Top 11 Systems Integrator Certifications

Certifications are important for systems integrators in the job market because they demonstrate to employers that they have the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to work in their field. They also show potential employers that the systems integrator is committed to maintaining a high level of competence and staying up-to-date with technology trends. Employers are more likely to hire someone with certifications than someone without them, as it shows that the individual has gone through rigorous training and can be trusted to do a good job. Certifications also help establish credibility for systems integrators and can lead to higher salaries or better job opportunities.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Systems Integrators and explains how they can help to advance a systems integrator's career.

What are Systems Integrator Certifications?

Systems integrator certification is a professional credential that provides formal recognition of an individual’s knowledge and experience in the field of systems integration. Systems integration is the process of integrating different computing systems, technologies, and software applications into a single cohesive system. With this certification, individuals demonstrate their ability to effectively design, implement, manage, and maintain complex IT systems.

The certification helps validate an individual’s expertise in the field and provides employers with assurance that they have hired someone with the right skills for the job. It also gives professionals the opportunity to differentiate themselves from other candidates in a competitive job market. The certification can also help professionals stay up-to-date on new technologies and industry trends through continuing education courses that are required for recertification. This could provide them with valuable insights which could help them better serve their clients or employers. Finally, having this certification could open up more career opportunities as many organizations prefer to hire certified personnel over those without any credentials.

Pro Tip: When considering a systems integrator certification, make sure that the program is accredited and offers a comprehensive curriculum on the topics you need to learn. Also, look into what type of support is offered after the certification has been earned, as having access to guidance from experienced professionals can be invaluable in helping you apply your new knowledge.

Related: What does a Systems Integrator do?

Top 11 Systems Integrator Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Systems Integrators today.

1. Cisco Certified Systems Integrator (CCSI)

Cisco Certified Systems Integrator (CCSI) is a certification offered by Cisco that validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in designing, installing, configuring, and troubleshooting Cisco systems. CCSI certification is designed to demonstrate expertise in the areas of network design and implementation, as well as system integration.

It typically takes around three months to prepare for the CCSI exam. Candidates must pass two exams in order to become certified: the CCNA Routing & Switching exam and the CCNP Routing & Switching exam. The cost of the exams varies depending on where they are taken, but generally range from $100-$300 per exam.

In order to get CCSI certified, candidates must first register with Cisco’s Learning Network and then complete their training program. This includes taking courses such as Designing Cisco Networks, Implementing Cisco Networks, Troubleshooting Cisco Networks, and Configuring Cisco Devices. After completing these courses, candidates can then take the two required exams. Once both exams are passed successfully, candidates will officially become a CCSI-certified professional.

2. CompTIA Server+ Certification

CompTIA Server+ is an internationally recognized certification that validates the technical knowledge and skills of IT professionals working in server environments. It is designed for experienced IT professionals with at least 18 months of experience in server technologies, who are looking to increase their expertise in server hardware, software, storage, networking, and troubleshooting.

The CompTIA Server+ exam consists of 90 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. The cost of the exam varies depending on the country and test provider but typically ranges from $200 - $300 USD.

To get CompTIA Server+, you must first pass the CompTIA Server+ Certification Exam (SK0-004). Once you have successfully passed the exam, you will be awarded your certification which is valid for three years. After three years, you must renew your certification by either retaking the exam or completing Continuing Education Units (CEUs). CEUs are earned by attending approved training courses or participating in industry events such as conferences or webinars.

3. Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) is a certification program designed to validate the skills and knowledge of IT professionals who work with Microsoft technologies. It is an entry-level certification that demonstrates an individual’s ability to design, implement, configure, and maintain Microsoft-based solutions.

To get the MCSA certification, you must pass one or more exams that cover topics such as Windows Server, SQL Server, Office 365, SharePoint Server, Exchange Server, System Center Configuration Manager, and Windows 10. Depending on the exam(s) you take, it can take anywhere from 1–3 months to prepare for the exam(s).

You can take the MCSA exams online or in person at a Pearson VUE testing center. The cost of each exam varies depending on which one you take; most exams cost between $100–$200 USD. You will also need to pay for any study materials you use to prepare for the exam(s).

4. Amazon Web Services Certified Solutions Architect – Professional

Amazon Web Services Certified Solutions Architect – Professional is a certification that demonstrates an individual’s ability to design and deploy applications on the Amazon Web Services (AWS) cloud platform. The certification is designed for individuals who have two or more years of experience working with AWS and have the technical expertise and experience in designing distributed applications and systems on the AWS platform.

