Top 10 Desktop Support Certifications

Having certifications in desktop support can be a great way to demonstrate your skills and experience to potential employers. Certifications are a valuable addition to any resume, and can help you stand out from the crowd when looking for a job in desktop support. They also show that you have taken the time to learn about specific topics related to desktop support, which will give employers confidence that you are knowledgeable and capable of performing the job. Additionally, many companies require certifications for certain positions, so having them can make it easier for you to land an interview or job offer.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Desktop Support professionals and explains how these certifications can help further their career.

What are Desktop Support Certifications?

Desktop support certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and expertise in the field of desktop support. Desktop support is the process of providing technical assistance to computer users, as well as troubleshooting hardware, software, and network-related issues. Desktop support certifications can demonstrate an individual’s ability to handle tasks related to desktop support, such as installation and maintenance of desktop systems and applications, user training, network configuration and management, system security, and more.

Having a desktop support certification can be beneficial for many reasons. A certified technician will likely have higher levels of knowledge than one who is not certified; they will also be able to provide better customer service due to their improved understanding of the technical aspects involved in desktop support. Additionally, having a certification can help potential employers identify professionals who are qualified for the job. As technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, having a current certification can be invaluable in helping employers determine which candidates are up-to-date on the latest trends in desktop support. Finally, obtaining a certification may open up opportunities for promotions or higher salaries within an organization.

Pro Tip: When pursuing a desktop support certification, it is important to understand the requirements of the specific certification program you are interested in. Many certifications require hands-on experience and knowledge of specific software applications or hardware devices, so make sure to research the requirements thoroughly before beginning your studies. Additionally, taking practice exams and studying for the exam can help you prepare for your certification test.

Related: What does a Desktop Support do?

Top 10 Desktop Support Certifications

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

1. CompTIA A+

CompTIA A+ is a globally recognized industry standard certification that validates the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for a successful career in IT. It is the most popular entry-level certification for those seeking to break into the IT field. CompTIA A+ covers topics such as hardware, software, networking, troubleshooting, security, operational procedures and customer service.

It typically takes about six months of studying to prepare for the CompTIA A+ exam. However, this can vary depending on your level of experience and knowledge. The best way to get started is to find an accredited training program or study guide that can provide you with the material needed to pass the exam.

In order to obtain CompTIA A+, you must first pass two exams: Core 1 (220-1001) and Core 2 (220-1002). Both exams are 90 minutes long with a maximum score of 900 points each. You must score at least 750 points on each exam in order to pass.

The cost of taking the CompTIA A+ exam varies depending on where you take it and how many exams you plan on taking. Generally speaking, it costs around $200 per exam or $400 for both exams combined.

2. Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) is a certification that validates an individual's skills in Microsoft technologies. It is the first step to becoming a Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE). The MCSA certification is designed for professionals who want to demonstrate their expertise in building and managing solutions with Microsoft technologies.

It typically takes between three to six months to complete the MCSA certification, depending on the individual's experience level and the number of exams taken. To get certified, individuals must pass one or more of the required exams, which cover topics such as Windows Server, SQL Server, Office 365, Azure, SharePoint and Exchange.

The cost of each exam varies depending on the country where it is taken. In the United States, each exam costs around $165 USD. The total cost of getting certified can range from $495 USD to over $1000 USD depending on how many exams are required for certification.

3. Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP)

Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP) is a certification program provided by Apple to help technical professionals gain the skills and knowledge necessary to provide exceptional customer service and technical support for Apple products.

The ACSP certification program consists of two parts: an online training course and a hands-on exam. The online course is designed to give you the basic knowledge needed to troubleshoot, configure, and maintain Mac systems. It covers topics such as networking, system administration, user accounts, file sharing, printing services, security, and more. The hands-on exam tests your ability to apply the knowledge gained from the training course in real-world scenarios.

It typically takes about three months to complete the ACSP certification program. During this time you will need to complete the online training course as well as pass the hands-on exam with a score of 80% or higher. You can also choose to take additional courses if you want more in-depth knowledge on specific topics related to supporting Apple products.

The cost of the ACSP certification program depends on where you are taking it from. Generally speaking, it costs around $500-$600 USD for both the online training course and hands-on exam. However, some providers may offer discounts or special packages that can reduce this cost significantly.

