Top 11 Help Desk Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a help desk manager in the job market because they demonstrate to employers that the individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to perform their job effectively. Certifications can also help a help desk manager stand out among other applicants, as employers may view certifications as an indication of dedication to professional development and career advancement. Additionally, certifications can provide a help desk manager with access to exclusive resources and contacts that can be used to increase their value in the job market.

The purpose of this article is to review and explain the benefits of the top certifications for Help Desk Managers, and how they can help advance their career.

What are Help Desk Manager Certifications?

Help Desk Manager Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual's skills and knowledge in the field of help desk management. This certification is designed to recognize individuals who possess the skills and experience necessary to manage a successful and efficient help desk team.

The certification requires applicants to demonstrate their understanding of customer service, technical troubleshooting, problem solving, communication, and other important skills associated with help desk management. Certified Help Desk Managers must also be knowledgeable in industry best practices related to software and hardware support, as well as system administration. Additionally, they must have the ability to develop strategies for improving customer satisfaction and providing effective solutions to technical issues.

Having a Help Desk Manager Certification can provide numerous benefits for those seeking career advancement in IT fields. For example, it provides employers with proof that an individual has the necessary qualifications for managing a help desk team. It can also show potential employers that an applicant is capable of understanding complex technical issues quickly and effectively resolving them. Furthermore, having this certification may increase an individual's job marketability and salary potential due to its recognition by many organizations as a valuable qualification.

Pro Tip: Before pursuing a help desk manager certification, make sure to research and understand the job requirements for the position. Also, take the time to look into the various certifications available in order to determine which one best fits your career goals and experience level.

Related: What does a Help Desk Manager do?

Top 11 Help Desk Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Help Desk Managers today.

1. CompTIA IT Fundamentals+

CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ is a certification program designed to provide an introduction to the world of information technology. It is intended for individuals who are just starting out in the IT field or those who want to gain a better understanding of core concepts and technologies.

The CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ exam consists of 90 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. The exam covers topics such as computer hardware, software, networking, security, data storage, and troubleshooting.

To get the CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ certification, you must pass the IT Fundamentals+ (FC0-U61) exam. You can purchase the exam voucher from CompTIA's website or through one of their authorized partners.

The cost of the CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ exam varies depending on where you take it. Typically, it costs around $130 USD for the exam voucher plus any applicable taxes or fees.

2. CompTIA A+

CompTIA A+ is a certification that validates the skills of IT professionals. It is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates competency in areas such as installation, preventative maintenance, networking, security and troubleshooting. CompTIA A+ is recognized worldwide as a reliable indicator of foundation-level IT skills and knowledge.

The CompTIA A+ certification consists of two exams: 220-901 and 220-902. The exams cover topics such as hardware, networking, mobile devices, operating systems, security and software troubleshooting. To obtain the certification, you must pass both exams with a score of at least 750 out of 900 points each.

In order to take the CompTIA A+ exams, you must first register for them through the CompTIA website or through an authorized testing center. You will then need to schedule your exam date and time with the testing center. The cost for each exam varies depending on where you take it; however, it typically ranges from $150-$200 per exam.

It usually takes around three months to prepare for the CompTIA A+ exams if you are studying full-time; however, this can vary depending on your individual learning style and experience level. It is recommended that you use a combination of self-study materials (such as textbooks or online courses) and hands-on practice in order to fully prepare for the exams.

3. Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA)

Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) is a certification program that provides a foundation of technology knowledge for students and entry-level IT professionals. It covers core technical concepts and helps validate fundamental knowledge needed to begin building a career in technology.

The MTA certification is available for nine different technologies, including Windows Operating System Fundamentals, Security Fundamentals, Networking Fundamentals, Software Development Fundamentals, Database Fundamentals, Mobile Development Fundamentals, Cloud Fundamentals, HTML5 App Development Fundamentals and Server Administration Fundamentals. Each certification requires passing one exam.

It typically takes about two hours to complete the MTA exam. The cost of the exam varies by country but ranges from $99 to $127 USD. To get an MTA certification you must register with Microsoft Learning and purchase an exam voucher from their website or through a partner such as Prometric or VUE. You then need to schedule your exam at a testing center near you. Once you have passed the exam you will receive an email with your certificate and digital badge that can be used to demonstrate your achievement on social media sites like LinkedIn.

4. HDI Support Center Analyst (HDI-SCA)

HDI Support Center Analyst (HDI-SCA) is a certification program offered by HDI, the world's largest membership association for IT service and support professionals. The HDI-SCA certification is designed to provide IT professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively analyze, diagnose, and resolve customer service issues.

The HDI-SCA certification requires candidates to take and pass an exam that covers topics like customer service fundamentals, problem solving techniques, communication skills, customer satisfaction measurement and improvement strategies. The exam consists of multiple choice questions and includes a performance-based component. Candidates must score at least 70% on the exam in order to receive their certification.

