Top 11 Desktop Support Analyst Certifications

Certifications are important for a desktop support analyst in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and proficiency in the field. Certifications help employers differentiate between applicants, providing assurance that the applicant has the experience and technical skills necessary to perform the job effectively. Furthermore, certifications show that an individual is committed to their profession and is willing to take the time to invest in their own professional development. In addition, certifications provide insight into an individual’s ability to learn new technologies quickly and efficiently, as well as demonstrate problem-solving skills. This can be especially beneficial when applying for higher-level positions or roles that require more advanced technical expertise.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Desktop Support Analysts and explain how they can help advance a desktop support analyst's career.

What are Desktop Support Analyst Certifications?

Desktop Support Analyst certification is a professional certification that demonstrates a mastery of the skills necessary to provide technical support and troubleshooting services for desktop systems. This certification is designed to validate the knowledge and skills of individuals who work in the field of desktop support and provides employers with assurance that their employees have the skills needed to effectively perform their jobs. This certification can help by providing individuals with an official recognition of their expertise, as well as providing employers with assurance that their employees are qualified to handle any issue that may arise with desktop systems. Additionally, this certification can open up career opportunities for those who hold it, as many employers prefer to hire certified professionals over those who do not. Lastly, it can also help individuals gain higher salaries or promotions within their current positions, as having a Desktop Support Analyst certification shows dedication and commitment to the field.

Pro Tip: Make sure that your desktop support analyst certification comes from an accredited institution. This will ensure that the certification is recognized by employers, and will give you the best chance of finding a job in the industry.

Related: What does a Desktop Support Analyst do?

Top 11 Desktop Support Analyst Certifications

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

1. CompTIA A+

CompTIA A+ is an industry-recognized certification that validates a technician’s skills in computer hardware and software. It is the most widely accepted certification for entry-level computer service technicians.

The CompTIA A+ certification consists of two exams: 220-1001 (Core 1) and 220-1002 (Core 2). Both exams must be passed to earn the A+ certification. The Core 1 exam covers mobile devices, networking technology, hardware, virtualization and cloud computing, and network troubleshooting. The Core 2 exam covers operating systems, security, software troubleshooting, and operational procedures.

It typically takes between 3-6 months to complete the CompTIA A+ certification program depending on how much time you have available to study each week. You can purchase online courses or self-study materials from vendors such as CompTIA or ITProTV to help you prepare for the exams.

The cost of taking the CompTIA A+ exams varies depending on where you take them; however, it typically costs around $200 USD per exam.

2. CompTIA Network+

CompTIA Network+ is an internationally recognized certification program designed to validate the knowledge and skills of IT professionals working in network administration, support, and operations. It is a vendor-neutral certification that covers a wide range of topics related to networking technologies, such as network design and implementation, troubleshooting, security, and more.

The CompTIA Network+ exam typically takes 90 minutes to complete and consists of 90 multiple-choice questions. To be eligible for the exam, you must have at least nine months of experience in IT networking or have earned the CompTIA A+ certification.

The cost of the CompTIA Network+ exam varies depending on where you take it. The price can range from $200-$300 USD. You can purchase vouchers from CompTIA directly or through some third-party vendors like Pearson VUE or Prometric.

Once you've passed the exam, you will receive your official Network+ certification card in the mail within 4-6 weeks. Your certification will remain valid for three years before needing to be renewed.

3. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) is a certification program that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in designing, implementing and managing Microsoft-based solutions. It is designed to help IT professionals prove their ability to use the latest Microsoft technologies to solve business problems.

It typically takes around 6 months to complete the MCSE certification, depending on the individual's level of experience and knowledge. To get certified, you must pass four exams: two core exams and two elective exams. The core exams cover topics such as networking fundamentals, server infrastructure, identity management, virtualization, systems management and cloud technologies. The elective exams cover topics such as messaging, communication, data platform technologies and business intelligence.

The cost of the MCSE certification varies depending on the country you are located in and which version of the exam you take (online or onsite). Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $200-$600 per exam.

4. Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP)

Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP) is a certification program offered by Microsoft to validate the skills and knowledge of IT professionals in using Microsoft technologies. It is designed for individuals who have a minimum of two years of experience working with Windows Server operating systems, as well as other related Microsoft products and services.

To become an MCITP, you must pass one or more exams that focus on specific areas of expertise, such as server administration, virtualization, database administration, and messaging. The number of exams required depends on the specific certification you are pursuing. For example, to earn the MCITP: Enterprise Administrator certification you must pass four exams.

The amount of time it takes to get an MCITP certification varies depending on how much experience you already have with the technology being tested and how much time you are able to dedicate to studying for the exam(s). Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from several weeks to several months to prepare for and pass all required exams.

