Top 11 Communications Technician Certifications

Certifications are important for a communications technician in the job market because they demonstrate a certain level of knowledge and skills. They provide proof that the technician has the necessary qualifications to do the job, which can give employers more confidence in their decision-making process. Certifications also show potential employers that the technician is up-to-date on current technologies and practices, which can be invaluable when it comes to hiring. Certifications can also open up new opportunities for employment, as some employers may only consider applicants with specific certifications. Finally, certifications can help technicians stand out from other applicants and increase their chances of getting hired.

The article reviews some of the top certifications for Communications Technicians and explains how they can contribute to a communications technician's career, providing insight into the potential benefits of certification.

What are Communications Technician Certifications?

Communications technician certification is an industry-recognized credential that validates a technician's knowledge, skills and abilities related to the installation, maintenance, repair and troubleshooting of communications systems. Communications technicians typically work with telephone systems and equipment, radio systems, audio/video systems, satellite networks and other types of communication systems.

Having a communications technician certification can help demonstrate a technician's level of expertise to employers. It also helps them stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in technology, as well as industry trends and best practices. Additionally, having this type of certification can make technicians more competitive in the job market and increase their chances of getting hired or promoted. Furthermore, it can help build their confidence knowing that they have the necessary skills to perform complex tasks related to communication systems.

Pro Tip: When considering a communications technician certification, look for certifications that are accredited by industry-recognized organizations. This ensures that the training you receive is up to date and relevant to the current job market. Additionally, look for certifications that offer continuing education opportunities so you can keep your skills current and stay ahead of the curve.

Related: What does a Communications Technician do?

Top 11 Communications Technician Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Communications Technicians today.

1. Telecommunications Technician Certification (TTC)

Telecommunications Technician Certification (TTC) is a certification program designed to provide technical professionals with the knowledge and skills they need to excel in the telecommunications industry. The certification is offered by the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) and is recognized by many employers as a mark of excellence in the field.

The TTC program consists of three levels: Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced. To obtain the certification, applicants must complete all three levels within two years. The Basic level covers basic concepts such as network architecture, cabling systems, and troubleshooting; the Intermediate level focuses on more advanced topics such as IP telephony, wireless networks, and VoIP; and the Advanced level covers topics such as optical networking, security protocols, and system integration.

To get started with TTC certification, applicants must first register for an account with TIA’s online portal. After registering for an account, applicants can purchase study materials from TIA’s online store or download them for free from their website. After studying for each level of TTC certification, applicants must take an exam at a Pearson VUE testing center in order to receive their certification.

The cost of obtaining TTC certification varies depending on which study materials are purchased and how many exams are taken. Generally speaking, it costs around $400-$600 USD to obtain all three levels of TTC certification.

2. Certified Telecommunications Network Specialist (CTNS)

Certified Telecommunications Network Specialist (CTNS) is a certification program offered by the Telecommunications Certification Organization (TCO). It is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to design, implement, and maintain telecommunications networks. The CTNS certification is intended for individuals who are responsible for the design, implementation, and management of voice and data networks.

The CTNS certification requires applicants to pass an online exam that covers topics such as network architecture, protocols, switching technologies, routing technologies, transmission systems, network security, and system management. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within two hours.

In order to become certified as a CTNS professional, applicants must have at least three years of experience in designing or managing telecommunications networks. They must also have at least one year of experience in either voice or data networking. Applicants must also complete an approved course or training program prior to taking the exam.

The cost of the CTNS certification varies depending on the provider offering it. Generally speaking, it costs around $500-$600 USD for the exam itself plus any applicable fees associated with registration or training programs.

3. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is a certification offered by Cisco Systems that validates an individual's skills in networking and routing. It is designed for entry-level network engineers who are looking to gain knowledge and experience in the field of networking.

The CCNA certification exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete, and covers topics such as basic IP addressing, subnetting, routing protocols, switching technologies, network security, and troubleshooting.

To get the CCNA certification, you must first pass the CCNA exam. To prepare for the exam, you can take courses or self-study with books or online resources. You can also use practice exams to help prepare you for the actual exam.

The cost of the CCNA exam varies depending on where you take it. The cost is usually around $300 USD but can be more or less depending on your location and other factors.

4. CompTIA Network+ Certification

CompTIA Network+ certification is an industry-recognized credential that validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in networking technologies. It is designed to provide a foundation of networking knowledge for IT professionals, such as system administrators, network engineers, and network technicians. The certification covers topics such as network architecture, network operations, network security, troubleshooting, and more.

It typically takes around 40 hours of study time to prepare for the CompTIA Network+ exam. However, this can vary depending on the individual's experience level and familiarity with the topics covered in the exam.

To get CompTIA Network+ certified, individuals must take and pass the CompTIA Network+ exam (N10-007). The exam consists of 90 multiple choice questions which must be completed within 90 minutes.

