Expert's answer

The first thing I would suggest is to take some time off from getting certifications. You have certainly earned it. As to what is the best career path, concentrate on getting more time in the trenches. That will serve you well, in addition to showing you what things are like in practical situations versus what shows up on the certification exams.

Look at the job openings that are in the area of the country/world that you are in. Next, talk to various job recruiters/placement firms as to what their clients are looking for in terms of experience and certifications. With the current shape of the economy, staying where you are at this point is something worth considering.

Something else that can help you is to look at professional organizations whose interests mirror those of where you have interest. Look for professional publications, such as those from organizations such as IEEE, that will have articles that could spike your interest in a path that you might not have otherwise looked at.

The security field and related areas is one that is going through a bit of a change at this point. I just spent two days at Laura Chappell's Troubleshooting and Security Summit in Dallas Texas, where I had a chance to meeting with important players in the security arena. They gave me some things to think about that I didnt realize were affecting a growing number of companies. Be watching for the next edition of my Help Desk Toolchest Podcast here at Network World to hear those interviews.