Top 10 Technical Support Associate Certifications

Certifications are important for a technical support associate in the job market because they demonstrate to employers that the individual has taken the time to learn more about their field and has acquired specific skills related to their job. Having certifications can also give an applicant a competitive edge in the job market, as it shows employers that they have achieved a certain level of knowledge and proficiency in their chosen field. Additionally, many employers prefer to hire individuals who have certifications because it demonstrates that they are dedicated and committed to their profession. Finally, having certifications can help technical support associates stand out from other applicants, as it is a sign of professionalism and dedication.

This article reviews the top certifications for Technical Support Associates and explains how they can help to advance a technical support associate's career.

What are Technical Support Associate Certifications?

Technical support associate certification is a professional certification that verifies an individual's knowledge and proficiency in providing technical support for customers. This type of certification demonstrates to employers and clients that the individual has the necessary skills to provide quality customer service and technical support. It also serves as a valuable credential for job seekers, as it shows potential employers that the individual has studied and mastered the fundamentals of providing technical support.

The certification typically consists of coursework and exams that cover topics such as troubleshooting, system maintenance, networking, hardware components, software applications, customer service principles, security protocols, and more. With this certification, individuals can demonstrate their expertise in providing technical support to customers and show employers they have the necessary skills to be successful in the role.

Having a technical support associate certification can help individuals stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs or contracts. Having this credential makes them more attractive to employers looking for knowledgeable professionals who can provide efficient technical assistance. Additionally, having the necessary training helps ensure customer satisfaction with their services since it shows that the individual is well-versed in understanding customer needs and resolving issues quickly. Finally, having a technical support associate certification may give individuals access to job opportunities they wouldn’t otherwise have access to due to employer requirements or certifications needed for certain positions.

Pro Tip: When considering a technical support associate certification, make sure to do your research and find a program that is accredited by an established organization. This will ensure that the certification you receive is recognized by employers and is valid for future job opportunities.

Related: What does a Technical Support Associate do?

Top 10 Technical Support Associate Certifications

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

1. CompTIA A+

CompTIA A+ is an industry-recognized certification that validates a technician’s knowledge and skills in computer hardware, software, operating systems, mobile devices, security, and troubleshooting. It is the entry-level certification for those looking to break into the IT field or upgrade their current IT career.

It typically takes between 90 and 120 days of studying to prepare for the CompTIA A+ exam. The exam consists of two parts: Core 1 (220-1001) and Core 2 (220-1002). Each part has a maximum of 90 questions and must be completed within 90 minutes.

To get CompTIA A+, you must pass both parts of the exam with a score of at least 700 out of 900. After passing both exams, you will receive your A+ certification.

The cost of CompTIA A+ varies depending on where you take the exams. Generally speaking, it costs around $200 per exam ($400 total).

2. Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) is a certification program designed to help individuals validate their skills in Microsoft technologies. It provides a foundation for individuals who want to pursue more advanced certifications or gain job-ready skills in Microsoft technologies.

The MCSA certification requires passing one or more exams that cover topics such as Windows Server, SQL Server, Office 365, and Azure. The exact exams required depend on the specific certification track chosen.

It typically takes several months to prepare for an MCSA exam, depending on the individual's experience level and the amount of time they have available for study. There are various resources available online and through Microsoft Learning Partners that can help individuals prepare for the exams.

To get an MCSA certification, individuals must pass one or more of the required exams with a score of 700 or higher. Once all required exams are passed, candidates will be awarded the MCSA certification.

The cost of taking an MCSA exam varies by country and exam type. In general, each exam costs between $100 and $150 USD.

3. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is a certification program for entry-level network engineers. It is designed to provide the skills and knowledge needed to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot medium-sized routed and switched networks. The CCNA certification is valid for three years and must be renewed every three years.

In order to get the CCNA certification, candidates must pass one or more of the following exams: ICND1 (100-105), ICND2 (200-105), or CCNA Composite (200-125). Candidates may also opt to take the Cisco DevNet Associate exam in lieu of one of these exams. Each exam costs $300 USD and can be taken at any Pearson VUE testing center.

The cost of getting the CCNA certification varies depending on how many exams are taken and which study materials are used. Generally speaking, it will cost between $500-$1000 USD to get a CCNA certification. This includes the cost of exams, study materials, and any additional training courses that may be required.

