Are you looking for a way to improve your career? If so, earning an IT certification may be the right move for you! IT certifications are some of the most popular professional certificates on the market. They offer a variety of benefits, including higher salaries and better job opportunities. IT certifications are also highly sought-after by employers.
MyComputerCareer is a leading provider of IT certification training and preparedness. We offer a variety of IT certification courses from leading organizations such as Microsoft, Linux, Cisco, CompTIA, and the EC-Council.
In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about IT certifications! We will start by talking about the benefits of getting certified. Then, we will discuss the necessary steps to get started with IT certifications. Next, we will list several popular IT certifications. Finally, we will list some of the highest-paying IT certifications on the market!
Why Should You Earn An Information Technology Certification?
There are numerous reasons why IT certification is a great career move. IT certifications can lead to higher salaries, better job opportunities, and more job security. In fact, IT certifications are some of the most popular on the market!
In today’s economy, employers are looking for employees with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the workplace. IT certifications provide employers with the assurance that you have the skills and knowledge needed to do the job. As a result, IT-certified professionals are in high demand!
The Information Technology industry is also on the rise. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, IT occupations are anticipated to increase by 13% from 2020 to 2030, resulting in approximately 667,600 new jobs, much higher than any other job sector. The median annual wage for computer and information technology occupations was $97,430 in May 2021, which was greater than the typical yearly wage of $45,760.
The most significant source of spending on IT in small businesses is the need to improve IT infrastructure (57%), followed by growing security concerns (38%), employee growth (32%), business revenue increases (26%), increased attention on IT initiatives (26%), and a change in operations as a result of COVID-19 (26%).
The number of IT certification examinations administered to job applicants in 2020 was 16% higher than the year before. Although most people might not consider IT certification until after they have begun their careers, the number of certifications acquired increases over time. The average for those under the age of 24 is four certificates, whereas those over 55 have ten certificates. Within the next year, 86% of individuals who received credentials in 2020 plan to get additional qualifications.
The most common incentive for IT certification is to increase one’s abilities. Keeping up with technological advancements was found to be a significant motivator, as over 73% of candidates wanted IT certification in order to gain the skills they needed to boost their careers. As a result of the COVID-19 epidemic, there was an increased demand for IT skills, which prompted another 30% of people to pursue certification.
The ROI of IT certifications is important to both the certifiers and their employers. Seven in 10 candidates who met their certification goals would also suggest doing so to someone interested in beginning, or advancing, a career in IT. As a result, many were able to find new employment (36%), pay raises (28%), and promotions (21%). Their bosses also noted direct advantages such as higher quality of work, productivity, efficiency, and employee capacity to mentor others.
These figures stand to show that IT certifications provide a multitude of benefits for both employees and employers. IT certification is clearly a valuable asset in today’s job market!
Where To Start With IT Certifications?
The steps needed to get started with IT certifications may seem daunting, but they are actually quite simple! There are several things you can do to streamline the process and ensure that you’re on the right track. These include the following:
- Assess Your Current IT Knowledge and Understanding: This is a critical step as it will help you to identify any knowledge gaps. You can do this by taking a practice test or by taking a free career evaluation like the one offered by MyComputerCareer. In doing so, you can identify which IT topics you need to brush up on and better understand which IT certifications would be a good fit for you, and it takes less than 10 minutes to finish. Our specialists will assess your technical skills to see if you’re knowledgeable about PCs and networks, allowing us to suggest the finest education path for attaining your professional goals. MyComputerCareer provides training to people of all ages and backgrounds. Aside from a High School diploma, GED, or an equivalent, no prior qualifications are required.
- Figure Out What IT Niche You Wish To Follow: IT certifications tend to focus on specific IT niches such as cyber security, networking, and software development. It’s important that you have a good understanding of what area you want to invest in and what IT career path you wish to follow. By doing so, you’ll be able to zero in on the IT certifications that will benefit you the most and help further your IT career.
- Look Into Various IT Certification Options: Not all IT certifications are created equal. There are many different IT certification providers, and each one offers a unique set of IT certifications. Do your research and look into the IT certifications offered by different providers. Be sure to read reviews and compare pricing before making your decision.