In order to get an MCITP certification, you must first register for the exam(s) at a Pearson VUE testing center or online at Microsoft’s website. You will then need to purchase vouchers for each exam from Microsoft or a third-party vendor. The cost of each voucher varies depending on which exam(s) you are taking; however, most vouchers range from $100-$200 USD per exam.

Once registered and paid for your chosen exams, you will be able to schedule them at any Pearson VUE testing center or online via their website. After completing all required exams successfully, your results will be sent directly to Microsoft where they will verify your credentials before issuing your official MCITP certification badge.

5. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is a certification program offered by Cisco Systems. It is an entry-level certification that covers the fundamentals of networking and provides a foundation for more advanced certifications. The CCNA certification focuses on routing and switching technologies, network security, IP services, and automation.

It typically takes about 6 to 12 months to complete the CCNA certification process, depending on your level of knowledge and experience. To obtain the CCNA certification, you must first take an approved course from a Cisco Learning Partner or self-study using approved Cisco materials. You will then need to pass two exams: ICND1 (Interconnecting Cisco Network Devices Part 1) and ICND2 (Interconnecting Cisco Network Devices Part 2). Both exams are 90 minutes long and consist of multiple choice questions.

The cost of the CCNA certification varies depending on which learning partner you choose to use for your studies. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $500 - $3000 USD for all associated costs such as study materials, exam fees, etc.

Overall, obtaining the CCNA certification is a great way to boost your career prospects in the IT field as it demonstrates that you have a solid understanding of networking principles and technologies.

6. Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP)

Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP) is a certification program designed to provide technical support professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively troubleshoot and repair Apple products. The ACSP certification is offered by Apple Inc. and is recognized worldwide as a benchmark of excellence in the field of Apple product support.

To become an ACSP, you must complete a series of exams that cover topics such as Mac OS X, iOS, networking, hardware repair, and customer service. The exams are administered online through Apple's website or at an Apple Authorized Training Center. It typically takes 3-4 months to complete all the requirements for the ACSP certification.

The cost of the ACSP certification varies depending on the number of exams taken and whether or not you take advantage of any discounts offered by Apple or its authorized training centers. Generally speaking, it costs around $200-$300 USD to become an ACSP certified technician.

In addition to passing the exams, applicants must also have at least one year of experience working with Mac OS X or iOS devices in order to qualify for the certification.

7. HDI Desktop Support Technician Certification

HDI Desktop Support Technician Certification is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have the skills and knowledge to provide technical support for desktop computers, laptops, and related hardware. This certification is offered by HDI (Help Desk Institute), an international organization dedicated to the advancement of service management and customer service excellence.

To receive this certification, you must complete a series of exams covering topics such as troubleshooting, problem solving, system administration, customer service, and communication. The exams are designed to test your knowledge of the latest technologies in desktop support. The exams are available online or through approved training providers.

The HDI Desktop Support Technician Certification typically takes about three months to complete. You will need to pass two exams: one on troubleshooting and one on systems administration. After passing both exams, you will be issued a certificate from HDI that is valid for three years.

The cost of the HDI Desktop Support Technician Certification varies depending on the training provider you choose. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$1000 USD for both exams and any associated materials or courses you may need to take in order to prepare for them.

8. ITIL Foundation Certification

ITIL Foundation Certification is a globally recognized qualification in IT Service Management (ITSM). It is designed to provide an understanding of the ITIL framework and how it can be used to improve the quality of IT services. The certification covers all aspects of ITSM, from service strategy and design to service operation and continual service improvement.

The certification takes approximately one day to complete, depending on the provider. To get certified, you must pass an exam administered by an accredited provider such as PeopleCert or EXIN. The exam consists of 40 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 60 minutes.

The cost of the certification varies depending on the provider, but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD.

9. Microsoft Office Specialist Certification

Microsoft Office Specialist Certification is a certification program that validates an individual’s skills in Microsoft Office applications. It is designed to help individuals demonstrate their expertise in Microsoft Office programs, such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Access, and OneNote.

The certification exam typically takes about 90 minutes to complete. To get certified, you must pass one of the available exams for the particular version of Microsoft Office you are using. The cost of the exam varies depending on the specific version of Microsoft Office you are taking the exam for.

In order to take the certification exam, you need to register with Certiport or Prometric Testing Centers and pay the required fee. You will then be able to schedule your exam at a testing center near you. After passing your exam, you will receive an official certificate from Microsoft that proves your proficiency in using Microsoft Office applications.

The cost of taking a Microsoft Office Specialist Certification Exam varies depending on which version of Microsoft Office you are taking it for and where you take it from. Generally speaking, it can range from $50-100 USD per exam.