The cost of the HDI-SCA certification exam varies depending on the country in which you are taking it. In the United States, it typically costs around $200 USD.

In order to take the HDI-SCA certification exam, candidates must first register online through the official HDI website or through a third party testing center such as Pearson VUE or Prometric. Once registered, candidates can schedule their exams at any time that is convenient for them. It usually takes about two weeks for an appointment to be scheduled after registration has been completed.

5. HDI Desktop Support Technician (HDI-DST)

HDI Desktop Support Technician (HDI-DST) is a certification program that provides technical and customer service skills training for IT professionals who support desktop computers. The HDI-DST certification is designed to validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of IT professionals who provide technical support and troubleshooting for desktop users.

The HDI-DST certification is offered by the Help Desk Institute (HDI), an organization that specializes in providing certifications to help desk professionals. To obtain the HDI-DST certification, candidates must pass a series of exams that cover topics such as customer service, problem solving, troubleshooting, and communication. Candidates must also demonstrate their ability to use various tools and technologies related to desktop support.

The HDI-DST certification typically takes about three months to complete. Candidates can choose to take the exams online or in a classroom setting at an authorized testing center. The cost of the certification varies depending on the type of exam taken and any additional materials purchased. Generally speaking, it costs between $500-$1,000 USD for all required exams and materials necessary to become certified as an HDI Desktop Support Technician.

6. Certified Help Desk Professional (CHDP)

Certified Help Desk Professional (CHDP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of individuals working in help desk or technical support roles. The certification is offered by HDI, a global IT service and support organization.

The CHDP certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as customer service, problem solving, communication skills, technical troubleshooting, and IT service management. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

To become certified as a CHDP, applicants must have at least one year of experience in a help desk or technical support role. Applicants must also meet certain educational requirements such as having an associate’s degree or higher in information technology or related field.

The cost for the CHDP certification exam is $395 USD. This fee includes access to the online exam platform and the official study guide. Upon passing the exam, applicants will receive their official CHDP certificate via mail within 4-6 weeks after completion of the exam.

7. Certified Technical Support Professional (CTSP)

Certified Technical Support Professional (CTSP) is a certification program that recognizes the technical proficiency and customer service skills of customer support professionals. It is designed to ensure that those who work in technical support have the necessary knowledge and experience to provide quality service to customers.

The CTSP certification program consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical assessment. The written exam covers topics such as customer service, problem-solving, troubleshooting, networking, hardware and software installation, system administration, and more. The practical assessment requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to apply their knowledge in a real-world setting.

It typically takes three months or more to complete the CTSP certification program. Candidates must first pass the written exam before they can proceed with the practical assessment. After successfully completing both parts of the program, candidates receive their CTSP certification from an authorized third-party provider.

The cost of obtaining CTSP certification varies depending on the provider chosen by the candidate. Generally speaking, it costs between $500 and $1,000 for all materials required for the program.

8. Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP)

Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP) is an Apple certification program designed to recognize professionals who have the knowledge and skills to provide technical support for Apple products. It is a globally recognized certification that demonstrates expertise in troubleshooting, repairing, and supporting Mac computers, iPhones, iPads, and other Apple products.

The ACSP certification requires passing two exams: the Mac Integration Basics 10.13 exam and the macOS Support Essentials 10.13 exam. The exams are administered by Pearson VUE, which has test centers located around the world. The exams cover topics such as installation of Mac operating systems, user accounts and file sharing, system preferences and settings, networking technologies, system maintenance and troubleshooting techniques.

It typically takes about three months to complete both exams and become certified. However, this timeline can vary depending on how much time you dedicate to studying for the exams.

The cost of the ACSP certification varies depending on your location but generally ranges from $150-$200 USD per exam plus any applicable taxes or fees.

9. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Productivity Solutions Expert

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Productivity Solutions Expert is a certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in deploying and managing productivity solutions for Microsoft Office 365, Exchange Server, SharePoint Server, Skype for Business Server and other related technologies. It is designed to validate the skills of IT professionals who design, deploy and manage on-premises or cloud-based productivity solutions.

The MCSE: Productivity Solutions Expert certification requires candidates to pass five exams. The exams cover core topics such as Office 365 administration, Exchange Server 2016, SharePoint Server 2016, Skype for Business 2015 and Windows 10. Candidates must also have at least one year of experience working with these technologies.

To obtain the MCSE: Productivity Solutions Expert certification, candidates must first pass the five required exams. Exams can be taken at any authorized Pearson VUE testing center or online via proctored exam delivery. Each exam costs $165 USD and will take approximately two hours to complete.

