Your IT Certification Roadmap: Types, Tips & Your First Moves

Everyone from customer service reps to system engineers relies on IT support to perform their jobs. If you’re interested in a career where you learn about computer hardware, software, and networking, you might want to pursue an IT certification. The path you take depends on your specific interests. Below you will find an IT certification roadmap to help you figure out which direction to pursue in starting your career as an IT professional.

What is IT Certification?

An IT certification is a designation people can earn to establish their credentials and demonstrate competence to work in specific IT disciplines. After completing beginner-level certifications, you can move on to achieve higher-level accreditations as you gain more experience in working in IT.

Earning an IT certification involves taking one or more educational courses, then taking a test at the end to show that you meet the governing body’s standards. Sometimes, you may need to prepare and give a presentation or conduct a case study. You can find IT certifications for any IT specialty to help you advance in your chosen career field.

Another benefit of IT certifications is that they keep your skills updated and help you remain relevant in your specialty. To stay abreast after attaining certification, you should continue to take additional classes, attend webinars, or attend conferences catering to your IT discipline.

IT Certification Types

Now that you have a better understanding of the benefits of pursuing IT certifications let’s look at some of the top certifications pursued by those interested in technology.

CSAA

Amazon’s Certified Solutions Architect-Associate certification is perfect for individuals keen to learn more about the cloud. You’ll gain a thorough understanding of Amazon Web Service (AWS) essentials like computing, storage, security, database, and networking. You can pursue a career as a cloud technology professional or AWS solutions architect.

CCNA

The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification program trains you in the skills needed to maintain IT infrastructure and handle networking duties for an organization. After completing the coursework, you must take the 200-301 Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) exam. Success on the exam earns you a Level 200 training badge and 30 Continuing Education (CE) credits.

CompTIA A+

The CompTIA A+ certification qualifies you to apply for an entry-level IT position in the software development and healthcare industries. You'll learn skills that train you to handle the installation and configuration of computer systems, deal with peripherals like printers and modems, and troubleshoot computer issues. Career paths you can pursue with a CompTIA A+ certification include help desk analyst, computer technician, and healthcare IT technician.

Additional CompTIA certifications available for various IT disciplines include:

• Network+

• PenTest+

• Security+

• CySA+

• Cloud+

Tips for Getting Started as an IT Professional

Look for a program that trains you on essential IT skills while you pursue your desired certification. MedCert’s IT Support Professional career training earns you the CompTIA IT Fundamentals+, A+ and the Customer Service Certified CSC certifications and is a great entry into the industry.

MedCerts has programs for those starting in IT or professionals looking to advance in their careers. The future is bright for anyone willing to explore new opportunities in IT by taking advantage of available educational opportunities.