20 Best IT Certifications

Humanity has gone through countless revolutions throughout history. The most recent is the information and communication technology revolution.

This revolution generated a schism between the old and the new; what is considered new today becomes an old and obsolete trend the next day. The need for this technology has increased as a result of these changes.

As a result, when compared to traditional resources, the latter has become the most widely used, leading to an increase in interest in new information and communication technologies by both businesses and individuals.

Technology advances at a breakneck pace. Artificial intelligence, geotargeting, automation, and other information technology developments have paved the way for further technological advancement.

Robotics is becoming smarter, and our refrigerators and thermostats can now be connected to the internet.

If you want to succeed in your IT job, you’ll need to stay up to date on the latest developments.

This article carefully explains everything about IT or computer certifications including the best IT certifications worth considering.

Is Earning an IT Certification Worth It?
What is the Cost of IT Certifications?
What are the Best IT Certifications?
What IT Certifications Should I get First?
Are there good IT security certifications I Should Have?
What IT Certifications Pay the most?
Best IT Certifications in 2024
What are the most useful IT jobs?
How Do I get an IT certification?
FAQs
REFERENCES
Recommendations

Is Earning an IT Certification Worth It?

Businesses are becoming more reliant on complicated technology, which raises the demand for competent IT employees who can deal with them.

Businesses may hire talented IT experts with real-world experience and in-depth knowledge instead of young grads with little more than classroom experience thanks to certifications.

IT certifications are required for any professional wishing to pursue alternative IT career choices or improve their present specialization’s IT abilities (and thus earn a higher salary).

What is the Cost of IT Certifications?

The exam, which can cost anywhere from $150 to $760, is the most expensive part of IT certifications. Free and paid certificate training courses, as well as free continuing education sessions, are widely available.

Most certificates require a set number of continuing education hours and must be renewed every one to two years, with renewal fees ranging from $45 to $200.

What are the Best IT Certifications?

The demand for experienced IT experts is growing as businesses continue to rely on increasingly complex information systems.

Individuals with specific IT certifications are even more in demand, as the rigorous exams and certification requirements demonstrate both deep knowledge and practical expertise.

We examined over a dozen common IT certifications and selected the best—those with the most demand, earning potential, and growth chances. Below are our best IT recommendations:

Google Certified Professional Cloud Architect
AWS Certified Solutions Architect—Associate
Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC)
Project Management Professional (PMP)
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
Information Technology Infrastructure Library Foundation (ITIL)

What IT Certifications Should I get First?

IT certifications can validate your knowledge in a variety of skill sets, increase your pay, and distinguish you from your competitors.

As your career advances, you’ll want to think about pursuing more advanced certifications to further your professional development.

You’ll know what niche to concentrate on and what skills you’ll require for your intended career path by then.

However, at the starting level, it’s best to go with IT certifications that are more general and will help you acquire a job.

Here are some IT certifications you should get first.

CompTIA A+ Technician
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
Certified Information System Security Professional (CISSP)
Cisco Certified Technician (CCT)
CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ (ITF+)
CompTIA Network+
CompTIA Security+
Microsoft 365 Fundamentals
Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA)
Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP)
Apple Certified Associate (ACA)
Certified Associate in Project Management
Certified Ethical Hacker
Certified Information System Security Professional
Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE)

Are there good IT security certifications I Should Have?

Yes, of course.

There are over 100 good Security certifications you can have that won’t only boost your resume, but will also distinguish you from your colleagues both in stills and paycheck.

Therefore, if you’re not sure which information security certifications to seek, start by looking into these ten common options. These certifications, which range from entry-level to advanced, will help you succeed in your career:

CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+)
CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+)
Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
SANS GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC)
CompTIA PenTest+
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)
CompTIA Security+
Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)

Let’s talk about some of them!

CompTIA Security+

Your employers can recognize you have great technical skills and a broad breadth of knowledge in numerous fields linked to information security if you have this entry-level accreditation on your CV.

Although you do not require any credential-related training, there are tools available to assist you. You may demonstrate knowledge in a variety of areas by earning this certification, including cryptography, threat management, and network access control.

CompTIA PenTest+

This is one of the good IT security certifications worth going for. With this certification, you can gain skills in five areas of information security.

Aside from that, you will understand the principle of Planning and scoping, pen-testing tools, attacks and exploits, information collection and vulnerability discovery, as well as reporting and communication.

Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+) CompTIA

A CASP+ certification may be the correct decision for you if you’re thinking about working for the government.

