It’s no secret that to make a great career for yourself in the tech industry, you need to start with the right certification. But which one should you choose? There are so many out there!
This article will cover the best beginner IT certifications for those looking to make a career in tech. It will also discuss why these certifications are important and what implications they could have for beginner IT specialists. For example, according to recent studies, the demand for certified professionals is expected to grow by 12% by 2020.
We’ve put together a list of the 9 best online IT certifications for beginners. These are perfect for those of you just starting in your IT career, or who want to make a switch to the tech industry.
What Is An It Certification – And Should I Get One?
An IT certification can give you the skills and knowledge you need to start a successful career in the tech industry. They are a great way to show employers that you have the right skills and know-how to use them. Certifications can also help you stay up-to-date on the latest technology trends and developments.
If you’re just starting in your IT career, or if you’re considering making a switch to the tech industry, then getting an online IT certification is a great way to get started.
Why IT Certification is Important?
Starting with the right online IT certification is important for beginner IT specialists. This will help them start their career on the right foot and give them a good foundation. Some reasons why this is important include:
- IT certification can help you get a job in the tech industry
- It can help you learn new skills and technologies
- It can help you move up in your career
- It can help you earn more money
CompTIA A+ Certification
CompTIA A+ certification is one of the most important IT certifications for beginners. It is the first step in getting a certification, and it is essential for those looking to start a career in the tech industry. The certification helps you learn the basics of IT and provides you with the skills and knowledge you need to start your career.
Exam Codes: CompTIA A+ 220-1001 (Core 1) and 220-1002 (Core 2)
Cost: $239 per exam
Duration: 90 minutes
Format: 90 questions, Multiple choice questions (single and multiple response), drag and drops and performance-based
Prerequisites: 9 to 12 months hands-on experience in the lab or field
Languages: English, German, Japanese, Portuguese, Thai, and Spanish
Link: CompTIA A+
CompTIA Fundamentals (ITF+)
CompTIA Fundamentals (ITF+) is important for beginner IT specialists because it provides an overview of the essential knowledge and skills required for a successful career in IT. The exam covers topics such as computer hardware, software, networking, security, and troubleshooting, so it is a great way to get started in your IT career.
Exam Codes: Exam FC0-U61
Cost: $130 per exam
Duration: 60 minutes
Format: 75 questions, multiple-choice
Prerequisites: No prior experience is necessary
Languages: English
Link: ITF+
CompTIA Security+
CompTIA Security+ is important for beginner IT specialists because it covers the basics of cybersecurity and how to protect information and systems. It provides a foundation of knowledge that can be built on as you gain more experience in the field.
Skills You’ll Learn
- Various types of Attacks, Threats and Vulnerabilities
- Basic threat detection, risk mitigation techniques, security controls, and basic digital forensics.
- Architecture and Design Including overage of enterprise environments
- Governance, risk and compliance to regulations, such as PCI-DSS, SOX, HIPAA, GDPR, FISMA, NIST, and CCPA.
- Implementation with focus on administering identity, access management, PKI, basic cryptography, wireless, and end-to-end security.
Exam Codes: SY0-601
Cost: $381
Duration: 90 minutes
Format: Multiple choice and performance-based
Prerequisites: CompTIA Network+ and two years of experience in IT administration with a security focus
Languages: English, Japanese, Vietnamese, Thai, Portuguese
Link: Security+
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification is a globally-recognized, vendor-neutral credential that proves a technician’s competency in networking. Earning the CCNA certification is an important step for beginner IT specialists as it demonstrates their proficiency in installing, configuring, operating, and troubleshooting medium-sized routed and switched networks.
Skills You’ll Learn
- Network Access & Fundamentals
- IP Services and Conncetivity
- Security Fundamentals
- Automation and Programmability
Exam Codes: 200-301 CCNA
List of Topics [PDF] Download
CCNA Infographic [PDF]
Cost: $300
Duration: 120 minutes
Format: multiple testing formats including multiple choice, drag-and-drop, fill-in-the-blank, testlet, simlet, and simulations.
Prerequisites: No required prerequisites
Languages: English and Japanese
Link: CCNA
Entry-level Cisco IT Certifications:
- Technician Data Center 010 151
- Technician Routing & Switching 100 490
- Technician Collaboration 100 890
Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA)
Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) is an important certification for beginner IT specialists because it provides a basic level of understanding of key technologies that are used in the IT industry. MTA certifications are also a prerequisite for many higher-level Microsoft certifications.
