Top 11 Installation Technician Certifications

Certifications for installation technicians are important for a number of reasons. They demonstrate that the technician has the necessary skills and knowledge to perform the job effectively. They also provide employers with assurance that the technician is up-to-date on current technology, practices, and safety protocols. Certifications can also help differentiate technicians from their competitors by showing employers that they have taken the initiative to increase their knowledge in a particular field. Finally, certifications can lead to higher pay rates since employers may view certified technicians as more valuable assets.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the most beneficial certifications for Installation Technicians and explain how they can help further their career.

What are Installation Technician Certifications?

Installation technician certification is a type of professional certification that verifies an individual’s ability to properly install and configure various types of technology, such as computers, networks, and audio/visual systems. This certification is typically provided by a third-party organization or educational institution and can be used to demonstrate an individual’s technical proficiency in the installation of various types of technology.

Having installation technician certification can help individuals in many ways. For example, it can provide them with a competitive edge when applying for jobs that require installation skills. It may also provide the necessary credentials needed to work on certain types of projects or equipment. Furthermore, having this type of certification can make an individual more marketable in the job market. Additionally, having this type of certification may lead to higher salaries as employers are often willing to pay more for skilled technicians who have taken the time and effort to obtain such certifications.

Pro Tip: Before hiring an installation technician, make sure they have the appropriate certification for the specific type of installation work you need done. Certification ensures that technicians are properly trained and equipped to handle the job safely and effectively.

Related: What does an Installation Technician do?

Top 11 Installation Technician Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Installation Technicians today.

1. CompTIA A+ Certification

CompTIA A+ certification is an industry-recognized credential that validates the knowledge and skills of IT professionals. It is designed to provide a foundation for a career in IT, as well as serve as a stepping stone to more advanced certifications. The CompTIA A+ certification covers topics such as hardware, networking, mobile devices, operating systems, security, troubleshooting, customer service and soft skills.

It typically takes about two months to prepare for the CompTIA A+ exam. Most people who take the exam have some prior experience with computers and IT concepts. There are many online courses available that can help you prepare for the exam. Additionally, there are books and practice tests available to help you get ready for the exam.

To get your CompTIA A+ certification you must pass two exams: 220-1001 (Core 1) and 220-1002 (Core 2). Both exams are multiple choice questions with a mix of performance-based items. You must pass both exams within one year of each other in order to be certified.

The cost of the CompTIA A+ certification varies depending on where you take it from. Generally speaking, it costs around $250-$300 USD per exam or around $500-$600 USD total for both exams combined.

2. Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) is a certification offered by Microsoft that validates an individual's skills in designing, implementing, and managing solutions based on Microsoft technologies. It is the first step in becoming a Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP).

The MCSA credential requires passing one or more exams to demonstrate knowledge of specific technologies. The exams are designed to assess an individual’s ability to configure, deploy, manage, and troubleshoot solutions based on Microsoft products.

The time it takes to get an MCSA varies depending on the individual and their background. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from one month to six months to prepare for and pass the required exams.

To obtain an MCSA certification, you must pass at least one exam related to the technology of your choice. You can find out more information about the exams and how to register for them on the Microsoft website.

The cost of each exam varies depending on where you take it and which version of the exam you take. Generally speaking, each exam costs around $165 USD per attempt.

3. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) is a certification program designed to recognize IT professionals who have the skills and knowledge necessary to design, implement, and manage complex IT infrastructures. The MCSE certification demonstrates that an individual has the technical expertise to effectively design, deploy, configure, optimize, and troubleshoot Windows Server-based networks.

It typically takes between 6 months and 2 years to get the MCSE certification depending on your prior experience. To become certified you must first pass one of Microsoft’s qualifying exams such as the 70-740: Installation, Storage, and Compute with Windows Server 2016 exam or the 70-741: Networking with Windows Server 2016 exam. Once you have passed one of these exams you will need to complete at least one additional elective exam from a list of approved courses.

The cost for each exam varies but generally ranges from $165 - $200 USD per exam. Additionally there may be other costs associated with taking the exams such as travel expenses if you are taking them in person or fees for any preparatory materials or classes that you may choose to take.

4. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is a certification offered by Cisco Systems that validates an individual's knowledge and skills in networking. It is an entry-level certification for IT professionals who are interested in pursuing a career in networking.

The CCNA certification exam covers topics such as network fundamentals, routing protocols, switching technologies, IP addressing and more. The exam consists of multiple choice questions and typically takes two hours to complete.