The exam typically takes about 170 minutes to complete, with multiple choice, multiple answer, and fill-in-the-blank questions. Candidates must demonstrate their knowledge of designing distributed applications and systems on the AWS platform. To get certified, candidates must pass both the Associate level exam and the Professional level exam.

In order to become certified, candidates should first take an online training course or attend a classroom session to gain knowledge of the AWS platform. After completing the training course, they can register for the exams by visiting Amazon's website.

The cost of taking both exams is $300 USD each ($600 USD total).

5. VMware Certified Professional – Data Center Virtualization (VCP-DCV)

VMware Certified Professional – Data Center Virtualization (VCP-DCV) is a certification program offered by VMware to validate an individual’s expertise in virtualizing and managing data center infrastructure. It is designed for IT professionals who have experience with VMware vSphere, the industry-leading virtualization platform.

To become VCP-DCV certified, you must complete a training course from an authorized VMware training provider and pass the VCP-DCV exam. The training course typically takes 3 days to complete and can be taken either online or in person. After completing the course, you must then pass the VCP-DCV exam which consists of 85 multiple choice questions that must be completed within 2 hours.

The cost of becoming VCP-DCV certified will vary depending on the training provider and location but generally ranges from $1,500 to $3,000 USD. This cost includes both the training course fees as well as the exam fee.

6. Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)

Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) is a certification program offered by Red Hat, Inc. that validates an individual’s skills in managing and configuring Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems. It is designed to measure the competency of system administrators in using command line tools, working with files and directories, setting up network services, and performing basic system administration tasks.

The RHCSA exam typically takes two hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions. To become certified, candidates must pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher. The cost of the exam varies depending on where you take it; however, it typically costs around $400 USD.

To prepare for the RHCSA exam, individuals should have a good understanding of Linux fundamentals such as file permissions, user accounts, networking concepts, security concepts, and system administration tasks. It is also recommended that candidates have hands-on experience working with Red Hat Enterprise Linux before taking the exam. Additionally, there are several online courses available to help prepare for the RHCSA exam.

7. Oracle Solaris 11 System Administrator Certification

Oracle Solaris 11 System Administrator Certification is a certification program offered by Oracle Corporation. It is designed to validate the skills and knowledge of system administrators who are responsible for managing and administering Oracle Solaris 11 systems. The certification requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to install, configure, maintain, troubleshoot and optimize Oracle Solaris 11 systems.

To obtain the Oracle Solaris 11 System Administrator Certification, you must first pass the 1Z0-822 - Oracle Solaris 11 System Administration exam. This exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as installation, configuration, patching and upgrading, storage management, network administration, system security and troubleshooting. The exam takes approximately two hours to complete and costs $245 USD.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your Oracle Solaris 11 System Administrator Certification from Oracle Corporation. This certification is valid for three years from the date of issue. To maintain your certification status after this period has expired, you must retake the 1Z0-822 - Oracle Solaris 11 System Administration exam every three years or take an approved course in order to renew your certification status.

8. Citrix Certified Integration Architect (CCIA)

Citrix Certified Integration Architect (CCIA) is a certification program designed to recognize IT professionals who have the skills and knowledge necessary to design, deploy, and manage Citrix solutions. The CCIA certification is the highest level of certification offered by Citrix, and it validates an individual’s expertise in designing, deploying, and managing complex Citrix solutions.

To become a CCIA certified professional, you must first pass two exams: the Citrix Certified Professional – Networking (CCP-N) exam and the Citrix Certified Professional – Virtualization (CCP-V) exam. Once you have passed both exams, you can then take the CCIA exam. The CCIA exam is a three-hour proctored test that covers topics such as architecture design principles for virtualization, networking, storage, security, high availability, scalability, performance optimization and more.

The cost of becoming a CCIA certified professional varies depending on your location. In the United States, the total cost for all three exams is approximately $1,500 USD. The cost includes registration fees for each exam as well as any applicable taxes or other fees.

It typically takes about six months to prepare for all three exams and become a CCIA certified professional. This timeline assumes that you are already familiar with most of the concepts covered in the exams and are able to dedicate time to studying each week. Additionally, it is important to note that passing all three exams does not guarantee that you will become a CCIA certified professional; you must also meet certain experience requirements before being awarded your certification.

9. HP Accredited Platform Specialist (APS)

HP Accredited Platform Specialist (APS) is a certification program offered by HP that recognizes individuals who have achieved a level of expertise in the installation, configuration, and maintenance of HP server solutions. The APS certification validates an individual’s ability to install, configure and maintain HP server solutions in order to meet customer requirements.

The APS certification is designed for IT professionals who have experience with HP server solutions and the related technologies. It is also beneficial for those seeking to differentiate themselves in the job market or advance their career.

