Top 10 Remote Support Engineer Certifications

Certifications are important for a remote support engineer in the job market as they provide employers with an assurance of the engineer’s abilities and knowledge. By having certifications, a remote support engineer can demonstrate that they have the necessary skills and qualifications to successfully perform their duties. Certifications also give employers an indication of how up-to-date the engineer is on current technologies, which can be essential in a rapidly changing industry. Additionally, certifications provide evidence that the engineer has taken steps to stay informed about advances in their field and is committed to staying current on best practices. In summary, certifications are an invaluable tool for remote support engineers to stand out from other applicants and prove their worth in the job market.

The purpose of this article is to review top certifications for Remote Support Engineers and explain how they can help advance a career in remote support engineering.

What are Remote Support Engineer Certifications?

Remote support engineer certification is a type of credential that proves an individual has the necessary technical skills and knowledge to provide remote IT support. This type of certification is designed to help individuals demonstrate their expertise in providing remote IT support services, such as troubleshooting hardware and software problems, configuring networks, setting up security protocols, and providing technical advice. With this certification, employers can be sure that their remote IT staff are knowledgeable and experienced in the field of IT support.

By obtaining remote support engineer certification, individuals can demonstrate their proficiency in working with various types of technology and increase their chances of being hired for jobs requiring these skills. Additionally, it can also help them advance their careers by giving them access to higher paying jobs as they gain more experience. Furthermore, having this certification can give them an edge over other candidates when applying for positions requiring IT-related qualifications.

Pro Tip: When pursuing a remote support engineer certification, be sure to select a program that offers hands-on experience. This will ensure that you gain the practical knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in this role. Additionally, look for programs that offer industry-recognized certifications, as these can help demonstrate your expertise and provide employers with tangible evidence of your qualifications.

Related: What does a Remote Support Engineer do?

Top 10 Remote Support Engineer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Remote Support Engineers today.

1. CompTIA A+ Certification

CompTIA A+ Certification is an industry-recognized credential that validates a technician's competency in computer hardware, software, and operating systems. It is the most popular entry-level certification for IT professionals, and is often the first step in starting a career in technology.

The CompTIA A+ certification consists of two exams: 220-1001 (Core 1) and 220-1002 (Core 2). Both exams must be passed to become certified. The Core 1 exam covers PC hardware, mobile device hardware, networking, and troubleshooting; while the Core 2 exam covers operating systems, security, software troubleshooting, operational procedures, and other technical support topics.

It typically takes between three to six months to prepare for the CompTIA A+ certification exams. Preparation may include studying textbooks or online courses, attending instructor-led training classes, or completing practice tests.

To get the CompTIA A+ certification you must pass both exams with a score of at least 675 out of 900 points on each test. After passing both exams you will receive your official CompTIA A+ certificate from CompTIA which will be valid for three years from the date it was issued.

The cost of taking the CompTIA A+ Certification Exams varies depending on where you take them but typically ranges from $200-$300 USD per exam.

2. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) is a certification program designed to validate an individual's expertise in designing, implementing, and managing solutions based on Microsoft technologies. It is intended for IT professionals who have a minimum of two years of experience working with Windows Server operating systems, networking infrastructure, and active directory.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for the MCSE certification exams. The preparation process includes studying the relevant materials, taking practice tests, and attending instructor-led classes or self-study courses.

To get the MCSE certification, you must pass four core exams and one elective exam that covers the technology related to your chosen specialization. The four core exams are:

• Windows Server 2016 (70-740)
• Networking with Windows Server 2016 (70-741)
• Identity with Windows Server 2016 (70-742)
• Implementing a Software Defined Datacenter (70-745).

You also need to pass one elective exam from a list of options such as:

• Deploying Enterprise Voice with Skype for Business 2015 (70-333)
• Designing and Implementing Cloud Data Platform Solutions (70-473)
• Administering Microsoft Exchange Server 2016/2019 (70-345).

The cost of each exam varies depending on where you take it; however, most exams cost around $165 USD.

3. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is a certification program developed by Cisco Systems to recognize individuals who have achieved the foundational knowledge and skills needed to work with Cisco networking technologies. The CCNA certification is designed for entry-level network engineers, system administrators, and network designers who are looking to gain the necessary skills to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot medium-sized routed and switched networks.

The CCNA exam typically takes around 90 minutes to complete and covers topics such as IP addressing and subnetting, routing protocols, switching technologies, WAN technologies, security fundamentals, wireless technologies, and more. To obtain the CCNA certification you must pass one exam which costs $325 USD. The exam can be taken at any Pearson VUE or Prometric testing center.

