Top 11 IT Support Certifications

Certifications are a key component of any IT support professional's career development. They demonstrate expertise, validate skills, and give employers assurance that their IT staff is up-to-date on the latest technologies. In addition, certifications can help an IT support professional stand out in the job market, as they provide evidence of technical proficiency and knowledge. Employers value certified professionals because they are more likely to be able to hit the ground running and quickly add value to the organization. Certifications also signal commitment to quality standards and best practices. Ultimately, certifications provide employers with confidence that their IT staff is well prepared to handle complex tasks and can help ensure that their systems remain secure and reliable.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for IT Supports and explains how they can help to propel an IT Support's career.

What are IT Support Certifications?

IT support certification is a type of professional certification that demonstrates an individual's proficiency in the field of IT support. It is typically obtained through a formal education program or specialized training course, and it can help ensure that IT professionals have the necessary skills to provide effective technical assistance to their employers and clients.

IT support certification programs cover topics such as network infrastructure, operating systems, software applications, database management, system security, customer service, troubleshooting techniques, and more. With this knowledge, IT professionals are better equipped to diagnose problems quickly and accurately, find solutions to complex issues quickly and efficiently, and provide excellent customer service.

Earning a certification can also help IT professionals stand out in the job market by demonstrating their commitment to staying current with the latest industry trends and technologies. Having a certification on their resume can also give them an edge over other candidates for certain positions. Additionally, certifications may be required for some entry-level positions or higher-level roles within an organization.

Pro Tip: When considering IT support certifications, make sure to research the industry standards and ensure that you are obtaining a certification from an accredited source. This will help ensure that your certification is valid and recognized by employers.

Related: What does an IT Support do?

Top 11 IT Support Certifications

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

1. CompTIA A+

CompTIA A+ is an industry-recognized certification for entry-level computer technicians. It is designed to provide a foundation of knowledge and skills necessary to maintain, repair, and troubleshoot computers and related technologies. CompTIA A+ covers a wide range of topics, including hardware, networking, mobile devices, operating systems, software troubleshooting, security, and more.

To get CompTIA A+, you must pass two exams: Core 1 (220-1001) and Core 2 (220-1002). The exams are multiple choice and performance-based questions that cover the objectives outlined in the CompTIA A+ exam objectives. The exams typically take between 90 minutes and 2 hours to complete.

You can take the CompTIA A+ exams at any Pearson VUE or Certiport testing center. The cost of each exam varies depending on your location but generally ranges from $200 - $300 per exam.

In total, it usually takes around 30 hours of study time to prepare for the CompTIA A+ exams. This includes studying course materials such as books or online resources as well as taking practice tests.

2. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) is a Microsoft certification program designed to demonstrate an individual’s expertise in designing, deploying, and managing solutions based on Microsoft technologies. The MCSE credential is the highest level of certification offered by Microsoft and provides employers with assurance that the individual has the skills necessary to design, deploy, and manage complex IT infrastructures.

The MCSE certification requires passing a series of exams in order to obtain the credential. Generally, it takes between six months to one year to complete all of the required exams. The specific exams needed vary depending on which track you choose; however, most tracks require passing five or more exams.

In order to get an MCSE certification, you must first register for and pass all of the required exams. You can register for exams through Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers or through a Microsoft Learning Partner. The cost of each exam varies but typically ranges from $100-$200 per exam.

Once you have successfully passed all of the required exams, you must submit your transcripts to Microsoft in order to receive your official MCSE Certification. This process usually takes about four weeks from submission date until you receive your certificate and digital badge.

3. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is a certification offered by Cisco Systems that validates an individual's ability to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot medium-sized routed and switched networks. It is the entry-level certification within the Cisco Career Certification program and is designed for individuals who want to pursue a career in networking.

It typically takes around 6 months of studying to prepare for the CCNA exam. However, this can vary depending on the individual’s knowledge level and experience with networking technologies. To get certified, individuals must pass two exams: ICND1 (Interconnecting Cisco Network Devices Part 1) and ICND2 (Interconnecting Cisco Network Devices Part 2). Both exams cover topics such as routing protocols, switching technologies, network security, IP addressing schemes, WAN technologies, and more.

The cost of the CCNA certification varies depending on which country you are taking the exam in. In the United States it costs $325 USD per exam or $650 USD for both exams.

