NETg offer a range of networking courses and are aimed at being able to provide such training to busy IT people. The IDC Training Services report 2000 highlighted that in 1999 there was a shortage of 900,000 IT skilled workers in Western Europe and this figure is seen to increase by 4% to a total of 13% by 2003.

The main shortage identified were for people with Internetworking skills and this was forecast to increase by around 36% by 2003. The report also stated that more companies were also turning to e-Learning solutions to meet training needs within their own companies.

NETg have outlined the availability of its Cisco CCNA, CCDA, Network+ and A+ curriculum of interactive courses that all map to certification programs.

Here is an outline of what is available:

Cisco Curriculum
11 Courses to help IT professionals become Cisco Certified Network Associates (CCNAs) and Cisco Certified Design Associates (CCDP).

CCNPs:

• Install, configure, operate and troubleshoot large, complex Cisco-based networks.
  
• This involves LAN/WAN routingl LAN switching and Dial Access Services.

• Knowledge of network design for enterprise organisations.
  
• Multi-protocol networks can have from 100 to more than 500 nodes.

• Certifies knowledge of networking professionals with 18-24 months IT experience.
  
• Validates that person possesses knowledge of neutral networking technologies and practices.
  
• Exam covers a wide range of vendor and product networking technologies.
  
• Courses can be used for background information to Novell, MCSE and Lotus certification or in place of first CNE exam 50-632 for Novell Networking Technologies.

• Non-vendor specific, aimed at entry-level service technicians with six months experience and good understanding of computer hardware.
  
• This takes the learner through microcomputer basics, peripheral devices, troubleshooting and preventive maintenance.
  
• Guide the student through tasks involved in the day-to-day management and support of Windows NT 4.0 workstations.
  
• Features and navigation of the user interface, implementation guidelines, installation procedures, upgrade concerns, hardware, software, user and security management.

Further courses are being developed for Network certification (iNET+ courses) and for baseline skills needed for an individual wishing to pursue Internet-related training.

CCNA, CCDP, Network+ and A+ courses are already available whereas iNET+ courses are due for completion and sale at the end of the year.

For further information about NETg courses for IT Networking and Internetworking courses