20 Best IT Certifications for Beginners | IT Career

The IT sector is one of the fastest-growing industries in the world. IT beginners require the best certifications to compete effectively.

Huge opportunities are waiting to be tapped into by discerning individuals looking to create a niche for themselves in the IT world. However, just like every other career path, there is a need to understand the basics, develop necessary skills and master the art that will make you function effectively in the tech industry. 

Therefore, earning any of the best IT certifications is very crucial in starting you off in this career path. In this article, I’m thrilled to bring to you the best IT certifications for beginners. Obtaining a certification in a specialized IT area confirms to your manager that you have the clear-cut skills needed to perform optimally on the job if hired.

Before we go on to list the IT certifications in demand, let’s define an IT certification.

What is an IT Certification?

An IT certification is a designation that demonstrates a professional’s proficiency in a specific area of technology. Certifications are frequently obtained after some form of assessment, education, or review.

According to webopedia,  IT certifications educate and validate a professional’s specialized competency.

Certification programs are frequently encouraged or overseen by a certifying agency, such as a professional association.

Some major computer software and hardware vendors offer certification programs for product installers, such as Microsoft’s Certified Systems Engineer ( MCSE ) for its Windows operating systems, IBM’s Certified Lotus Specialist (CLS), and Cisco’s Certified Internetwork Professional (CIW). 

Read: Top 10 Free IT Certifications for Veterans

Why Get A Certification In IT? 

IT Certifications provide credibility for those seeking a career in an IT field. By attaining one or more IT certifications, you stand distinguished and more likely to climb higher in the work cadre.

When combined with specific work experience, IT certifications communicate to hiring managers, firms, and enterprises that a candidate has the skills and competence to handle the expectations and demands of specific information technology jobs.

Furthermore, obtaining relevant certifications in IT helps those in the IT field stay current on developing trends in information technology while improving their skillsets.

Information technology certifications can also be valuable in helping employees seeking a promotion or putting themselves in consideration for other higher-level positions in similar IT fields.

Lastly, obtaining any of the IT certifications in demand can also result in a boost to an employee’s current salary. 

These are the reasons to get the best IT certifications for beginners.

What Are The Best IT Certifications for Beginners To Have? 

Certifications demonstrate not only your skill level but also dedication to your craft through professional development and that you have the foresight necessary to stay ahead of industry trends.

If you’re looking for the best IT certifications to have whether as a beginner or expert in the IT industry, here is a list of the top 10 best IT certifications for beginners in demand that will offer you credibility, knowledge, and hiring value to employers. 

#1 Google Certified Professional Cloud Architect

GCPCA or Google Certified Professional Cloud Architect certification is one of the most relevant and important certifications you can attain.

According to Google, “this course starts by looking at the fundamentals of Google Cloud Platform, including App Engine, Kubernetes Engine, Compute Engine, storage, BigQuery, Cloud Firestore, and app deployment, and give you the chance to build solutions in live GCP environments via our hands-on labs.”

While there are no formal prerequisites, Google advises three+ years of industry experience, including at least one year designing and managing solutions using GCP.

#2 Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC)

Next on our list of best IT certifications to have is the Global Information Assurance Certification. GIAC gives you the fundamental knowledge and real-world experience in cybersecurity.

According to a current report by Fortinet, “94% of cybersecurity practitioners believe their certifications have better prepared them for their current role.” 

With GIAC certification, you will expand your knowledge of cybersecurity by learning how to cover cyber defense, penetration testing, digital forensics, incident response, and much more.

There are four certification levels available: introductory, intermediate, advanced, and expert.

#3 AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate

The AWS Certified Solutions Architect certification demonstrates a person’s ability to create and use scalable systems on AWS.

It’s recommended for individuals who have a solutions architect position and have at least a year of experience in designing and implementing effective scalable AWS systems.

At the end of the certification program, you will effectively demonstrate knowledge of how to architect and deploy secure and robust applications on AWS technologies.

#4 Certified Data Privacy Solutions Engineer (CDPSE)

The Certified Data Privacy Solutions Engineer (CDPSE) certification offered through the ISACA confirms that you have the skills to navigate the increasing complexity of data privacy and security.

It is an experience-based technical certification that evaluates your ability to implement privacy by design, resulting in privacy technology platforms and solutions that establish confidence and promote data privacy.

To qualify for the exam, you must have at least five years of experience in privacy governance and architecture.

#5 Certified Ethical Hacker

The EC-Certified Council’s Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification validates your ability to identify and prevent computer system vulnerabilities.