4. CompTIA Network+

CompTIA Network+ is an industry-recognized certification for IT professionals who demonstrate their knowledge and skills in networking. It is designed to validate a candidate's ability to troubleshoot, configure, and manage both wired and wireless networks. The certification covers topics such as network technologies, installation and configuration, media and topologies, security, and network troubleshooting.

The CompTIA Network+ exam typically takes about 90 minutes to complete. To get the Network+ certification, you must pass the CompTIA Network+ exam (N10-007). The exam consists of 90 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as network architecture, virtualization and cloud computing, infrastructure management, network operations, security fundamentals, risk management and compliance.

To prepare for the CompTIA Network+ exam you can take self-study courses or attend instructor-led courses at a local training center or college. There are also many online resources available to help you study for the exam.

The cost of the CompTIA Network+ exam varies depending on where you take it. In most cases it will cost between $200-$300 USD.

5. Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA)

Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA) is a certification program designed to validate the skills of IT professionals who work with Microsoft products. It is intended to demonstrate that a professional has the knowledge and experience necessary to install, configure, manage, and troubleshoot Windows-based systems.

The MCSA certification requires passing three exams: two core exams and one elective exam. The two core exams are focused on Windows Server 2016 and the elective exam can be chosen from a variety of topics such as networking, security, or virtualization.

It typically takes about 6-12 months to complete all three exams depending on an individual’s study habits and availability. To prepare for the exams, individuals can take instructor-led or online courses offered by Microsoft Learning Partners or self-study using official Microsoft courseware.

The cost of each exam varies but generally ranges from $125-$150 USD per exam. Therefore, the total cost for obtaining the MCSA certification is approximately $375-$450 USD.

6. CompTIA Security+

CompTIA Security+ is a globally recognized certification that validates the baseline skills necessary to perform core security functions and pursue an IT security career. It is designed for IT professionals with at least two years of experience in network security, who are looking to further their career by gaining an industry-recognized certification.

The CompTIA Security+ exam covers topics such as cryptography, access control, authentication, and risk management. It takes approximately 90 minutes to complete the exam and consists of multiple choice and performance-based questions.

To get the CompTIA Security+ certification, you must pass the SY0-501 exam. The cost of the exam varies depending on your location, but typically ranges from $320 - $400 USD. You can purchase vouchers from CompTIA or select testing centers like Pearson VUE or Certiport.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your certificate in the mail within 4 - 6 weeks. Your certificate will be valid for three years after which you will need to recertify by either taking a new version of the Security+ exam or completing Continuing Education (CE) credits through approved activities such as attending conferences or taking online courses.

7. ITIL Foundation Certification

ITIL Foundation Certification is an entry-level certification that provides individuals with a comprehensive understanding of the ITIL framework and how it can be used to improve IT service management. It is designed to provide a solid foundation in IT service management best practices, which are based on the IT Infrastructure Library (ITIL). The certification is offered by Axelos, an organization that develops and maintains global best practice standards for IT service management.

The certification takes approximately 16 hours to complete and consists of a two-hour exam. The exam is available online or in person at authorized testing centers. To become certified, you must pass the exam with a minimum score of 65%.

The cost of the ITIL Foundation Certification varies depending on where you take the exam. In general, it costs around $200-$300 USD to take the exam online and around $400-$500 USD to take it in person at an authorized testing center.

8. AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate

AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate is an entry-level certification offered by Amazon Web Services (AWS). It is designed to validate the skills and knowledge of individuals who design, deploy, and maintain applications on the AWS platform. The certification requires a working knowledge of core AWS services, such as EC2, S3, RDS, VPCs, and ELB.

The exam consists of multiple choice questions that test your understanding of the AWS platform and its related services. It typically takes around 80 minutes to complete the exam. In order to pass the exam, you must score at least 720 out of 1000 points.

To get certified as an AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate, you must first register for the exam through the AWS Certification Portal. You will then be able to schedule your exam at a testing center near you or take it online from home. The cost for taking the exam is $150 USD. After passing the exam, you will receive an email with instructions on how to access your digital certificate and badge.

9. Google Cloud Platform Fundamentals: Core Infrastructure

Google Cloud Platform Fundamentals: Core Infrastructure is a set of cloud-based services that provide the foundation for developing and running applications on Google's public cloud platform. It includes compute, storage, networking, and other core services such as identity and access management, logging, monitoring, and security.