This coveted certification for advanced cybersecurity technicians is highly valued by government employers and in the IT industry. The Casp+ practitioner certification is the only hands-on certification that focuses on performance.

Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)

Professionals in the field of information security management (CISM) provide the best security procedures for enterprises and organizations.

The management and development of these information security systems is also the responsibility of certified professionals in charge of enterprise-level applications.

Employers will recognize you as an advanced, top-level candidate with the highest degree of standards in security risk management, program development and management, governance, and incident management and response if you have the CIM designation.

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

This advanced-level certification is not just one of the good IT security certifications, it’s also known for its rigorous requirements all throughout the world.

It appeals to IT decision-makers who like implementing security standards, rules, and procedures. Certified professionals are well-versed in their field and possess excellent technical skills that help them succeed.

SANS GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC)

The GSEC is a good option if you want to work in a hands-on security role at an entry-level level. You’ll require a strong skill set as well as a thorough awareness of information security terminology and ideas.

This certification qualifies professionals to recognize and avoid typical wireless assaults, as well as manage access controls, authentication, and password management.

What IT Certifications Pay the most?

While there are numerous IT certifications to choose from, you should pick the proper one based on the type of job you want and the salary you want to earn.

Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) – $146,730
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) – $143,501
IT Service Management (ITSM) – $130,215
AWS Certified Developer – $127,358
Certified ScrumMaster – $126,333
Project Management Professional (PMP) – $126,281
AWS Certified Solutions Architect – $125,214
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) – $123,524
Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) – $121,082
Agile and Scrum – $120,917

Best IT Certifications in 2024

If you’re contemplating a career switch or boosting your IT skills, 2024 is an excellent year to do so. We’ve ranked the most valuable credentials and explained where you can get the necessary training.

Below is a list of the best valuable IT Certifications that can help you in your journey to a successful IT career:

#1. Google-Certified Professional Cloud Architect

The first best IT certification to have in 2024 is the Google-certified Professional Cloud Architect. This is one of the IT certifications that pays the most in the industry and it was launched in 2017. It displays professional ability to design, create, and manage a cloud-based architecture on Google Cloud Platform (GCP).

The cloud is becoming more popular and useful for various types of businesses to store and manage enormous amounts of digital data. As a result, professional-level cloud architects are required for the specialty to remain relevant and flourish in the marketplace.

Individuals who hold the Google Certified Professional Cloud Architect certification earn an average of $175,761 annually.

This certification is available through Kryterion testing facilities. This is one of the best IT certifications.

#2. Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified Solutions Architect-Associate

The AWS Solutions Architect – Associate certification verifies a person’s ability to design and implement scalable systems on AWS. It’s perfect for anyone working on cloud infrastructures, reference architectures, or deploying systems and apps.

You must pass the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate (SAA-C01) exam to earn this certification. It is necessary to have the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner certification.

Before taking this exam, AWS recommended that you have a year of hands-on experience creating systems on AWS.

The AWS Solutions Architect – Associate certification is required for the AWS Solutions Architect – Professional certification. Individuals who hold this IT certification earn an average of $149,446 annually.

#3. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)

Information security has never been more important in today’s digital world of hackers and identity theft. The CISM certification encourages security best practices.

Employees with this qualification ensure that the firm they work for has a safe and secure digital environment. As a CISM, you can expect to earn $148,622 a year on average.

#4. Certified in Risk Information Systems Control (CRISC)

Certified in Risk Information Systems Control is one of the best IT certifications to go for if you want to learn how to identify and manage risks. Getting this certification will expose you to four primary IT skill areas: control monitoring and reporting, mitigation, and response, as well as assessment and identification.

Prior to this time, CRISC was the ninth most in-demand IT certification. Even now, it’s still in the top 10 in-demand IT certifications in the world. This is why its value is still at its peak.

As a CRISC certification holder, you will earn an average of $146,480 per year if you pass the exam and find work.

#5. Project Management Professional (PMP)

In the project management field, the PMP certification is a well-respected degree of standardized proficiency.

It is one of the top IT certifications that shows you’re your capacity to provide a high-quality service once you have it. Note, with this computer certification, you can expect to earn roughly $143,493 per year. This is huge money!

#6. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

In the IT business, the CISSP is a well-respected and sought-after computer certification.

With more and more commerce taking place in the digital realm, information security is only going to become more important as time goes on.