The cost of taking the CompTIA Network+ exam varies depending on location but generally ranges from $250 - $320 USD.

5. Certified Wireless Network Professional (CWNP)

Certified Wireless Network Professional (CWNP) is a certification program designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to design, deploy, secure and manage wireless networks. The CWNP program is offered by the Certified Wireless Network Association (CWNA), which is an industry-recognized organization that specializes in wireless networking and security.

The CWNP program consists of four levels: CWNA, CWSP, CWAP, and CWDP. Each level requires passing one or more exams in order to earn certification. The exams are administered online through Pearson VUE.

To become a Certified Wireless Network Professional (CWNP), you must pass all four exams within 18 months of each other. Each exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and costs $125 USD per exam.

In addition to passing the exams, applicants must also have at least two years of professional experience in the field of wireless networking before they can be eligible for certification.

Once certified, individuals will have access to exclusive resources such as webinars, white papers, and training materials from the CWNA website. They will also receive discounts on conferences and workshops related to wireless networking topics.

6. Certified Fiber Optic Technician (CFOT)

A Certified Fiber Optic Technician (CFOT) is an individual who has been certified by the Fiber Optics Association (FOA) to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to install, maintain, and troubleshoot fiber optic cables. The CFOT certification is a globally recognized credential that validates an individual’s ability to work with fiber optics.

It typically takes between two and four weeks to complete the training required for the CFOT certification. The training consists of both online courses and in-person classes. Online courses cover topics such as basic fiber optics, cable installation, splicing, testing, and troubleshooting. In-person classes provide hands-on experience with fiber optic equipment and tools.

To obtain the CFOT certification, individuals must pass a written exam administered by the FOA. The exam covers topics such as safety practices, cable installation procedures, testing methods, and troubleshooting techniques.

The cost of obtaining the CFOT certification varies depending on where you take your training courses. Generally speaking, it costs around $500 - $1,000 USD for all of the materials needed for the course including textbooks and study guides.

7. Voice over IP Technician Certification (VoIP-T)

Voice over IP Technician Certification (VoIP-T) is a certification program designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to install, configure, and manage Voice over IP (VoIP) systems. The certification covers topics such as VoIP fundamentals, network design, troubleshooting, security, and more.

The VoIP-T certification is offered by the International Association of Network Engineers (IANE). It requires a minimum of six months of experience in VoIP technology or related fields and successful completion of an online exam. The exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as VoIP protocols, network architecture, system design, troubleshooting techniques, and security measures.

To get certified as a VoIP-T technician you must first register for the exam through IANE's website. Once you have registered for the exam you will be required to pay a fee that varies depending on your country of residence. After payment has been received you will receive an email with instructions on how to access the online exam. Once you have successfully completed the exam you will receive your official certification from IANE.

The cost of getting certified as a VoIP-T technician varies depending on where you live but generally ranges between $500 - $1000 USD. This includes registration fees for the exam and any additional materials needed for preparation such as study guides or practice exams.

8. Certified Data Communications Analyst (CDCA)

Certified Data Communications Analyst (CDCA) is a certification program offered by the Telecommunications Certification Organization (TCO). It is designed to provide professionals with knowledge and skills needed to design, install, configure, troubleshoot and maintain data communications systems. The CDCA certification requires the successful completion of a three-day course and a written exam.

The course covers topics such as networking fundamentals, network topologies, protocols, cabling, wireless technologies, and more. At the end of the course participants must pass a written exam in order to receive their CDCA certification.

The cost of the CDCA certification depends on where you take the course. Generally it costs between $1,500 and $2,000 for the entire program including the exam fee.

It typically takes about three days to complete the CDCA certification program. However, some providers offer accelerated programs that can be completed in two days or less.

9. Avaya Certified Solutions Architect – Voice (ACSA-V)

Avaya Certified Solutions Architect – Voice (ACSA-V) is a certification program offered by Avaya, a leading provider of unified communications and contact center solutions. This certification recognizes professionals who have demonstrated expertise in designing, deploying and managing Avaya Voice solutions.

The ACSA-V certification requires successful completion of two exams: the Avaya Professional Design Specialist (APDS) exam and the Avaya Professional Implementation Specialist (APIS) exam. The APDS exam covers topics such as network design, system architecture, feature configuration, and troubleshooting. The APIS exam focuses on implementation topics such as installation, configuration, integration, and maintenance.

It typically takes around four months to complete the ACSA-V certification process. To get started, you must first purchase the Avaya Learning Center subscription which provides access to all necessary training materials for both exams. After completing the required courses and passing both exams with a score of 70% or higher, you will be eligible for the ACSA-V certification.

The cost of the ACSA-V certification varies depending on your location and method of study. The cost includes the cost of purchasing an Avaya Learning Center subscription ($399), plus any additional fees associated with taking each exam ($150 per exam).

10. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert: Messaging (MCSE: Messaging)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert: Messaging (MCSE: Messaging) is a certification that validates an individual’s skills in designing, deploying, and managing messaging infrastructure solutions with Microsoft Exchange Server. This certification demonstrates an individual’s ability to design and implement messaging solutions using Exchange Server 2013 or 2016.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for the MCSE: Messaging exam. It requires passing two exams, 70-341 Core Solutions of Microsoft Exchange Server 2013 and 70-342 Advanced Solutions of Microsoft Exchange Server 2013. Both exams are administered by Pearson VUE.

To obtain the MCSE: Messaging certification, you must pass both exams within one year of each other and have a minimum of one year of experience in administering Windows Server networks that include Active Directory and networking infrastructure services. You must also have experience with Exchange Server 2013 or 2016.

The cost for the two exams is approximately $150 each, so the total cost for the MCSE: Messaging certification is approximately $300.

11. Juniper Networks Certified Internet Associate/Professional (JNCIA/JNCIP)

Juniper Networks Certified Internet Associate/Professional (JNCIA/JNCIP) is a certification program offered by Juniper Networks, Inc., a leading provider of networking equipment and services. The JNCIA and JNCIP certifications are designed to validate an individual’s knowledge of Juniper Networks products and technologies.

The JNCIA certification is the entry-level credential for individuals who want to demonstrate their knowledge of Juniper Networks products and technologies. To obtain the JNCIA certification, candidates must pass one exam: the JN0-103 exam. This exam covers topics such as network fundamentals, routing protocols, switching concepts, security fundamentals, QoS, IPv6, and more. The exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and costs $200 USD.

The JNCIP certification is the advanced level credential for individuals who have already achieved the JNCIA certification and want to further demonstrate their expertise in Juniper Networks products and technologies. To obtain the JNCIP certification, candidates must pass two exams: the JN0-103 exam (which is required for both certifications) plus one additional exam from a list of approved exams that cover topics such as advanced routing protocols, advanced security features, MPLS technology, virtual private networks (VPNs), QoS implementation techniques, automation tools & techniques, etc. Each additional exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and costs $200 USD each.

In total it takes approximately 3 hours to complete both exams for the JNCIP certification and costs $400 USD in total.

Do You Really Need a Communications Technician Certificate?

In today's world, having a Communications Technician Certificate can be extremely beneficial for many reasons. As communications technology continues to evolve, so does the need for qualified technicians to keep up with the ever-changing landscape. With a Communications Technician Certificate, you will have the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in this competitive field.

A Communications Technician Certificate will give you an edge over other applicants when it comes time to apply for jobs. Employers are looking for candidates who have specific qualifications and certifications that demonstrate their ability to handle complex networks and systems. With a Communications Technician Certificate, you can prove your technical prowess and stand out from the competition.

Having a Communications Technician Certificate also provides you with additional credibility when dealing with clients and customers. A certificate not only shows potential employers that you are qualified to do the job but also gives them confidence that you can handle any issue that may arise during installation or repair of their system or equipment. This is especially important in industries such as telecommunications where customer service is paramount. Being able to troubleshoot quickly and accurately can make all the difference in customer satisfaction levels, which can ultimately lead to more business opportunities down the line.

Furthermore, having a Communications Technician Certificate allows you to stay current on advancements within the industry. The certificate program teaches students about new technologies and techniques being used in communications systems and networks, giving them an advantage over those without such credentials when it comes time to take on new projects or assignments at work.

In conclusion, obtaining a Communications Technician Certificate is highly recommended if you wish to pursue a career in this field. Not only will it give you an edge over other applicants when applying for jobs but also provide additional credibility when working with clients or customers as well as keeping your skills up-to-date with industry advancements.

Related: Communications Technician Resume Examples

FAQs About Communications Technician Certifications

1. What types of certifications are available for communications technicians?

Answer: There are a variety of certifications available for communications technicians, including Certified Telecommunications Network Specialist (CTNS), Certified Communications Technician (CCT), and Certified Wireless Network Professional (CWNP).

2. How long does it typically take to become certified?

Answer: The length of time required to become certified varies depending on the certification program and the individual’s experience level. Generally, most certification programs require an average of 6-12 months to complete.

3. What are the benefits of becoming a certified communications technician?

Answer: Benefits of becoming a certified communications technician include increased job opportunities, higher salaries, better job security, and recognition as an expert in your field.

4. Are there any prerequisites for certification?

Answer: Yes, each certification program has its own set of prerequisites that must be met before applying for certification. Common requirements include having at least two years of experience in the field and passing a written exam or practical test.

5. Is there any cost associated with becoming certified?

Answer: Yes, most certification programs require a fee which is used to cover the cost of materials, exams and other administrative costs associated with the program.