This learning portal focuses largely on Juniper certifications – although free training based on previously earned certifications is also available. Those who do not have a current Juniper certificate must limit themselves to associate certifications. However, these provide access to a course for each certification track.
After completing a certification-specific course, users receive a voucher that gives them a 75 percent discount on the exam. Up to the professional level, all preparatory courses for a Juniper certification are free, provided users meet the requirements for the certification. A fee is charged for courses that prepare for an expert-level certification. There is also a small selection of non-certification courses available.
That being said, HPE Juniper offers free access to its vLabs platform. This provides prefabricated laboratory environments in which interested experts can train and validate their skills. However, registration for this platform is separate from the learning portal.
If you would like further in-depth training, Juniper also offers various on-demand training courses for a course-specific additional charge. Alternatively, you have the option to purchase unlimited access to all on-demand courses and labs with an All Access Pass.
Microsoft Learn
Microsoft’s training library provides material on many topics relevant to modern data center operations, including:
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Active Directory,
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Windows Server,
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Hyper-V,
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Clustering and high availability,
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Storage and file services as well
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countless hybrid or Azure-based workloads.
Most content in Microsoft Learn is text-based. Those interested will spend a lot of time reading course material, poring over diagrams, and combing through tables. While this isn’t as captivating as interactive training material can be, it does ensure access to a wealth of information that in most cases corresponds directly to Microsoft certifications.
Microsoft’s learning platform also offers gamification incentives such as certificates or experience points. Occasionally, the Windows Company also offers special “Learning Challenges” in which rewards in the form of exam vouchers can be learned or earned.
Microsoft certifications have been popular for more than two decades and are now primarily focused on Azure. In addition to the industry core certifications, the group now also offers fundamentals certifications, which somewhat lower the entry barrier for a “real” certification.
Red Hat Training
Red Hat’s free training offering includes ten courses that cover important topics, such as:
Each course leads to certification as a Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) or as a Red Hat Certified Specialist (RHCS). In addition to courses, the company offers training videos via the Red Hat TV streaming platform. These are very technical and therefore particularly useful for IT professionals who want to familiarize themselves with the latest Red Hat offerings.
A paid subscription to Red Hat Learning provides unlimited access to an extensive library of courses, including cloud-based labs and certification exams. Prices start at $6,000 per year.
VMware Learning
VMware Learning’s free Basic subscription provides primarily text-based product overviews and technical briefings. However, this is done at a high level, the content is served in “bite-sized” bites with interspersed diagrams and interactive elements.
VMware Learning also provides the VMware Video Library, which is publicly accessible without a Basic subscription and provides quick access to additional content. (fm)
This article originally appeared at our sister publication Networkworld.com.
