Top 10 Data Center Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for data center managers in the job market because they demonstrate a mastery of the technology and processes that are necessary to run a successful data center. Certifications provide employers with an assurance that their data center manager is knowledgeable and capable, which can help them make more informed decisions about hiring and managing their team. Additionally, certifications can help differentiate data center managers from other applicants by showing that they have taken the time to acquire specialized skills and knowledge. In addition, certifications can give data center managers an edge when it comes to salary negotiations as many employers are willing to pay a premium for certified professionals.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Data Center Managers and explains how they can help advance a data center manager's career.

What are Data Center Manager Certifications?

Data center manager certification is a specialized certification program designed to help data center professionals build a strong foundation of knowledge in the areas of data center management, operations, and technology. This certification provides data center professionals with the necessary skills and credentials to lead and manage their data centers effectively. By earning this certification, data center managers demonstrate their commitment to excellence and expertise in their field.

The Data Center Manager Certification helps prepare individuals for successful careers in data centers by providing them with the knowledge and experience they need to be effective leaders. Certified Data Center Managers gain the skills necessary to understand how different components within the data center work together, as well as the practical experience needed to successfully operate and manage these components. This certification also teaches best practices for managing risk, such as disaster recovery planning, security protocols, energy efficiency initiatives, and more. Additionally, certified Data Center Managers are able to better identify potential issues quickly and address them promptly before they affect performance or cause downtime.

This certification is ideal for those looking to advance in their careers or make a career switch into the world of IT infrastructure management. Earning this certification can open doors for career advancement opportunities, increased job security, higher salaries, better benefits packages, etc. Ultimately, this certification is an invaluable asset that can help professionals stay ahead of the competition and remain competitive in today’s ever-changing job market.

Pro Tip: When pursuing a data center manager certification, take the time to research and understand the different types of certifications available. Each type of certification has its own set of requirements and is tailored to specific roles within the data center. This will help ensure that you get the most out of your certification and gain the skills necessary for success in your role.

Related: What does a Data Center Manager do?

Top 10 Data Center Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Data Center Managers today.

1. CompTIA Server+

CompTIA Server+ is an industry-recognized certification that validates the knowledge and skills of IT professionals working in server environments. It is designed to ensure that IT professionals have the necessary skills to build, maintain, troubleshoot, and support server hardware and software technologies. The CompTIA Server+ exam covers topics such as server architecture, storage, network infrastructure, virtualization, disaster recovery, security, system administration and troubleshooting.

The CompTIA Server+ exam typically takes about 90 minutes to complete and consists of 90 multiple-choice questions. To pass the exam you must score at least 750 on a scale of 100-900.

To get the CompTIA Server+ certification you must first take and pass the CompTIA Server+ SK0-004 exam. The exam can be taken at any Pearson VUE or Prometric testing center worldwide. The cost of the exam varies depending on location but typically ranges from $200-$300 USD.

Once you have passed the exam you will receive your CompTIA Server+ certification which is valid for three years from the date of issue. You can renew your certification by passing a recertification exam or completing continuing education activities within three years of your initial certification date.

2. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) is a certification program designed to recognize IT professionals who have the skills and knowledge to design and implement solutions using Microsoft products and technologies. It is a globally recognized credential that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in designing, implementing, and managing complex IT infrastructures.

It typically takes 6-12 months to complete the MCSE certification process depending on the individual's experience level. To get an MCSE certification, individuals must pass a series of exams that cover topics such as networking, security, virtualization, cloud computing, mobility, business intelligence, data management, and messaging.

The cost of the MCSE certification varies depending on the number of exams taken. Each exam typically costs around $165 USD. Additionally, there may be other costs associated with studying for the exams such as books or online courses.

3. Certified Data Center Professional (CDCP)

Certified Data Center Professional (CDCP) is a certification that recognizes the expertise of data center professionals. It is offered by the Uptime Institute, an independent provider of data center education and professional certifications. The CDCP certification is designed to recognize individuals who have a comprehensive knowledge of data center operations and best practices.

The CDCP certification requires candidates to pass an online exam, which consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as power systems, cooling systems, physical security, environmental monitoring, and other aspects of data center operations. The exam takes approximately two hours to complete.

To be eligible for the CDCP certification, candidates must have at least two years of experience in the design or operation of a data center. Candidates must also demonstrate knowledge of industry standards and best practices related to data centers. In addition, they must be able to demonstrate their ability to apply this knowledge in real-world situations.

The cost for the CDCP certification exam is $395 USD. This fee includes access to study materials and practice exams as well as the actual exam itself. There are no additional fees or costs associated with obtaining or maintaining the CDCP certification once it has been earned.

4. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Data Center

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Data Center is a certification program designed to validate an individual's knowledge and skills in data center technologies. It is a professional-level certification that demonstrates an individual's ability to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot complex data center networks.

It typically takes about six months to a year of studying and hands-on experience to prepare for the CCNA Data Center exam. The exam consists of 60-70 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within 90 minutes. To obtain the certification, you must pass the exam with a score of at least 825 out of 1000 points.

To get the CCNA Data Center certification, you must first complete one or more courses offered by Cisco Learning Partners or attend virtual training sessions provided by Cisco itself. After completing the required courses, you can register for the exam through Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers.

The cost of taking the CCNA Data Center exam varies depending on your location and the type of testing center you choose. Generally speaking, it costs around $300 USD to take the exam.

5. VMware Certified Professional – Data Center Virtualization (VCP-DCV)

VMware Certified Professional – Data Center Virtualization (VCP-DCV) is a certification program designed to validate the skills and knowledge of IT professionals who are experienced in installing, configuring, and managing VMware vSphere environments. The VCP-DCV certification is intended for professionals who have experience with vSphere 6.x or later versions of the software.

The certification process involves passing two exams: a VMware Certified Professional 6 – Data Center Virtualization (VCP6-DCV) exam and a VMware Certified Associate 6 – Data Center Virtualization (VCA6-DCV) exam. The VCP6-DCV exam tests an individual’s ability to install, configure, manage, and troubleshoot vSphere 6.x environments. The VCA6-DCV exam tests an individual’s understanding of basic concepts related to virtualization and vSphere 6.x.

It typically takes around three months to prepare for the exams and obtain the VCP-DCV certification. To get started on the path towards becoming certified, individuals should take a course that covers both the VCP6-DCV and VCA6-DCV exams such as VMware’s “vSphere: Install, Configure, Manage [v6]” course or an equivalent training program offered by an authorized training provider. After completing the coursework, individuals must pass both exams within one year in order to receive their VCP-DCV certification.

The cost of obtaining the VCP-DCV certification varies depending on which authorized training provider you choose to use for your coursework and which type of exam voucher you purchase from VMware. Generally speaking, it will cost between $2,500-$3,000 USD for all associated fees including course fees and exam vouchers.

6. Red Hat Certified System Administrator in Red Hat OpenStack

Red Hat Certified System Administrator in Red Hat OpenStack (RHCSA-OP) is a certification that validates the skills and knowledge necessary to administer, configure, and manage a Red Hat OpenStack Platform environment. This certification demonstrates an individual’s ability to provision cloud resources and services, manage virtual machines, networks, storage systems, and security components.

To obtain the RHCSA-OP certification, you must pass the EX210 exam. The exam consists of performance-based items that simulate on-the-job tasks and scenarios faced by system administrators working with Red Hat OpenStack Platform. It typically takes around two hours to complete the exam.

You can register for the EX210 exam through Pearson VUE or Red Hat Training & Certification website. The cost of the exam varies depending on your location but generally ranges between $400-$500 USD.

7. Citrix Certified Professional – Virtualization (CCP-V)

Citrix Certified Professional – Virtualization (CCP-V) is a certification program offered by Citrix that validates an individual’s expertise in designing, implementing and managing virtualized environments based on Citrix technologies. It is designed to provide IT professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully deploy, manage and troubleshoot virtualized environments.

The CCP-V certification requires passing two exams: 1Y0-311: Citrix XenApp 6.5 Administration and 1Y0-312: Citrix XenDesktop 5 Administration. The exams are approximately 90 minutes long each and test your knowledge of the topics covered in the associated training courses.

To get certified, you must first purchase a training course from Citrix or an authorized partner, such as a local college or university. The cost of the course varies depending on the provider, but typically ranges from $1,500-$2,000 USD for both exams. After completing the course, you can register for and take the exams at any Pearson VUE testing center.

Once you have passed both exams, you will receive your official CCP-V certification from Citrix. The entire process typically takes between one to three months depending on how quickly you complete the training course and take the exams.

8. HPE Master ASE – Data Center and Cloud Architect

HPE Master ASE – Data Center and Cloud Architect is a certification offered by Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE). It is designed for IT professionals who specialize in data center and cloud architecture. This certification validates an individual’s expertise in designing, deploying, and managing HPE solutions in the data center and cloud environments.

