Top 11 Virtualization Engineer Certifications

Certifications are important for virtualization engineers in the job market because they demonstrate that an individual has a specific set of skills and knowledge related to virtualization technologies. Certifications also show potential employers that an engineer is committed to staying current with best practices and industry trends. Furthermore, certifications can help engineers stand out from other applicants, as they demonstrate a level of expertise that goes beyond basic job requirements. Finally, certifications can open up more opportunities and higher salaries since employers are often willing to pay more for certified professionals.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Virtualization Engineers and explain how they can help to advance a virtualization engineer's career.

What are Virtualization Engineer Certifications?

Virtualization engineer certification is a specialized form of IT certification that focuses on the use of virtualization technology. Virtualization allows multiple servers and applications to be hosted on one physical server or device, which can help to reduce hardware costs and improve efficiency. With virtualization engineer certification, individuals gain the knowledge and skills necessary to design, implement, maintain, and secure virtualization solutions. This certification may also help individuals become more attractive job candidates by demonstrating their expertise in this area. Additionally, virtualization engineer certifications can provide an edge in the competitive IT job market by allowing individuals to differentiate themselves from non-certified peers. Ultimately, having a virtualization engineer certification can help individuals develop their careers and provide them with greater opportunities for advancement within the field.

Pro Tip: Before pursuing a virtualization engineer certification, make sure that you have hands-on experience in virtualization technologies and understand the concepts behind them. Certification exams will require you to demonstrate knowledge of these technologies, so having practical experience is essential for success. Additionally, research potential certifications and prepare for the exam by studying the material provided by the certification provider.

Related: What does a Virtualization Engineer do?

Top 11 Virtualization Engineer Certifications

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

1. VMware Certified Professional (VCP)

VMware Certified Professional (VCP) is a certification program from VMware that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in virtualization technologies. It is designed to validate the skills and knowledge of IT professionals who deploy, manage, and support VMware solutions.

The VCP certification requires individuals to pass a qualifying exam, complete a required course, and demonstrate their hands-on experience with VMware products. The qualifying exam covers topics such as networking, storage, security, and other core virtualization concepts. After passing the exam, individuals must complete a required course that covers the installation and configuration of VMware vSphere or other related products. Finally, they must demonstrate their hands-on experience by completing a series of tasks using the product.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to obtain the VCP certification depending on an individual’s prior experience with VMware products. In order to get started on the path to becoming VCP certified, individuals should first familiarize themselves with the requirements for the certification and then decide which version of VCP they wish to pursue (e.g., vSphere 6 or 7). Once they have decided which version they wish to pursue, they can register for a qualifying exam at Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers. After passing the exam, individuals must complete an authorized training course before taking part in a hands-on lab assessment at an authorized testing center.

The cost of obtaining the VCP certification varies depending on where you are located and which version you are pursuing. Generally speaking however, it can range from $250-$3200 USD depending on whether you take online courses or attend in-person classes as well as how many exams you need to take in order to become certified.

2. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Private Cloud

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Private Cloud is a certification that demonstrates an individual’s ability to design and implement private cloud solutions using Microsoft technologies. It validates the skills necessary to build and manage a private cloud with Windows Server, System Center, and Windows Azure Pack.

The MCSE: Private Cloud certification requires passing three exams: 70-246: Monitoring and Operating a Private Cloud with System Center 2012, 70-247: Configuring and Deploying a Private Cloud with System Center 2012, and 70-413: Designing and Implementing a Server Infrastructure.

It usually takes about 3 months to get the MCSE: Private Cloud certification if you are studying full time. However, it can take longer depending on your experience level and how much time you have available for study.

To get the MCSE: Private Cloud certification, you will need to pass all three exams listed above. You can find more information on how to prepare for these exams on the Microsoft Learning website.

The cost of the MCSE: Private Cloud certification varies depending on where you take the exams. The cost of each exam is around $150 USD, so you should expect to pay around $450 USD in total for all three exams.

3. Citrix Certified Professional Virtualization (CCP-V)

Citrix Certified Professional Virtualization (CCP-V) is a certification program designed to validate an individual’s knowledge and skills in virtualizing applications and desktops using Citrix technologies. It is the highest level of certification offered by Citrix, and it demonstrates that the individual has mastered all aspects of virtualization technology.

In order to become a CCP-V, individuals must pass two exams: 1Z0-061: Citrix XenApp 6.5 Administration and 1Z0-062: Citrix XenDesktop 5 Administration. The exams are administered through Pearson VUE, and they must be taken within 12 months of each other in order to receive the certification.

The cost of the exams varies depending on where you take them, but typically they range from $200-$250 per exam. The total cost for both exams is around $500.

