Performance Testing Council pursues mandate to improve exams

There’s a running debate in certification circles as to whether it’s more effective to test certification candidates using traditional multiple-choice exams or performance-based tests that simulate (or duplicate) real world IT conundrums. Multiple choice tests are convenient, inexpensive and straightforward. Many have argued, however, that such tests 

The Internet of Things wants to connect you to the future

This feature first appeared in the Summer 2014 issue of Certification Magazine.

The term Internet of Things, or IoT, was coined in 1999 by Kevin Ashton. Ashton, a British technologist who co-founded the RFID-pioneering (radio frequency identification) Auto-ID Center at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), used the term to envision a world where the internet would …

Dear CertMag: How do I get started as a certified technician?

 Dear CertMag  is a weekly feature that addresses common questions about certification and related IT issues. Have a question? Send an e-mail to editor (at) certmag (dot) com.

Dear CertMag: I’m a certified technician and have recently completed CompTIA Network+ and Server+, but I have no job experience. What steps can I take to stick out to …

CertStudent: Overcoming failure by sticking to his certification guns

 CertStudent  is a regular feature that profiles students of all ages who are pursuing certification at schools, in training programs, and on their own time (and own dime). Know an interesting  CertStudent ? Share the details with us at editor (at) certmag (dot) com.

There isn’t a whole lot to do in the small town …

Be prepared: Study is key to conquering Cisco’s CCIE Security exam

This feature first appeared in the Summer 2014 issue of Certification Magazine.

One of the most challenging networking credentials in the IT certification world is the Cisco Certified Internetworking Expert (CCIE) offered by Cisco. Now imagine combining that clout with a specialization in security. For many networking professionals, a CCIE Security stamp of approval is at …

Fearless forecast: What’s in the pipeline from Windows 9?

Windows 8 has been with us for a couple of years now and its reception in the marketplace has been tepid at best. A lot of users found the interface changes in Windows 8 to be unpalatable. In fact, many users elected to keep the familiar environment provided by Windows 7 on their desktops, and …