To get this certification, you must pass two exams: HPE0-D50 and HPE2-CP05. The HPE0-D50 exam tests your knowledge of data center technologies such as storage, networking, virtualization, security, automation, and orchestration. The HPE2-CP05 exam tests your knowledge of cloud technologies such as public/private/hybrid clouds, containers, DevOps tools, microservices architectures, and more.

It typically takes about 6 months to prepare for these exams. You can use self-study materials or attend instructor-led training courses to prepare for the exams.

The cost of the exams varies depending on the country you are taking them in but typically range from $200 - $300 USD per exam.

9. Oracle Database Administrator Certified Professional

Oracle Database Administrator Certified Professional (OCP) is an Oracle certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a high level of proficiency in administering Oracle databases. OCP certification is the highest level of Oracle database certification and requires passing two exams: one on the fundamentals of database administration and one on a specific version of the Oracle Database. The certification is valid for three years, after which time the individual must take a recertification exam to maintain their status as an OCP.

It typically takes between six months and one year to prepare for and pass both exams, depending on your prior experience with Oracle databases. To become certified, you must first register with Oracle University and purchase the necessary course materials. You then need to attend training courses or self-study to gain knowledge in the areas covered by the two exams. After completing your studies, you can register for and take both exams at an authorized testing center.

The cost of becoming an OCP depends on how you choose to prepare for the exams. Self-study materials can range from $100-$400 depending on what version of the database you are studying for, while attending training courses can cost anywhere from $2,000-$5,000 depending on location and duration. Additionally, each exam costs $245 USD.

10. Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified Solutions Architect – Data Center

Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified Solutions Architect – Data Center is a certification program designed to validate the knowledge and skills of IT professionals in designing, deploying, and managing applications and infrastructure on AWS. It is an advanced-level certification that requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to design, deploy, and manage secure and robust applications on the AWS platform.

The certification consists of two exams: Exam SAA-C02 (Associate Level) and Exam SAA-C01 (Professional Level). The Associate Level exam covers topics such as cloud computing concepts, security, networking, storage, databases, application services, serverless computing, analytics, monitoring & logging. The Professional Level exam focuses on advanced topics such as cloud architecture design principles & best practices; cost optimization; scalability & elasticity; high availability & disaster recovery; security & compliance; operations & governance; migration strategies & tools.

It typically takes about 6 months for an individual to prepare for the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Data Center certifications. Candidates should have hands-on experience working with AWS services in order to be successful in passing the exams. There are several resources available online such as books, tutorials, practice tests that can help individuals prepare for the exams.

The cost of taking the exam varies depending on location but typically costs around $300 USD per exam.

Do You Really Need a Data Center Manager Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on a variety of factors, including the type of data center you are managing and your current experience level. For those with no prior experience in data center management, a certificate program can provide a great foundation in the field. This is especially true if the certificate program offers hands-on training and/or provides an internship opportunity.

For those with some experience in data center management, a certificate may not be necessary. However, it can still be beneficial to stay up-to-date on best practices and trends in the industry by taking courses or attending conferences. Additionally, having a certification could give you an edge when applying for certain management positions or promotions.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a Data Center Manager Certificate depends on your individual situation and goals. If you feel like earning one would help you progress in your career, then it’s definitely worth considering.

Related: Data Center Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Data Center Manager Certifications

1. What are the requirements for becoming a Data Center Manager?

Answer: The requirements for becoming a Data Center Manager vary depending on the employer and the specific job role. Generally, employers require applicants to have at least a Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology or related field, as well as several years of experience managing data centers. In addition, some employers may require certifications such as CompTIA A+ or Network+.

2. How long does it take to get certified as a Data Center Manager?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become certified as a Data Center Manager depends on the specific certification program and type of certification you choose. Generally speaking, programs can range from 3-12 months depending on the level of commitment and dedication you put towards your studies.

3. What are the benefits of getting certified as a Data Center Manager?

Answer: Becoming certified as a Data Center Manager provides many benefits, including improved job prospects, higher salaries, and access to better resources and technologies. Additionally, having an official certification can also help demonstrate your commitment to professional development and knowledge in the field of data center management.

4. Are there any prerequisites for taking a Data Center Manager Certification exam?

Answer: Yes, most certification exams require applicants to have prior experience working with data centers or to have completed certain courses in order to be eligible for the exam. Be sure to check with the specific certification provider for more information about their specific requirements before registering for an exam.

5. How much do Data Center Managers typically earn?

Answer: Salaries for Data Center Managers vary widely depending on experience level, location, industry sector and other factors such as certifications held by an individual manager. According to PayScale, average annual salaries range from $55k -$110k per year in the United States alone.