Your IT Career Questions

I’d like to work in IT, but I’m not sure where to begin. Which qualification is the most appropriate for me?

For job changers and students preparing to enter the IT sector, the CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification is suggested. Because CompTIA ITF+ assists professionals in determining whether or not a job in IT is suited for them, as well as developing a better understanding of IT. The CompTIA Career Pathway shows you the many pathways you may pursue as well as the certifications you can earn along the way.

Check for CompTIA A+ if you already have some technical skills but need certifications to get your foot in the door. The industry standard for entry-level IT positions, such as technical assistance specialist and help desk technician, is this qualification. CompTIA A+ was mentioned in over 40,000 job advertisements in the United States in 2021. Professionals with the CompTIA A+ certification have a track record of solving problems.

How much money can I expect to make in the IT industry?

According to the United States Department of State, According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, IT professionals in the United States make an estimated median income of $90,000, which is about double the national median wage. Your wage is determined by a variety of criteria, including your employer, industry, experience, education, occupation, and location. To explore compensation ranges for IT experts in your region with similar positions and experience, use the CompTIA IT Salary Calculator.

What skills do I need to be successful in the field of information technology?

To stay up with changing technologies, IT professionals must actively learn new skills. Whatever the future holds for your IT profession, these in-demand skills will keep you competitive and operating well. Not just technical skills, such as cloud computing, programming, and tech support, but also professional skills, such as project management, communication, and problem resolution, are in high demand.

Why should I acquire certification?

To be more competitive in the employment market, you need to obtain certification. Entry-level certifications might set you apart from the competition if you don’t have any prior IT expertise.

There are also some reasons why you should get IT certifications, including:

• To substantiate your knowledge and abilities
• To apply what you learned throughout your certification training to your current position
• To demonstrate that you are proactive and dedicated
• To get a fundamental understanding of technology
• To learn more about a certain field, such as computer networking or cybersecurity
• To advance your IT profession

Obtaining industry-recognized IT certifications is a professional development opportunity that will set you apart in a competitive job market, increase your chances of progression, and put you on a profitable career path.

Do certificates take the role of on-the-job training?

Certifications in IT are a good place to start, but they can’t substitute real-world experience. CompTIA certifications, on the other hand, provide hands-on learning as part of your training — it’s the best of both worlds.

Many CompTIA certifications, for example, incorporate performance-based questions (PBQs). This sort of inquiry is used to assess a candidate’s capacity to solve issues in real-life situations. It can be provided in the form of simulations or virtual environments. CompTIA offers training options in a range of formats, including CompTIA Labs, to help you prepare for the PBQs. CompTIA Labs allows students to get hands-on experience with real equipment and software, allowing them to apply what they’ve learned.

What impact will certifications have in my career?

Certifications can assist you in furthering your education! As an IT professional, you are aware of how fast the technology sector can change – and how important it is for you to stay up. Gaining skills might help you get a promotion or start specializing in a field of technology that interests you. Consider IT certifications as a long-term investment in your professional development. In as little as six weeks, you may add a new qualification to your CV if you know where you want to focus your efforts.

Your IT Certification Questions

What are the advantages of CompTIA?

There are other certificates available. It depends on the field in which you want to be certified and the firms that provide such credentials. Because CompTIA is a vendor-neutral organization, the skills you gain may be used with any product. Other certifications, such as those offered by Cisco and Microsoft, are vendor-specific, which means the skills you gain are limited to a single product. Starting with a vendor-neutral certification like CompTIA’s can help you lay the groundwork for a deeper dive with a vendor-specific certification.

Are there any qualifications or requirements?

There are no minimum age or educational requirements to take a CompTIA test. Candidates for any certification should, however, be at least 13 years old. We also explain recommended experience for each test to set you up for success. This information may be found in the test details chart for any CompTIA certification on our website.

I’d want to obtain a CompTIA certification. What are the costs and what are the fees?

You must pass an exam (two for A+) to acquire a CompTIA certification, and exam voucher fees range from $130 to $480. (USD).

We understand how costly certification may be, especially for students. Exam voucher discounts are available to help you save money on CompTIA certifications.

What should I do to prepare for the CompTIA exam?

