Top 11 Infrastructure Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for an infrastructure manager in the job market because they demonstrate a certain level of knowledge and expertise in the field, which is highly valued by employers. In addition, certifications can help an infrastructure manager stand out from other applicants and show that they have invested time and effort into learning more about their profession. Furthermore, certifications give employers confidence that the applicant has the necessary skills to do the job well and will be able to work effectively with other members of the team. Finally, certifications can provide access to additional resources, such as industry contacts and professional networks that can lead to further job opportunities.

The article reviews top certifications for Infrastructure Managers and explains how they can help to advance an Infrastructure Manager's career.

What are Infrastructure Manager Certifications?

Infrastructure manager certification is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates a professional’s ability to manage and maintain IT infrastructure. It is designed for IT professionals who are responsible for planning, implementing, and maintaining the hardware, software, and operational systems that support critical business functions. The certification is intended to help employers identify qualified personnel who can effectively manage their IT infrastructure.

The certification covers a range of topics related to infrastructure management, including network security, system design, storage solutions, virtualization technology, server maintenance and more. By obtaining this certification, IT professionals demonstrate their knowledge of the most current technologies and methods used in managing today’s complex IT infrastructures. As a result, they are better equipped to handle any challenges that may arise when managing an organization’s systems.

In addition to enhancing the skills of certified professionals, infrastructure manager certification can also help organizations save money by reducing costs associated with hiring inexperienced personnel or outsourcing services. Companies can benefit from having certified professionals on staff since they are able to provide cost-effective solutions that optimize performance while minimizing downtime. Furthermore, companies gain access to a larger pool of qualified personnel since many job postings now list infrastructure manager certification as a requirement for consideration.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the various infrastructure manager certifications available, and choose one that best suits your experience level and career goals. Additionally, look into any additional training or courses that may be required to obtain the certification as well as any associated fees or costs.

Related: What does an Infrastructure Manager do?

Top 11 Infrastructure Manager Certifications

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

1. AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Professional

AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Professional is a certification offered by Amazon Web Services (AWS) that validates an individual’s expertise in designing and deploying distributed applications and systems on the AWS platform. This certification is designed for individuals who have advanced knowledge of designing, deploying, and operating systems on the AWS platform. It requires a strong understanding of the core AWS services, such as EC2, S3, RDS, VPC, ELB, CloudFront, etc., as well as an understanding of how to design and deploy secure applications on the platform.

It typically takes around three months to prepare for this exam. The preparation includes studying AWS documentation and whitepapers, taking practice exams and tutorials available online from third-party vendors such as A Cloud Guru or Linux Academy, attending boot camps or instructor-led courses provided by AWS partners such as Cloud Academy or A Cloud Guru.

To get certified for AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Professional one must pass two exams: the Associate Level Exam (CSA-A) and the Professional Level Exam (CSA-P). Both exams are multiple choice questions with a mix of theoretical questions about architecture principles and practical questions about configuring services on the AWS platform.

The cost of each exam is $300 USD per attempt.

2. Microsoft Certified Azure Administrator

Microsoft Certified Azure Administrator is a certification that validates an individual’s ability to deploy, configure, manage and monitor Microsoft Azure cloud services. It is intended for IT professionals who are responsible for the day-to-day management of Azure resources. This certification requires a deep understanding of the Azure platform, including its various components such as virtual machines, storage accounts, networking, and security.

To get certified as a Microsoft Certified Azure Administrator, you must pass two exams: AZ-103 and AZ-104. The AZ-103 exam covers topics related to managing Azure subscriptions and resources; implementing and managing storage; deploying and managing virtual machines (VMs); configuring and managing virtual networks; and managing identities. The AZ-104 exam covers topics related to implementing solutions for apps; implementing authentication and secure data; developing for the cloud; creating serverless computing solutions; integrating with hybrid environments; monitoring, troubleshooting, and optimizing solutions; and connecting with DevOps processes.

The time required to get certified as a Microsoft Certified Azure Administrator depends on your existing knowledge of the platform. If you already have experience working with Azure then it may take less time than someone who is new to the platform. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from one to three months to prepare for the exams depending on your level of experience.

The cost of getting certified as a Microsoft Certified Azure Administrator varies depending on where you take the exams. The cost of each exam typically ranges from $99-$165 USD per exam depending on where you take them.

3. CompTIA Cloud+ Certification

CompTIA Cloud+ is a certification offered by CompTIA, the Computing Technology Industry Association. It is designed to validate an IT professional’s skills in cloud computing and related technologies. The certification covers topics such as virtualization, security, storage and networking.

It typically takes about 6-12 months to complete the training and pass the exam for CompTIA Cloud+. In order to take the exam, you must have at least two years of experience in IT networking, storage or data center administration. You can also earn a CompTIA Cloud+ certification by completing an approved training course from an accredited provider.

The cost of the exam varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs around $300 USD for the exam itself.