Once you have completed all requirements for the ACSP certification program, you will receive an official certificate from Apple that recognizes your achievement as an Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP). This certificate can be used to demonstrate your expertise in providing technical support for Apple products and services.

4. CompTIA Network+

CompTIA Network+ is an industry-recognized certification that validates the knowledge and skills of IT professionals in the field of networking. It is a vendor-neutral certification that covers topics such as network technologies, installation and configuration, media and topologies, management, and security.

It typically takes around 40 hours to study for the CompTIA Network+ exam. The exam consists of 90 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within 90 minutes. To pass the exam, you must score at least 720 out of 900 points.

To get CompTIA Network+, you need to register with CompTIA to take the exam. You can do this online or through an authorized testing center. Once registered, you will be given access to study materials and practice exams to help prepare you for the real thing.

The cost of taking the CompTIA Network+ exam varies depending on where you take it but generally ranges from $200-$300 USD.

5. Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE)

Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) is a certification offered by Microsoft to demonstrate expertise in designing and implementing solutions based on the Microsoft Windows platform. The MCSE certification is targeted at IT professionals who design, implement, and maintain networks and systems using Microsoft products. The MCSE certification requires passing a series of exams that cover topics such as networking, security, messaging, and other related technologies.

It typically takes around 6 months to get an MCSE certification; however, this can vary depending on the individual’s experience level and the number of exams they choose to take. To get an MCSE certification, individuals must first pass one or more of the required exams. These exams are available through various testing centers around the world. After passing the required exams, individuals must then submit their application for the MCSE certification to Microsoft.

The cost of getting an MCSE certification varies depending on which exams you take and where you take them. Generally speaking, each exam costs between $100-$200 USD per exam. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam such as registration fees or proctoring fees.

6. HDI Desktop Support Technician Certification

HDI Desktop Support Technician Certification is a certification program designed to help IT professionals demonstrate their knowledge and proficiency in desktop support. The HDI Desktop Support Technician Certification is an industry-recognized credential that validates the skills of IT professionals who provide technical support for desktops, laptops, tablets, and other mobile devices.

The certification exam covers topics such as troubleshooting hardware and software issues, configuring operating systems, installing applications, and providing end user training. To receive the certification, candidates must pass the HDI Desktop Support Technician Exam. This exam is offered online through Prometric or Kryterion testing centers worldwide.

The exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 90 minutes. Candidates must score 70% or higher to pass the exam and receive their certification. The cost of the exam varies depending on location but typically ranges from $150-$200 USD. It usually takes about four weeks to receive your results after taking the exam.

7. ITIL Foundation Certification

ITIL Foundation Certification is an entry-level certification program designed to provide individuals with a basic understanding of the Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) framework. ITIL is an internationally recognized set of best practices for IT service management, and the Foundation Certification is the first step in the ITIL certification path.

The ITIL Foundation Certification exam consists of 40 multiple-choice questions and takes 60 minutes to complete. The passing score is 65%. There are no prerequisites for taking the exam, but it is recommended that candidates have at least two years of experience working in an IT service management role.

To get certified, individuals must take an accredited training course or self-study for the exam. Accredited training courses typically range from three to five days in length and cost between $1,500 and $2,500 depending on the provider. Self-study materials can be purchased online for around $100.

Once you have completed your training or self-study, you will need to register for and take the official ITIL Foundation Certification Exam. The exam fee is approximately $250 depending on your location. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your official ITIL Foundation Certificate within four to six weeks.

8. CompTIA Security+

CompTIA Security+ is an internationally recognized certification that validates a professional’s knowledge and skills in IT security. It is designed to provide a baseline of knowledge for those who work in the IT security field, including system administrators, network administrators, security analysts, and security engineers.

The CompTIA Security+ exam covers topics such as risk management, network security, cryptography, identity management and access control. It also covers topics related to compliance and operational security. The exam consists of 90 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 90 minutes.

To get the CompTIA Security+ certification, you must first pass the CompTIA Security+ exam. The cost of the exam varies depending on location but typically ranges from $320-$400 USD. You can register for the exam through Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers.

It usually takes about two months to study for the CompTIA Security+ exam and prepare for it properly. However, this timeline may vary depending on your experience level and how much time you are able to dedicate to studying each day.

9. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is one of the most popular and widely recognized certifications in the IT industry. It is a certification that validates an individual's skills and knowledge in networking technologies, such as routing, switching, and security. The CCNA certification is offered by Cisco Systems, Inc., a leading provider of networking solutions.