4. ITIL Foundation Certification

ITIL Foundation Certification is a globally recognized qualification that demonstrates an individual’s understanding of the IT Infrastructure Library (ITIL) best practices. It is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage IT services and support processes. The certification is offered by Axelos, a joint venture between the UK government and Capita plc.

The ITIL Foundation Certification exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and consists of 40 multiple-choice questions. To pass the exam, candidates must achieve at least 65% correct answers.

In order to become certified, individuals must first register for an accredited course or self-study program. Once they have completed their training, they can then take the ITIL Foundation Certification exam either online or in person at an approved test center. The cost of the exam varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $200-$300 USD.

Once certified, individuals will be able to demonstrate their knowledge of key concepts related to service management such as Service Strategy, Service Design, Service Transition, Service Operation, Continual Service Improvement and more. This certification is also beneficial for those looking to advance their career in IT service management or consulting as it provides employers with evidence that they possess the necessary skills and knowledge required for success in this field.

5. HDI Support Center Analyst Certification

HDI Support Center Analyst Certification is an industry-recognized certification for support center professionals. It is designed to validate the knowledge and skills of individuals who work in a customer service or technical support environment.

The certification consists of two exams: HDI Support Center Analyst (HDI-SCA) and HDI Problem Management Professional (HDI-PMP). To earn the certification, you must pass both exams with a score of 70% or higher. The exams are administered by HDI, a division of UBM TechWeb.

The HDI Support Center Analyst exam covers topics such as customer service fundamentals, problem solving techniques, communication strategies, and technology troubleshooting. The HDI Problem Management Professional exam focuses on advanced problem management processes and tools.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for the exams and complete them successfully. You can prepare for the exams by taking online courses offered by HDI or studying independently using books or other resources available online.

The cost of the certification varies depending on where you take the exam and which version you choose (standard or premium). The standard version costs $299 USD while the premium version costs $399 USD.

6. CompTIA Network+

CompTIA Network+ is a certification program that validates the knowledge and skills of IT professionals in networking technologies. The certification focuses on the ability to design, configure, manage, and troubleshoot networks. It is vendor-neutral and covers topics such as network architecture, security, topologies, protocols, standards, and more.

It typically takes around 40 hours of study time to prepare for the CompTIA Network+ exam. To get certified you must pass the 90 minute multiple choice exam with a score of 720 or higher on a scale of 100-900 points.

The cost of the CompTIA Network+ exam varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking it costs around $329 USD to take the exam at an authorized testing center.

7. Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA)

Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) is a certification program designed to provide individuals with an introduction to the fundamentals of technology. MTA certifications are available in various areas, such as Windows Operating System Fundamentals, Networking Fundamentals, Security Fundamentals and Database Fundamentals.

The MTA certification is designed to take approximately 40 hours of study and practice to complete. The exam can be taken online or at a local testing center. The cost of the exam varies depending on the type of certification you are pursuing. Generally, the cost ranges from $50 - $100 USD per exam.

To get an MTA certification, you must first register for an exam through Microsoft's website. Once registered, you will receive instructions on how to prepare for the exam and access study materials that will help you pass the test. After passing your exam, you will receive your MTA certificate in the mail within 2-3 weeks from Microsoft.

8. Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP)

Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP) is a certification program offered by Apple to its support professionals. The ACSP certification recognizes individuals who have the skills and knowledge to provide technical support for Apple products, including Mac computers, iPhones, iPads, Apple Watches, and more.

The ACSP certification requires that applicants demonstrate their ability to troubleshoot hardware and software issues with Apple products. To become certified, applicants must pass an exam administered by Apple. The exam covers topics such as system architecture, networking, operating systems, troubleshooting techniques, and customer service skills.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for the ACSP exam. Applicants should have at least six months of experience working with Apple products in order to be eligible for the certification. It is recommended that applicants have a good understanding of the macOS operating system and other Apple technologies before taking the exam.

The cost of the ACSP certification varies depending on where you take the exam. In most cases it costs around $200 USD to take the exam.

