Top 11 Configuration Analyst Certifications

Certifications are important for a configuration analyst in the job market because they demonstrate a mastery of the necessary skills and knowledge. They show potential employers that the candidate has taken the initiative to learn the material and is prepared to apply it in a professional setting. Certifications also provide an objective measure of an individual’s skill level and can be used as a benchmark when comparing candidates for positions. Additionally, certifications provide a way for employers to ensure that their employees have up-to-date knowledge of the latest technologies and best practices, which can make them more competitive in the marketplace.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Configuration Analysts and explains how they can help to advance a configuration analyst's career.

What are Configuration Analyst Certifications?

Configuration Analyst Certification is a professional credential that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in the areas of configuration management, software configuration, and systems engineering. This certification is offered by the International Association of Configuration Analysts (IACA). It is designed to help professionals demonstrate their expertise in these fields and to help employers identify qualified candidates for positions related to configuration management.

The Configuration Analyst Certification program provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles, practices, and tools used in successful configuration management. The program covers topics such as project planning, requirements gathering, system design, implementation and testing, change control processes, version control systems and other related areas. Upon successful completion of the program, certified analysts will be able to apply best practices to ensure that software applications are properly configured and maintained throughout their lifecycle.

This certification can benefit professionals in a variety of ways. It can provide them with the credentials they need to compete for jobs within the field of configuration management or related fields. Additionally, it can provide them with increased job security since they will be considered more qualified than those without certification. Furthermore, certification can also lead to higher salaries due to employers recognizing their commitment to continued learning and development within this field.

Pro Tip: Before committing to a configuration analyst certification, make sure to research the requirements, cost and availability of courses in your local area. Additionally, reach out to previous graduates and ask about their experiences with the program to ensure it is the right fit for you.

Related: What does a Configuration Analyst do?

Top 11 Configuration Analyst Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Configuration Analysts today.

1. Certified Configuration Manager (CCM)

Certified Configuration Manager (CCM) is an industry-recognized certification program for IT professionals who are responsible for configuring, managing and maintaining the configuration of technology products and services. The CCM program is designed to validate a person’s knowledge and skills in the areas of configuration management, system administration, software deployment, automation scripting, release management and more.

The CCM certification process typically takes around 3-4 months to complete. The process begins with submitting your application online through the official CCM website. Once your application has been approved, you will be required to take a series of exams that cover topics such as configuration management principles, processes and tools; system administration; software deployment; automation scripting; release management; and more. After completing the exams, you will need to submit proof of experience in the form of resumes or job descriptions showing at least two years of experience in configuration management or related fields. Finally, you will need to submit a project report that demonstrates your understanding of configuration management principles and practices.

The cost of obtaining the CCM certification varies depending on the provider offering it. Generally speaking however, most providers charge between $500-$1000 USD for the whole process including exam fees and application fees.

2. Certified Systems Engineer (CSE)

Certified Systems Engineer (CSE) is a professional certification that demonstrates expertise in the field of systems engineering. It is designed to recognize individuals who have a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of systems engineering, including the tools and techniques used to develop and manage complex systems.

The CSE certification requires applicants to pass an exam administered by the International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE). The exam covers topics such as system architecture, requirements analysis, design and implementation, testing and validation, project management, risk management, and more.

It typically takes between six months to one year to prepare for the CSE exam. To get ready for the exam, you should become familiar with INCOSE’s guidelines for systems engineering practice and take advantage of any available training materials or courses offered by INCOSE or other organizations. You can also find study guides online that will help you prepare for the exam.

The cost of taking the CSE exam varies depending on your location but generally ranges from $250 - $500 USD.

3. Certified Enterprise Architect (CEA)

Certified Enterprise Architect (CEA) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated an understanding of the enterprise architecture discipline and its application to business. The CEA certification is awarded by the Open Group, a global consortium that works with customers, suppliers, consultants, and other organizations to develop open standards and certifications.

To become a Certified Enterprise Architect (CEA), applicants must meet certain criteria. This includes having at least five years of experience in enterprise architecture or related fields such as IT strategy, software engineering, systems engineering, or business analysis. Applicants must also pass an exam administered by the Open Group.

The exam consists of multiple-choice questions designed to test knowledge of enterprise architecture principles and best practices. It typically takes two to three hours to complete the exam. Applicants must also submit a portfolio demonstrating their experience in enterprise architecture before they can be certified.

The cost of becoming a Certified Enterprise Architect (CEA) varies depending on the country in which you are taking the exam. In the United States, for example, the cost is $1,500 USD plus any applicable taxes.

4. Certified IT Infrastructure Library (ITIL) Practitioner

Certified IT Infrastructure Library (ITIL) Practitioner is a certification program that provides individuals with the skills and knowledge to implement and manage IT service management processes. The ITIL Practitioner certification is designed for those who have already achieved the ITIL Foundation certification and are looking to gain more in-depth knowledge of the ITIL framework.

