Top 10 PC Technician Certifications

Certifications are important for PC technicians in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and proficiency in specific areas. Having certifications can give employers confidence that the technician is qualified to perform the job duties and tasks required. They also show potential employers that the technician has taken the initiative to stay up-to-date on technology advancements, which can be a valuable asset in today’s ever-evolving IT landscape. Additionally, having certifications can help PC technicians stand out from other applicants and increase their chances of being hired.

The article reviews the top certifications for PC Technicians and explains how they can help to advance a technician's career.

What are PC Technician Certifications?

PC Technician Certification is a professional certification that proves the knowledge and skills of individuals in the field of computer hardware and software support. This certification is typically earned by passing an exam administered by an accredited organization such as CompTIA, Microsoft or Cisco.

Having a PC Technician Certification demonstrates to employers and customers that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to troubleshoot and repair computer systems. It also helps validate your abilities in areas such as networking, operating systems, security, data management and more.

The certification can help increase your chances of getting hired for positions related to computer repair or maintenance. It also shows that you are knowledgeable about current technologies, which can be beneficial when applying for jobs in the IT industry. Additionally, having a PC Technician Certification can lead to higher salaries or promotions within a company since employers know that certified technicians possess the necessary skills to effectively manage IT systems. Furthermore, it can help you stand out among other applicants when looking for new job opportunities, giving you an edge over those who don’t have any certifications.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the specific requirements for PC Technician certification in your area before beginning the process. Different certifications have different requirements, so be sure to understand what is necessary to complete the certification before you start.

Related: What does a PC Technician do?

Top 10 PC Technician Certifications

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

1. CompTIA A+

CompTIA A+ is a globally recognized certification that validates the skills of IT professionals. It is designed to demonstrate an individual’s ability to troubleshoot, configure, and maintain computers, networks, and other technologies. The CompTIA A+ certification is divided into two exams: Core 1 (220-1001) and Core 2 (220-1002).

The CompTIA A+ certification typically takes about three months to complete. This includes studying for the exams, taking practice tests, and taking the actual exams.

To get CompTIA A+, you need to register for the two exams at a Pearson VUE test center or online. Each exam costs $226 USD. After registering for the exams, you can begin studying for them using resources such as textbooks, online courses, and practice tests. Once you have passed both exams successfully, you will receive your CompTIA A+ certification.

The total cost of obtaining CompTIA A+ is approximately $452 USD ($226 per exam).

2. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) is a certification program offered by Microsoft to validate the skills of IT professionals. It is designed to help IT professionals demonstrate their ability to build innovative solutions across multiple technologies, both on-premises and in the cloud.

The MCSE certification requires passing one or more exams that test your knowledge of specific Microsoft products and services. The exams are typically around 90 minutes long and include topics such as Windows Server, Exchange Server, SQL Server, SharePoint, Office 365, Azure, and System Center.

To get an MCSE certification you must first pass the appropriate exam(s). Depending on the track you choose, this could take anywhere from a few days to several months. You should also have at least two years of experience working with related technologies before attempting any of the exams.

The cost for an MCSE certification varies depending on which track you choose and how many exams you need to take. Generally speaking, it can range from $150-$400 per exam plus any fees associated with taking the exam itself.

3. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is a certification offered by Cisco Systems that validates an individual’s skills in installing, configuring, operating, and troubleshooting medium-sized routed and switched networks. It is the first level of Cisco’s professional-level certifications and is designed to provide a foundation for more advanced certifications.

It typically takes around six months of study to prepare for the CCNA exam. The best way to get ready for the exam is to take an official training course from Cisco or one of its authorized learning partners. This will ensure that you have all the necessary knowledge and skills required to pass the exam.

The cost of taking the CCNA exam varies depending on which country you are taking it in. Generally speaking, it costs around $300 USD for the 200-301 version of the exam and $325 USD for the 200-125 version of the exam.

4. CompTIA Network+

CompTIA Network+ is an industry-leading certification for IT professionals. It is designed to validate the knowledge and skills required to successfully design, configure, manage and troubleshoot any wired or wireless network. It covers topics such as network technologies, installation and configuration, media and topologies, security, and network troubleshooting.

