For years, the running joke has been that computers and computer technology age at the same rate as dog years – seven years of progress for every calendar year.
It’s especially true for anyone who’s involved in the IT field, as skills that may have been current six months ago quickly become outdated. Even with a degree and years in the field, tech training to update your skill set is not just important – it’s invaluable.
We’ve put together a roundup of some of the IT certifications that can really enhance your career and earning potential:
The Top 4 IT Certification for Your Career
- CompTIA A+ Technician
- CompTIA Network+
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
- Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)
CompTIA A+ Technician
This CompTIA level of certification is a common jumping-off point for any career in IT. Techs with this level of certification are familiar with PC maintenance, mobile devices, laptops and printers, and are considered entry-level employees for the IT field.
At a mean salary of around $77,000, job titles can include in-home support specialist, help desk technician or desktop support technician. To achieve this IT certification, there are two written exams to pass.
CompTIA Network+
This is a certification that takes you more toward a specialty in networking, equipping you with the technical chops to design, set up, manage and diagnose hard-wired and wireless computer networks.
This is another certification that’s in demand and is a prerequisite for more advanced training in setting up and managing networks.
You can expect a mean salary of over $79k per year, with job titles that can include network support, network technician, helpdesk technician, information technology specialist and information technology technician. This certification requires a successful completion of a 90-question exam on the principles and practice of wired and wireless network devices.
Learn more about the CompTIA training classes available here.
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
The CCNA certification specializes in routing and switching, and is focused on installation, operation and configuration of enterprise-level networks.
This certification can offer specializations in voice or wireless networking or network security. Expect a mean salary of over $80k per year, with job titles that include network engineer, network administrator or systems administrator.
This more advanced certification requires two exams to be successfully completed – however, the bar is set high enough that previous experience in networking is a must.
Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)
This Microsoft certification is ideally suited for anyone who is considering managing a modern data center. Its specialties include server infrastructure, desktop infrastructure, business intelligence, data platforms, messaging, communications, and Microsoft SharePoint.
This cloud-oriented certification has a mean salary of around $94k, with job titles that can include systems administrator, field systems technician, systems engineer, IT manager or systems manager.
To attain this certification, an existing MCSA Windows Server 2016 certification is a prerequisite, as well as the successful completion of at least one MCSE-level course.
These are just a few of the options out there when it comes to advancing your IT career – or making a career switch.
Just remember how important it is to stay current on your skill set!