Once an individual has passed both exams, they will become a CCP-V certified professional. This certification is valid for three years from the date of passing the last exam, after which time recertification will be required in order to maintain the credential.

4. Red Hat Certified Virtualization Administrator (RHCVA)

Red Hat Certified Virtualization Administrator (RHCVA) is a certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in virtualization technologies and their ability to deploy, manage, and troubleshoot Red Hat Enterprise Virtualization (RHEV). This certification is designed for system administrators who are responsible for the deployment and management of virtualized systems.

It typically takes around 6-12 months to get RHCVA certified. The best way to prepare for this certification is to take the official Red Hat training course. The course covers topics such as deploying, managing, and troubleshooting RHEV environments. It also covers topics such as storage management, networking, user authentication, and security. After taking the course, you will need to pass an exam in order to become certified.

The cost of getting RHCVA certified varies depending on the provider you choose. Generally speaking, it can range from $1,500-$2,500 USD. This includes the cost of the training course and the exam fee.

5. Oracle VM Server for x86 Certified Implementation Specialist (OCI-S)

Oracle VM Server for x86 Certified Implementation Specialist (OCI-S) is a certification program offered by Oracle that recognizes IT professionals who have demonstrated expertise in the installation, configuration and management of Oracle VM Server for x86. This certification validates an individual’s skills in setting up and managing Oracle VM Server for x86 environments.

The OCI-S exam is a two-hour proctored exam consisting of 60 multiple choice questions. The exam covers topics such as installation, configuration, deployment, troubleshooting and maintenance of Oracle VM Server for x86. To be eligible to take the exam, candidates must have at least six months of experience working with Oracle VM Server for x86.

In order to get certified as an OCI-S, you must pass the OCI-S exam with a score of 70% or higher. The cost of the exam is $245 USD and can be taken at any Pearson VUE testing center worldwide. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your official certification from Oracle via email within 7–10 business days.

6. HPE ASE - Server Solutions Architect V2

HPE ASE - Server Solutions Architect V2 is a certification program from Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) that validates an individual’s expertise in designing, implementing, and managing HPE server solutions. This certification is targeted to those who have experience with HPE server products and technologies.

The exam for this certification consists of two parts: Part 1 is a multiple-choice exam and Part 2 is a performance-based lab exam. The multiple-choice exam covers topics such as server architectures, storage, networking, virtualization, security, and other related topics. The performance-based lab exam requires the candidate to configure and troubleshoot actual hardware components within a simulated environment.

The cost of the HPE ASE - Server Solutions Architect V2 certification varies depending on the country where you are taking the exam. Generally speaking, it costs around $400 USD for both parts of the exam.

It usually takes about 3 hours to complete both parts of the exam. However, it may take longer depending on your familiarity with the material covered in the exams.

To get started with this certification program, you need to first register for an account at Pearson VUE (the official testing center). Once registered, you can select which exams you would like to take and purchase them online or through a local testing center.

7. CompTIA Cloud+ Certification

CompTIA Cloud+ is a certification program designed to validate the knowledge and skills of IT professionals working in cloud computing environments. It is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates the ability to implement, manage, and troubleshoot cloud technologies. The CompTIA Cloud+ certification covers topics such as virtualization, security, infrastructure, resource management, and business continuity.

The exam for CompTIA Cloud+ consists of 90 multiple choice questions and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. To obtain the certification, you must pass the exam with a score of 750 or higher on a scale of 100-900. The cost of the exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $250-$300 USD.

To prepare for the exam, it is recommended that you have at least two years of experience in network administration with a focus on security and/or data center administration. Additionally, CompTIA offers several resources to help you study for the exam including practice tests and study guides.

8. Amazon Web Services Certified SysOps Administrator – Associate

Amazon Web Services Certified SysOps Administrator – Associate is a certification program designed to validate an individual’s knowledge and skills in deploying, managing, and operating systems on the Amazon Web Services (AWS) cloud platform. The certification exam covers topics such as monitoring and metrics, automation, high availability, storage options, security, networking, and disaster recovery.

The exam typically takes around 2 hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions. You can choose to take the exam online or at a testing center. It costs $150 USD to register for the exam.

In order to become certified as an AWS Certified SysOps Administrator – Associate you must meet certain prerequisites including having at least one year of experience working with AWS services in a production environment; having familiarity with scripting languages such as Python or Ruby; understanding of network technologies such as DNS, DHCP, routing protocols; and familiarity with Linux/Unix operating systems. Additionally, you must pass the associated certification exam which covers topics related to system administration on AWS.

9. Cisco CCNA Data Center Certification

Cisco CCNA Data Center Certification is a professional-level certification that validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in designing, implementing, and managing Cisco data center technologies. It is a valuable credential for professionals who want to work with the latest data center solutions from Cisco.