The ITIL Practitioner certification focuses on developing practical skills related to specific areas of service management, including service design, service transition, service operations, continual service improvement, and problem management. The certification also covers key concepts such as value streams, customer journey mapping, and measurement techniques. In addition to gaining technical knowledge of these topics, the certification also provides guidance on how to apply these concepts in real-world scenarios.

The ITIL Practitioner certification is offered by AXELOS Global Best Practice (formerly known as EXIN). It typically takes six months or more to complete the program. To become certified as an ITIL Practitioner, you must first pass an exam that consists of multiple choice questions. You can prepare for this exam by taking an accredited training course or self-study using official study materials from AXELOS Global Best Practice.

The cost of the ITIL Practitioner exam varies depending on where you take it but generally ranges from $250-$500 USD.

5. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) is a certification program designed to help IT professionals demonstrate their skills in designing, deploying, and managing complex IT infrastructure solutions. It is intended for those who have already achieved Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA) certification.

It typically takes about 6 months to a year to complete the MCSE program depending on the individual’s experience level and the specific courses they take. To get started, an individual needs to pass one of the qualifying exams such as Windows Server 2016 or Cloud Platform and Infrastructure. After passing one of these exams, they can then pursue additional certifications such as Azure Solutions Architect, Data Management and Analytics, or Productivity Solutions Expert.

The cost of getting an MCSE certification varies depending on which exam you choose to take and how many courses you need to complete. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$2,000 USD for the entire program. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with taking practice tests or attending instructor-led classes.

In order to maintain your MCSE certification status, you must retake relevant exams every three years in order to stay current with changing technologies and best practices.

6. CompTIA Server+ Certification

CompTIA Server+ is an industry-recognized certification that validates the skills and knowledge of IT professionals who work with server hardware and software. It is designed for experienced IT professionals, such as system administrators, network administrators, and technical support personnel. The CompTIA Server+ certification covers topics such as server architecture, storage, virtualization, disaster recovery, security, troubleshooting and more.

The certification exam typically takes two hours to complete and consists of 90 multiple-choice questions. To obtain the CompTIA Server+ certification, candidates must pass both the Core 1 (SK0-004) and Core 2 (SK0-005) exams. The cost of each exam varies depending on where you take it but generally ranges from $200 to $300 USD per exam.

In order to prepare for the CompTIA Server+ certification exam, candidates should review the official study materials provided by CompTIA or take a training course from an accredited provider. Additionally, candidates can use online practice tests to help them prepare for the real exam.

7. Oracle Database Administrator Certified Associate

Oracle Database Administrator Certified Associate (OCA) is an entry-level certification offered by Oracle that demonstrates a professional’s ability to install, configure, and maintain Oracle databases. It is designed for those who are just starting out in the field of database administration or those who may have some experience but want to demonstrate their knowledge and skills.

It typically takes about 3-6 months to prepare for the OCA exam depending on your level of experience with Oracle databases. The exam consists of two parts: 1Z0-071: Oracle Database 12c SQL Fundamentals and 1Z0-062: Oracle Database 12c Administration. Both exams must be passed in order to become certified as an OCA.

You can take the OCA exams at any Pearson VUE testing center worldwide. The cost of the exams vary depending on your location but typically range from $125-$200 USD per exam.

In order to keep your certification up to date, you will need to retake the exams every three years.

8. VMware Certified Professional – Data Center Virtualization

VMware Certified Professional – Data Center Virtualization (VCP-DCV) is a certification offered by VMware that validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in virtualizing data centers. It is designed for IT professionals who have experience with VMware vSphere, including the installation, configuration, deployment, management and troubleshooting of vSphere environments.

In order to obtain the VCP-DCV certification, you must first pass the VMware Certified Professional 6 – Data Center Virtualization (VCP6-DCV) exam. This exam consists of 85 multiple choice questions and requires a minimum passing score of 300 out of 500. The exam typically takes two hours to complete.

Once you have passed the VCP6-DCV exam, you will need to attend a VMware authorized training course such as VMware vSphere: Install, Configure, Manage [V6] or VMware vSphere: What's New [V6]. After completing the course, you must submit your course completion certificate to VMware in order to receive your VCP-DCV certification.

The cost of obtaining the VCP-DCV certification varies depending on which training course you choose to take. Generally speaking, most courses range from $2,000 - $3,000 USD. Additionally, there is a one-time fee of $250 USD for taking the VCP6-DCV exam and submitting your course completion certificate to VMware.

9. Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Routing and Switching

Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Routing and Switching is a professional-level certification that validates an individual’s ability to plan, implement, verify, and troubleshoot local and wide area enterprise networks. It is the next step after obtaining the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Routing and Switching certification.