You may buy study materials to assist you to prepare for your exam. We offer both instructor-led and self-study choices, such as the CompTIA CertMaster products, which are an online IT training package that includes eLearning, labs for hands-on practice, and test prep.

• If you’re just getting started with a topic, CompTIA CertMaster Learn is a terrific place to start. This comprehensive, interactive, and self-paced eLearning environment is jam-packed with activities and features that will help you learn and recall information in a fun way. You can study in the most efficient method for you thanks to the customizable learning plan.
• If you already know anything about a subject, CompTIA Labs is an excellent place to start. It allows you to practice addressing real-world problems in a browser-based data center environment with live servers. We make learning simple yet thorough by providing full side-by-side lab manuals and pre-configured tasks.
• Many CompTIA certifications are offered in packages with Integrated CertMaster Learn + Labs. This allows you to acquire the knowledge on one platform and then practice your hands-on abilities with genuine virtual machines and software. To be safe, all packages contain an exam voucher and a free exam retake.
• If you want to improve your hands-on abilities, CompTIA CertMaster Practice is a wonderful option. It helps you prepare for CompTIA certification tests by reinforcing your knowledge by going swiftly through what you already know and focusing on what you don’t know with individualized feedback.

When does my certification expire?

Some CompTIA credentials are valid for life and do not require re-certification. Most of our certificates, however, are part of the CompTIA Continuing Education program and must be renewed every two years. These certificates are valid for three years from the date of issue and must be renewed before then.

What is the process for renewing my CompTIA certification?

To earn the continuing education units (CEUs) you need to renew your CompTIA certification, you can either complete a single activity or a mix of activities.

I’m considering taking the CompTIA CertMaster, but I’m not ready to commit just yet. What alternatives do I have?

For several of our certifications, we offer free 30-day samples of CertMaster Learn + Labs and CertMaster Practice. CertMaster Study + Labs is an integrated, simplified training solution that allows you to learn through articles, videos, and more, then practice your hands-on abilities on virtual equipment on the same platform. CertMaster Practice allows you to put your skills to the test and see if you’re ready to take your certification exam. To discover if these all-in-one learning experiences are perfect for you, you may try them out for free.

I’m ready to take my CompTIA certification exam now that I’ve done studying. What’s the next step for me?

If you don’t already have one, you’ll need to buy an exam voucher from the CompTIA Store or a testing location. We also advocate arranging your appointment rather than showing up unprepared. Exams are available 24/7 with online testing, so you may schedule them at a time and place that is convenient for you.

What testing choices do I have?

A CompTIA certification exam can be taken either online or at a Person VUE test center.

Online testing allows you to test for your certification at any time and from any peaceful, distraction-free, and secure place.

If you desire, you can opt for online testing:

• A safe and simple option to test from home, a closed-door workplace, or any other location with a secluded space.
• You have the freedom to schedule your exam at any time that is convenient for you.
  If something goes wrong during your exam, you’ll have access to technical help.

CompTIA in-person testing allows you to take your exam in one of the hundreds of Pearson VUE test centers worldwide.

If you want to test in person, you should:

• You don’t have access to a quiet, distraction-free environment.
• You don’t have access to the internet regularly.
• Have a weak comprehension of written and spoken English, as well as other impediments to communication.

I passed the CompTIA certification exam and am eager to put what I’ve learned into practice. So, what’s next?

CompTIA has teamed up with ZipRecruiter to make it easier for IT professionals like you to locate vacant employment. You can be matched with the most relevant job opportunities based on your job search criteria and preferences when you sign up for email notifications. Employers seeking your talents and expertise will be able to read your profile and offer you an invitation to apply if you upload your resume to ZipRecruiter.

My CompTIA certification has been finished and passed. Which of the following certifications should I pursue next?

Choose your intended or present employment and learn which certifications you should take next using CompTIA’s IT career path planning tool. You may also look at the CompTIA Career Pathway, which lists CompTIA certifications that are relevant to IT infrastructure and cybersecurity careers.