As an ethical hacker, you use the same skills, techniques, and knowledge as a malicious hacker to assist in the establishment of better security measures to prevent future attacks.

Ethical hackers are in charge of identifying flaws in an organization’s networks and systems and then using that knowledge to protect the company from potential threats.

#6 Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE)

The Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) certification is the most high-level certification available through Cisco’s program.

Once you pass your CCIE exam in any topic of choice, you will have reached the highest level of Cisco certification currently available.

Before you can earn your expert-level certification, it’s recommended to have at least five to seven years of experience in the certification subject. 

#7 Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

ISACA offers the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) certification to demonstrate your expertise in IS/IT auditing, control, and security and to distinguish yourself as one of the most qualified in the industry.

This certification equips professionals with the ability to manage all stages of the auditing process. The CISA is globally recognized as the primary certification for information security audit control.

If you work in information systems auditing, security, or control, this certification could be a good fit for you.

#8 Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification is available in a variety of specializations, including security, wireless, routing and switching, industrial, Internet of Things, data center, cyber operations, collaboration, and cloud.

Network basics, network access, IP connection, IP services, security fundamentals, and automation and programmability are all covered in the test.

#9 Project Management Professional (PMP)

The PMP certification is offered through Project Management Institute and is meant for entry and advanced-level project management professionals.

The certification covers project management fundamentals, such as the five major stages of a project’s life cycle: initiating, planning, executing, monitoring and controlling, and closing.

To take the exam, you must have a four-year degree and three years of project management experience, as well as 4,500 hours of leading and directing projects and 35 hours of project management. 

#10 Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC)

Individuals seeking a career as a security manager or director should pursue the Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC) certification.

This certification demonstrates that you are capable of recognizing and managing IT risk, as well as creating and maintaining information system controls. The CRISC exam is accessible online or at local test centers for $575 for ISACA members and $760 for non-members.

You can obtain a certificate after passing the exam for an extra $50. Individuals who pass the test can seek certification during the first five years.

What Certifications Do I Need For An IT Job? 

If you are looking to kickstart a career in IT, here are the top 5 certifications you need:

#1 CompTIA A+ Technician

CompTIA A+ is an entry-level certification that is based on various technological processes. It is the fundamental point for anyone interested in pursuing a career in the IT sector. 

CompTIA A+ technicians are held accountable for the upkeep of computer systems (PCs), operating systems (OS), printers, laptops, and mobile devices.

To obtain the CompTIA A+ certification, you must pass two exams (220-901 & 220-902), one multiple choice and one performance-based. The two tests cost around $200 to write.

#2 Certified Information System Security Professional (CISSP)

The CISSP certification is a global certification in the IT industry. This certification seeks to validate participants’ information security competence in order to protect organizations from attack.

The certification validates the comprehensive management and technical abilities necessary to manage and design information security initiatives.

The Certified Information System Security Professional (CISSP) credential includes eight topics; asset security, security and risk management, identity and access management, communications and network security, security engineering, security assessment, and testing, software development security, software development, and security operations.

The CISSP exam consists of 250 questions and takes 6 hours to complete. Cost of writing the test is $600.

#3 CompTIA Security+

Cybercrime is the biggest issue facing IT professionals in all areas.

With cybercrimes on the rise each year and new methods of perpetrating these crimes, there is every need to protect the cybers. Everyone joining the cybersecurity sector should have a Security+ certification.

Cybercriminals are astute and intelligent, and their tactics evolve on a near-daily basis. They come up with new ways to infiltrate systems and networks as soon as one issue is fixed.

This qualification demonstrates to potential employers that you have the capabilities necessary to deal with this continuously changing data.

This is one of the best IT certifications for beginners.

#4 Network+

Network+ is a well-recognized certification globally. This credential verifies an individual’s ability to manage, design, and troubleshoot various wireless and wired networks.

The certification process requires passing a 90-question exam (N10-006) on the configurations of wireless and wired network devices and other up-and-coming technologies.

Individuals with this Network+ certificate are in high demand all over the world. Within the last year, entry-level jobs that have been posted are about 5,500.

It costs $285 to enroll for the Network+ certification.

#5 CISCO Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

The Cisco CCNA certification is an entry-level certification that teaches students how to install, configure, and operate enterprise-level routers and switches.

Cisco Certified Network Associates are also capable of detecting and resolving common network issues. They have the option of specializing in wireless, security, or voice networking. Because many businesses are searching for this specific qualification at the new entry job level, this credential can open many doors for you in the IT sector.

