Posted by: Kathy Yale
The highly technical members of law enforcement that deal with cyber-crime and cyber-criminals are now able to receive advanced training through a joint effort of CompTIA, McGraw Hill Courseware and the Department of Defense. CompTIA is the leading non-profit Information Technology industry training and trade association on a professional level. The CompTIA training provides in depth and uniform knowledge and skills training to IT professionals involved in the cyber-crime fight. Students at the Department of Defense Cyber Investigations Training Academy and other law enforcement agencies greatly benefit from the certifications. The CompTIA A+ certification is vendor neutral certifications the students are able to use to further their IT credentials.
A+ Certification
Many levels of law enforcement now require a minimum of the A+ certification. The Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the CIA, state level agencies and even local law enforcement agencies all demand IT personnel have the CompTIA A+ certification. The A+ certification covers many aspects of computer hardware and software; it is designed to give the student a basic overview of these topics. The A+ certification covers computer hardware components. To receive the certification you will know the component compatibility for AMD and Intel Central Processors. Professionals will be able to network all makes of networking hardware. Installing and uninstalling Operating Systems are must have skills to acquire a passing score. There is a separate section for desktop computers and laptop computers. Auxiliary hardware is covered such as printers and other peripheral devices. Computer operational procedure knowledge and skills are tested. Security is a skill built into the training for A+ . The training covers mobile device knowledge and skills. The certified IT professional is proficient in troubleshooting desktops, laptops and mobile devices.
Network+ Certification
The Network+ certification builds onto the A+ certification. Most Federal, state and local law enforcement agencies require applicants and current IT Professionals to have the CompTIA Network+ certification. The Network+ certification covers many topics. Certification requires planning and installing different types of networks. Virtual networking including virtual servers, desktop computers, backbone infrastructure, switches and telephony devices is included in the training for the Network+ certificate. The successfully certified candidate is required to know about cellular and wireless networking and networking security practices. The professional has to be able to do in depth hardware, software, router and switches troubleshooting and configurations. The student will be required to know how to set up the Dynamic Host Control Protocol (DHCP) and the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP/IP). The exams also include media and topologies and network management.
Security+ Certification
The Department of Defense requires the CompTIA Security+ certification for military personnel and contractors involved in activities regarding information data safety activities. The Security+ IT professional will be competent in Network security. The Security+ training teaches the candidates how to utilize knowledge of security tools and concepts. They will know security compliance and operation security practices. The student will be able to astutely recognize threats and vulnerabilities in the Network including applications, data, and host servers. Access control and identity management are proven skills by the certified IT personnel. Cryptography is a tested area in the Security+ certification.
Through a joint effort of the Depart of Defense Cyber Investigations Training Academy, McGraw Hill courseware and CompTIA; the CompTIA certifications now provide law enforcement IT personnel in depth and uniform training to help combat cyber-crime.