4. VMware Certified Professional 6 – Data Center Virtualization (VCP6-DCV)

VMware Certified Professional 6 – Data Center Virtualization (VCP6-DCV) is a certification that validates an IT professional’s ability to install, configure, manage and deploy VMware vSphere 6.x virtualized environments. It is designed for professionals working with VMware vSphere 6.x in a data center environment. The VCP6-DCV certification demonstrates knowledge of the core skills needed to effectively install, configure and manage a vSphere 6.x environment.

The VCP6-DCV certification requires passing two exams: the VMware Certified Professional 6 – Data Center Virtualization (VCP6-DCV) exam and the VMware Certified Associate – Data Center Virtualization (VCA-DCV) exam. Both exams must be completed within 12 months of each other in order for the certification to be valid.

In order to obtain the VCP6-DCV certification, you must first attend an authorized training course from a VMware Authorized Training Center (ATC). After completing the course, you can then register for the two exams on the Pearson VUE website. The cost of taking both exams is approximately $500 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees.

Once you have passed both exams, you will receive your official VCP6-DCV certificate via email within two weeks after completion of both tests. You will also receive a digital badge which can be used to showcase your credentials on social media sites such as LinkedIn and Twitter.

Overall, it typically takes about 2–3 months to complete all requirements for obtaining the VCP6-DCV certification depending on how quickly you can complete your training and pass both exams.

5. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Data Center

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Data Center is a certification program designed by Cisco to recognize individuals who have the knowledge and skills necessary to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot data center technologies. It validates an individual’s ability to work with data center networking solutions that include unified computing, network virtualization, automation and orchestration, storage networking, and security.

It takes approximately 6-12 months to prepare for the CCNA Data Center exam. To become certified, you must pass two exams: 640-911 DCICN (Introducing Cisco Data Center Networking) and 640-916 DCICT (Introducing Cisco Data Center Technologies). The cost of the exams vary depending on your region but typically range from $250-$300 USD each. Additionally, there are various training resources available online or through Cisco Learning Partners that can help you prepare for the exams.

6. Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)

Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) is a certification program offered by Red Hat, Inc. that validates the skills and knowledge of system administrators who are responsible for Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems. The RHCSA certification is designed to demonstrate proficiency in areas such as installation and configuration of a system, managing users and groups, managing storage, deploying software packages, and more.

The RHCSA exam typically takes about two hours to complete. To become certified, you must pass the RHCSA exam with a score of at least 70%. The cost of the exam varies depending on your location but generally ranges from $400-$800 USD.

In order to prepare for the RHCSA exam, it is recommended that you take an authorized training course from an approved provider. This course will provide you with the knowledge and skills required to successfully pass the exam. Additionally, it is recommended that you have some hands-on experience working with Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems before taking the exam.

7. Citrix Certified Professional – Networking (CCP-N)

Citrix Certified Professional – Networking (CCP-N) is an industry certification program designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated their knowledge and experience in the field of networking. The CCP-N certification is offered by Citrix, a leading provider of cloud computing solutions.

The CCP-N certification validates the skills and knowledge required to install, configure, and manage Citrix NetScaler products. It also demonstrates an understanding of networking technologies such as TCP/IP, Ethernet, routing protocols, firewalls, load balancing, and more.

To become a CCP-N certified professional, candidates must pass two exams: the Citrix NetScaler 10 for Networking exam (1Y0-351) and the Citrix NetScaler 12 for Networking exam (1Y0-370). Both exams are available online through Pearson VUE or at a local testing center. The cost of each exam is $200 USD.

The time it takes to complete the CCP-N certification depends on how quickly you can study for and pass both exams. Generally speaking, it should take between one to three months to prepare for both exams if you dedicate enough time to studying.

Overall, obtaining the CCP-N certification is a great way to demonstrate your expertise in networking technologies and increase your career prospects in this field.

8. Oracle Enterprise Manager 12c Certified Implementation Specialist

Oracle Enterprise Manager 12c Certified Implementation Specialist is a certification program designed to validate the knowledge and skills of IT professionals in the installation, configuration, and management of Oracle Enterprise Manager 12c. This certification is intended for those who have experience in managing Oracle Enterprise Manager 12c environments.

It typically takes two to three months to complete the necessary training and preparation for the exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as installation, architecture, deployment, monitoring, and troubleshooting. To get certified, you must pass the Oracle Enterprise Manager 12c Certified Implementation Specialist Exam (1Z0-457).

The cost of the certification exam is $245 USD. Additionally, there are various training courses available from Oracle University and other third-party providers that can help you prepare for the exam. These courses range in price from $500-$3000 USD depending on the provider and duration of the course.

9. IBM Tivoli Storage Manager V7 Administration Certification

IBM Tivoli Storage Manager V7 Administration Certification is an industry-recognized certification that demonstrates a professional’s ability to manage and maintain IBM Tivoli Storage Manager V7. It is a valuable credential for IT professionals who want to demonstrate their expertise in managing and administering the IBM Tivoli Storage Manager V7 system.

