Top 11 Technical Support Analyst Certifications

Certifications are important for a technical support analyst in the job market because they demonstrate to employers that the candidate has a comprehensive understanding of the technologies and tools used in the role. Certifications provide proof that an individual has achieved a certain level of competence in their field, and show employers that they have taken the initiative to further their knowledge and skills. Certification can also be beneficial as it allows technical support analysts to stay up-to-date with new technologies, ensuring they remain competitive and attractive to potential employers.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Technical Support Analysts and explains how they can help to further a technical support analyst's career.

What are Technical Support Analyst Certifications?

Technical support analyst certification is a type of professional certification that demonstrates knowledge and proficiency in providing technical support to customers, users, and other stakeholders. This certification is typically offered by a third-party organization that specializes in providing certifications related to the IT field. It is designed to help individuals demonstrate their skills and abilities as a technical support analyst.

Having technical support analyst certification can help individuals stand out from their peers, as well as give employers assurance that the individual has the necessary skills to provide quality technical support services. It also shows potential employers that the individual is committed to learning and developing their skillset, which can be beneficial when it comes to job advancement opportunities. Additionally, having this certification may be required for some positions or may help improve an individual's chances of being hired for certain positions in the IT field.

Overall, technical support analyst certification can be beneficial for individuals who are looking to enter or advance within the IT field by helping them gain recognition for their expertise and demonstrating their commitment to learning and growing in the profession.

Pro Tip: Get certified in the specific technology you are supporting to gain credibility and stay up-to-date with the latest developments. Certification programs can provide an in-depth understanding of the technology while providing a competitive advantage over non-certified analysts.

Related: What does a Technical Support Analyst do?

Top 11 Technical Support Analyst Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Technical Support Analysts today.

1. CompTIA A+

CompTIA A+ is a vendor-neutral certification that verifies an individual’s skills in computer hardware and software. It is widely recognized as the industry standard for entry-level IT professionals.

The CompTIA A+ certification consists of two exams: 220-901 and 220-902. To achieve the certification, you must pass both exams with a score of at least 700 out of 900. The exams cover topics such as installation, configuration, diagnosis, preventive maintenance, networking, security, and troubleshooting of hardware and software components.

The total time it takes to get your CompTIA A+ certification depends on how much time you are able to dedicate to studying for the exams. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from 6 weeks to 6 months or more to complete the necessary study material and pass both exams.

You can purchase vouchers for each exam through CompTIA's website or through a third-party vendor such as VUE or Pearson VUE. Each voucher costs $219 USD (as of 2021). You can also purchase bundles that include both exam vouchers plus additional study materials such as practice tests and textbooks at discounted prices.

In addition to purchasing exam vouchers, you may want to consider taking a training course from an accredited provider such as CertMaster or ExamForce in order to help prepare for the exams. These courses typically range in cost from $200 - $500 USD depending on the provider and type of course you choose.

2. CompTIA Network+

CompTIA Network+ is a vendor-neutral certification that validates an individual's competency in networking. It is designed to validate an IT professional’s knowledge of network technologies, installation and configuration, media and topologies, security, and troubleshooting.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for the CompTIA Network+ exam. To get the certification, you must pass a 90-minute multiple-choice exam with a score of 720 or higher on a scale of 100-900. The exam covers topics such as network architecture, network operations, network security, network troubleshooting and industry standards/best practices.

The cost of the CompTIA Network+ exam varies depending on where you take it but generally ranges from $300-$400 USD.

3. Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) is a certification program offered by Microsoft that demonstrates an individual's expertise in Microsoft technologies. It is designed to validate the skills and knowledge necessary to implement, configure, manage, and maintain core infrastructure services in Windows Server 2012/2016 environments.

To become an MCSA, individuals must pass two or three exams depending on the track they choose. The exams cover topics such as installation, configuration, and administration of Windows Server 2012/2016 systems. The exams also include topics related to networking, storage, virtualization, identity management and system security.

It typically takes around 6-12 months to complete the requirements for the MCSA certification depending on the track chosen. To get started with the MCSA certification process, individuals must first register for an exam through Pearson VUE or Prometric Testing Centers. Once registered for an exam, individuals should review available study materials such as books and online courses to prepare for their exams.

The cost of each exam varies but generally ranges from $100 - $200 USD per exam. Additionally, some training providers may offer discounts or other incentives when registering for multiple exams at once.

4. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) is a certification program designed to help IT professionals demonstrate their expertise in designing, implementing and managing solutions based on Microsoft technologies. It is offered by Microsoft and is one of the most widely recognized certifications in the IT industry.

