Millions of businesses around the world are turning to technology-based solutions for their day-to-day operations, putting the demand for certified information technology (IT) professionals at an all-time high.
As crucial as it is to have a strong technical foundation in IT, getting IT certifications is essential for anyone who wants to stay competitive in the industry.
But if you’re just starting out in the field, What is the best IT certification you pursue?
We have compiled a list of the best IT certifications for beginners to get you started on your journey to becoming a certified IT professional.
1. CompTIA Tech+
Complete beginners who want to gain a basic understanding of the essential IT skills and knowledge should consider CompTIA IT Fundamentals (Tech+) certification.
This certification is ideal for early-stage IT professionals or those looking to enter the IT field, as it covers essential topics such as hardware and infrastructure, networks and security, applications and software, software development, security, database fundamentals, and more.
The exam is designed to accommodate IT professionals of all levels as there are no prerequisites required. With or without prior IT experience, this certification will give you a comprehensive introduction to the basics of IT. Try our CompTIA Tech+ Practice Quiz to test your knowledge and see if you are ready to earn the Tech+ certification.
2. CompTIA A+
A step up from IT Fundamentals is CompTIA A+ certification, which is the industry standard for entry-level IT professionals.
The CompTia A+ certification covers a wide range of topics, including hardware and network troubleshooting, operating systems, mobile device support, and virtualization and cloud computing. After passing the exam, you will be able to master baseline security skills, configure device operating systems, and support basic IT infrastructure and networking, to name a few.
With Tech+ certification as its prerequisite, this two-part exam is designed to prepare you for more technical roles such as Service Desk Analyst and Field Service / HelpDesk Technician.
3. CompTIA Network+
Recommended for those with at least 6 months of networking experience, CompTIA Network+ certification is designed to provide IT professionals with an understanding of computer networking and related technologies.
If you already have either CompTIA Tech+ or A+ certification, this CompTIA certification is a great way to qualify for network-related IT positions, such as Network Administrator and Network Support Specialist.
With this CompTIA certification under your belt, you will have the skills necessary to support network environments, troubleshoot wired and wireless network devices, and implement basic network security protocols as it covers network infrastructure, operations, security, and troubleshooting.
4. CompTIA Security+
Businesses are focusing on protecting their data more than ever before, making security a crucial skill for IT professionals.
CompTIA Security+ is one of the premier certifications in this area and provides a comprehensive understanding of cybersecurity concepts such as risk management, cryptography and public key infrastructure, identity management, access control systems, application security, and network architecture systems design.
Designed for professionals with at least two years of experience in network security, this cybersecurity certification is the perfect stepping stone into a career in this field. Take our IT network security knowledge quiz to see if you have what it takes to earn the Security+ certification.
5. CompTIA ITF+
This entry-level certification covers essential IT concepts and skills, including basic computer hardware, software installation and configuration, networking fundamentals, cybersecurity principles, and troubleshooting techniques.
The CompTIA ITF+ exam is designed to be accessible to beginners, making it an ideal starting point for those with little to no IT experience. It serves as a solid foundation for more advanced certifications and can help kickstart a career in the tech industry.
While the exam is relatively straightforward compared to other IT certifications, it still provides valuable knowledge and validates a candidate’s understanding of core IT concepts. Although some familiarity with computers and basic technology is helpful, no prior IT experience is required to pursue this certification.
The ITF+ certification can be particularly beneficial for:
- Students considering a career in IT
- Career changers looking to enter the tech field
- Non-technical professionals seeking to enhance their digital literacy
- IT support staff wanting to formalize their knowledge
By earning the CompTIA ITF+ certification, individuals demonstrate their commitment to learning and their ability to understand fundamental IT concepts, setting themselves up for future success in the rapidly evolving world of technology.
6. Microsoft Azure Fundamentals AZ – 900
A career in cloud services is an attractive option for aspiring IT professionals with Microsoft Azure as one of the most popular cloud computing platforms.
This Microsoft Azure Fundamentals AZ – 900 certification provides a comprehensive introduction to the world of cloud computing. This entry level certification prepares beginners to become proficient in deploying, configuring, managing, and maintaining applications on the platform.
Perfect for complete beginners in cloud services, this 90-minute exam validates your skills in basic cloud technologies, core services, solutions, and management tools of Azure, as well as general security and network security features.
7. Microsoft Azure Administrator AZ – 104
A five-week technical training and exam preparation for the Microsoft Azure Administrator AZ – 104 certification is a fast track to becoming a certified Azure Cloud Administrator.
This certification focuses on deploying, managing, and monitoring identity, governance, storage, compute, and virtual networks in the cloud with Microsoft Azure. It also covers topics such as developing solutions for the cloud using Azure, implementing authentication methods to secure data resources, and much more.
The AZ – 104 exam is perfect for those who have at least 6 months of experience working with Microsoft Azure (or other cloud platforms) and want to gain a deeper understanding of its features. Check out our Microsoft Azure Fundamentals quiz to assess your knowledge of Windows servers!
8. AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
Soaring demand for cloud-based solutions has created a huge market for AWS-certified professionals, and the Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified Cloud Practitioner certification is one of the most popular options for complete beginners.
Designed to give IT professionals an understanding of the core AWS cloud services, the exam covers topics such as cloud concepts, security and compliance aspects, configuration and troubleshooting, and billing and pricing.
The AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner is a great certification course for those looking to master cloud technology and how it is applied in the real world, which will open up work opportunities as an AWS Networking Specialist or Cloud Engineer.
9. AWS Solutions Architect
For those looking to gain a deeper understanding of AWS infrastructure and architecture, the AWS Certified Solutions Architect certification prepares you to design, deploy, and manage scalable, cost-effective, and secure applications on the AWS platform.
From designing resilient and high-performing architectures to selecting appropriate deployment strategies and data security options, this AWS certification is an excellent way to get your foot in the door for a career in cloud management.
While it has no prerequisite courses, it is created for those with at least one year of experience in cloud computing, as well as an understanding of the core AWS services, security features, and best practices for architecting systems on AWS.
Conclusion
IT certifications are designed to give you a comprehensive understanding of the essential IT concepts and systems as well as marketable skills that employers are looking for.
With the right certifications, IT professionals can position themselves as experts in their field, opening doors to more and better job opportunities, higher salaries, and even greater career advancement.
All certifications offered by CIAT provide hands-on training through online training, classes, and virtual labs plus one-on-one support from certified instructors. CIAT also offers a one-of-a-kind unlimited certification exam policy, zero exam fees, and online test preparation workshops to help get you certified.
Reach out to our IT career services team to break into the industry with these IT certifications for beginners!
