VMware calls future NSX certifications the 'next-gen CCIE'

VMware says future NSX certifications establish the beginning of a network virtualization career path for network and server pros alike.

VMware announced a new network virtualization career path, which includes three certifications focused on the design and implementation of NSX.

The first certification, titled the VMware Certified Professional - Network Virtualization certification, offers a basic look at installing, configuring and administering NSX. It is currently available to the general public. However, current CCIEs are able to skip the introductory course and move on to higher level course work if they choose.

The company's VMware Certified Implementation Expert (VCIX-NV) and the VMware Certified Design Expert (VCDX-NV) courses will be open to the general public in October 2014. A beta group of 39 professionals have already received their VCDX certification, which is the highest NSX cert available.

VMware hopes to establish the beginning of a new career path that is very similar in structure to Cisco's CCNA and CCIE administrator-to-expert model. In fact, VMware director of networking and security Chris McCain calls the VCIX the "next-gen CCIE."

The company is also designing a publically available fast-track course on "inter-networking" of virtual and physical infrastructure, "which is basically NSX on Cisco," said Chris McCain, VMware Director of Networking and Security.

"We're not blind to the fact that Cisco owns a large share in physical networking. We have an overwhelming amount of folks -- customers and partners -- who want to ensure they understand that these two products work well together," McCain said.