• The CompTIA IT Infrastructure Career Pathway aligns CompTIA certifications with the skillsets needed to support and manage IT infrastructure. This pathway begins with the core skills certifications (CompTIA ITF+, CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+ and CompTIA Security+), then continues with three infrastructure-specific certifications (CompTIA Server+, CompTIA Linux+, and CompTIA Cloud+).
• The CompTIA Cybersecurity Career Pathway is for IT professionals that want to achieve cybersecurity mastery, from beginning to end. This pathway also begins with the core skills certifications (CompTIA ITF+, CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+ and CompTIA Security+), then continues with three cyber security-specific certifications (CompTIA PenTest+, CompTIA CySA+, and CompTIA CASP+).

CompTIA Data+ is now accessible as well! The CompTIA Data+ certification is the first in the CompTIA Data and Analytics Career Pathway and is the only entry-level, vendor-neutral, hands-on data analytics certification available. It’s for people who help an organization’s capacity to make data-driven decisions, as well as those who wish to learn about:

• Data mining and manipulation
• Using fundamental statistical procedures
• Throughout the data lifecycle, analyzing complicated datasets while adhering to governance and quality criteria

CompTIA Data+ is ideal for persons with 18 to 24 months of hands-on experience in business intelligence or data analyst capacity.

What is the best place to get a discounted exam voucher?

The CompTIA Academic Store offers the best deal for students. A third-party organization will verify your student status.

There are a few methods to save if you aren’t a student:

• CompTIA Bundles: Test vouchers and training resources are combined into bundles by CompTIA to help you properly prepare for your certification exam while saving up to 29%* off the retail price.
• CompTIA Store Club: For $49 per year, you may get a 20% discount on any CompTIA Store products, including bundles! (Only legal residents of the United States and Canada, aged 18 and above, are eligible.)
• IT Career News Subscription: IT Career News readers can enjoy 10% off their next purchase in the CompTIA Store if they join up for the newsletter.
• Finance Options: The CompTIA Store provides Affirm financing, which has rates as low as 0% and may be paid over three, six, or twelve months with no hidden costs.

Certification in your field is an effective approach to demonstrate your knowledge and abilities in a certain area. In the information technology business, proof of specialty is very vital. Businesses must keep a lookout for skilled new workers as systems and regulations evolve at a fast rate.

Some of the greatest IT certifications for beginners focus on current specifics, such as mobile devices, security assessments, cloud adoption, and other computer-related topics.

These qualifications may help you stand out from the crowd, improve your CV, and make you more appealing to employers. In certain situations, they may even assist you in increasing your earning potential. You can pursue more advanced certifications as your career grows to improve your professional development.

Of course, you should concentrate on the more general qualifications that will help you break into the sector at the beginning. If you’re a fresh graduate or looking for a career shift, keep reading to learn about the qualifications you’ll need to get started in IT.

How to Become an IT Professional

Unsurprisingly, information technology is still one of the fastest-growing fields. Computer and information technology employment is predicted to grow by 11% between 2019 and 2029, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Individuals who want to be a part of this wave should enroll in IT courses to demonstrate their knowledge of the industry. Individuals are encouraged to experiment with many aspects of IT to see which technical abilities they excel in.

They can then go on to gain some real-world experience. Individuals who complete this program will be qualified for a variety of entry-level employment, including junior network administrators, network field technicians, and web developers.

Certification, of course, can assist speed up the process. Certification, according to experts, proves that entry-level personnel has the basic knowledge to do their jobs. Furthermore, IT certifications allow people with work experience but no formal education to demonstrate to potential employers that they are certified experts in the industry.

Employees with extensive experience in the field can exhibit particular understanding. Those looking to advance into a new specialty or emphasis might utilize certification to demonstrate their preparedness at the same time.

5 IT Certifications for People With No Experience

Cisco Certified Technician (CCT)

The Cisco Certified Technician (CCT) certification is well-known in the IT industry. Cisco Unified Computing systems and servers are the focus of certification preparation.

You must first finish the Cisco Data Center System Device Support (DCTECH) v2.0 course before taking the exam. This course covers data center networking basics, field service, and equipment replacement, as well as how to identify Cisco Unified Computing System (UCS) component models, accessory cabling, and interfaces.

The CCT Routing and Switching certification also covers Cisco routers, switches, and operating environments. Individuals can decide to improve their careers by obtaining more advanced titles, such as the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification, after passing the certification test.

CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ (ITF+)

Individuals seeking to start a career in the IT field or change employment can pursue the ITF+ certification. The purpose of the test is to validate basic IT abilities and gain a better understanding of what industrial employment requires.

The certification exam covers networking, infrastructure, IT concepts and vocabulary, applications and software, security, database foundations, and software development. It’s also a good place to start if you want to go deeper into CompTIA certifications, however, it’s not necessary for other certifications.

CompTIA Security +

The CompTIA Security+ certification remains a good choice for beginners as security becomes an increasingly important aspect of information technology. Earning this specific accreditation can assist network, systems, and security analysts, security experts, junior IT auditors, security consultants, and security engineers.

Throughout the certification process, threats, attacks, and vulnerabilities are discussed, as well as risk management, architecture and design, technology and tools, encryption and public key infrastructure, and identity and access management.

Earning the Security+ certification shows employers that you can build and configure systems to keep applications, networks, and devices safe while following compliance rules.

Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA)

It was developed by Microsoft as an entry-level certification for employees who are new to the IT industry or who wish to change careers. This certification covers infrastructure, databases, and development.

The test might help you get started in an IT profession by focusing on databases, hardware, software, or infrastructure. It includes everything a junior IT auditor, systems administrator, network administrator, or security administrator needs to know.

PMI Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)

CAPM (Certified Associate in Project Management) is a widely recognized project management certificate from the Project Management Institute (PMI). To take the CAPM, you don’t have to be a project manager, yet many IT jobs demand project management abilities to handle technical initiatives.

You must finish at least 23 hours of project management education before taking the test, which you may do by taking PMI’s Project Management Basics course.

The course was established by PMI to assist you in studying for the CAPM certification exam, and it covers the project management principles and competencies you’ll need to work in IT project management.

Which Certificate is Best for Higher-paying Job Positions?

More than 85% of IT professionals have a certification, according to industry insiders, and 66% wish to get a new one this year. According to their calculations, the average IT salary improves with each certification gained.

IT professionals with one or more credentials make over six figures, with six or more earning an extra $10,000. Cloud computing and security certifications appear to be the most helpful in raising earning potential. Some of the highest-paid IT professionals also have the following certifications:

Google Cloud Professional (GCP) Cloud Architect

The Google Cloud Professional (GCP) Cloud Architect certification validates your ability to design, implement, and manage scalable and secure cloud business solutions across your organization using Google Cloud technology.

This test covers cloud architecture design and planning, administration, provisioning, and deployment. Your capacity to review and enhance business processes, with a focus on security and compliance, will also be assessed.

Unless otherwise noted, all Google Cloud certifications expire two years from the date of receipt, and you must recertify to preserve your status.

Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)

Your understanding of information security governance, program design and management, risk and incident management, and risk and incident management is validated by the ISACA CISM certification.

The certification is for IT professionals who work in a business or organization and deal with or manage IT security. To be eligible for the exam during the previous 10 years, you must have at least five years of prior information security experience.

The CISM certification is valid for five years and must be renewed every five years by earning continuing education credits.

AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner

The AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner degree validates a basic understanding of the AWS cloud, including global infrastructure and architectural concepts.

The exam examines your ability to build billing models, account administration, and pricing, as well as define the basic or significant components of AWS cloud-based applications.

You should have a minimum of six months of AWS Cloud experience in any related profession, as well as a basic understanding of IT services and how they are used in the AWS Cloud.

Conclusion

Individuals are advised to spend time on forums and employment networking sites in addition to obtaining certificates to aid in the search for entry-level careers in information technology. Those who are just getting started in the profession should create a portfolio to showcase their abilities and credentials.

Self-education is an important aspect of information technology as well. Stay informed about new techniques and possible employers.

If you want to get your foot in the door, CourseMonster can assist you. We offer a variety of degree programs that will equip students for professions in information technology. Students will also be prepared for the following industry certifications with the knowledge and abilities obtained:

• CompTIA A+
• CompTIA Network+
• CompTIA Server+
• CompTIA Security+

All enrolled students have access to career counseling. Students can make use of our employment services assistance program even after graduation.

FAQs

Which IT certification is the most basic?

While all certifications need significant study time, the CompTIA Network+ Certification is regarded to necessitate the least quantity of data. Hands-on experience and self-study are simple ways to maintain subjects.