- Create a Study Plan: Once you’ve decided on the IT certification you’d like to pursue, it’s time to create a study plan. This should include a schedule of when you’ll study and what materials you’ll use. There are many different IT certification study guides available online. Be sure to choose one that is comprehensive and up-to-date. MyComputerCareer also offers IT certification courses that include both online and offline components.
- Take the IT Certification Exam: The final step is to take the IT certification exam. This can be done by scheduling an appointment with a testing center or by taking the exam online. Once you’ve passed the exam, you’ll be officially certified!
Earning an IT certification can help you further your IT career and open up new job opportunities. IT certifications are also a great way to show employers you’re committed to your IT career and that you have the skills and knowledge needed to be successful. Get started today by assessing your IT knowledge, figuring out which IT certification is right for you, and creating a study plan. Then, all that’s left to do is take the IT certification exam and add your new certification to your resume!
What Are The Easiest Certifications To Get Started In IT?
Not all IT certifications are created equal. Some IT certifications require years of experience, while others only require a few months. If you’re just starting out in your IT career, you’ll want to look into IT certifications that are relatively easy to obtain.
These include the following:
- CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+): This certification is designed for those who are new to IT. It covers basic IT concepts and provides a foundation for further study in IT. The objectives of the exam are to test your ability to use common operating systems and protocols, as well as your understanding of network fundamentals and IT skills needed to complete basic tasks. This exam is for people who are considering a job in Information Technology but have very limited experience. It’s also appropriate for individuals hoping to get professional-level credentials, such as A+.
- CompTIA A+: This certification is designed for entry-level IT professionals. It covers basic IT concepts and provides an introduction to more advanced topics. The CompTIA A+ certificate is a useful beginning for anybody interested in entering the IT industry. The A+ certification covers a wide range of subjects, including hardware, networking, and troubleshooting. Individuals who want to work as a technical support specialist, field service technician, desktop support administrator, or similar occupations should get the A+ certification. It covers PC repair, software installation, simple network configuration on PCs and mobile devices, intermediate networking, security awareness training, and troubleshooting skills. If you want to study cybersecurity or networking in IT, the A+ certification is a good place to start.
- Linux Essentials: Linux is an open-source software solution that may be run on a wide range of devices, including personal computers, servers, and smartphones. Many people who use Linux do so because it is free and open source, allowing anybody to view and change the source code. The Linux Essentials certification is for individuals seeking to discover the fundamentals of using Linux. Topics covered include the history of Linux, utilizing the command line, managing files and directories, using text editors, and writing basic shell scripts.
- Microsoft Certified AZ-900: Azure Server Fundamentals: The Microsoft Certified AZ-900: Azure Server Fundamentals certification validates an IT professional’s knowledge of the fundamentals of cloud computing and how it is provided by Microsoft Azure. The test covers a wide range of themes, including cloud ideas, fundamental Azure services, security, privacy, and compliance. The Microsoft Certified AZ-900: Azure Server Fundamentals certification is a wonderful place to start for IT professionals wanting to learn more about cloud computing and how it works with Microsoft Azure. It’s also necessary for technicians who want to work on Azure servers.
What Are The Most Popular IT Certifications?
Once you’ve decided which IT certification is right for you, it’s time to start studying! But with so many different IT certifications available, how do you know which one to get? Here are some of the most popular IT certifications:
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA): The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) credential validates an IT professional’s ability to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot medium-size routed and switched networks. The CCNA curriculum covers topics such as IP data networks, IPv 4 and 6 addressing, LAN switching technologies, WAN technologies, network security fundamentals, network automation, and programmability. Cisco’s certification program is well-known throughout the IT industry. The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) credential allows you to work as an entry-level network administrator or engineer with more than 500 organizations that use Cisco-certified experts. The CCNA is an excellent IT career certification for those who want to work in networking or pursue Cisco professional certifications. It’s also necessary for technicians that want to work on Cisco network equipment at a higher level.
- CompTIA Security+: CompTIA Security+ is a popular IT certification and one of the most sought-after certification tests. The Security+ examination covers several topics, including network security, encryption, risk management, and more. The CompTIA Security+ is a globally recognized certification that demonstrates fundamental skills for those looking to work in the IT security industry. Earning your CompTIA Security+ credential will help you differentiate yourself from other prospects and demonstrate to employers that you have the abilities needed to safeguard their networks and data. If you want to work in information security, this is also a crucial step forward.
