Christoph Neulinger

About Christoph

Certifications

CCNA
CCNP Enterprise
DevNet Associate

Location

Aachen, Germany

Hobbies

World traveler
In-line skating
Family time fan

How it all began

I began my college education studying electrical engineering, with an emphasis on power systems engineering. However, once I discovered how much I enjoy working with computers, I set my sights on becoming a hardware developer.

One company, many careers

I still work at the same company where I began my career 24 years ago. In fact, I helped install our very first network! Network infrastructure was much simpler in those days. For example, I used to work with hubs that were far less complex the switches and routers we use today.

Today, my job focuses on designing networks for customers that meet their specific requirements. And although technology has changed immensely, this design principle stands the test of time: Keep the design simple and standardize as much as possible.

What does having a Cisco Certification mean to you?

“Preparing for certification increased my knowledge and confidence, which ultimately translated to better work performance. As a result, I’ve received generous salary increases.”

Cisco certifications have helped me perform better at work, since I build network designs that use Cisco technologies. Earning certification also inspired me to share my knowledge with the broader Cisco community as a Cisco Gateway Cybersecurity Ambassador.

Explore certifications

“Preparing for certification increased my knowledge and confidence, which ultimately translated to better work performance. As a result, I’ve received generous salary increases.”

Cisco certifications have helped me perform better at work, since I build network designs that use Cisco technologies. Earning certification also inspired me to share my knowledge with the broader Cisco community as a Cisco Gateway Cybersecurity Ambassador.

Explore certifications

What would you tell your younger self?

“Prepare for change. Be ready to take chances. When opportunities arise, challenge yourself to try something new.”

What would you tell a friend?

“Cisco certifications don’t just make an impression during the hiring phase — they also give you leverage to negotiate a higher salary. If you’re not a native English speaker, make sure you read through each exam question carefully. Sometimes the wording can be tricky to understand!”

Christoph’s career path

^{CURRENT ROLE}

Senior Network Engineer

Network Engineers primarily handle installing, configuring, and supporting firewalls to ensure network security.

Learn more about Network Engineers

^{PREVIOUS ROLE}

Network Specialist

Christoph’s Cisco certification path

^{MOST RECENT CERTIFICATION}

CCNP Enterprise

CCNP Enterprise certification holders configure, troubleshoot, and manage the networks of the largest companies in the world. The certification consists of both a specialist concentration exam, and the ENCOR exam, which covers enterprise infrastructure, virtualization, assurance, security, and automation.

Learn more about CCNP Enterprise

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CCNA

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification is the first step toward a career in IT Networking. The CCNA exam covers networking fundamentals, IP services, security fundamentals, automation and programmability.

Learn more about CCNA

DevNet Associate

The Cisco Certified DevNet Associate certification opens the door to a career in Network Automation. It covers implementation of basic network applications using Cisco platforms as a base, and automation across network, security, collaboration, and computing infrastructure.