Getting started with Google Cloud Platform Fundamentals: Core Infrastructure is fast and easy. All you need to do is sign up for a Google Cloud account and create a project. Once your project is created, you can start using the services immediately. You can also use the Google Cloud Console to manage your projects and resources.

The cost of using Google Cloud Platform Fundamentals: Core Infrastructure depends on which services you choose to use. Each service has its own pricing model based on usage or subscription fees. Generally speaking, the cost of using these services will depend on how much you use them and what features you need.

10. HDI Support Center Analyst

HDI Support Center Analyst is a certification program offered by HDI (formerly the Help Desk Institute). It is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful support center analysts. The program covers topics such as customer service, problem solving, communication, and technical support tools.

The HDI Support Center Analyst certification consists of two parts: an online course and an exam. The online course takes approximately 10-12 hours to complete. It includes topics such as customer service best practices, troubleshooting techniques, problem resolution strategies, and communication skills. After completing the course, individuals must pass an exam in order to receive their certification.

To get the HDI Support Center Analyst certification, individuals must first register for the course on the HDI website. Once registered, they will be provided with access to all of the course materials needed to complete the program. Upon completion of both parts of the program (online course and exam), individuals will receive their certificate in the mail or via email within 3-5 business days.

The cost of the HDI Support Center Analyst certification varies depending on whether you are taking it through a self-study or instructor-led format. For self-study courses, prices range from $499 - $599 USD; for instructor-led courses, prices range from $799 - $899 USD (plus applicable taxes).

11. Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP)

Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP) is an Apple certification program designed to help individuals gain the technical knowledge and skills necessary to provide support for Apple products. It is intended for professionals who work in a customer service or technical support role, such as IT technicians, consultants, and educators.

The ACSP certification exam consists of two parts: the Knowledge Exam and the Performance Exam. The Knowledge Exam tests your knowledge of Mac OS X fundamentals, system administration, troubleshooting, and technical support. The Performance Exam tests your ability to use Apple software and hardware to solve real-world problems.

The ACSP certification takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete. To get certified, you must pass both exams with a score of 70% or higher. You can take the exams online or at an Apple Authorized Training Center.

The cost of the ACSP certification varies depending on where you take it and how many exams you take. Generally speaking, it costs around $200-$300 USD for both exams combined.

Do You Really Need a IT Support Certificate?

In today's digital world, having an IT support certificate can be the difference between landing a job or not. This is especially true if you are looking to pursue a career in the information technology field. The IT industry is highly competitive and employers are always looking for qualified candidates who can provide them with the best possible technical support services. An IT support certificate can demonstrate your knowledge and proficiency in this area, making you stand out from other applicants.

Having an IT support certificate shows potential employers that you have the right skillset and knowledge to work in the field. It also shows that you have taken time to learn about the latest technologies and tools available, as well as how to troubleshoot common problems. This type of certification is usually obtained through a formal education program at a college or university, which usually requires several months of study and hard work.

However, it’s important to note that having an IT support certificate does not guarantee success in the field. While it may help you land a job initially, it doesn't guarantee long-term success unless you possess other skills such as strong communication and problem solving abilities as well as customer service experience. You should also stay up-to-date on new technologies and trends related to your chosen profession in order to remain relevant in this ever changing industry.

In conclusion, while having an IT support certificate can be beneficial when seeking employment in the information technology field, it isn’t necessarily required for success. If you have other skillsets and experience which could make up for any deficiencies caused by not having one, then pursuing such a certification may not be necessary.

Related: IT Support Resume Examples

FAQs About IT Support Certifications

Q1: What types of IT support certifications are available?

A1: There are a variety of certifications available, including CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE), Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), and many more.

Q2: How long does it take to get certified?

A2: The length of time varies depending on the certification and the level of expertise required. Generally, it can take anywhere from several weeks to a few months to complete the necessary coursework and exams.

Q3: How much do IT support certifications cost?

A3: Costs vary depending on the type and level of certification, but generally range from $200-$2000 USD.

Q4: Are there any prerequisites for getting certified?

A4: Yes, most certifications require you to have some experience in the field before taking the exam. Additionally, many professional organizations require that you pass an exam before becoming a member.

Q5: What benefits do IT support certifications offer?

A5: Earning an IT support certification demonstrates your knowledge and expertise in the field and can lead to better job opportunities or higher salaries. Additionally, many employers prefer to hire those with certifications as they are more likely to be up-to-date with the latest technology trends and best practices.