Many businesses consider the CISSP certification to be a requirement for higher-level information security roles.

And enrolling in this certification program will expose you to topics like Security operations, risk and security management, communications and network security, software development, asset security, security architecture and engineering, identity and access management, and security assessment and test.

A rough estimate of a CISSP annual compensation is $141,452.

#7. Azure Solutions Architect Expert is a Microsoft Certified Professional.

The Microsoft Certified Azure Solutions certification is at the advanced level. Two tests are required to obtain this certification (AZ-303 and AZ-304).

Without a doubt, the cloud’s most difficult and highest-paying certification. A Microsoft Certified Azure Solutions Architect Expert’s average pay is projected to be around USD 135,000.

#8. ScrumMaster certification (CSM)

ScrumMaster certification is one of the highly demanded IT Certifications. With this certification, you can comfortably show your knowledge of Agile Scrum and related processes at this entry-level certification.

Also, you will gain the required skills and knowledge to lead Scrum teams, teach them in this methodology, and motivate them to perform successfully. Moreso, you can be sure of making make an average of $135,000 per year in any industry you will work with this certification.

#9. Professional AWS Certified Solutions Architect

The AWS Certified Solution Architect (Professional) is one of the most difficult and valuable cloud platform credentials.

Notwithstanding, it still possesses one of the highest paying IT Certifications anyone can go for.

This certification is among the computer certifications at the professional level. With this certification, you gain the authority to use AWS products and services to integrate technical talents with business demands.

In the same vein, it will help you focus less on the cloud architect role and make not less than USD 135,000 on average yearly.

#10. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

This certification has been around since 1978, making it one of our list’s oldest and most prestigious certifications. Audit, risk, and cybersecurity skills are all validated by the CISA certification.

Using a CISA-certified specialist ensures that a company’s vital business assets are safe and secure and you must pass the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) test to earn this certification. As a CISA holder, you will earn about $132,278 annually.

#11. AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner

Next on the list of top and valuable computer certifications is AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner. Basically, AWS Cloud Practitioner is the prerequisite for a number of prominent cloud certifications, such as AWS Solutions Architect, Developer, DevOps Engineer, and SysOps Administrator.

This entry-level certification is specifically designed for people starting their careers. That means, if you are new to IT world, this certification is right for you.

Thus, it serves as a stepping stone to more advanced AWS certifications later on. Similarly, it verifies your ability to define core cloud architecture and architectural principles, as well as important AWS services.

With this IT certification, you can earn up to $131,465 per year.

#12. VCP-DCV: VMware Certified Professional-Data Center Virtualization

This top IT certification verifies the knowledge and abilities required to create a scalable virtual environment with VMware vSphere.

As a learner, you will learn how to operate, consolidate, and install VMware virtualization technologies such as vSphere High Availability and Distributed Resource Scheduler clusters from a variety of online learning materials.

Additionally, you won’t earn less than an average annual salary of $130,226 once you get certified.

#13. Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL)

The Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) is one of the most valuable top IT certifications. Likewise, it is the most frequently adopted framework for IT administration in the world, falling from seventh to tenth place in 2024.

Basically, the core objective of this certification is to develop a set of best practices for providing IT services in large enterprises.

Due to its objective, it has built a broad discipline that encompasses a number of significant specializations, including capacity management, help desk management, high availability (HA) computing, incident management, and IT operations, to mention a few.

Similarly, it serves as certification’s starting point and provides a broad overview of the IT service lifecycle. Information Technology Infrastructure Library holders earn about $115,464.

#14. Azure Fundamentals (Microsoft Certified)

Still, contemplating on the best computer certifications to pursue? Check out this Azure Fundamentals Certification.

Going for this IT certification can open up a lot of doors for you if you want to learn more about the Azure platform.

In this certification, you will be taught the core and fundamentals of the Azure environment and equally their related solutions.

Aside from the skill and knowledge, you will gain, you can make an average income of USD 126,000.

#15. Networking Citrix Certified Associate (CCA-N)

This is one of the most valuable IT certifications worth going for if you want to excel in your IT career. Citrix is the firm that issues the Citrix Certified Associate – Networking certification.

If you have a rudimentary understanding of networking topics such as the OSI model, servers, routing, and switching protocols, you can fully benefit from this certification.

Talking about the salary, you are likely to earn approximately USD 125,000 as an average annual wage.

#16. Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC)

Global Information Assurance Certification is among the best IT certifications. With this certification, you can get in-depth learning and real-world experience in cybersecurity.