MTA: Windows Operating System Fundamentals
Exam Codes: Exam98-349
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Cost: $127 per exam
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Link: MTA
AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner is important to beginner IT specialists because it is a credential that proves that they have the skills and knowledge necessary to manage cloud-based infrastructure. This certification can help give beginners a boost in their careers and prove to employers that they are qualified to work in cloud-based environments.
Cost: $100
Duration: 90 minutes
Format: MCQ, multiple answers
Prerequisites: None
Languages: English, Japanese, Korean, Chinese (simplified)
Link: AWS Learning
Google IT Support Professional Certificate
Google’s IT Support Professional Certificate is important to beginner IT specialists because it provides them with a comprehensive overview of the skills and knowledge required to provide basic IT support. The certificate covers everything from troubleshooting common issues to managing networks and systems. It also includes a variety of hands-on exercises that allow learners to practice the skills they have learned.
Cost: $39
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Link: LPI
Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP)
The Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP) certification is important to beginner IT specialists because it validates their skills and knowledge in supporting Apple devices and systems. The certification covers a wide range of topics, from troubleshooting common issues to managing networks and systems. It also includes a variety of hands-on exercises that allow learners to practice the skills they have learned.
Exam Preparation Guide [PDF]
Cost: $250
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Link: Apple Training IT
Linux Professional Institute: Linux Essentials
Linux Professional Institute: Linux Essentials is important to beginner IT specialists because it provides them with a basic level of understanding of key Linux technologies. The certification covers everything from installing and using Linux to managing networks and systems. It also includes a variety of hands-on exercises that allow learners to practice the skills they have learned.
Cost: $100-120 per exam
Cost: $39
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Link: LPI
How To Get An IT Certification
Once you have selected the right certification, you need to decide how you will prepare for the exam. There are two main ways to prepare:
- Self-study
- Enroll in an accredited training program
Self-Study Training Options
If you choose to self-study, there are many resources available to help you prepare for your certification exam. These include books, online courses, and practice exams.
Instructor-Led Training Options
If you enroll in an accredited training program, you will receive expert instruction and guidance as you prepare for your certification exam. These programs can be expensive, but they are worth the investment if you want to ensure that you pass the exam on your first try.
Looking Beyond Entry-Level IT Certifications
Beginner IT specialists need to look beyond entry-level IT certifications. While these certifications are a great foundation, they don’t cover all the skills and knowledge that you need to be successful in the tech industry.
To be successful in the tech industry, you need to constantly update your skills and knowledge. This means that you need to keep up with the latest technology trends and developments. The best way to do this is to get certified in the latest technologies.
Conclusion
Beginning your IT career with the right online IT certification is important. This will give you a good foundation and help you start on the right foot. With so many options available, it can be difficult to know which one to choose.
This article has covered the 9 best entry-level IT certifications for beginners. With this information, you should be able to make an informed decision about which certification is right for you.
Additional Information
FAQ: IT Certifications Questions
What are the easiest IT certifications to get?
The easiest IT certifications to get are vendor-neutral ones. This means that the certification tests your knowledge of general concepts rather than a specific product.
For example, CompTIA’s A+ certification is a vendor-neutral certification that covers topics such as installing and troubleshooting PCs, laptops, and mobile devices. It also tests your knowledge of networking and security. Other examples of vendor-neutral certifications include the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH).
Is CompTIA good for beginners?
Yes, CompTIA is a good certification for beginners. It’s vendor-neutral, meaning that it covers a range of technologies and products from different companies. And because it’s recognized as a quality certification, it can help you stand out from the competition when looking for your first job in IT.
Which online IT certification is most recognized?
The most recognized online IT certification is the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) credential. It was created by the International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium, also known as (ISC)². The CISSP is designed for information security professionals who have at least five years of experience in the field.
What are the most in-demand IT certifications?
The most popular IT certifications are those that certify expertise in networking, security, and system administration. Some of the most common IT certifications are:
– Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA)
– Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
– CompTIA A+ certification
Is Google IT Certificate Worth It?
Google’s IT certificate program is highly respected and can open up a variety of opportunities for you in the tech industry. If you are looking to make a career change into IT or want to beef up your resume, then the Google IT certificate may be worth your while.