowledge (CBK). Security Certified Network Professional (SCNP) This certification aims to give network administrators the hands-on skills needed to protect their networks from security threats and vulnerabilities. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) The Certified Ethical Hacker certification covers how to look for vulnerabilities in target systems using the methods of malicious hackers. Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP) and Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) Thesecredentials cover specific Microsoft technologies. The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) This entry-level certification for network administrators and engineers is an industry standard. Subjects include routing and switching. CCNA qualifies a user to operate a small to medium business network. Oracle DBA-OCA This certification demonstrates understanding of the Oracle database architecture and its components. You'll be able to create operational databases and properly manage performance monitoring, database security, user management and backup/recovery techniques. Meditec's Department of Defense Directive 8570.1 training package includes instructor-led training modules with customized presentations, practice exam simulators and learning supplements. If you're looking for a career in national security, getting the required training will give you something else: job security.