Network Security Specialist

[Zerored]

I have seen many ads (being a college student) for "Network Security Specialist". My destination is realized. My curiosity leads me to inquire possibly HOW does one achieve that goal? Once you have your basics (understanding of hardware/software/networking concepts/connectivity and a working knowledge of these areas) then where to? What to research/study/prepare for next? Is there a general direction which one can be pointed to? I have seen descriptions of reqirements of various positions pertaining to this, but how how does one start exactly. You cant go down to pc club/best buy and pick up a cisco pix router. Thoughts, insights?

[wilnix]

A couple of certs to check out:

CSS1 - Cisco (http://www.cisco.com/warp/public/10/wwtraining/certprog/cqs/security/)
Security CCIE - Cisco (http://www.cisco.com/warp/public/625/ccie/certifications/security.html)
CCSE+ - Checkpoint (http://www.checkpoint.com/services/education/certification/certs.html#CCSE_Plus)
ICSA - TruSecure (http://www.trusecure.com/html/secsol/certification.shtml#practitioner)
Multiple Certs - Global Knowledge (http://www.globalknowledge.com/training/category.asp?PageID=9&country=United+States&translation=English&catid=191)
SCNP - Security Certified (http://www.securitycertified.net/certifications.htm)
GIAC Certs - GIAC (http://www.giac.org/certifications.php)

If you need hardware, don't be afraid to check online for used equipment. As for cisco equipment, try ebay, google, etc. You'd be amazed at what you'd find. The Cisco, ICSA, and GlobalKnowledge Certs hold better recognition then the others, but remember that the Checkpoint Firewall is used by MANY companies.
All of the certifications will cost mass amounts of money, but are worth it if you want a paper that say you know your stuff.

Wilnix

[Zerored]

I had somewhat of an ideal for a project...maybe this post is in the wrong spot too. But what does NMAP lack that it should have? Not to copy that version, but do something in which it lacks? Yes, No, just tryin to get some ideas generated...

[wilnix]

I've never thought of anything the NMAP lacks for what it is intended to do. Good luck finding something, because I have yet to see a better scanner out. PERIOD.

Wilnix

[Metgod]

hehehe
yeah, nmap 0wns !!

[Zerored]

Ill go cisco for now. Their secruity specialist 1. My ccna is being planned for sept sometime...and wil, may the farce be with you....hehehe

[wilnix]

The farce wasn't with me as the H1B Grant Manger and the Global Knowledge Personel could not get along, therefore dropping my css1 classes and leaving me without training yet again. I will look into doing this manually now and possibly take the TICSA Certification or something close to. Although, it would be a waste of time, because I've read through the classes and they are structured for the less qualified. Damn, this year sucks ass for training...

Wilnix