Top 7 IT Certifications for Beginners: Never Too Late to Start

Top 7 IT Certifications for Beginners: Never Too Late to Start

Categories: Business Application Training and Certification, Special Promotions & Campaigns|Published On: July 21, 2023|13.8 min read|
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Lim Li Chong

Digital Marketing Specialist, specialised in developing and implementing effective campaigns to drive brand awareness and achieve measurable results.
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Top IT Certifications for Beginners You Can Take Today.

In today’s rapidly evolving world, technology is the driving force behind almost every aspect of our lives.

From the way we communicate to the way we work, technology has become an integral part of our daily existence. It’s no wonder that the field of IT has gained immense popularity and importance, as it holds the key to unlocking countless opportunities in this digital age.

If you’re a beginner looking to kickstart your career in the IT industry, one crucial step on this journey is obtaining the right certifications. IT certifications not only validate your skills and knowledge but also provide a solid foundation for growth and advancement in this rapidly changing field.

In fact, According to the Pearson Report 2023, IT certifications offer numerous benefits and opportunities. Here are some key findings:

  • 27% of respondents received job promotions after earning certifications.
  • 25% were able to secure new jobs within the same industry, thanks to their newly acquired certifications.
  • 14% successfully transitioned to new jobs in different industries or companies.
  • 11% of applicants were accepted into the programs they applied for, leveraging their certifications.

By acquiring the right IT certifications for beginners, you can unlock a world of possibilities and chart a successful path in the rapidly evolving field of technology.

Is it too late?

Rest assured, it’s never too late to embark on the path of acquiring IT certifications, especially for beginners. The rapidly advancing technology landscape has created an insatiable demand for skilled professionals who can navigate and harness its power. Regardless of your age or career stage, pursuing IT certifications can be a transformative step towards personal and professional growth.

Whether you’re a recent graduate or someone looking to make a career transition, obtaining the right certifications can be the stepping stones to a successful IT career.

The key lies in your willingness to learn, adapt, and seize the countless prospects that await in the world of IT certifications for beginners. So, don’t let doubts hold you back — embrace the challenge, expand your horizons, and embark on a journey that can reshape your career trajectory.

It’s never too late to pursue IT certifications and unlock a world of possibilities.

Top it certifications for beginners: CompTIA A+

1. CompTIA A+ Certification (The Best Suited All-Round Certification)

When it comes to the IT certifications for beginners, one name stands out: CompTIA A+. As a renowned provider of professional certifications in the IT sector, CompTIA offers a comprehensive training program that covers essential skills and knowledge needed for success in the field.

Fun Fact: CompTIA A+ Is Held By Over 1 Million Professionals: Join the ranks of more than 1 million IT professionals who have built their careers on the CompTIA A+ certification.

This certification equips professionals with the expertise to excel in various IT support roles. It is the industry-recognized certificate that includes performance testing, assessing professionals’ ability to handle critical IT support tasks effectively.

To earn the CompTIA A+ certification, candidates must pass two tests: Core 1 and Core 2. These exams cover topics such as mobile devices, networking technology, hardware, virtualization and cloud computing, network troubleshooting, operating system installation and configuration, security measures, software troubleshooting, and operational procedures.

The curriculum of the CompTIA A+ certification addresses current industry trends and challenges. It covers areas like software-as-a-service (SaaS) reliance, remote diagnostics for software and hardware issues, data management, scripting, cloud virtualization, and IoT device security.

The industry recognition of the CompTIA A+ certification is evident through the reputable companies that rely on it. International brands such as Intel, Nissan, Ricoh, Blue Cross Blue Shield, HP, and Dell Technologies value the skills and knowledge possessed by professionals with the CompTIA A+ certification.

As a bonus, achieving the CompTIA A+ certification opens doors to exciting remote working opportunities. In today’s evolving work landscape, certified professionals with the skills covered in this course are highly sought after.

Hence, if you’re a beginner looking to establish a strong foundation in IT support, the CompTIA A+ certification is the ideal choice.