To get the CCNA certification, you must pass the relevant exam. You can take the exam at any Pearson VUE or Prometric testing center around the world. You can also take the exam online through Cisco’s website or via a proctored remote lab session.

The cost of taking the CCNA exam varies depending on your location and which version of the exam you are taking (ICND1 or ICND2). Generally speaking, it costs between $150-$300 per exam.

5. CompTIA Network+ Certification

CompTIA Network+ certification is an industry-recognized credential that validates the knowledge and skills of IT professionals in networking technologies. It is designed to ensure that network professionals have the skills required to manage, maintain, troubleshoot, install, operate, and configure basic network infrastructure. The certification covers topics such as network architecture, network operations, network security, and network troubleshooting.

The CompTIA Network+ exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and consists of 90 multiple-choice questions. To obtain the certification, candidates must pass the exam with a score of 720 or higher on a scale from 100-900.

To get certified for CompTIA Network+, candidates must first register for the exam with Pearson VUE or Prometric. After registering for the exam, candidates can purchase study materials from CompTIA or other vendors to prepare for the exam. Additionally, there are several online courses available to help candidates prepare for the exam.

The cost of taking the CompTIA Network+ exam varies depending on where it is taken and which vendor is used; however, it typically ranges from $250-$300 USD.

6. Apple Certified Macintosh Technician (ACMT)

Apple Certified Macintosh Technician (ACMT) is a certification program offered by Apple Inc. to recognize individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in troubleshooting, repairing and maintaining Mac computers. ACMT certification is designed for technicians who work in the Apple service industry, such as repair shops or IT departments.

To become an ACMT certified technician, applicants must take and pass the Apple Service Fundamentals Exam (SFE). This exam covers topics such as troubleshooting hardware and software issues on Mac computers, diagnosing issues with macOS, and performing repairs on Mac computers. The SFE exam typically takes about two hours to complete and costs $150 USD.

Once applicants have completed the SFE exam, they must also complete an Apple-approved training course from an accredited institution. These courses are usually offered online or in person at an Apple Authorized Training Center (AATC). The cost of these courses varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $500-$2,000 USD. After completing the coursework, applicants must then take and pass a final exam to receive their ACMT certification.

Overall, it can take anywhere from one to three months to become an ACMT certified technician depending on how quickly you complete the required exams and courses.

7. Linux Professional Institute Certification (LPIC)

The Linux Professional Institute Certification (LPIC) is an industry-recognized certification program that validates the skills of IT professionals who use and administer Linux systems. It is a vendor-neutral certification that demonstrates knowledge of the Linux operating system and its associated technologies.

LPIC certifications are offered at two levels: LPIC-1 and LPIC-2. The LPIC-1 certification is intended for entry-level Linux administrators, while the LPIC-2 certification is intended for more experienced administrators. Both certifications require passing exams to earn the credential.

It typically takes several months to prepare for the exams, depending on your experience level and familiarity with Linux. To get started, you should review the exam objectives, which outline what topics will be covered on each exam. You can also find study material online or in books to help you prepare for the exams.

The cost of taking the exams varies depending on where you take them, but typically ranges from $100-$200 per exam. Some training providers offer discounts if you purchase multiple exams at once or if you are a student or member of certain organizations.

8. Avaya Certified Implementation Specialist (ACIS)

Avaya Certified Implementation Specialist (ACIS) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the implementation and support of Avaya products and solutions. This certification is intended for IT professionals who are responsible for designing, deploying, configuring, and troubleshooting Avaya solutions.

The ACIS certification consists of two exams that must be completed in order to earn the designation. The first exam is the Avaya Professional Design Specialist (APDS) exam which covers topics such as network design, system architecture, and feature configuration. The second exam is the Avaya Professional Implementation Specialist (APIS) exam which covers topics such as installation, configuration, system management, and troubleshooting. Both exams must be passed with a score of 70% or higher in order to earn the ACIS certification.

The cost of the ACIS certification varies depending on where you take it. In most cases it will cost between $500-$600 USD to take both exams. It typically takes around 6-8 weeks to complete both exams depending on your study habits and availability.

In order to become an ACIS certified professional you must first purchase an Avaya Learning Subscription from an authorized training provider. Once you have purchased your subscription you can then access all of the necessary materials needed to prepare for both exams including practice tests and study guides. After completing your studies you can then schedule your exams at any authorized testing center near you.

9. VMware Certified Professional (VCP)

VMware Certified Professional (VCP) is a certification program designed by VMware to recognize IT professionals who have the knowledge and skills necessary to install, configure, manage, and troubleshoot VMware vSphere environments. It is an industry-recognized credential that validates an individual’s ability to design, deploy, and manage virtualized data centers.