The MCSE certification requires that candidates pass several exams to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in working with Microsoft products. The exams cover topics such as networking, operating systems, server administration, security, virtualization, cloud computing, business intelligence and data management.

It typically takes about three to six months to prepare for the MCSE certification. Candidates need to have at least two years of experience working with Windows Server or other related technologies before they can take the exam. Additionally, they must be familiar with the concepts covered by each exam before attempting it.

To get an MCSE certification, candidates must first register for and pass all required exams. The cost of each exam varies depending on its complexity but usually ranges from $150-$200 USD per exam. After passing all required exams, candidates will receive an official certificate confirming their achievement of the MCSE credential.

Overall, getting an MCSE certification can be a great way for IT professionals to demonstrate their expertise in working with Microsoft technologies and increase their career opportunities in the industry.

5. ITIL Foundation Certification

ITIL Foundation Certification is a globally recognized certification program that provides an understanding of the IT Infrastructure Library (ITIL) framework. It is designed to help organizations and individuals understand how to align IT services with business objectives, improve service delivery, and increase customer satisfaction. The certification is awarded by the IT Service Management Forum (itSMF).

The ITIL Foundation Certification requires a minimum of 21 hours of study time, which can be completed in as little as three days. To get certified, you must pass an exam administered by a third-party provider such as PeopleCert or EXIN. The exam consists of 40 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within 60 minutes.

The cost of the exam varies depending on the provider and location; however, it typically ranges from $200-$300 USD. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your ITIL Foundation Certificate in the mail within four weeks.

6. HDI Support Center Analyst Certification

HDI Support Center Analyst Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to provide exceptional customer service in a technical support environment. This certification is offered by HDI (Help Desk Institute), an organization that provides training and certifications for IT professionals.

The HDI Support Center Analyst Certification consists of two exams: the HDI Support Center Analyst Exam and the HDI Customer Service Representative Exam. The first exam focuses on topics such as customer service fundamentals, problem-solving techniques, communication strategies, and troubleshooting processes. The second exam covers topics such as customer service best practices, conflict resolution, call handling procedures, and customer satisfaction metrics.

It typically takes about three months to complete the certification process. During this time, you must complete both exams within six months of each other in order to be certified. You can take the exams online or at an authorized testing center.

The cost of the certification varies depending on your location and whether you choose to take the exams online or at a testing center. Generally speaking, it costs around $400-$500 USD for both exams.

7. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is an industry-recognized credential from Cisco Systems that validates a person's knowledge and skills in networking. It is the first step in Cisco’s certification path and is designed to provide entry-level network engineers with the fundamental skills required to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot medium-sized routed and switched networks.

It typically takes between six months to one year of study and preparation to become CCNA certified. The best way to prepare for the CCNA exam is by taking a formal training course or self-study using online resources such as books, practice tests, and video tutorials.

The cost of obtaining a CCNA certification varies depending on the type of training you choose. Online courses typically range from $500-$2,000 while classroom training can range from $2,000-$4,000. The actual exam itself costs around $295 USD.

8. Oracle Database Administrator Certified Professional (OCP)

Oracle Database Administrator Certified Professional (OCP) is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a high level of proficiency in administering Oracle databases. This certification is designed to validate the skills and knowledge required for successful database administration, such as performance tuning, backup and recovery, security, and more.

The OCP certification requires candidates to pass two exams: one on Oracle Database 12c Administration and another on either Oracle Database 11g or 12c Performance Tuning. Candidates must also complete an approved training course prior to taking the exams. The training courses can be completed online or in-person through an authorized training provider.

The cost of the OCP certification varies depending on the number of exams taken and the type of training course selected. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $1,000-$2,000 USD for the entire process.

It typically takes around three months to complete all requirements for the OCP certification. This includes time spent studying for the exams and completing any necessary training courses.

9. Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP)

Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP) is an Apple certification program designed to provide IT professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to support Mac users. The ACSP certifies that a person has the necessary skills to troubleshoot, configure, maintain and optimize Mac OS X systems.

To become an Apple Certified Support Professional, one must complete a training program through an Apple Authorized Training Center. This training typically takes between two and four days, depending on the level of certification sought. The cost of this training varies depending on the provider, but can range from $500 to $2,000.

Once the training is completed, candidates must pass a series of exams in order to become certified. These exams are administered by Apple and cover topics such as troubleshooting hardware and software issues, configuring networks, managing user accounts and more. The cost of these exams also varies depending on the provider but can range from $150 to $300 per exam.

Once all requirements have been met and all exams have been passed successfully, individuals will receive their Apple Certified Support Professional certification. This certification is valid for three years before it needs to be renewed.

10. Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)

Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) is a certification from Red Hat that validates the skills and knowledge of system administrators in managing and deploying Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) systems. It is an entry-level certification for system administrators who are just starting out or have been working with RHEL for some time. The RHCSA exam focuses on core system administration tasks such as installation, configuration, troubleshooting, security, and other foundational skills.

The RHCSA exam typically takes around 2-3 hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions based on real-world scenarios. To get certified, you must pass the RHCSA exam with a score of 70% or higher.

To prepare for the RHCSA exam, you can take a training course offered by Red Hat or study independently using resources such as books, online tutorials, practice tests, and more. It is recommended to gain at least six months of experience working with RHEL before attempting the exam.

The cost of the RHCSA exam varies depending on where you take it. In the US, it typically costs around $400-$500 USD.

11. VMware Certified Professional (VCP).

VMware Certified Professional (VCP) is a certification program offered by VMware, Inc., the leading provider of virtualization and cloud computing solutions. The VCP certification validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in deploying, managing, and troubleshooting VMware vSphere environments. It is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates expertise in virtualization technology.

To earn the VCP certification, individuals must first pass the VMware Certified Professional (VCP) exam. This exam tests a candidate’s knowledge of the vSphere product suite and their ability to deploy, configure, manage, and troubleshoot vSphere environments. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and requires a minimum passing score of 300 out of 500 points.

The time it takes to get the VCP certification depends on how much experience an individual has with VMware products and how much study they put into preparing for the exam. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from one to three months to prepare for the exam depending on an individual’s existing knowledge base.

In order to get the VCP certification, individuals must first complete a training course from an authorized VMware training provider or complete self-paced online training from VMware Education Services. After completing training, individuals must register for the VCP exam through Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers.

The cost of obtaining the VCP certification varies depending on which type of training you choose to pursue: instructor-led classroom courses typically cost between $3,000 - $4,000 USD; self-paced online courses range from $500 - $1,000 USD; and exams range from $225 - $250 USD per attempt.

Do You Really Need a Technical Support Analyst Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual and their current career goals. A technical support analyst certificate can be beneficial for those who are looking to enter the field of Information Technology. It provides a comprehensive education in the fundamentals of troubleshooting, diagnostics, and problem-solving for both hardware and software. This type of certificate is also helpful for those who wish to improve their knowledge of hardware and software systems, as well as gain a better understanding of how these systems interact with each other.

Those who already have experience in IT may find that a technical support analyst certificate isn’t necessary for them to progress in their career. However, they may still benefit from having such certification as it could help them stand out when applying for jobs or promotions. Additionally, having this type of certification could provide them with additional opportunities to learn more about the latest technologies and trends in IT that could help them stay ahead of the curve.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a technical support analyst certificate depends on your current level of knowledge and experience in the field. If you feel that you’re already knowledgeable enough, then it may not be necessary for you to pursue such a degree or certification. However, if you feel like there’s room for improvement or want to gain an edge over other applicants, then it might be worth considering getting one.

Related: Technical Support Analyst Resume Examples

FAQs About Technical Support Analyst Certifications

Q1. What is a Technical Support Analyst Certification?

A1. A Technical Support Analyst Certification is a specialized certification that demonstrates a professional's knowledge, skills, and abilities in providing technical support services to customers. It typically covers topics such as troubleshooting techniques, customer service best practices, network technologies, and system administration.

Q2. How do I become certified as a Technical Support Analyst?

A2. Becoming certified as a Technical Support Analyst typically involves completing an approved training program and passing an exam administered by the certifying organization. Depending on the certification being pursued, additional requirements may include experience in the field or completion of specific courses related to the subject matter.

Q3. What are the benefits of becoming certified as a Technical Support Analyst?

A3. There are numerous benefits to becoming certified as a Technical Support Analyst including increased job opportunities, higher wages, increased credibility with employers and customers, and improved communication skills. Additionally, most certifications allow for continuing education credits which can be used towards keeping up-to-date with industry trends and developments in technology.

Q4. What types of certifications are available for Technical Support Analysts?

A4. There are many different types of certifications available for Technical Support Analysts depending on their area of expertise as well as their career goals and aspirations; some popular certifications include ITIL Foundation Certification, CompTIA A+, Network+ Certification, Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) Certification, Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Certification, and more.

Q5: Are there any prerequisites for obtaining a Technical Support Analyst certification?

A5: Generally speaking, most certifying organizations require that applicants have at least two years of experience working in the field prior to applying for certification; however this requirement may vary depending on the type of certification being pursued so it is important to check with your chosen organization prior to applying for certification.