There are a variety of online IT certifications to choose from. Which one is best for you? That depends on your level of experience and expertise. If you’re just starting out, there are a few beginner-level IT certifications that can help you get started. If you’re more experienced, there are several intermediate and advanced IT certifications that can take your career to the next level.
MyComputerCareer is an Accrediting Council for Continuing Education & Training ACCET-accredited trade school that specializes in providing IT certification preparedness, both online and on-campus. It allows students to earn certifications from leading IT organizations such as Cisco, CompTIA, EC-Council, Linux, and Microsoft.
In this article, we will discuss the benefits of earning an IT certification, as well as list some of the best online IT certifications available today!
What Are The Benefits of Online IT Certifications?
There are several benefits to earning an online Information Technology certification, including:
- Better Hireability: One of the most obvious benefits is it can help you land a job in the IT field as many employers require applicants to have at least one IT certification. By having a certification, you’re showing potential employers you have the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the role.
- Increased Earning Potential: In addition to making you more hireable, IT certifications can also lead to a higher salary. Studies have shown certified professionals earn, on average, over 7% more than their non-certified counterparts.
- Improved Job Satisfaction: Not only does having an IT certification lead to a potential higher salary, but it can also improve job satisfaction. A study by Microsoft found that IT professionals who held a certification were more likely to be satisfied with their jobs. They were also shown to be more productive.
- Enhanced Job Security: In today’s ever-changing job market, it’s important to have job security. IT certifications can help give you that peace of mind as they often lead to longer tenure in a role.
- More Raise and Promotion Opportunities: Lastly, IT certifications can help you earn more raises and promotions. By demonstrating you have the skills and knowledge to succeed in your role, you’re more likely to be promoted or receive a raise.
These are just a few of the many benefits of holding an online IT certification! So, which online IT certification is best for you?
Best Entry-Level IT Certifications
If you’re just starting out in the IT field, there are a few entry-level IT certifications that can help get your career off to a great start!
- CompTIA A+: The CompTIA A+ certification is one of the most popular entry-level IT certifications. It covers a wide range of topics, including hardware, software, networking, and troubleshooting.
- Microsoft Fundamentals: These certifications are designed to give you a strong foundation in Microsoft products and technologies. There are several different Microsoft Fundamentals certifications, each covering a separate area, such as Windows Server, Azure, or Security.
- Linux Essentials: The Linux Essentials certification is designed to give you a basic understanding of Linux. It covers topics such as installation, configuration, and troubleshooting.
Just starting in IT can seem like a daunting task, especially when you don’t know where to start. But by taking MyComputerCareer’s free career evaluation, you will better understand where you stand and which career path will best suit you.
Best Intermediate IT Certifications
If you’ve been working in IT for a few years and are looking to take your career to the next level, then one of these intermediate IT certifications may be right for you!
- CompTIA Network+: The CompTIA Network+ certification is a great next step for those who have already earned their A+ certification. It covers topics such as network design, implementation, and troubleshooting.
- CompTIA Security+: The CompTIA Security+ certification is another great option for those who have already earned their A+. It covers topics such as security risks, attacks, and mitigation techniques.
- CompTIA Server+: The CompTIA Server+ certification is designed for those who work with server hardware and software. It covers topics such as installation, configuration, and troubleshooting.
Each of these IT certifications specializes in a niche within the IT sector, so if you’re looking to specialize in a certain area one of these may be the best option for you.
Best Advanced IT Certifications
If you’re looking to take your IT career to the next level, then these advanced IT certifications may be right for you!
- EC-Council CEH: The EC-Council’s Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification is one of the most popular advanced IT certifications. It covers topics such as network security, cryptography, and ethical hacking. Earning this certification arms you with the title of Ethical Hacker, which is a great way to show potential employers your skills and knowledge. Ethical hackers handle a lot of sensitive information, so this certification shows you can be trusted.
- CompTIA CySA+: The CompTIA CySA+ certification is another great option for those who want to specialize in network security. It covers topics such as intrusion detection, prevention, and response.
- CompTIA CASP+: The CompTIA CASP+ certification is designed for those who want to specialize in security architecture. It covers topics such as risk management, business continuity, and disaster recovery.
Best Online IT Certification Overall
One particular certification that most IT professionals should consider earning as quickly as possible is the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA). As an early mid-level certification, the CCNA is perfect for those who are looking to take their IT career to the next level. The CCNA covers a wide range of topics, including networking fundamentals, network security, and Cisco routers and switches.
It’s entry-level enough to be earned early on in one’s career and has the potential to open many doors. Still, it’s advanced enough to show potential employers you have the skills and knowledge necessary to be an asset to their team. The CCNA is one of the most popular IT certifications in the industry and a great way to take your career to the next level.
Conclusion
So, which online IT certification is best? It really depends on your goals and objectives. If you’re just starting out in IT, then one of the entry-level certifications may be best for you. If you’ve been working in IT for a few years and are looking to take your career to the next level, then an intermediate or advanced certification may be best for you. And if you’re looking to specialize in a certain area, then one of the specialized certifications may be best for you.
No matter which certification you choose, MyComputerCareer can help you earn it! MyComputerCareer offers online courses that are designed to help you achieve your desired IT certification(s). We also offer ongoing job placement assistance with Career Services to help get your foot in the door of the IT industry. Contact us today to learn more about our online IT certification courses and how we can help you take your IT career to the next level!