It usually takes around 3-6 months to prepare for the CompTIA Network+ exam. The best way to get ready is to use a combination of self-study materials such as books, study guides, practice tests, and online courses.

The cost of the CompTIA Network+ exam varies depending on which country you take it in. In the United States it costs $329 USD; in Canada it costs $349 CAD; in Australia it costs $399 AUD; in India it costs Rs. 10500 INR; and in the UK it costs £225 GBP.

5. Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA)

Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) is a certification program designed to provide an entry-level understanding of Microsoft technologies. It is intended to help individuals gain foundational knowledge in IT and demonstrate their proficiency in core technology concepts. The MTA certification covers topics such as Windows Operating System Fundamentals, Networking Fundamentals, Security Fundamentals, and Software Development Fundamentals.

It typically takes about two weeks to complete the MTA certification process. To get started, you will need to register for the exam through Microsoft’s Learning portal. Once registered, you can access the exam material and practice tests online. After completing the practice tests, you will be ready to take the actual exam which is administered at a local testing center.

The cost of the MTA certification varies depending on your location and other factors but typically ranges from $100-$150 USD.

6. CompTIA Security+

CompTIA Security+ is an industry-leading certification that validates the knowledge and skills needed to secure networks, systems, and devices. It is a globally recognized standard of excellence for IT professionals who demonstrate competency in system security, network infrastructure, cryptography, access control, and organizational security.

The CompTIA Security+ exam typically takes about 90 minutes to complete and covers a variety of topics related to computer security. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and performance-based items that test the candidate’s ability to solve problems in a simulated environment.

To get CompTIA Security+, you must pass the SY0-501 exam. You can take the exam at any Pearson VUE testing center or online through their website.

The cost of the CompTIA Security+ exam varies depending on where you take it but usually ranges from $320-$400 USD.

7. Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP)

Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP) is a certification program designed to validate the skills and knowledge of IT professionals who work with Microsoft products and technologies. The MCITP certification is available in several different areas, including database administration, enterprise messaging, server administrator, and virtualization.

The time it takes to get an MCITP certification depends on the individual's experience level and the specific area of expertise they are seeking certification in. Generally speaking, most people can expect to spend anywhere from six months to two years studying and preparing for the MCITP exam.

To get an MCITP certification, individuals must first pass a series of exams that test their knowledge and skills in their chosen field. These exams can be taken at any authorized testing center or online through the Microsoft Learning Portal. After passing all required exams, individuals will receive their official MCITP certification.

The cost of obtaining an MCITP certification varies depending on the number of exams required for each specific area of expertise. Each exam typically costs between $125 - $150 USD per exam, so the total cost could range from around $500 - $2000 USD depending on which certifications you are pursuing.

8. Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP)

Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP) is an Apple certification program for IT professionals and technicians who want to demonstrate their expertise in supporting Mac computers, iPhones, iPads, and other Apple products. The ACSP certification is designed to help IT professionals gain the skills and knowledge necessary to provide technical support for Apple products.

The ACSP certification consists of two exams: the Mac Integration Basics exam and the macOS Support Essentials exam. The Mac Integration Basics exam covers topics such as setting up a network, configuring system preferences, managing user accounts, and troubleshooting common issues. The macOS Support Essentials exam covers topics such as troubleshooting hardware problems, using Apple diagnostic tools, performing system maintenance tasks, and more.

In order to become certified as an ACSP, you must pass both exams with a score of 80% or higher. The exams are administered by Apple Authorized Training Centers (AATCs) around the world. You can find an AATC near you by visiting the Apple website or contacting your local Apple Store.

It typically takes about four weeks to complete both exams if you are studying full-time. However, some people may take longer depending on their prior experience with Apple products and how quickly they learn new material.

The cost of becoming an ACSP depends on which AATC you choose to take the exams from; however, it typically ranges from $400-$600 USD for both exams combined.