When you put your mind to it, the certification process is simple, and studying can be a lot of fun. To become a CCNA, you just need to pass a 90-minute written test (200-125). The exam comprises 50 to 60 questions, the test comprises 50 to 60 questions. Cost of enrolling for the exam is about $295. 

This is one of the best IT certifications for beginners.

20 Best IT Certifications For Beginners In 2023

Certifications increase the legitimacy of your CV and make you more attractive to recruiters and hiring managers.

Various companies provide entry-level certificates, which are the simplest IT certifications to get. To take the certification test for these entry-level IT credentials, you do not need much expertise. Here are some of the easiest IT certifications for beginners. that will make you stand out from other candidates and even boost your pay: 

#1 CISCO Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

The Cisco CCNA certification is an entry-level certification that teaches you how to install, configure, and operate enterprise-level routers and switches. Cisco Certified Network Associates are also capable of detecting and resolving common network issues.

They can specialize in wireless networking, security, or voice networking. This entry-level certificate can open many doors for you in the IT world because many employers are looking for this specific certification at the new entry job level.

To be CCNA certified, you need to pass a 90-minute written exam (200-125). The test consists of between 50 to 60 questions.

The cost of registering for the exam is about $295. 

This is the first best IT certifications for beginners on this list.

#2 Network+

Network+ is a globally recognized certification. This certification validates a person’s ability to manage, design, and troubleshoot various wireless and wired networks.

Passing a 90-question exam (N10-006) on the configurations of wireless and wired network devices, as well as other emerging technologies, is required for certification.

The demand for Individuals with this certificate is on the rise. It costs $285 to enroll for the Network+ certification. 

Read: Top 15 Data Analytics Certifications to Enhance your Career

#3 Cisco Certified Technician (CCT)

Cisco Certified Technician (CCT) certification is obtainable in a variety of technical courses, allowing Cisco support technicians to further their education.

The Cisco Certified Technicians (CCT) credential validates your ability to diagnose, restore, repair, and replace critical Cisco networking and system equipment.

Technicians collaborate with the Cisco Technical Assistance Center to resolve service issues as quickly as possible (TAC).

Cisco-certified training can be completed in a few short sessions online, allowing technicians to keep working.

This is another best IT certifications for beginners.

4. CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ (ITF+)

The CompTIA IT Fundamentals+(ITF+) certification is designed for IT beginners. ITF+ is the only pre-career certification that can help students and career changers determine if they have IT abilities and if Information Technology is the proper career path for them.

ITF+ is the only single certification that covers all the IT foundation disciplines, making IT understandable to non-technical practitioners.

5. CompTIA A+

The CompTIA A+ is one of the best IT certifications for beginners. This certification is for persons who desire to work at a help desk, a support service center, or as a networking technician.

The applicant’s knowledge of hardware for PCs and tablets, software installation, and computer and mobile operating system settings will receive assessment.

A+ also assesses applicants’ basic networking, troubleshooting, and security capabilities. It can serve as a stepping stone to CompTIA networking or security certifications.

6. CompTIA Network+

The CompTIA Network+ certification course confirms the knowledge and abilities required to troubleshoot, configure, and administer wired and wireless networks in businesses worldwide.

It further verifies the recipient’s understanding of developing technology, such as cloud and virtualization.

It is a best IT certifications for beginners.

7. CompTIA Security+

CompTIA Security+ is a basic IT certification that validates the fundamental skills required to carry out critical security responsibilities and pursue a career in IT security.

The CompTIA Security+ certification was the first of its kind for IT professionals. It lays the groundwork for any cybersecurity profession and serves as a stepping stone to intermediate-level cybersecurity positions.

It goes on to say that the successful candidate has the knowledge and skills needed to assess the security function in an enterprise setting and recommend and implement effective security solutions.

8. Microsoft 365 Fundamentals

Microsoft 365 Fundamentals is a fundamental, entry-level IT certification for Microsoft’s M365 platform. This certification focuses on the basic features of a Microsoft 365 subscription.

This certification is appropriate for anyone who wants to work in information technology, particularly those who want to work with and manage Microsoft 365 settings and initiatives.

365 fundamentals is how the entry-level skills needed to help with M365 administration are interpreted.

It is one of the best IT certifications for beginners

9. Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA)

The Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) certification is a grouping of Microsoft’s entry-level IT certifications that demonstrate a person’s fundamental understanding of technology.

Earning this MTA certification furnishes you with the necessary skills to begin a technological career.