The CCNA certification requires passing two exams: ICND1 (Interconnecting Cisco Network Devices 1) and ICND2 (Interconnecting Cisco Network Devices 2). Both exams are 90 minutes long and contain multiple-choice questions. To obtain the CCNA certification, candidates must pass both exams with a score of at least 80%.

It typically takes between three to six months to prepare for the CCNA exams. This includes studying course materials, taking practice tests, attending training classes or seminars, and gaining hands-on experience with Cisco products.

The cost of obtaining the CCNA certification varies depending on the country you are located in. Generally speaking, it can range from $250-$500 USD for each exam taken.

In addition to preparing for the exams, candidates must also pay for any associated costs such as exam registration fees and study materials.

10. HDI Customer Service Representative Certification

HDI Customer Service Representative Certification is an industry-recognized certification designed to validate the knowledge and skills of customer service representatives. It is offered by HDI, a global organization that provides training, certification, and resources for the customer service industry.

The certification consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical assessment. The written exam covers topics such as customer service fundamentals, communication skills, problem solving, and conflict resolution. The practical assessment requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to handle customer inquiries in a professional manner.

The certification process typically takes about three months to complete. Candidates must first register for the exam online or through the HDI website. Once registered, they will receive an email with instructions on how to access the study materials and practice tests needed to prepare for the exam. After completing the study materials and practice tests, candidates must take the written exam at an approved testing center. Once they pass the written exam, they will be eligible to take the practical assessment which is conducted by an HDI certified instructor at an approved facility.

The cost of obtaining HDI Customer Service Representative Certification varies depending on country but typically ranges from $300 - $500 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees.

Do You Really Need a Desktop Support Certificate?

No, you do not necessarily need a desktop support certificate to become a successful desktop support technician. While having one can be beneficial, it is not always required. There are plenty of ways to learn the necessary skills and knowledge without having to obtain an official certification.

One of the best ways to become a successful desktop support technician is to gain hands-on experience by working in the field or by taking on projects for friends and family members. This allows you to learn from experienced professionals and build your own skill set over time. You can also read books, blogs, and forums related to desktop support topics in order to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies. Additionally, there are many online courses available that can help you learn about specific topics such as troubleshooting techniques or hardware installation.

In some cases, obtaining a formal certification may be beneficial for certain job roles or organizations that require additional proof of your qualifications. It is important to research any potential employers’ requirements before applying for a job so that you know what qualifications they are looking for in order to make sure you have the right credentials for the position.

Overall, while a desktop support certificate may be beneficial in some circumstances, it is not always necessary in order to become a successful desktop support technician. With enough dedication and hard work, anyone can gain the skills needed through self-study and practical experience.

Related: Desktop Support Resume Examples

FAQs About Desktop Support Certifications

Q1. What is a Desktop Support Certification?

A1. A Desktop Support Certification is a designation that recognizes an individual's knowledge, skills and abilities in providing technical support for desktop computers and related software. It typically includes topics such as PC hardware, network connectivity, operating systems, troubleshooting procedures and customer service.

Q2. How do I become certified in Desktop Support?

A2. To become certified in Desktop Support, you must complete a certification program from an accredited institution or organization. These programs often include courses on specific hardware and software topics, hands-on practice with equipment and systems, examinations to demonstrate mastery of the material, and other requirements depending on the certification provider.

Q3. What are the benefits of getting a Desktop Support Certification?

A3. Getting a Desktop Support Certification can help you increase your job prospects by demonstrating your knowledge and expertise in this field. It can also give you an edge over other applicants when competing for jobs or promotions. Additionally, certifications may be required or preferred by employers looking to hire technicians or support staff for their IT departments.

Q4. How long does it take to get certified in Desktop Support?

A4. The amount of time it takes to get certified depends on the type of program you choose to pursue, as well as how much time you are able to dedicate to studying and mastering the material. Generally speaking, most certification programs require between six months and one year of study time before taking the final exam(s).

Q5. Are there any prerequisites for getting certified in Desktop Support?

A5. Most certification programs have some basic prerequisites that must be met before enrolling in their program; these may include having prior experience with IT systems or networks, passing an entrance exam or completing certain prerequisite courses/training modules prior to beginning the program itself.