Is it possible to acquire a career in IT simply by having certifications?

Not all IT jobs need a college diploma. Having certificates shows companies that your abilities are sufficient for you to complete your obligations efficiently on your own. IT is one of the few fields where experience and hands-on skills trump a degree.

What is the most useful IT certification to achieve?

Your goal for acquiring an IT certification will affect your decision. The Cisco Certified Technician (CCT) or CompTIA Fundamentals+ (ITF+) are your best alternatives if you’re trying to enter into the sector.

Stick with the AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Google Certified Professional Cloud Architect, or Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) qualifications if you want to increase your pay potential.

Certification’s Advantages

Many people consider professional qualifications to be a means of gaining a financial advantage. Shouldn’t you be in a better position to demand more money if you have those special letters after your name or some nice credential on your wall?

Yes, sometimes, but not always.

Employers pay up to 8% more on average (in the United States) for employees who possess the MS Office Specialist certification, according to a recent OfficeTeam study of the administrative profession. That’s a really obvious and substantial benefit! But there are a few things to keep in mind when you hear that.

First, Microsoft Office is a commonly used software package, with administrators in many firms highly depending on it. The MS credential is well-known and well-respected. It displays an expert-level command of the abilities necessary to use Microsoft Office applications such as Excel, Word, and PowerPoint. Employers are prepared to pay a little more for administrative professionals who have previously demonstrated advanced expertise in these areas, which makes sense.

What they’re paying for is the value a person may offer to the business when they have these talents, not the certificate itself. The credential just assists the company in identifying those individuals who may provide higher value, but you must also demonstrate that worth.

It’s unrealistic to expect to go acquire a credential and then demand higher money right now. You must put those abilities to use to achieve more, and you must be a strong advocate for yourself and your achievements. That’s how you get the rewards.

It’s also unrealistic to expect all qualifications to have the same level of influence. Not everyone is created equal. Some are less well-known, while others do not teach you the types of abilities that provide measurable value to the company.

That isn’t to suggest that other credentials aren’t important. Sometimes it isn’t even about the organization. Some people love the certification process because it boosts their confidence and allows them to network with other professionals who share their interests. Some people like studying just for personal development. These items may not provide a direct monetary advantage, but they are extremely beneficial to you and your career. This will pay off in more tangible ways over time.

You must first understand what you hope to earn to determine whether it is worthwhile, and you must be selective in your certification program choices.

Do Your Research

Professional certifications have grown in popularity and prevalence as a result of the advent of online learning. They’re a lot easier to obtain these days—in some circumstances, you may complete the entire process from the comfort of your home computer.

That has both positive and negative implications for learning. It’s handy, but it also has a low entry barrier. As a result, more individuals can do it, and qualifying becomes less unique. Being “certified” is no longer considered exceptional.

Furthermore, any company may put up a set of lessons and call it a certification program. Just because it’s named that doesn’t indicate the training is particularly useful or unique.

So, if you’re thinking about investing in a certification program, look into the organization that’s behind it. Do you have faith in them? Is their name well-known? Do you know anyone else who has taken part in the program and found it beneficial? Have you previously purchased training from the organization, and if so, was it worthwhile?

Remember that the certification’s name isn’t everything, although it does have some weight. A program with no name recognition among employers is less appealing than one with a well-established, favorable reputation.

Finally, be careful if the marketing materials are strong on the sales pitch and light on actual learning objectives and student testimonials. Many businesses speak a nice game but don’t deliver on their promises.

Before enrolling in a professional certification program, there are many factors to consider; do your homework and don’t be seduced by high claims.

Change Your Mindset

It’s worth mentioning that certain occupations come with qualifications that are essentially considered mandatory (rather than bonuses). Project managers, for example, have the PMP certification, while HR professionals have the SHRM certification. Certification is frequently deemed standard in such situations.

If you work in an area where certification isn’t required, it might still be beneficial to your career. It’s important to remember that it’s not about paying for a fancy title after your name; it’s about acquiring new abilities and adding more value to your company. On its own, its title doesn’t imply anything. What counts most is how you apply those abilities.

You could be disappointed if you expect certification as a quick solution to increase your earning potential. Instead, consider it an investment. Learning, in whatever form, always pays off in the end, in my view.