career question

If you feel you're lagging behind, you should start with the basics. Understanding the basic principles of how/why a computer works the way it does is key. You should probably start with non-vendor specific classes such as COMPTIA's A+ and N+. These will give you a good learning base so you can tackle more advanced courses. But be warned! IT is very difficult to stay informed on current trends and technologies, and constant learning is required.

i agree. a+ and network plus will give you the grounding you need. after you've got that knowledge, it's much easier to understand other certs. to decide what courses will be beneficial check out which technologies are used most in your area (MS,Cisco,Citrix,Linux, be sure to see the trend in hard- and software) and then decide

Be advised that there's a huge glut of people like you right now. Make sure to see if your employer offers any sort of paid training or tuition reimbursement before you spend your own money. If you can find ways to create a niche for yourself that makes you different than everyone else, it's definitely worth considering.

Alright! so you also entered the IT domain! great ! there are many people already entered and still getting in, but unfortunately fewer of them survives in the long run. DONT FORGET ! there is a cut-throat competition in this industry. Remember ! Survival of the Fittest. i strongly advise you brother ! first choose which track you want. Networking or Software. Then study the IT industry accordingly. Have some links with some IT people working on projects with latest technologies and having good exp. I assure you NO ONE can guide you as good as they will. Cos it also helped me when i was like you 5 years ago.
Today for 1 position 100 application are coming everyday. And only 1 is getting selected. So While learning according to the market and noursihing your knowledge base with new technologies keep your focus intact to your specialise domain. Being Master is good, but being Expert is still far more better. Select your domain and keep nourshing it, while keeping your awareness Antennas alive. Now you have entered the Field, you have to make yourself to come in the line of the best to get noticed by the best IT czars. Take one step at a time and put it firmly with determination. I expect you to have a PC with you.