In addition to passing the exam you must also meet certain prerequisites in order to qualify for the CCNA certification. These prerequisites include having a valid Cisco ID number and agreeing to abide by the Cisco Career Certification Program Code of Ethics.

Once you have passed the exam you will receive your official CCNA certificate from Cisco within 4-6 weeks. You will then be able to use your credentials when applying for jobs or pursuing higher certifications such as the CCNP or CCIE.

4. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is an internationally recognized certification for information security professionals. It is designed to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the core principles, concepts, and best practices of information security. It is one of the most sought-after certifications in the field and is held by many of the leading IT security professionals.

The CISSP exam consists of 250 multiple-choice questions that must be completed in six hours. The topics covered include access control, cryptography, software development security, operations security, business continuity planning and disaster recovery planning, legal regulations and compliance, and physical security. To become certified, you must pass the exam with a score of at least 700 out of 1,000 points.

To get your CISSP certification you will need to complete an application process which includes submitting proof that you have at least five years' experience in two or more domains within the Common Body of Knowledge (CBK). Once approved for testing, you can register for the exam through (ISC)² or Pearson VUE. The cost for taking the exam is $699 USD for members and $999 USD for non-members.

Once you have passed the exam you will need to submit an endorsement form from another CISSP holder who can attest to your experience in information security. Once this form has been submitted your certification will be awarded after a review process which can take up to eight weeks.

5. VMware Certified Professional (VCP)

VMware Certified Professional (VCP) is a certification program designed to recognize IT professionals who have the skills and knowledge to install, configure, manage, and troubleshoot VMware vSphere environments. It is the most popular VMware certification and is considered a must-have for any professional looking to advance their career in virtualization.

To get the VCP certification, you must attend an authorized training course or pass an online exam. The training course typically takes three days and consists of lectures and hands-on labs. The online exam consists of 50 multiple choice questions and takes about 90 minutes to complete.

After completing either the training course or the online exam, you must submit your application to VMware for review and approval. Once approved, you will receive your VCP certification badge via email.

The cost of the VCP certification varies depending on which type of training you choose: instructor-led classroom or self-paced eLearning. Instructor-led classroom courses typically cost between $2,000 - $4,000 USD while self-paced eLearning courses usually cost between $500 - $1,000 USD.

6. ITIL Foundation Certification

ITIL Foundation Certification is an entry-level certification offered by the IT Service Management Forum (itSMF). It is designed to provide a basic understanding of the concepts and processes of IT service management as defined in the ITIL framework. The certification is intended for professionals who are new to IT service management or those who want to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the ITIL framework.

The certification consists of a two-hour, multiple-choice exam that tests your knowledge of the core concepts, principles, and terminology associated with IT service management. To pass the exam, you must score at least 65%.

The exam can be taken online or in person at an accredited testing center. The cost of taking the exam varies depending on where you take it but typically ranges from $150-$200 USD.

It usually takes about three weeks to receive your results after taking the exam. If you pass, you will receive an email with your certificate and a link to download it from ITSMF's website.

Once certified, you will have access to exclusive resources such as discounts on training courses, webinars, and conferences related to IT service management. You will also be able to display your certificate on your resume or LinkedIn profile.

7. Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)

Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) is a certification program offered by Red Hat, Inc. that certifies a person's ability to install, configure and manage a Red Hat Enterprise Linux system. The RHCSA certification is the most popular Linux certification and is considered the foundation for all other Red Hat certifications.

To obtain the RHCSA certification, you must pass an exam that tests your knowledge of system administration tasks on Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems. The exam consists of performance-based items that require you to perform tasks on a live system, as well as multiple-choice questions. It typically takes around 2-3 hours to complete the exam.

In order to take the RHCSA exam, you must first purchase a voucher from Red Hat or an authorized training partner. The cost of the voucher varies depending on your location and can range from $400-$600 USD. After purchasing the voucher, you will be able to schedule an appointment with Pearson VUE to take the exam at one of their testing centers.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your official RHCSA certificate in the mail within 4-6 weeks and will be listed in Red Hat's public database of certified professionals.

8. Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA)

Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) is an entry-level certification that validates fundamental technology knowledge in specific Microsoft technologies. MTA certifications are intended to provide a foundation for students and professionals who are beginning to build a career in technology.

The MTA certification program consists of nine core exams that cover the fundamentals of Windows Server, Networking, Security, Database, Software Development, Web Development and Mobility and Device Fundamentals. It typically takes between one to two hours to complete each exam.

To get an MTA certification, you must first pass the relevant exam(s). You can take the exams at any Pearson VUE testing center or online through the Microsoft Learning Platform. The cost of each exam varies depending on your location and currency exchange rates. In the United States, each exam costs $127 USD.