The VCP certification requires taking a training course from an authorized VMware training provider. The course typically lasts between three to five days depending on the provider. After completing the course, the candidate must pass two exams: one for the course material and one for vSphere installation and configuration.

In order to obtain VCP certification, candidates must first purchase a VCP exam voucher from VMware or from an authorized reseller. The cost of the exam voucher varies depending on which version of vSphere you are being tested on but generally ranges from $225-$250 USD.

Once you have purchased your exam voucher, you will need to register with Pearson VUE in order to schedule your exams at a testing center near you. After successfully passing both exams, you will receive your official VCP certification within 4-6 weeks via email.

10. Juniper Networks Certified Internet Professional (JNCIP)

Juniper Networks Certified Internet Professional (JNCIP) is a certification program designed to validate an individual's knowledge, skills and abilities in the field of networking. It is offered by Juniper Networks, a leading provider of network infrastructure products and services. The JNCIP certification is aimed at experienced professionals with a minimum of three years of experience in the field of networking and related technologies.

The JNCIP certification consists of two exams: JN0-103 and JN0-633. To earn the JNCIP certification, candidates must pass both exams. The exams are designed to test an individual's knowledge and understanding of routing protocols, security protocols, switching technologies, network design principles, troubleshooting techniques and more.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for the JNCIP exams. Candidates should plan on spending at least 40 hours studying for each exam. There are several resources available to help prepare for the exams, including online training courses, practice tests and study guides.

The cost of taking the JNCIP exams varies depending on where you take them. In general, it costs around $300 per exam or $600 for both exams combined.

In order to maintain your JNCIP certification status, you must recertify every three years by passing either one or both of the current version of the exams.

11. CompTIA Security+ Certification

CompTIA Security+ is an internationally recognized certification that validates a professional’s knowledge and skills in IT security. It is designed to help professionals demonstrate their competency in areas such as network security, risk management, compliance and operational security.

The CompTIA Security+ certification typically takes between three and six months to complete, depending on the individual's experience level and the amount of time they are able to dedicate to studying for the exam. To get certified, individuals must pass the CompTIA Security+ exam (SY0-501). The exam consists of 90 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 90 minutes.

The cost of the CompTIA Security+ certification varies depending on where you take the exam. Generally speaking, it costs around $320 USD for the exam voucher alone. There may also be additional costs associated with study materials or training courses if you choose to use them.

Do You Really Need a Installation Technician Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need an installation technician certificate to pursue a career in this field. However, having one can give you a competitive edge in the job market and may even lead to higher pay.

Having a certificate shows potential employers that you have taken the time to learn about the subject matter and have achieved a level of proficiency in it. It also demonstrates your commitment and dedication to the profession, which can be very attractive to employers. Additionally, having a certification can help you stand out from other applicants who are applying for the same position.

In terms of career advancement, having a certificate may give you the opportunity to move up within the company or apply for better positions elsewhere. Furthermore, some employers may require certifications for certain positions and if you don't have one, then you won't be able to apply for those jobs.

Overall, having an installation technician certificate can be beneficial but it isn't necessary if you want to pursue this type of career. With hard work and dedication, anyone can become successful in this field without needing any special qualifications or certifications.

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FAQs About Installation Technician Certifications

1. What is an installation technician certification?

Answer: Installation technician certifications are specialized credentials that demonstrate a professional's knowledge and skills in installing and maintaining various types of products, systems, and equipment.

2. How do I become certified as an installation technician?

Answer: To become certified as an installation technician, you must complete a training program or course in the specific type of product or system you wish to install and maintain. You may also need to pass a written or practical exam to receive your certification.

3. Are there any prerequisites for becoming an installation technician?

Answer: Depending on the type of product or system you wish to install and maintain, there may be some prerequisites for becoming an installation technician. This could include having a high school diploma or equivalent, passing certain tests, having relevant experience in the field, and/or completing specific courses related to the product or system you will be working with.

4. What are the benefits of being certified as an installation technician?

Answer: Being certified as an installation technician demonstrates your expertise in a particular area and can make you more marketable when seeking employment opportunities. Additionally, it can help you stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and trends in the industry while allowing you to expand your skill set.

5. How long does it take to become certified as an installation technician?

Answer: The amount of time required to become certified as an installation technician depends on several factors such as the type of product or system you are interested in working with, if any prerequisite courses need to be completed first, if any exams need to be taken, etc. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from several weeks up to several months depending on these factors.