Earning certifications can help software developers and other computer science professionals advance their careers and gain the attention of potential employers. Professionals pursue a variety of certifications based on their expertise, interests, and professional goals. Researching different .NET developer certifications can help you determine which credential is the right choice for you. In this article, we explain what a .NET developer is, list eight certifications for you to consider, and explain the benefits of getting one.
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What is a .NET developer?
A .NET developer is a professional who creates and develops software applications by using .NET technologies. They use Microsoft’s .NET platform, which is a system framework that offers programmers guidelines for developing versatile software. Some common duties these developers perform include:
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Creating software prototypes
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Upgrading current web applications
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Researching IT terminology
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Developing client displays
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Collaborating with software personnel
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Creating functional, scalable, and clean codes
8 .NET developer certifications
If you want to enhance your programming skills, here’s a list of eight .NET developer certifications you can consider:
1. CompTIA A+ certification
The CompTIA A+ certification focuses on problem-solving techniques for data storage, cloud computing, security, software development, and other computer technologies. This credentialing program involves two exams that include the following topics:
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Baseline security skills
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Operating system configurations
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System troubleshooting techniques
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IT network and infrastructure support
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Hardware configuration
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Data backup and recovery methods
This program helps individuals develop soft and technical skills with hardware, operating systems, security, network troubleshooting, and operations procedures. Upon completion, this credential is typically valid for three years. Individuals who complete this certification can pursue roles such as service desk analyst, associate network engineer, and end-user computing technician.
2. CompTIA Network+ certification
Earning the CompTIA Network+ credential can help job candidates educate potential employers about their technical skills and network knowledge. This program can cover the following subjects:
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Network security
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Troubleshooting
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Cloud computing best practices
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Hardware and virtualization techniques
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Network architecture
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Ethernet solution implementation
Some skills this certification program develops include network fundamentals, operations, and implementation. Individuals who’ve completed this certification program can pursue recertification after three years. Some career options for these certified professionals include network engineer, system administrator, data center support technician, and cable technician.
3. IT Information Library Foundation (ITIL) 4 Foundation certification
The ITIL 4 Foundation certification helps professionals improve their end-to-end creation of technology-enabled services or products. Topics this program covers include:
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Modern organization operations
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Value stream importance
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Cultural and behavioral principles
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Common terms and concepts
Skills professionals learn during this program include information security management, IT asset management, continual improvement, and problem management. The ITIL 4 Foundation certification has no recertification requirement upon completion. Career options for these certified professionals include IT service manager, cloud service manager, and technical support manager.
4. Certified ScrumMaster (CSM)
The Certified ScrumMaster credential provided by the Scrum Alliance helps professionals understand more about how to apply Scrum principles to their projects. Many Scrum courses include topics like:
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Agile methods
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Scrum framework
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Project estimation and forecasting
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Team roles and development
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Decision-making techniques
Professionals learn a variety of skills during this program, including team management, project management, and critical thinking. This certification remains current for two years upon exam completion. Career opportunities for CSMs to consider include software engineers, project managers, and business analysts.
5. Certified Software Development Professional (CSDP)
This credential, offered by the IEEE Computer Society, is for experienced software professionals wanting to enhance their knowledge regarding standard software development practices. Subjects this course discusses include:
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Software engineering requirements
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Software design and development
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System testing and troubleshooting
Skills this program develops include data analytics, leadership, business analytics, and information design. Individuals who’ve completed this certification can recertify after three years. Some career options for those with this credential include data quality manager, data engineer, and information management supervisor.
6. Juniper Networks Certified Design Associate (JNCDA)
Juniper Networks created this certification to help networking and design professionals demonstrate their knowledge and experience with Juniper systems. Subjects in this credentialing course include:
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Identifying network design requirements
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Network automation designs
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Network management strategies
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Datacenter considerations
Some skills this program develops are customer collaboration, information security, continuity, network management, and design architecture. This certification is valid for three years. Many professionals who complete this program pursue careers in network administration, network engineering, and web development.
7. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
The Cisco Certified Network Associate credential helps professionals show their knowledge of various IT topics. Some subjects in this course include:
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Network access
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Network fundamentals
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Automation and programmability
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Security fundamentals
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IP connectivity
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IP services
This certification helps entry-level professionals hone their software development, network management, and network automation skills, and it remains valid for three years. Career options for CCNA professionals include roles in network engineering, help desk operations, and network administration.
8. Azure Solutions Architect Expert certification
Microsoft’s Azure Solutions Architect Expert certification enables professionals to verify their knowledge of designing cloud and hybrid solutions for companies. Some topics in this course are:
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Infrastructure implementation
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Application solution development and implementation
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Data platform management
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Security Solutions
Skills this program develops include public speaking, network requirement development, and network administration, and the credential remains current for two years. Certified professionals can extend this renewal date by one year if they pass an exam six months from their renewal date. Career options for these individuals include positions as an Azure solutions architect, cloud engineer, and infrastructure manager.
Benefits of .NET developer certifications
The following are some benefits of acquiring .NET developer certifications:
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Increasing career opportunities: Earning certifications can help employers better understand your expertise and skills with .NET development. This can help you distinguish your skills and abilities from other professionals with similar educational backgrounds.
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Developing new skills: Many programs can help you develop your network administration, management, and development skills. These courses can also help you improve soft skills, such as team collaboration, public speaking, and critical thinking.
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Increasing earning potential: Certifications can help you improve your earning potential because they show your knowledge and expertise. It can also help you gain the attention of employers who want candidates with specialty certifications.
I hope you find this article helpful.