- CompTIA Network+: The CompTIA Network+ credential validates IT professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to design, manage, and troubleshoot network infrastructure. The Network+ certification covers a wide range of topics, such as network architecture, media types, topologies, security measures, and more. The CompTIA Network+ is also globally recognized and often required by employers for IT positions that involve managing or working with networks. If you want to work in IT networking or pursue Cisco professional certifications (such as CCNA), the Network+ credential is an excellent place to start.
- CompTIA Server+: The CompTIA Server+ credential is designed for IT professionals who work with server hardware and software. The Server+ certification covers a wide range of topics, including server architecture, storage devices, virtualization technologies, networking concepts, and more. The CompTIA Server+ is often required by employers for IT positions that involve working with servers on a daily basis. If you want to work in IT as a server administrator or engineer, the Server+ credential is an excellent place to start.
These are just a few of the most popular IT certifications available. These IT certifications are not only popular among IT professionals but also among employers. These IT certifications will help you stand out from other job applicants and demonstrate your knowledge and skills in the field of IT.
What Are The Highest-Paying IT Certifications?
It should come as no surprise that the highest-paying certificates in IT are also among the most advanced, requiring years of prior experience and/or training. Here are some of the highest-paying IT certifications currently on the market:
- CompTIA CySA+: The CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) is a certification in cybersecurity that covers the fundamental components of cyber security, such as data analysis, vulnerability identification and mitigation, and threat prevention or mitigation. Candidates for the CySA+ should have previous network administration and security experience and a thorough grasp of at least one major SIEM solution. The typical salary for someone who has CySA+ certification is $74,952, although it may go as high as $152,806, depending on your location and line of work. Furthermore, the hands-on, performance-based, multiple-choice examination meets US Department of Defense requirements. Employers are also more likely to give bonuses or premium pay ranging from 8 to 13 percent of base pay if applicants demonstrate that they have the skills, techniques, and knowledge needed to prevent, detect, and combat cyber security threats both inside and outside their company.
- CompTIA CASP+: The CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner CASP+ certification is one of the most demanding security credentials available. Candidates must have at least ten years of IT management expertise and five years of cybersecurity knowledge. They must also be knowledgeable regarding a wide range of operating systems, networking protocols, and cloud-based technologies. The following are examples of the many topics included in the CASP+ exam: risk management, incident response, research and analysis, and connecting computers to business networks. A CompTIA CASP+ credential holder can anticipate earning an average of $92,000 per year. Please keep in mind that this is a typical salary figure that includes several job titles, areas in the United States, and career phases for an information security professional. Some CompTIA CASP+ owners may make as much as $130,000 each year, depending on these criteria.
- EC-Council CEH: The EC-Council’s Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certificate is a good tool to show employers that you have what it takes to be a top-notch security expert. The CEH certification is one of the most well-known and widely recognized IT security qualifications. You’ll get the skills you need to safeguard your company’s digital infrastructure against cyber assaults if you earn the Certified Ethical Hacker credential. Because you can utilize certifications like the CEH to improve your chances of obtaining a high-paying position as a security specialist, you may expect to make more money than non-certified workers. The typical annual wage of an ethical hacker is between $92,400 and $118,169, with a starting base pay of $103,583.
Conclusion
IT certifications can help you get your foot in the door, land a promotion, or earn a higher salary. IT certifications are also a great way to show employers that you have the skills and knowledge needed to be successful in an IT career. These certifications are also some of the highest-paying in the industry. So if you’re looking to make a change in your career or simply want to earn more money, IT certifications may be the way to go.
MyComputerCareer is IT trade school that provides excellent certification training to help you obtain the highest-paying position possible. The institution also offers ongoing Career Services, as well as a variety of cybersecurity courses, including the Cyber Security Specialist (CSS), Information Technology Security and Administration (ITSA), Cyber Security Engineer (CSE), and Associate of Applied Science in Network Administration and Cyber Security. For further information, please contact us directly or request a free career evaluation.