Maximum PC

I have a masters (not in computers) and really do not want to go back to school. I see the way my industry is going and want to have a better background in IT/Servers and general computing. What is the best - or suggestions- on what course work or certification Is best for someone like me.

Thanks

Well, seeing that you have a masters shows that you have the ability to learn and can find information on your own to further your knowledge. No need for going back to school unless it is a piece of paper that you are looking for to show someone what you have learned(which I doubt). That leaves what subjects you should concentrate on and what texts you should be looking for, and is this just for your knowledge or for future positions. Not knowing your background it is hard to say just where to start. I think learning some basic programing and databases first and understand how programs use and access memory would be a great start. Then learn about networking. To many possibilities to really say, not knowing your background and where you want to go.

I was going to start with a COMPTIA A+ and then look into some type of server cert...as I work in a buisness where 99% of the job is done on computers and we have tons of server issues. I have zero background in computers, I am all self taught. I was around in the 70's and 80's and I had friends who really got into computing...I just used my Commadore 64 to play games.

A+ is useless ... particularly for someone with a Masters.

The fact that you're asking such a broad question indicates that you don't know much about IT. If you want to work on your company's servers, you'll want to start with an introductory course in networking. Check out your local community college(s) to see what they offer.

I disagree.

Sure it won't get you a $100,000/year job, but it is an excellent confidence booster and a great introduction to CompTIA exams.

A person shouldn't stop at the A+ certification though, they should continue on with others.

You are right, I do not know much about IT. I spent my time in other fields (Getting well paid). However, I see the way the industry is heading and if I am going to keep up I need to have a little more than what I have. The younger generation coming in may already have a leg up on an older guy like me, I need to stay ahead of the curve.

I do not have the time to go back to school full time...but want to start somewhere. I have spoken to the IT guys at my company and most do not have much (if any) real background in IT (and do not have any Cert/education).

I do not like to dabble, when I like something I immerse myself in it. any suggestions...anyone has to offer would help and be investigated.

It wasn't meant as a criticism .. it was an observation.

Remember your first year of college? You didn't know a thing. You needed to take some first year survey courses to even start understanding the different disciplines.

IT is the same. You need to get introduced to the subject matter. In your case, given the goals you've stated, I still think you need an introductory networking / systems course to get a basic understanding of the field.

Introductory networking / systems course, Got it.

I Will look into that, I have a good understanding of computers and I am the "Go To Guy" in the office. However, if it comes down to consolidation...someone with actual background will get the leg up on me. I am the grunt (do the work no praise) and I want to do all that I can to be out of the way when the hammer/axe falls.

Thanks

(Any other suggestions are also welcome)

Going trough online studies would be much better to you !

I'd rather be in school right now instead of being in the workforce.