Moreso, it will take you deep into the world of cybersecurity, covering cyber defense, penetration testing, digital forensics and incident response, developer, and information security management.

#17. Ethical Hacker Certification

This is among the computer certifications that certify your competence to identify and prevent computer system vulnerabilities.

As an ethical hacker, you employ the same skills, techniques, and information as a malicious hacker in order to improve security and prevent future attacks.

You will basically be in charge of detecting flaws in an organization’s networks and systems and then using that information to protect the enterprise against threats. And your salary will be around $81,000 on average annual wage.

#18. Oracle Certified MySQL Database Administrator (CMDBA)

This IT certification is for people who want to demonstrate their knowledge of improving performance, integrating business processes, and managing data and business processes.

With this certification, you can show your ability to deliver dependability and performance to current and future employers, as well as to earn “in-demand abilities to scale database applications and integrate your organization.

Aside from the skills, you can earn about $88,873 as an annual wage.

#19. Salesforce Certified Deployment and Development Lifecycle Designer

This is a specialized exam that you can take as part of the Certified Systems Architect certification path.

It’s for IT pros who are responsible for reviewing the company’s architecture environment and requirements, and it validates your ability to execute Salesforce management solutions. As certified salesforce personnel, you will earn about $91,000 on average as an annual wage.

What are the most useful IT jobs?

In the IT industry, there are hundreds of thousands of occupations or titles. Administrative, developmental, architectural, or supportive responsibilities are all possibilities.

Experience, knowledge, and exposure, as well as remuneration and perks, are the factors that separate these jobs. Here is a list of some of the highest-paying IT positions, along with their average wages.

Big data engineer: $166,500.
Develops Engineer: $120,000
Information systems security manager: $149,000
Mobile applications developer: $135,750
Applications architect: $144,500
Data architect: $145,500
Database manager: $137,500
Data security analyst: $134,000
Data scientist: $129,000
Network/cloud architect: $146,000

How Do I get an IT certification?

With this comprehensive list of 20 top valuable IT certifications handy, I know you are wondering how you will go about it.

That’s why I have also penned down a step-by-step guide on how you can go about it.

Follow me closely as I take you through the step-by-step procedure you should take if you want to get any of the IT certifications.

Know the IT Certification Exam you want

The first step is to find out what is on the computer certification you want to take. You can download the exam objectives to get a clue of what to expect in the exam.

Find out what you Know

Determine what you know and don’t know when you go over these resources. And be honest with yourself — it’s perfectly fine if you don’t know everything!

It’s for this reason that you’re studying. Read through each section and mark any terms you don’t understand or topics you’re just somewhat familiar with so you can concentrate on the areas where you need the most help.

Take advantage of other people’s knowledge and experience.

Use LinkedIn, Reddit, and YouTube to find tips and tricks from people who have that IT certification.

These websites have a lot of information on how to pass CompTIA certifications. To see what’s available, do a quick search for the name of your certification.

Make a Strategy

Make a strategy to stay on track before you begin studying. You’ll want to ask yourself questions like in addition to knowing what you need to study.

Select Your Study Aids

Some people prefer self-study, while others prefer instructor instruction. Books, eLearning, Online resources, and IT training courses are all self-study possibilities for CompTIA certification examinations.

Make an Exam Appointment

Purchase an exam voucher and register for your exam before you begin studying to keep yourself accountable.

Then you’ll be less likely to put it off, and you’ll be more likely to get certified sooner! Knowing your exam date ahead of time will allow you to fine-tune your study strategy.

FAQs

What are the best IT recommendations?

Below are our best IT recommendations:
Google Certified Professional Cloud Architect
AWS Certified Solutions Architect—Associate
Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC)
Project Management Professional (PMP)
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
Information Technology Infrastructure Library Foundation (ITIL)

What are the best IT security certifications?

Here are the best IT security certifications:
CompTIA Security+
CompTIA PenTest+
CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+)
CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+)
Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
SANS GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC)
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)
Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)

How much are IT certifications?

IT certifications cost around $150 to $760.

Which IT jobs pay the highest?

The IT jobs that pay the highest include:
Big data engineer: $166,500.
Develops Engineer: $120,000
Information systems security manager: $149,000
Mobile applications developer: $135,750
Applications architect: $144,500
Data architect: $145,500
Database manager: $137,500
Data security analyst: $134,000
Data scientist: $129,000
Network/cloud architect: $146,000