NETWORKS VERSUS SOFTWARE
I am working in the medical transcription field as a system administrator in the Windows NT 4.0 environment, taking care of 100 computers and maintaining the FTP as well as routing and tracking the daily workflow. I have a full three years of experience in computer hardware and networking in Win NT, but I don't have any knowledge of software. I am in my final year at Madras University, working toward a bachelor's degree in computer application. I feel software is needed all over the world and I am eager to change my career from hardware/networking to software. What software is good and what should I do for the future?
- Raj Kumar

I disagree with your assessment of the job market. There is a large market for people with knowledge of hardware networking. Companies buy computers, printers, servers and software, and they need networking specialists to make sure all the hardware works smoothly together.

You need to leverage your existing skills and build on them. Look into getting certification as a networking professional. Both Microsoft and Cisco have standardized programs that allow you to get certification in different aspects of networking. I feel this is your best career path. Look also at software opportunities within networking. Most IT departments have to install new software, resolve client-server software issues, make sure all users have up-to-date versions of licensed software and install only approved software. These are software issues faced by networks, so you would be involved with software while using your networking knowledge.