Top 11 Desktop Support Specialist Certifications

Certifications are important for a desktop support specialist in the job market because they demonstrate that the specialist has acquired the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively perform their job. Certifications can also give employers confidence that the individual is able to handle the technical aspects of the role and is up-to-date on the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in their field. Furthermore, certifications can be beneficial when looking for promotions or higher-paying positions, as they often serve as proof of expertise.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Desktop Support Specialists and explain how they can help advance their career.

What are Desktop Support Specialist Certifications?

Desktop Support Specialist Certification is a certification program designed to help IT professionals gain the skills and knowledge necessary to provide technical support for desktop computers. This certification provides individuals with the opportunity to demonstrate their ability to troubleshoot, repair, configure and maintain a variety of desktop systems, as well as network connectivity issues.

This certification can be beneficial in many ways. It validates an individual’s expertise in the field of desktop support and can open up opportunities for better job prospects or promotions. It also demonstrates a commitment to staying current on technology trends, which can be attractive to potential employers. Additionally, it gives employers confidence that the individual has been trained in best practices for supporting desktops. Finally, having this certification can make an individual more competitive when applying for jobs in the IT field since it shows that they have invested time and effort into developing their skills and knowledge.

Pro Tip: Obtaining a desktop support specialist certification can be a great way to demonstrate your knowledge and experience in the field. Be sure to research the different options available, as some certifications may require more specific training or certifications than others. Additionally, it’s important to stay up-to-date on industry trends and technologies, as many certifications have expiration dates.

Related: What does a Desktop Support Specialist do?

Top 11 Desktop Support Specialist Certifications

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

1. CompTIA A+

CompTIA A+ is an industry-recognized certification that validates the knowledge and skills of entry-level IT technicians. It is a vendor-neutral certification, meaning it is not tied to any particular hardware or software manufacturer. The A+ certification is designed to demonstrate competency in areas such as installation, configuration, diagnosing, preventive maintenance and basic networking.

It typically takes between 3-6 months to study for and pass the CompTIA A+ exam. The amount of time required will depend on your current level of knowledge and experience in IT. To get started, you will need to purchase a study guide or enroll in an online course that covers the topics on the exam.

The cost of the CompTIA A+ exam varies depending on where you take it. In the US, it costs about $211 for each of the two exams (220-901 and 220-902). You can also purchase practice tests for an additional fee.

To become certified, you must pass both exams with a score of at least 750 out of 900 points (each exam has 90 questions). Once you have passed both exams, you will receive your official CompTIA A+ certification from CompTIA.

2. CompTIA Network+

CompTIA Network+ is an industry-recognized certification that validates a professional’s knowledge of networking concepts and technologies. It covers topics such as network design, installation, maintenance, security, troubleshooting, and more.

The CompTIA Network+ certification is designed for IT professionals with at least nine months of networking experience. It typically takes about 40 hours of study to prepare for the exam.

To get the CompTIA Network+ certification, you must pass the N10-007 exam. The exam consists of 90 multiple choice questions and lasts 90 minutes. You must score at least 720 points out of 900 to pass the exam.

The cost for taking the CompTIA Network+ exam varies depending on where you take it, but generally ranges from $300 to $400 USD.

3. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) is a certification program offered by Microsoft to recognize IT professionals who demonstrate the necessary skills and knowledge to design, implement, and manage complex IT solutions. The MCSE certification covers a wide range of topics including Windows Server, Office 365, Azure, Exchange Server, SharePoint Server, SQL Server, System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM), and Dynamics CRM.

It typically takes about six months to prepare for the MCSE exams. To get certified as an MCSE you must pass one or more exams that cover the topics listed above. Each exam costs around $165 USD and must be taken at an authorized testing center.

In addition to passing the exams you must also have two years of experience in IT related fields such as systems engineering or computer support. After completing all requirements you will receive your official MCSE certification from Microsoft.

4. Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP)

Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) is a certification program offered by Microsoft that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in Microsoft technologies. The MCP program is designed to validate an individual’s technical skills and knowledge of Microsoft products and solutions.

To become an MCP, you must pass one or more exams related to a specific technology or product. The length of time it takes to get certified depends on the exam(s) you choose to take. Most exams take about 2-4 hours to complete, though some may be longer or shorter depending on the subject matter.