9. CompTIA Linux+

CompTIA Linux+ is a certification that validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in managing, maintaining, troubleshooting, installing and configuring Linux-based systems. It is designed for IT professionals who work with Linux systems in an enterprise environment.

The CompTIA Linux+ exam typically takes about 90 minutes to complete and consists of 90 multiple-choice questions. To obtain the certification, you must pass both the LX0-103 and LX0-104 exams. The cost of the exams varies by region but typically each exam costs $219 USD.

To prepare for the CompTIA Linux+ exams, there are several resources available such as books, online courses, practice tests and more. Additionally, CompTIA also offers instructor-led training courses which can be taken either online or in person at a training center near you.

10. HDI Desktop Support Technician

HDI Desktop Support Technician is an industry certification for IT professionals who provide technical support to end-users of desktop computers, laptops, and other devices. It is designed to ensure that technicians have the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively troubleshoot and resolve hardware and software problems related to desktop computing.

The HDI Desktop Support Technician certification requires passing a single exam. The exam consists of 75 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within 90 minutes. To prepare for the exam, candidates should have at least six months of hands-on experience in desktop support or a related field. Additionally, they should review the provided study materials available on the HDI website.

The cost of taking the HDI Desktop Support Technician certification exam varies depending on where it is taken. Generally, it costs around $200 USD per attempt. However, some organizations may offer discounted rates or even free exams for their employees or members.

In order to take the HDI Desktop Support Technician certification exam, candidates must register with Pearson VUE, an online testing provider. After registration is complete, they will be able to select a date and time for their examination from available slots in their area.

Do You Really Need a PC Technician Certificate?

The answer to this question is ultimately up to you. There are certain benefits and drawbacks to obtaining a PC Technician Certificate, and it’s important to consider all of them before making a decision.

A PC Technician Certificate can be beneficial for those who want to work in the IT field as it provides evidence that you have the knowledge and skills necessary for the job. The certificate also demonstrates that you are committed to learning more about computers and related technologies, which can be attractive to potential employers. Additionally, having a certificate may give you an edge over other applicants when applying for jobs.

On the other hand, a PC Technician Certificate may not be necessary if you already have relevant experience or training in computer technology. It’s also important to note that obtaining a certificate can require significant time, effort, and financial investment. Depending on your current level of knowledge and experience, it might be more practical to focus on specific areas of expertise rather than obtaining an overall certificate.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a PC Technician Certificate depends on your individual situation. If you feel like it would benefit your career goals then it could be worth pursuing; however, if you already have relevant experience or training then there may be better ways to invest your time and money into developing your skillset further. Ultimately, the decision is up to you.

Related: PC Technician Resume Examples

FAQs About PC Technician Certifications

Q1. What is a PC Technician Certification?

A1. A PC Technician Certification is a credential that recognizes the knowledge and skills of an individual in the field of computer repair, maintenance and troubleshooting. It demonstrates the individual’s proficiency in diagnosing and resolving hardware and software problems, as well as installing and configuring computer systems.

Q2. What is the best way to prepare for a PC Technician Certification exam?

A2. The best way to prepare for a PC Technician Certification exam is to become familiar with the test objectives and topics covered on the exam. Additionally, taking practice exams or courses can help you gain a better understanding of what will be expected on the actual certification exam.

Q3. How long does it take to complete a PC Technician Certification?

A3. The amount of time required to complete a PC Technician Certification varies depending on the type of certification being pursued; however, most certifications require at least 40 hours of study time prior to taking the certification exam.

Q4. Is there an age requirement for obtaining a PC Technician Certification?

A4. Generally speaking, no age requirements exist for obtaining any type of certification; however, some certifications may have specific prerequisites that must be met before registering for an exam such as having prior experience or completing specific courses or training programs related to the topic area being tested on the certification exam.

Q5. Are there any costs associated with obtaining a PC Technician Certification?

A5. Yes - costs associated with obtaining a PC technician certification typically include fees for registering for and taking the certification exam as well as purchasing any necessary study materials or practice exams required to adequately prepare for these types of tests.