The certification course necessitates the use of a variety of training materials and assessments. For each MTA exam you pass, you will receive one MTA credit.

10. PMI Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)

The Certified Associate in Project Management is one of the Project Management Institute’s most well-known certifications (CAPM). CAPM is in high demand worldwide.

The CAPM certification is for project managers whose job requires they work on multiple project teams.

This entry-level IT certification is for those who desire to work in project management but don’t have much project management expertise.

11. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification is a cybersecurity certification that provides security professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify and exploit vulnerabilities.

The CEH credential is intended to assist security engineers in studying the same tools and information hackers.

The ethical hacker can locate, assess, and resolve any present device issues using various penetration testing methodologies.

Cybercriminals’ tools are used against cybercriminals in ethical hacking. There are three levels of the Certified Ethical Hacker exam: Central, Intermediate, and Expert.

This is one of the best IT certifications for beginners.

#12 Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP)

The Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP) certification is intended for help desk professionals, technical coordinators, and power users that administer networks or offer technical support to Mac customers.

ACSP certification solidifies your understanding of macOS fundamental functionality and your ability to configure essential services, perform basic troubleshooting, and support numerous Mac users.

#13 Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Routing & Switching

This CCNA certification is also a great way to get started in networking or as an entry-level role at a help desk.

This certificate indicates the user’s basic grasp of the Cisco CLI and Cisco IOS Software operating models.

The CCNA Routing & Switching exam will demonstrate your ability to recognize Cisco router and switch models, interfaces, cabling, and accessories.

#14 Cisco Certified Technician Collaboration (CCT Collaboration)

Cisco Certified Technician Collaboration certification focuses on the abilities necessary for providing onsite support and maintenance of Cisco collaboration endpoints and operating environments.

Technicians in this area can identify Cisco collaboration endpoint models, accessories, cabling, and interfaces, comprehend the Cisco collaboration software and identify commonly encountered software; and utilize the Cisco Command Line Interface (CLI) to connect and maintain devices.

#15 CCT Data Center

Unlike CCT collaboration, the Cisco Certified Technician Data Center (CCT Data Center) certification focuses on the skills required for providing onsite support and maintenance for Cisco Unified Computing Systems and servers.

Learners in this field must be able to identify Cisco Unified Computing System components and servers, accessories, cabling, and interfaces. Understand the Cisco UCS and NX-OS operating modes and identify commonly found software. And connect and service product components using the Cisco Graphical User Interface.

#16 Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification is available in several specialties, including security, wireless, routing and switching, industrial, Internet of Things, data center, cyber operations, collaboration, and cloud. Network basics, network access, IP connection, IP services, security fundamentals, and automation and programmability are all covered in the test.

#17 Google Cloud Certification

Google Cloud certifications validate your knowledge and demonstrate your ability to transform businesses using Google Cloud technology.

The foundational level certification validates your knowledge of cloud concepts and Google Cloud products, services, tools, features, and benefits. It uses cases that specifically give you an understanding of Google cloud.

This is one of the best IT certifications for beginners.

#18 Disciplined Agile Scrum Master (DASM) Certification

DASM certification course allows learners to understand the fundamentals of agile and lean approaches like Scrum, Kanban, SAFe®, and a lot more.

By taking this self-paced online course and becoming DASM certified, you’ll master how to customize your way of working to the approach that makes sense for the situation you face in your organization and industry.

Read: 17 Best MRI Tech Schools

#19 Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC)

Technology is a great risk factor for organizations, so having an expert on staff has never been more important. This staff can identify and evaluate aspects of IT that are a threat to business objectives. ISACA’s CRISC certification assures you of those skills.

This entry-level IT certification demonstrates the ability to identify and evaluate IT risk. And provide insight on that risk from an overall organizational perspective. Average IT professionals often lack the skills to conduct a valid risk analysis.

Having a CRISC-certified individual is vital to ensure risk is properly scrutinized and business objectives are met.

#20 PMI Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP)® Certification

This online IT certification is for people who are already experienced in using agile approaches, have good collaboration skills, and are eager to embrace the complexities of learning. The PMI-ACP certification deals with many approaches, such as; Scrum, Kanban, Lean, extreme programming (XP), and test-driven development.

FAQs on Best IT certifications for beginners

Conclusion

While there is no standard cost for IT certifications, entry-level IT certifications are typically less expensive than expert-level ones. Therefore, start building your knowledge strength from the elementary level, which is cost-efficient.

References

• https://www.prepaway.com/
• career.noomii.com/
• https://www.cio.com/
• www.indeed.com//-it-certifications

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