The tech industry has seen a great deal of growth over the past couple of decades, and this trend is expected to continue as more people enter the workforce. You should take note that those who have received training on various platforms and operating systems are in high demand across many industries. It’s only logical considering how IT positions offer some of the highest average salaries out there.
Even professionals who are currently employed within this industry and those who have been working with computers for some time will likely find that advanced training can make them more marketable and better paid in exchange for their skills. The question, then, is what type of computer certifications are out there that you should consider?
This will depend on several factors, including your level of expertise already attained, how rapidly you would like to achieve the desired certification, and which fields you would like to enter once you’ve obtained one. Here is a list of certifications and licenses that are especially helpful for beginners and also improve skills for amateurs in the field.
CompTIA Network+ N10-007 exams
This is meant for a variety of computer technicians who need to gain knowledge and skills in networking. It is considered the starting point for beginners to develop a career in network administration & support. Network professionals who take a CompTIA Network+ N10-007 certification exam have learned or are learning how to install, configure, and troubleshoot various network technologies, including:
- Managing network topologies;
- Using data transmission methods and media types in networks;
- Configuring, managing, and supporting computer networking hardware, software, applications, and services;
- Designing effective solutions for issues concerning security.
The target audience of this CompTIA Network+ N10-007 exam comprises both students and working professionals who have at least nine months to one year of networking experience.
CompTIA A+ Technician
The CompTIA A+ certification is ideal for those who want to work in the IT field as a help desk technician, computer repair technician, or software support specialist. With this certification under your belt, you can begin working with computers and PCs immediately after passing an exam.
You also have the option of choosing the CompTIA A+ Complete Certification Guide (Exams 220-901 & 220-902), which will provide you with everything you need to know to become certified. After completing it, you’ll be ready to sit for your exams. Once they’ve been passed, you can put on your resume that you’re a qualified technician who has received training.
CompTIA Network+ Certification
Another certification that you can take is the CompTIA Network+. But how does it differ from the previously mentioned CompTIA Network+ N10-007? The primary difference is that this certification is for individuals who have more advanced networking skills and knowledge base. To sit for this exam, you’ll need to have at least two years of networking experience under your belt. This organization is geared toward those responsible for the day-to-day management and supervision of more complex IT infrastructures and troubleshooting networks and systems.
If you have an eye on a position in network support, help desk, or manageability, then the Network+ certification will be your gateway to success when applying for that job. Many employers around the world recognize it. CompTIA states that over 90% of IT positions require their candidates to hold one of their certifications. The list keeps growing every year because they offer some of the highest quality training available today.
Certified Information Systems Security Professional
The CISSP certification focuses more on security for computers, networks, and systems. You can become a certified network specialist or information security manager once you’ve completed the necessary training and testing required for this certification.
Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer
The MCSD certification is designed for those who already understand program languages, such as C and C++. If you’re looking to become a software developer, systems analyst, or network engineer, this credential may be the one for you. The MCSD will allow you to design, develop, and deploy new computer programs that meet customer or client needs.
Certified Information Systems Security Professionals
CISSP is ideal for those who have already earned their bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field. With this certification, you’ll be working in the information technology industry as part of an elite group of professionals who have passed all necessary tests and are ready to advance their careers.
Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
The CISM credential requires candidates to possess a minimum of five years’ experience managing security functions within an organization. The CISSP exam must also be completed. Those who choose to go the CISM route will begin working toward earning this certification once they’ve got the necessary training and experience under their belts.
The Takeaway
There are many tech certificates and licenses you can complete to gain that much-needed entryway into the IT industry. Know which ones interest you and then research further to decide exactly where your interests lie within this fast-evolving field.