9. CompTIA Security+

CompTIA Security+ is an industry-leading certification that validates the knowledge and skills of IT professionals in the areas of system security, network infrastructure, access control, and organizational security. It is designed to provide a baseline of security knowledge that can be applied across multiple platforms and operating systems.

The CompTIA Security+ exam consists of 90 multiple-choice questions and takes up to 90 minutes to complete. The exam covers topics such as network security, compliance and operational security, threats and vulnerabilities, application, data, and host security, access control and identity management, cryptography, risk management, disaster recovery/business continuity planning.

To get CompTIA Security+, you need to pass the Security+ exam (SY0-501). To prepare for the exam you should take a CompTIA authorized training course or self-study using books or online resources. You can also use practice tests to help you prepare for the actual exam.

The cost of taking the CompTIA Security+ exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $250-$300 USD.

10. HDI Desktop Support Technician Certification

HDI Desktop Support Technician Certification is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide effective desktop support services. It is an industry-recognized certification that validates a technician’s ability to troubleshoot, diagnose, and resolve technical issues related to desktop hardware and software.

The HDI Desktop Support Technician Certification is offered by the Help Desk Institute (HDI), a global organization dedicated to advancing the practice of help desk and service desk management. The certification is based on HDI’s industry standard for best practices in customer service, problem resolution, and technical support.

It typically takes about two months to complete the training required for the HDI Desktop Support Technician Certification. The certification consists of three components: an online course, an online exam, and a hands-on lab exam. The online course covers topics such as customer service principles, problem solving techniques, troubleshooting procedures, system administration skills, and more. After completing the coursework, candidates must pass both the online exam and the hands-on lab exam in order to receive their certification.

The cost of obtaining the HDI Desktop Support Technician Certification varies depending on whether you choose to take part in self-study or instructor-led courses. Self-study courses usually cost around $400-$500 USD while instructor-led courses can range from $800-$1000 USD depending on your location.

Overall, obtaining your HDI Desktop Support Technician Certification can be beneficial if you are looking to advance your career in IT or help desk support roles as it demonstrates that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide effective technical support services.

Do You Really Need a Technical Support Associate Certificate?

When it comes to a career in technical support, having a Technical Support Associate Certificate can be extremely beneficial. It demonstrates your knowledge and skills in the field of technical support and shows employers that you are qualified for the job.

Having a Technical Support Associate Certificate can also help you stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs. Having this certification may give you an edge over competitors because it proves that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to provide technical support services effectively.

In addition, having a Technical Support Associate Certificate can also open up new opportunities for advancement within the field of technical support. It allows you to demonstrate your commitment to learning and staying up-to-date with new technologies, giving employers confidence in your ability to provide quality service and stay ahead of trends in the industry.

Overall, having a Technical Support Associate Certificate is highly recommended if you want to pursue a career in technical support. It is an important credential that will help you stand out from other applicants and give employers confidence that you have the necessary skills to do the job successfully.

Related: Technical Support Associate Resume Examples

FAQs About Technical Support Associate Certifications

Q1. What is a Technical Support Associate Certification?

A1. A Technical Support Associate Certification is a program designed to provide individuals with the skills and knowledge to become successful technical support professionals. The certification covers topics such as customer service, troubleshooting, hardware and software installation, networking, security, and more.

Q2. How do I get certified as a Technical Support Associate?

A2. To become certified as a Technical Support Associate, you must complete an accredited program or course that covers the topics listed in the certification requirements. Once you have completed the program or course, you must pass an examination to receive your certification.

Q3. How long does it take to become certified as a Technical Support Associate?

A3. It depends on the type of program or course you take and how much time you can dedicate to studying for the exam. Generally, it takes between 6-12 months to complete all of the necessary requirements for certification.

Q4. What are the benefits of becoming a certified Technical Support Associate?

A4. Becoming certified as a Technical Support Associate can open up career opportunities in many different industries, including IT support services and customer service roles in companies around the world. Additionally, having this certification demonstrates your commitment to excellence and gives potential employers an indication of your level of knowledge and skill in technical support areas.

Q5. Is there ongoing training required after becoming certified as a Technical Support Associate?

A5. Yes! As technology continues to evolve and change rapidly, it’s important for technical support professionals to stay up-to-date on new developments in their field by completing continuing education courses or programs related to their area of expertise each year or so depending on their employer's requirements