It typically takes around 6 months of study and preparation to get the CCNA Data Center Certification. To get the certification, you must pass two exams: the 200-150 DCICN (Introducing Cisco Data Center Networking) exam and the 200-155 DCICT (Introducing Cisco Data Center Technologies).

The cost of taking these exams varies from country to country but typically ranges from $200 to $300 USD per exam.

10. Microsoft Azure Solutions Architect Expert

Microsoft Azure Solutions Architect Expert is a certification designed for IT professionals who have expertise in designing and implementing solutions that run on Microsoft Azure, including aspects like compute, network, storage, security and application services.

It typically takes about 6-12 months of study to prepare for the exam. To get the certification you must pass two exams: AZ-300 (Microsoft Azure Architect Technologies) and AZ-301 (Microsoft Azure Architect Design).

The cost of each exam varies from region to region but generally ranges from $165 to $200 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam such as registration fees or proctoring fees.

11. Google Cloud Platform Professional Cloud Architect

Google Cloud Platform Professional Cloud Architect is a certification program designed to help individuals demonstrate their expertise in designing, developing, managing and securing applications and infrastructure on Google Cloud Platform. It is an intermediate-level certification that requires a combination of hands-on experience and knowledge of the Google Cloud Platform.

To get certified as a Google Cloud Platform Professional Cloud Architect, you must pass both the Associate Cloud Engineer exam and the Professional Cloud Architect exam. The Associate Cloud Engineer exam covers basic cloud concepts, core services on GCP, deployment management and security fundamentals. The Professional Cloud Architect exam focuses on designing solutions using GCP services, understanding best practices for architecting solutions, planning and managing implementations of GCP projects, and understanding cost optimization strategies.

The exams can be taken online or at a testing center. Each exam takes approximately 2 hours to complete.

The cost for the Associate Cloud Engineer exam is $125 USD and the cost for the Professional Cloud Architect exam is $200 USD.

Do You Really Need a Virtualization Engineer Certificate?

The short answer is no. A virtualization engineer certificate is not necessary in order to become a successful virtualization engineer. Many employers may value the extra credential, but it is not an absolute requirement for success in this field.

That said, there are many advantages to obtaining a virtualization engineer certificate. The primary benefit is that it demonstrates a level of expertise and knowledge that can help you stand out from other applicants during the hiring process. Additionally, having an official certification on your resume or CV can provide a level of credibility and assurance to potential employers that you know what you’re doing when it comes to working with virtualized systems.

Furthermore, having a virtualization engineer certificate can be beneficial if you want to specialize in certain areas within the field such as cloud computing or data center management. Having this type of certification can provide employers with the assurance that you have the skills and knowledge required to work successfully within these specific areas.

In conclusion, although it is not absolutely necessary for success as a virtualization engineer, obtaining a virtualization engineer certificate can certainly be beneficial in terms of helping you stand out from other applicants, providing credibility to potential employers, and allowing you to specialize in certain areas within the field.

Related: Virtualization Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Virtualization Engineer Certifications

Q1. What certifications are available for virtualization engineers?

A1. Popular certifications for virtualization engineers include VMware Certified Professional (VCP), Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) Cloud Platform and Infrastructure, Citrix Certified Professional – Virtualization (CCP-V), Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE), and CompTIA Cloud+ certification.

Q2. What is the cost associated with obtaining a virtualization engineer certification?

A2. The cost of obtaining a virtualization engineer certification varies depending on the provider and the type of certification you’re looking to receive. Generally, expect to pay anywhere from $100 - $500 for an exam or course associated with a virtualization engineer certification.

Q3. How long does it take to obtain a virtualization engineer certification?

A3. The time frame to obtain a virtualization engineer certification can vary based on your experience level, the type of certification you’re pursuing, and how dedicated you are to studying for the exam(s). On average, it could take anywhere from 3-6 months of preparation time before sitting for an exam or course associated with a virtualization engineer certification.

Q4. What is required to maintain my virtualization engineer certification?

A4. Depending on the provider, most certifications require that you remain current in order to keep your credentials valid and active within their system. This may include renewing your credentials every few years or taking additional exams or courses related to the field in order to stay up-to-date on best practices within the industry.

Q5. Are there any prerequisites I need to meet before taking an exam or course associated with a virtualization engineer certification?

A5: Yes, depending on the provider and the type of exam/course you’re looking at taking, there may be certain prerequisites that need to be met before enrolling in said program or taking an exam associated with it. Be sure to check with your provider beforehand in order to ensure that you have all necessary qualifications prior to enrolling in any program or preparing for any exams related to obtaining your desired credential(s).