The certification exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as installation, configuration, administration, security, backup/restore operations, troubleshooting and more. The exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete.

To get certified, you must first register for the exam through Pearson VUE or Prometric. After registering you will be given access to the online study materials which include practice tests and other resources to help prepare you for the exam. Once you have completed your preparation, you can schedule your exam at any of the authorized testing centers. The cost of the certification exam is $200 USD.

10. HPE Master ASE – Server Solutions Architect V2

HPE Master ASE – Server Solutions Architect V2 is a certification program offered by Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE). It is designed to validate the skills and knowledge of experienced IT professionals in designing, deploying, and managing HPE server solutions.

The certification requires a minimum of three years of experience in the design and implementation of HPE server solutions. It also requires applicants to pass two exams: HPE0-S50 - Architecting HPE Server Solutions and HPE0-S51 - Integrating HPE Server Solutions. The exams cover topics such as storage, networking, virtualization, security, automation, cloud computing, and more.

It typically takes around six months to complete the certification process. This includes studying for the exams and taking them at an authorized testing center.

The cost for the certification varies depending on your country or region. In the United States, it costs $1,000 USD for both exams. Other countries may have different prices for the exams.

To get certified as an HPE Master ASE – Server Solutions Architect V2, you must first register with Pearson VUE to take the two required exams. Once you’ve passed both exams with a score of 70% or higher, you can submit your application to become certified through HPE’s website. After your application is approved by HPE, you will be officially recognized as an HPE Master ASE – Server Solutions Architect V2.

11. Juniper Networks Certified Internet Expert (JNCIE-ENT)

Juniper Networks Certified Internet Expert (JNCIE-ENT) is a professional certification program that validates an individual's technical knowledge and skills in the field of enterprise routing and switching. It is an advanced-level certification that demonstrates an individual’s ability to deploy, configure, manage, and troubleshoot Juniper Networks Enterprise Routing and Switching solutions.

To obtain the JNCIE-ENT certification, individuals must pass two exams: a written exam and a practical lab exam. The written exam tests theoretical knowledge of Juniper Networks technology while the lab exam tests hands-on configuration and troubleshooting skills.

The written exam typically takes about 90 minutes to complete and consists of 80 multiple-choice questions. The lab exam typically takes 8 hours to complete and consists of several tasks that must be completed within the allotted time frame.

The cost for both exams varies depending on country, but generally ranges from $200-$400 USD for both exams combined.

Do You Really Need a Infrastructure Manager Certificate?

The short answer is no, but it could be beneficial for some. An Infrastructure Manager Certificate can provide a valuable set of skills and credentials to help you stand out from the crowd in an increasingly competitive job market. It provides a comprehensive overview of the technologies, processes and best practices used to manage IT infrastructure, which is becoming increasingly important as organizations move towards more digital operations.

The certificate can also be useful if you’re looking to move into an infrastructure manager role, since it will demonstrate your capability when competing for roles that require this specific knowledge. Additionally, if you’re already working in an IT-related field, having the certificate may open up new opportunities or allow you to progress further within your current organization.

Having said that, there are other ways to gain the necessary skills and knowledge to become an effective infrastructure manager without having the formal certification. For example, many organizations offer their own training programs or seminars that cover similar topics as those included in the certificate program. Alternatively, taking courses online or attending conferences and workshops can also provide valuable insight into the area of IT infrastructure management.

Ultimately, having an Infrastructure Manager Certificate can be beneficial in certain circumstances but it’s not essential for everyone looking to pursue a career in this field. If you have a good understanding of technology and how it works then this could be enough to get started on your journey towards becoming an effective infrastructure manager without requiring any formal qualifications or certifications.

Related: Infrastructure Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Infrastructure Manager Certifications

1. What is an Infrastructure Manager Certification?

Answer: An Infrastructure Manager Certification is a professional certification that verifies an individual's knowledge and skills in managing the IT infrastructure of an organization. It covers topics such as network security, server management, storage solutions, system architecture, and more.

2. What are the benefits of getting an Infrastructure Manager Certification?

Answer: An Infrastructure Manager Certification offers many benefits including increased job opportunities, higher salaries, increased credibility among peers and employers, and more knowledge about managing IT infrastructure.

3. What are the different types of Infrastructure Manager Certifications?

Answer: There are various types of certifications such as CompTIA Server+, Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE), Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), AWS Certified Solutions Architect, VMware Certified Professional (VCP), Oracle Database Administrator (ODA), and Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA).

4. How long does it take to get certified?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become certified varies depending on the type of certification you are pursuing. Generally speaking, most certifications can be completed within 6-12 months with dedication and hard work.

5. How much does an Infrastructure Manager Certification cost?

Answer: The cost of an Infrastructure Manager Certification varies depending on the type of certification you choose to pursue. Generally speaking, most certifications will range from $200-$1,500 USD depending on the vendor and type of certification chosen.