If you're looking for a more introductory level security cert look at the SSCP. Instead of CISSP's 10 security domains, it only covers 7 I believe. No prerequisites to speak of. It's a good way to get your foot in the door for that CISSP. Will get you rolling in the direction for that CISSP. Cisco is always a great way to go. I don't see their certs depreciating any time soon. I've heard a lot of people mention A+. I don't know why. A monkey could pass and claim they have the A+. If you're looking for a basic networking cert that will carry some weight, look at the CCNA. It's not very Cisco specific at all. The CCNP is where you get into the specifics. Or there is the design route as well. The entry level CCDA is a little more diffiult than the CCNA. But, as Reality said, certs are a good thing to have. Make sure that you are retaining the knowledge. Most people brain dump after they take the tests and just go on to take the next one. How does that help you when it comes time to use that knowledge. Don't be one of those guys with an alphabet behind his name and couldn't tell you the difference between a bridge and a switch because he brain dumped.