Top it certifications for beginners: CompTIA IT Fundamentals

2. CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ (Best IT Foundation Course)

If you’re new to the world of IT, CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ (ITF+) is the perfect certification to kickstart your journey. Designed for beginners, it provides you with fundamental IT skills and concepts, covering computing basics, IT infrastructure, software development, and database usage.

You’ll gain essential skills in setting up, configuring, maintaining, troubleshooting, and performing preventative maintenance on hardware and software components of basic personal computer workstations and wireless devices. This certification also includes basic security measures and computer and user support practices.

Fun Fact: A survey revealed that 39% of respondents credited their CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ (ITF+) Certification for helping them secure a job. This certification holds tangible value and positively impacts career prospects.

The CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ (ITF+) certification covers a wide range of IT language and concepts, helping you grasp computing basics. It explores important areas such as data importance, troubleshooting techniques, software development, hardware and infrastructure, applications and software, security, and more.

With this certification, you’ll also gain a solid understanding of the core concepts and principles driving the IT industry. It empowers you to communicate effectively with IT professionals, troubleshoot common issues, and make meaningful contributions to technology-driven environments.

It is safe to say this certification will enable you to understand and navigate the vast IT landscape. It’s a comprehensive certification that covers all IT fundamentals, making it particularly suitable for individuals without technical backgrounds.

So, if you’re starting from scratch and eager to develop a strong overall IT foundation, the CompTIA IT Fundamentals+ (ITF+) certification is your gateway.

Top it certifications for beginners: Microsoft 365 Fundamentals

3. Microsoft 365 Certified: Fundamentals (Best For SaaS Beginners)

Build your future with Microsoft 365, an innovative suite of Office apps, intelligent cloud services, and top-notch security. For beginners venturing into the world of Software as a Service (SaaS), the Microsoft 365 Certified: Fundamentals certification is the perfect starting point.

In this one-day official Microsoft 365 Fundamentals certification course, you’ll gain foundational-level knowledge about the benefits and considerations of adopting Microsoft 365 cloud services. Explore the power of cloud-based tools that enable teams to create, collaborate, and stay productive in the modern workplace while providing intelligent security solutions.

Fun Fact: According to the Microsoft Certification website, certified professionals can earn up to 20% more than their non-certified peers. By obtaining the Microsoft 365 Certified: Fundamentals certification, you enhance your skills and increase your earning potential in the IT industry.

Microsoft 365 is widely recognized and used across the IT sector, making it an essential certification for beginners. This certification is tailored for individuals who want to demonstrate proficiency in Microsoft 365 SaaS solutions and available cloud service options. It showcases your core knowledge of cloud services, a highly valuable skill in today’s digital landscape.

By earning the Microsoft 365 Certified: Fundamentals certification, you’ll acquire the fundamental skills needed to leverage the full potential of Microsoft’s suite of cloud-based tools. Whether you’re starting a new career or seeking to enhance your existing skill set, this certification sets you on the path to SaaS success.

Seize the opportunity to kickstart your journey into the world of SaaS with Microsoft 365 Fundamentals certification today.

Advance in Microsoft 365 with these optional certifications.

Course Title Role Level
MS-102T00: Microsoft 365 Administrator Microsoft 365 Enterprise Administrator Advanced
MD-102T00 : Microsoft 365 Endpoint Administrator Microsoft Endpoint Administrator Intermediate
MS-700T00: Managing Microsoft Teams Microsoft Teams Administrator Intermediate
Top it certifications for beginners: CompTIA Security+

4. CompTIA Security+ (Best For Cybersecurity Beginners)

Looking for a thrilling cybersecurity career? Look no further than CompTIA Security+. This global certification validates essential skills for core security functions and serves as the ideal starting point for beginners in cybersecurity.

Fun Fact: CompTIA Security+ is compliant with ISO 17024 standards and approved by the US Department of Defense (DoD) to meet directive 8140/8570.01-M requirements. With over 2.3 million CompTIA ISO/ANSI-accredited exams delivered since 2011, this certification holds industry-wide recognition and trust.