The APS certification requires passing two exams: one on hardware and one on software. Each exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. The cost of each exam is $125 USD.

In order to become certified as an HP Accredited Platform Specialist, you must pass both exams within 12 months of starting the program. You must also complete all required training courses within 12 months of starting the program in order to be eligible for certification. The total cost for the program is approximately $500 USD (including exam fees).

10. IBM Certified System Integrator

IBM Certified System Integrator (CSI) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who demonstrate expertise in the integration of IBM systems and software products. The certification is designed to validate technical skills and knowledge needed to successfully design, install, configure, and maintain IBM solutions.

It typically takes about three months to complete the requirements for the IBM Certified System Integrator certification. To get certified, you must first pass an exam that covers topics such as system architecture, installation, configuration, maintenance, troubleshooting and performance tuning. You must also have at least six months of experience working with IBM systems and software products.

The cost of the exam varies depending on the country you are taking it in. In the United States, it costs $200 USD per exam attempt.

Once you have passed the exam and met all other requirements for certification, you will receive an official certificate from IBM indicating your achievement as an IBM Certified System Integrator.

11. Dell EMC Proven Professional Data Science and Big Data Analytics

Dell EMC Proven Professional Data Science and Big Data Analytics is a certification program designed to help IT professionals develop the skills needed to work in the fields of data science and big data analytics. This certification program is offered by Dell EMC and provides an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates expertise in these areas.

The certification consists of two parts: the Data Science Associate Exam (DSAA) and the Big Data Analytics Professional Exam (BDAP). The DSAA exam covers topics such as data mining, machine learning, predictive analytics, and data visualization. The BDAP exam covers topics such as distributed computing, big data infrastructure, cloud computing, streaming analytics, and more.

It takes approximately 6-12 months to complete the program depending on how much time you are able to dedicate each week. To get started, you will need to register for both exams online through Dell EMC’s website. After registering for the exams, you will have access to study materials and practice tests that can help you prepare for the exams.

The cost of the program varies depending on which country you are located in. In the United States, it costs $350 USD per exam or $700 USD for both exams.

Do You Really Need a Systems Integrator Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual. For some, a systems integrator certificate may be necessary in order to obtain a job or promotion within their current field. For others, it may not be as important. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to pursue a systems integrator certificate should be made based on an individual’s specific career goals and needs.

For those looking to advance their careers in the IT industry, a systems integrator certificate can provide valuable recognition of your skills and knowledge in the field. This type of certification shows employers that you have gained an understanding of how to build and maintain complex computer networks, which is often a requirement for many advanced positions. Additionally, having a systems integrator certificate can demonstrate your commitment to learning new technology and staying up-to-date with current trends in the industry.

On the other hand, if you are already employed in an IT role that does not require any additional certifications or qualifications, then pursuing a systems integrator certificate may not be necessary. In this case, it is important to consider how much time and money would need to be invested into obtaining such a credential and weigh these costs against potential benefits that could come from getting certified. If you decide that it isn’t worth it for your particular situation, then there are likely other ways to stay current with technology without having to go through the process of getting certified.

In conclusion, whether or not someone needs a systems integrator certificate is ultimately up to the individual. It is important to consider what type of work one is doing currently or hopes to do in the future when making this decision as well as factor in any associated costs that may come with getting certified.

Related: Systems Integrator Resume Examples

FAQs About Systems Integrator Certifications

1. What is a Systems Integrator Certification?

Answer: A Systems Integrator Certification is a certification program that validates the knowledge, skills, and experience of professionals in the field of systems integration. It is designed to recognize individuals who have a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices related to systems integration.

2. What type of jobs require a Systems Integrator Certification?

Answer: A Systems Integrator Certification is required for jobs such as system architect, system administrator, systems engineer, network engineer, project manager, IT consultant, and other positions related to systems integration.

3. How do I become certified as a Systems Integrator?

Answer: To become certified as a Systems Integrator you must pass an exam administered by an accredited organization such as CompTIA or Microsoft. You may also need to complete certain courses or workshops related to the field of systems integration before taking the exam.

4. How long does it take to get certified as a Systems Integrator?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to get certified as a Systems Integrator will vary depending on the individual's experience and level of preparation for the exam. Generally speaking, most people are able to obtain their certification within six months to one year if they study regularly and follow all necessary steps for certification eligibility.

5. Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified as a Systems Integrator?

Answer: Yes, there are certain prerequisites that must be met prior to taking the exam for certification as a Systems Integrator. These include having at least two years' experience in systems integration or equivalent field experience, passing an approved course in systems integration or equivalent field experience, and having completed any other requirements set forth by the accrediting organization administering the exam (such as CompTIA or Microsoft).