Once you have passed all the required exams, you will receive your MTA certification from Microsoft within four weeks of completing your final exam.

9. CompTIA Network+ Certification

CompTIA Network+ is a certification program developed by CompTIA, a non-profit trade association for the information technology industry. It is designed to provide IT professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to install, configure, manage, and troubleshoot networks. The certification is vendor-neutral, meaning it covers the fundamentals of networking regardless of the type of hardware or software used.

The Network+ certification requires passing a 90-minute exam that consists of 100 multiple-choice questions. To qualify for the exam, applicants must have at least nine months of experience in network support or administration or have earned either the CompTIA A+ certification or another qualifying credential from an approved list.

To get CompTIA Network+, you must first register for an exam at a Pearson VUE testing center (or other authorized test provider). You will need to pay an exam fee when registering; fees vary by country but typically range from $200 - $300 USD. After registering for the exam, you can prepare for it by studying materials available from CompTIA and other third-party providers. Once you feel prepared to take the exam, you can schedule your appointment with Pearson VUE and complete your test.

Once you pass the exam, you will receive your CompTIA Network+ certification credentials via email within two weeks after completing the test. Your credentials will include your name, score report, and certificate number which can be used to verify your certification status online at any time.

10. AWS Certified SysOps Administrator – Associate

AWS Certified SysOps Administrator – Associate is an entry-level certification that validates a candidate’s ability to deploy, manage, and operate systems on the AWS platform. It requires knowledge of AWS services and how they are used in a production environment. The exam takes approximately 130 minutes to complete and consists of multiple choice and multiple answer questions.

To get the AWS Certified SysOps Administrator – Associate certification, you must first pass the AWS Certified SysOps Administrator – Associate exam. You can register for the exam through the AWS Certification website and pay the associated fee of $150 USD. You will need to provide proof of identity before taking the exam.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your certificate within 2-3 weeks after completing it. Once you have received your certificate, you can add it to your resume or CV to demonstrate your expertise in working with AWS services in a production environment.

The cost for taking the AWS Certified SysOps Administrator – Associate exam is $150 USD plus applicable taxes.

Do You Really Need a Remote Support Engineer Certificate?

Whether or not you need a Remote Support Engineer Certificate depends on your individual goals. If you are looking to become an IT professional, then having a certificate may help demonstrate your dedication and knowledge of the field. It can also be beneficial if you are seeking to advance in the industry by obtaining higher positions, as it serves as proof that you have achieved a certain level of competence in the area.

On the other hand, having a certificate is not always necessary. Many organizations are willing to hire applicants based on their experience and skills alone. In some cases, employers may even prefer candidates without formal qualifications, who they believe will learn quicker and require less guidance. Ultimately, it depends on what kind of job opportunities you are applying for and how much value potential employers place on credentials such as certificates.

In addition to deciding whether or not you need a Remote Support Engineer Certificate for career prospects, consider whether this type of certification would actually benefit you personally. Do you feel that it would improve your understanding of remote support engineering? Could it give you more confidence when dealing with technical issues? Would it help you stay up-to-date with new technologies? If so, then obtaining a certificate may be worth considering.

In conclusion, the decision whether or not to pursue a Remote Support Engineer Certificate ultimately comes down to personal preference and career goals. While having one may potentially give your resume an edge over other applicants and help validate your abilities in the field, there are many successful IT professionals who have achieved success without any formal qualifications.

Related: Remote Support Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Remote Support Engineer Certifications

Q1. What is a Remote Support Engineer Certification?

A1. A Remote Support Engineer Certification is a certification that demonstrates proficiency in the installation, configuration and maintenance of IT systems and networks remotely. It also covers topics such as networking, security and troubleshooting.

Q2. What are the benefits of having a Remote Support Engineer Certification?

A2. Having a Remote Support Engineer Certification can help you stand out from other job applicants, increase your salary potential, and provide you with the skills needed to succeed in this field. It also demonstrates that you have the knowledge and experience necessary to work with remote systems effectively.

Q3. How do I get a Remote Support Engineer Certification?

A3. Most certifications are offered through industry-recognized organizations such as CompTIA or Microsoft, or through accredited institutions such as universities or technical schools. You will need to complete an exam to obtain the certification.

Q4. How long does it take to get a Remote Support Engineer Certification?

A4. This depends on the institution offering the certification and how much time you have available to study for the exam. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from several weeks to several months to complete all of the required coursework and prepare for an exam.

Q5. What type of jobs can I apply for with a Remote Support Engineer Certification?

A5: With a Remote Support Engineer Certification, you may be eligible for positions such as Systems Administrator, Network Administrator, Technical Support Specialist, Help Desk Technician or IT Consultant roles in various industries including healthcare, finance and education sectors among others.