It typically takes around 6-12 months to complete the CCNP Routing and Switching certification program depending on your experience level. You must first pass two exams: one for the CCNA Routing and Switching certification, and another for the CCNP Routing and Switching certification. The exams cover topics such as routing protocols, switching technologies, network security, IP services, troubleshooting, infrastructure maintenance, QoS, IPv6 routing protocols, etc.

The cost of obtaining the CCNP Routing and Switching certification varies depending on which exams you choose to take. Each exam costs around $300 USD. Additionally, there are study materials available from Cisco or third-party providers that can help you prepare for the exam which may incur additional costs.

In order to obtain the CCNP Routing and Switching certification you must pass all of the required exams within three years of starting your studies. Once you have passed all of the required exams you will receive your official Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Routing & Switching certificate from Cisco Systems Incorporated.

10. Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)

Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) is a certification program offered by Red Hat, Inc. that validates an individual's skills in administering and managing Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems. It is an intermediate-level certification that requires a basic understanding of system administration principles and the ability to apply them in real-world scenarios.

The RHCSA exam typically takes around two hours to complete, and consists of multiple choice questions as well as performance-based tasks. The performance-based tasks require the candidate to perform specific tasks on a live system using command line tools.

In order to become certified, candidates must pass the RHCSA exam which is available through Pearson VUE or Red Hat’s own testing centers. The cost of the exam varies depending on where it is taken but typically ranges from $400-$500 USD.

Once certified, individuals will have access to exclusive resources such as online forums, webinars, and networking opportunities with other certified professionals. Additionally, they will be able to demonstrate their skillset to employers and increase their marketability in the IT industry.

11. AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate Level

AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate Level is a certification program offered by Amazon Web Services (AWS). It is designed to validate an individual's technical expertise in designing and deploying scalable, secure, and highly available applications on the AWS platform.

The exam for this certification consists of multiple-choice questions that are based on the official AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate Level Exam Guide. The exam takes approximately 130 minutes to complete and covers topics such as: design principles, cloud architecture, storage solutions, security and compliance, networking concepts, database technologies, application development services, analytics services, deployment strategies and more.

In order to become certified at the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate Level you must pass the exam with a score of 700 or higher out of 1000 points. You can register for the exam through your AWS account or through Pearson VUE. The cost of the exam varies depending on where it is taken but typically ranges from $150-$300 USD.

Preparing for the exam can take anywhere from several weeks to several months depending on your level of experience with AWS and how much time you have available to dedicate to studying. There are numerous resources available online that provide study materials and practice exams which can be used to help prepare for the actual exam.

Do You Really Need a Configuration Analyst Certificate?

The short answer to this question is no. A Configuration Analyst Certificate is not a requirement for those who wish to pursue a career in configuration analysis. However, having such a certificate may be beneficial in some ways.

For example, if you are looking to enter the field of configuration analysis and want to demonstrate your knowledge and expertise, having a Configuration Analyst Certificate can help you stand out from the competition. It shows that you have taken the time and effort to learn about the subject matter, which can be appealing to potential employers. Additionally, it could open up more job opportunities as some companies may prefer candidates with formal training and qualifications in configuration analysis.

On the other hand, many employers are more interested in practical experience than formal qualifications when assessing candidates for configuration analyst positions. Therefore, if you already have relevant work experience or knowledge of configuration analysis through self-study or other means, then there may be no need for you to obtain a Configuration Analyst Certificate. Ultimately, the decision will depend on your individual needs and circumstances.

Related: Configuration Analyst Resume Examples

FAQs About Configuration Analyst Certifications

Q1. What is a Configuration Analyst Certification?

A1. A Configuration Analyst Certification is a certification that validates the skills and knowledge of professionals in the field of configuration management. It demonstrates an ability to develop, implement, manage, and maintain configuration management systems and processes.

Q2. How do I obtain a Configuration Analyst Certification?

A2. To obtain a Configuration Analyst Certification, you must pass an exam administered by a recognized certifying body such as CompTIA or ISACA. You may also need to complete additional training or coursework in order to become certified.

Q3. What are the benefits of obtaining a Configuration Analyst Certification?

A3. Obtaining a Configuration Analyst Certification can help you stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs in the IT industry and can increase your earning potential as well as provide you with professional recognition within the industry. Additionally, it can demonstrate your commitment to developing your technical skills and knowledge in this field.

Q4. What is the cost associated with obtaining a Configuration Analyst Certification?

A4. The cost associated with obtaining a Configuration Analyst Certification will vary depending on the certifying body you choose to use, but generally ranges from $200-$500 USD for the initial certification exam alone, not including any additional training or coursework required for certification eligibility.

Q5. How often do I need to renew my Configuration Analyst Certification?

A5. Most certifications require renewal every three years in order to remain current with changes in technology and best practices within the industry; however, specific renewal requirements may vary depending on the certifying body used for certification purposes so it is important to check their specific policies prior to taking any action related to renewing your certification status.