AI and Computer Networking

There has been a lot of talk of artificial intelligence (AI) technology lately. What I wanted to know is how will AI affect network and security certifications. So being curious, I set out this evening to find some answers.

First, we need to think about what new certification programs will be introduced. As artificial intelligence (AI) technology advances and becomes more integrated into networking, new certification programs may be developed specifically to validate the knowledge and skills needed to work with AI in a networking environment.

Once we have new certifications for AI, we will need expanded curriculum. Existing networking certification programs may expand their curriculum to include AI-related topics, such as machine learning, natural language processing, and deep learning. This would allow network professionals to develop the necessary skills to design, implement, and manage networks that use AI technology. I do wonder at what level of curriculum will be appropriate for these topics.

As I’m sitting here typing, I wonder when this demand might start. As I try to learn more myself, I figured out the answer. The time is now. Organizations are adopting AI technology in their networking systems already so there will be an increased demand for networking professionals who are knowledgeable about AI. This could result in an increase in the number of individuals seeking networking certifications in general, to validate their skills and knowledge in this area.

I tell students that there are dozens, if not hundreds of paths they can take after learning the basics of networking and security. Most of these take more training due to higher technical knowledge for those jobs. However, even entry level networking job requirements may begin to include AI-related skills and knowledge as a prerequisite or preferred qualification for some positions. This means that networking professionals who are certified in AI-related areas may have an advantage in the job market over those who are not.

Since I have been working with and teaching technology for the past 20 years or so, the complexity of networking and security continues to grow daily. When I started, I did not know about IP version 6, virtualization, or cloud technology. Now those make up a lot of what I have taught in the past few years. Now as AI technology becomes more advanced, networking systems may become more complex. This would require networking professionals to have a deeper understanding of how AI works and how it can be integrated into network design and management. Therefore, networking certifications may evolve to reflect the increased complexity of these networks.

In conclusion, artificial intelligence (AI) technology continues to advance and integrate into networking, it will have a significant impact on networking certifications. This impact includes the development of new certification programs, expanded curriculum for existing programs, increased demand for AI-knowledgeable professionals, higher job requirements, and more complex networks requiring deeper understanding of AI.