I am very much interested in computers. For the last 3 years , I have been devoting 3-4 hrs. in learning computer skills. I am now very comfortable with MS Office - all applications and Visual Basic. I am now concentrating on Oracle and SQL. I don't get much interest in my office work for the reason that there is no challenge,the job is totally routine, it is a govt organisation and hence no initiative or new changes are welcome. I will continue to get same salary and same promotions whether I work sincerely and innovatively or just pass my time doing things as they are.

I therefore want some change in my career. But as my age is 41 and I have a small family, I am very conscious about my financial security. I want guidance on the following -

1. If I do some certification course say Oracle, MCSD etc. , can I get a decent job in IT field is US or some European countries. Is it worth attempting at this age ?

2. My interest are computer (paticularly database, graphics, presentations), finance and investment. I want to start my own work from my house itself.THE work will be such that is totally based on computers and relates to the field of my interest. Can you suggest some such works. Once I get settled in the work, I will leave the job and concentrate on my own work. Please advise me the likely service or work which I may start so that I may be able to earn after 3-4 years of hard work equivalent of my present salary.