To get an MCP certification, you must first register for and pass one or more exams from the list of available certifications. You can find a list of available certifications at https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/learning/mcp-certification.aspx . You can also use the Exam Replay service, which allows you to retake an exam up to three times if needed for no additional cost.

The cost of each exam varies depending on the type of exam and location, but typically ranges from $100 - $200 USD per exam. Additionally, there may be other costs associated with taking the exams such as travel expenses, study materials, etc., so it’s important to factor these into your budget when considering getting certified.

5. Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP)

Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP) is an Apple certification program designed to provide technical support professionals with the skills necessary to provide exceptional customer service and technical support for Mac users. The ACSP certification is recognized by Apple, and it provides a way for technicians to demonstrate their proficiency in troubleshooting and maintaining Mac computers.

To become an ACSP, you must pass the ACSP Exam, which is offered through Apple's authorized testing centers. The exam covers topics such as Mac OS X installation and configuration, networking, system administration, and troubleshooting. It takes approximately two hours to complete the exam.

In order to take the ACSP Exam, you must first register with Pearson VUE and pay a fee of $150 USD. After registration is complete, you will receive a confirmation email containing instructions on how to schedule your exam appointment at an Apple Authorized Testing Center. You will also need to bring valid identification with you when taking the exam.

Once you have passed the ACSP Exam, you will receive your official Apple Certified Support Professional certificate from Apple within four weeks of passing the exam. This certificate can be used as proof of your proficiency in supporting Macs and can help open doors for potential job opportunities or promotions within your current organization.

6. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is a professional certification program offered by Cisco Systems. It is designed to validate an individual’s skills and knowledge in networking technologies, including routing, switching, security, wireless, and data center technologies. The CCNA certification is the entry-level certification for networking professionals and provides the foundation for higher-level certifications such as the CCNP (Cisco Certified Network Professional).

It typically takes between 6 months to 1 year to obtain the CCNA certification depending on your experience level and study habits. To become certified, you must pass two exams: ICND1 (Interconnecting Cisco Network Devices Part 1) and ICND2 (Interconnecting Cisco Network Devices Part 2).

To get started on your path to becoming CCNA certified, you will need to purchase a training course from either a Cisco Learning Partner or directly from Cisco. You can also find self-study materials online or through books. Additionally, there are practice tests available that can help you prepare for the exams.

The cost of obtaining the CCNA certification varies depending on the type of training you choose. Self-study materials are generally cheaper than instructor-led courses but may require more time and effort to complete. The cost of each exam is $325 USD per exam when taken at an authorized testing center.

7. HDI Desktop Support Technician Certification

HDI Desktop Support Technician Certification is a professional certification program offered by the Help Desk Institute (HDI). It is designed to provide individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively support end-users in an IT environment. This certification is intended for those who work in desktop support roles, such as help desk technicians, technical support specialists, and desktop engineers.

The HDI Desktop Support Technician Certification requires that candidates have at least one year of experience working in a desktop support role. Candidates must also pass an exam that covers topics such as troubleshooting, problem solving, customer service, and communication skills. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

To get certified, candidates must register for the exam through HDI's website or contact their local HDI office. The cost of the exam varies depending on location but typically ranges from $175 - $225 USD. Once registered, candidates can take the exam at any authorized testing center worldwide.

After passing the exam, candidates will receive their official HDI Desktop Support Technician Certification certificate within 4-6 weeks of completion. The certification is valid for three years from the date of issue and can be renewed by taking another exam or by completing continuing education courses related to desktop support topics.

8. ITIL Foundation Certification

ITIL Foundation Certification is a globally recognized qualification that demonstrates an individual’s understanding of the ITIL framework and its best practices. It is designed to help IT professionals understand how to effectively manage IT services, processes, and operations. The certification is offered by AXELOS, a joint venture between the UK government and Capita plc.

The ITIL Foundation Certification exam consists of 40 multiple-choice questions and takes 60 minutes to complete. To pass the exam, candidates must answer at least 26 questions correctly (65%).

To obtain the certification, individuals must first register for the exam through an accredited training provider or online platform. After registering, they will be required to take an online course or attend a classroom-based training session in order to prepare for the exam. Depending on the provider, this can take anywhere from one day up to five days.

The cost of obtaining ITIL Foundation Certification varies depending on where you get your training from and what type of course you choose. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $200-$1,000 USD.

9. EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) is a certification program designed to provide individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to identify, counter, and defend against security threats. It is a comprehensive ethical hacking and information systems security audit program that teaches students how to conduct ethical hacking in order to protect their organizations from malicious attacks. The CEH exam tests an individual’s ability to think like a hacker in order to identify potential vulnerabilities in an organization’s network or system.

The CEH certification requires that applicants have at least two years of experience in the field of information security, although this requirement can be waived if applicants have completed an approved training program such as EC-Council’s Certified Ethical Hacker Boot Camp. The exam itself consists of 125 multiple choice questions, which must be completed within four hours.

In order to obtain the CEH certification, applicants must pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher. The cost of the exam varies depending on country but typically ranges between $500 and $1,000 USD. Additionally, there are several training courses available online or through accredited institutions which can help prepare individuals for the exam.

10. CompTIA Security+

CompTIA Security+ is a globally recognized certification that validates the baseline skills needed to perform core security functions and pursue an IT security career. It is designed to demonstrate competency in network security, compliance and operational security, threats and vulnerabilities, access control and identity management, and cryptography.

The exam typically takes 90 minutes to complete and consists of 90 multiple-choice questions. It costs $339 USD for the exam voucher. To get CompTIA Security+, you must first pass the CompTIA Security+ SY0-501 exam. You can prepare for this exam by taking an online course or self-study using study materials such as books, practice tests, and video tutorials.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your certification from CompTIA which will be valid for three years from the date of issue. After three years, you must recertify by passing either the current version of the CompTIA Security+ exam or an approved continuing education (CE) course.

11. Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA)

Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) is a certification program designed to provide professionals with the fundamental technology skills needed to build a career in technology. It is an entry-level certification that validates basic technical knowledge of Microsoft products and services. MTA certifications are available for Windows, Office, SQL Server, and other Microsoft technologies.

The MTA certification typically takes 1-2 weeks to complete depending on the individual’s experience level and the number of exams taken. The exams are offered online or at Pearson VUE testing centers. To obtain the MTA certification, individuals must pass one or more exams that cover topics such as operating systems, networking, security fundamentals, software development, databases, and web development.

The cost of each exam varies depending on which exam you take but generally ranges from $115-$165 USD per exam.

Do You Really Need a Desktop Support Specialist Certificate?

The short answer to this question is no. A desktop support specialist certificate may have some value, but it is not necessary in order to become a successful desktop support specialist. In fact, many employers do not require any certification or formal training for a desktop support specialist position.

However, if you are serious about pursuing a career as a desktop support specialist, then investing in a certificate may be beneficial in the long run. Having a certificate shows employers that you have taken the time to learn the skills necessary for the job and that you are committed to developing your knowledge and capabilities. It also demonstrates that you understand the importance of staying current on technology trends and best practices.

A certificate can also provide an advantage when competing with other job applicants who lack such credentials. The more specialized and technical your skillset is, the more likely employers will be willing to pay you higher wages or offer better benefits packages than those without such qualifications. Additionally, having a certificate may open up opportunities for advancement within your organization or lead to better job prospects with other companies.

Overall, whether or not obtaining a desktop support specialist certificate is right for you depends on your goals and ambitions as well as what kind of career path you want to take. It’s important to weigh the costs of obtaining such certification against the potential benefits before making any decisions. If done correctly, investing in a certificate can be well worth it in the long run!

Related: Desktop Support Specialist Resume Examples

FAQs About Desktop Support Specialist Certifications

Q1: What is a Desktop Support Specialist Certification?

A1: A Desktop Support Specialist Certification is a certification program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to perform technical support for desktop computers and related peripheral equipment.

Q2: What are the prerequisites for obtaining a Desktop Support Specialist Certification?

A2: Depending on the certification provider, prerequisites may vary. Generally speaking, most certifications require candidates to have at least two years of experience in desktop support or related field, and some may also require completion of specific training courses.

Q3: How long does it take to complete a Desktop Support Specialist Certification?

A3: Again, this will depend on the certification provider. Generally speaking, most certifications can be completed within one year.

Q4: What types of jobs can I apply for after obtaining a Desktop Support Specialist Certification?

A4: After completing your certification, you will be qualified for various roles such as IT support technician, system administrator, help desk technician, and more.

Q5: Are there any online resources available to help me prepare for my Desktop Support Specialist Certification?

A5: Yes! There are many online resources available such as practice tests, tutorials and study guides that can help you prepare for your certification exam.