Aruba Networks, a subsidiary of Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE), is a leading provider of networking solutions, focusing on wireless, security, and cloud-based technologies. As companies around the globe shift to digital-first strategies, networking professionals skilled in Aruba technologies are in high demand. Getting Aruba certified can be a game-changer for your career, offering improved job prospects and higher salaries. In this article, we’ll explore how to get Aruba certified, the costs involved, and the career benefits you can expect from this credential.
Aruba offers a range of aruba certification, each catering to different levels of expertise and job roles. These certifications are divided into four main categories: Associate, Professional, Expert, and Specialist.
At the entry-level, Aruba provides the Aruba Certified Mobility Associate (ACMA) and Aruba Certified Switching Associate (ACSA) certifications. These certifications are ideal for individuals new to Aruba technologies and who want to get foundational knowledge of Aruba's products, services, and networking principles.
For professionals looking to deepen their expertise, Aruba offers Aruba Certified Mobility Professional (ACMP) and Aruba Certified Network Security Professional (ACNSP) certifications. These are designed for network engineers, architects, and security professionals working with more complex networking environments.
For the highest level of expertise, Aruba Certified Expert (ACE) certification is available. This is aimed at network engineers with significant experience, providing the highest level of Aruba product proficiency.
Aruba also offers specialist certifications, such as those focusing on Aruba’s ClearPass, SD-WAN solutions, and cloud technologies. These certifications are for professionals who specialize in particular aspects of networking and security.
Each certification requires passing an exam that tests your knowledge and skills related to Aruba’s networking technologies. The exams typically consist of multiple-choice questions, scenario-based questions, and hands-on lab exercises.
Aruba offers official study materials through the Aruba Education Services platform, which includes:
Additionally, third-party training providers offer Aruba-specific courses and certifications that may supplement official resources.
The costs of Aruba certifications vary based on the level and type of certification. Here’s a general breakdown:
It’s important to note that Aruba often offers discounts on certification exams for those attending official training courses, and there are occasional promotions that reduce the cost of the exams. Exam vouchers may also be available through Aruba’s partners or training affiliates.
Aruba certification offers several career benefits, particularly for those looking to specialize in networking and security:
With businesses increasingly relying on Aruba’s networking solutions for wireless and security infrastructures, certified professionals are in high demand. Whether you are working for a managed service provider or directly for an enterprise IT department, Aruba certification opens doors to numerous job roles such as:
Certified professionals often earn more than their non-certified peers. According to various salary surveys, networking professionals with Aruba certifications can expect to earn competitive salaries, with potential for significant growth as they progress to more advanced certifications.
Holding an Aruba certification boosts your professional credibility. Employers recognize Aruba certifications as a mark of excellence and technical expertise, making you more likely to be considered for high-profile projects and promotions.
As the demand for Aruba-certified professionals continues to grow, holding an Aruba certification provides job security. Certification helps you stay ahead of technological changes, ensuring that your skills remain relevant in a rapidly evolving field.
Aruba certification is a valuable asset for anyone pursuing a career in networking, wireless, and security technologies. Whether you’re starting with an entry-level certification or advancing to a professional or expert-level credential, getting certified can enhance your job prospects, salary potential, and career growth. By investing in Aruba certification, you’re investing in your future in the networking and IT industry.