10. Linux Professional Institute Certification (LPIC)

Linux Professional Institute Certification (LPIC) is a certification program that provides industry-recognized credentials for Linux professionals. The LPIC program is designed to recognize the technical knowledge and skills of IT professionals who use, manage, and support Linux systems. It is administered by the Linux Professional Institute (LPI), an independent professional organization that offers open source certifications for Linux professionals.

LPIC certification consists of two levels: Level 1 and Level 2. To obtain LPIC certification, you must pass both exams at each level. The exams cover topics such as system architecture, system administration, security, networking, scripting and programming, web services, and more.

The time it takes to get LPIC certification depends on your experience level and how much time you can dedicate to studying for the exams. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to complete all four exams required for LPIC certification.

To get LPIC certified, you must first register with the LPI website and purchase an exam voucher. Once you have purchased your voucher, you can register for the exam(s) of your choice at any Pearson VUE test center or online via their website.

The cost of LPIC certification varies depending on which exams you are taking and where they are taken; however, in general each exam costs around $200 USD per attempt plus any applicable taxes or fees.

11. EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) is a certification program designed to provide information security professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to identify, analyze, and counter potential threats posed by malicious hackers. The CEH credential is one of the most sought after certifications in the field of information security.

The CEH certification requires that candidates pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as network security, ethical hacking techniques, cryptography, malware analysis, and more. Candidates must also possess at least two years of experience in the field of information security or have completed an approved training program prior to taking the exam.

The exam typically takes around four hours to complete and consists of 125 multiple choice questions. Candidates must score at least 70% on the exam in order to pass and become certified.

In order to get the CEH certification, you must first register for an EC-Council account. After registering for an account you can then purchase a voucher from EC-Council's website which will allow you to take the exam at any Pearson VUE testing center near you. The cost of the voucher varies depending on where you purchase it but typically ranges between $500-$600 USD.

Do You Really Need a Desktop Support Analyst Certificate?

A desktop support analyst certificate can be beneficial for individuals who are looking to break into the IT industry. With a certificate, you can demonstrate your knowledge of computer hardware and software, as well as your ability to troubleshoot common problems and configure systems. Additionally, the certifications may help you stand out from other job applicants by showing your commitment to excellence in the field.

However, it is important to note that a desktop support analyst certificate is not necessarily required for all positions in the IT industry. Depending on the job requirements and your prior experience, a certificate may not be necessary. For example, if you have several years of experience working with computers and networking technologies, employers may recognize this experience as sufficient proof of your skills and knowledge. That said, if you are just starting out in the field or need to update your skillset, then a certificate could be helpful in showing potential employers that you are knowledgeable about current technologies.

In addition to considering whether or not a desktop support analyst certificate is necessary for a particular position or career path, it’s also important to consider whether or not such certification will be worth the time and money investment. Many organizations offer online courses and certification programs that provide comprehensive training on specific topics related to IT support. Before enrolling in any program or coursework, make sure you understand its curriculum and cost so that you can determine if it is right for you.

Ultimately, whether or not an individual needs a desktop support analyst certification depends on their goals and level of experience within the IT industry. While certification can demonstrate technical expertise and dedication to professional development, it may not be necessary for those who already possess significant experience with computer hardware and software systems.

Related: Desktop Support Analyst Resume Examples

FAQs About Desktop Support Analyst Certifications

Q1. What is a Desktop Support Analyst Certification?

A1. A Desktop Support Analyst Certification is a professional certification that validates an individual's knowledge, skills, and abilities in providing technical support for desktop systems and applications.

Q2. How do I become certified as a Desktop Support Analyst?

A2. To become certified as a Desktop Support Analyst, you will typically need to pass one or more exams that cover topics such as hardware and software installation, troubleshooting, and system administration. Some certifications may also require hands-on experience in desktop support.

Q3. What are the benefits of becoming a Desktop Support Analyst?

A3. Becoming a certified Desktop Support Analyst can lead to career advancement opportunities, higher salaries, better job security, and recognition from employers in the IT industry. It also demonstrates your commitment to keeping up with technology trends and shows potential employers that you have the necessary expertise to provide quality customer service.

Q4. How long does it take to become certified as a Desktop Support Analyst?

A4. The length of time it takes to become certified depends on which certification you choose to pursue and how much study time you commit each day or week. Generally speaking, most certifications can be completed within 6 months if studied diligently and consistently.

Q5. What types of jobs are available for certified Desktop Support Analysts?

A5. Certified Desktop Support Analysts can find jobs in various industries such as healthcare, education, finance, government agencies, retail stores, manufacturing companies, etc., where they will be responsible for providing technical support for desktop systems and applications. They may also be responsible for maintaining network infrastructure or managing user accounts within an organization’s system environment