Once all five exams are passed, candidates must submit their transcripts to Microsoft for review and approval before they can receive their official certification from Microsoft. The total cost of obtaining the MCSE: Productivity Solutions Expert certification is approximately $825 USD (five exams x $165 each).

10. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Routing and Switching

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Routing and Switching is a certification program designed to help individuals gain the skills needed to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot medium-sized routed and switched networks. The CCNA Routing and Switching certification focuses on developing an understanding of network fundamentals, network access, IP connectivity, IP services, security fundamentals, and automation and programmability.

The CCNA Routing and Switching certification typically takes around 6 months to complete. This time frame can vary depending on how much experience you have with networking concepts prior to starting the course. To get the CCNA Routing and Switching certification you must pass two exams: ICND1 (100-105) and ICND2 (200-105).

The cost of the CCNA Routing and Switching certification varies depending on where you take the course. Generally speaking it can range from $500-$3000 USD for the full course including both exams.

11. Information Technology Infrastructure Library Foundation Certificate (ITILF)

The Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) Foundation Certificate is a globally recognized qualification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and understanding of IT service management best practices. It is the entry-level certification for IT professionals who wish to gain a comprehensive understanding of the ITIL framework and its associated processes.

The ITIL Foundation Certificate course typically takes two days to complete, but can be completed in as little as one day depending on the provider. During the course, participants will learn about key concepts such as service design, service transition, service operation, continual service improvement, and more.

To get an ITIL Foundation Certificate, individuals must attend an accredited training course with an approved training organization or take an online self-study course. After completing the course, they must pass a 60-minute exam consisting of 40 multiple-choice questions. The passing score is 65%.

The cost of getting an ITIL Foundation Certificate depends on the provider and delivery method chosen. Generally speaking, attending a classroom-based course will cost more than taking an online self-study course. Prices can range from $500 to $2,000 USD or more depending on the provider and delivery method chosen.

Do You Really Need a Help Desk Manager Certificate?

When it comes to the decision of whether or not to pursue a Help Desk Manager Certificate, there are many factors that need to be taken into consideration. A Help Desk Manager Certificate can provide an individual with the necessary skills and knowledge needed to manage a help desk in an efficient and effective manner. However, there are several other ways one can gain the same type of knowledge without having to invest in a certification program.

The first factor that needs to be taken into account is the individual’s current level of experience and knowledge in regards to managing a help desk. If the individual already has some knowledge and experience in this area, then they may not need to pursue a Help Desk Manager Certificate. On the other hand, if they lack any prior experience or knowledge, then obtaining a certificate could be beneficial as it will provide them with the necessary skills needed for successful help desk management.

In addition, it is important to consider what type of job you are looking for and the requirements that are outlined in order to apply for such positions. If the position requires a certification or additional qualifications, then obtaining a Help Desk Manager Certificate would be highly beneficial in order for you to stand out from other applicants and increase your chances of landing the job. However, if you are looking for more entry-level positions where no certification is required, then you may not need one as long as you have some basic technical expertise and customer service skills.

Finally, it is also important to consider how much time and money you are willing to invest in obtaining this certificate. If you have neither enough time nor money available at present, then taking a course or program related to help desk management may not be feasible at this point in time. However, if you believe that investing in such training would benefit your career goals long-term, then pursuing a Help Desk Manager Certificate could prove highly beneficial down the road when applying for managerial roles within this field.

Overall, whether or not one needs a Help Desk Manager Certificate ultimately depends on their personal circumstances and career goals. As long as you take all these factors into consideration before making your decision, you should be able to determine whether this type of certification is something that will truly benefit your professional development going forward.

Related: Help Desk Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Help Desk Manager Certifications

Q1: What is a Help Desk Manager Certification?

A1: A Help Desk Manager Certification is a qualification that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and understanding of IT service management best practices and standards. It also shows proficiency in the use of help desk software and other tools used to manage customer service requests.

Q2: How do I obtain a Help Desk Manager Certification?

A2: To obtain a Help Desk Manager Certification, you need to complete an accredited certification program or pass an exam administered by a recognized organization. Depending on the certification, you may also need to have relevant work experience or demonstrate proficiency in certain areas.

Q3: What are the benefits of obtaining a Help Desk Manager Certification?

A3: Obtaining a Help Desk Manager Certification can provide numerous benefits, including improved job prospects, increased credibility, better salary potential and enhanced professional development opportunities.

Q4: How long does it take to get a Help Desk Manager Certification?

A4: The amount of time it takes to complete a certification program or pass an exam depends on the specific program or test you choose. Generally speaking, you should plan to spend several weeks studying for your certification before taking the test.

Q5: Is there any cost associated with obtaining a Help Desk Manager Certification?

A5: Yes, there are typically fees associated with obtaining a certification, such as program tuition and exam fees. Be sure to check with the provider for exact cost information.