The CompTIA Security+ exam covers crucial technical abilities, including enterprise networks, risk assessment and management, forensics, incident response, hybrid and cloud operations, and security controls. It emphasizes practical skills, ensuring hands-on experience in real-world cybersecurity scenarios.

This exam verifies proficiency in monitoring and securing hybrid setups like cloud, mobile, and IoT environments. It also assesses the ability to evaluate a business environment’s security posture and raises awareness of governance, risk, and compliance concepts.

Earning the CompTIA Security+ certification establishes a solid foundation in cybersecurity and provides a competitive edge in the job market. It serves as a springboard to intermediate-level cybersecurity positions, offering exciting career opportunities in this growing field.

Ready to take the first step towards a rewarding cybersecurity career? Choose CompTIA Security+ as your starting point. Acquire essential skills, join the ranks of cybersecurity professionals, and play a vital role in safeguarding digital assets and protecting organizations from cyber threats.

Advance your cybersecurity career with these CompTIA certifications.

Course Title Role Level
CT-CYSA+: CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst Cybersecurity Analyst Intermediate
CompTIA PenTest+ Penetration Testers and Vulnerability Assessment Analysts Advanced
CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner Security Architects and Senior Security Engineers Advanced
Top it certifications for beginners: CompTIA Network+

5. CompTIA Network+ (Best For Network Beginners)

When it comes to networking certifications for beginners, look no further than CompTIA Network+. This comprehensive certification validates the technical skills needed to establish, maintain, and troubleshoot networks that businesses rely on.

Unlike other vendor-specific certifications, CompTIA Network+ equips candidates to support networks on any platform. It covers the specific skills and knowledge network professionals require, emphasizing hands-on experience and real-world scenarios.

As the go-to entry-level certification, CompTIA Network+ covers a wide range of essential topics, including networking fundamentals, troubleshooting techniques, network operations, tools, and security measures. It’s ideal for aspiring system engineers, network administrators, technicians, consultants, and junior engineers. While not mandatory, having some networking experience, preferably with CompTIA A+ certification, is recommended before taking the exam.

Fun Fact: The value of CompTIA Network+ certification is widely recognized in the IT industry, with over 51,100 job listings in 2022 specifically seeking candidates with this certification, according to Lightcast.

By earning the CompTIA Network+ certification, you demonstrate your competence in critical networking skills and enhance your employability. Moreover, you will be able to confidently handle networking tasks, troubleshoot issues, and implement effective security measures.

Whether you’re entering the networking field or expanding your skill set, this certification provides a solid foundation and a credential that carries weight in the industry. So, if you’re ready to establish yourself in the world of networking, CompTIA Network+ is your pathway to success.

Top it certifications for beginners: ITIL 4 Foundation

6. ITIL 4 Foundation (Best For IT Service Management Beginners)

Ready to dive into the world of IT service management? Look no further than ITIL 4 Foundation. This renowned certification forms the cornerstone of Axelos’ ITIL 4 framework, a management approach that enhances productivity and streamlines procedures.

ITIL 4 Foundation covers the fundamentals of IT service management, providing you with best practices for developing, delivering, and improving tech-enabled goods and services. It’s the perfect starting point for those aspiring to work in IT service management roles.

The exam explores important concepts such as Lean, Agile, and DevOps, along with the ITIL 4 guiding principles and the four service management dimensions. By earning this certification, you gain a comprehensive understanding of essential IT service management principles and techniques.

Fun Fact: According to PayScale, ITIL certified professionals in the United States earn an average of $74,000. This certification holds tangible value and can significantly contribute to your earning potential.

Once you’ve obtained this foundational certification, you can progress to the ITIL Managing Professional (MP) or Strategic Leader (SL) certification streams. These advanced designations offer practical and technical knowledge that further elevate your expertise and make you a go-to professional in the IT industry.

Ready to embark on a rewarding career in IT service management? ITIL 4 Foundation is your gateway. Embrace this ITIL certification, gain a comprehensive understanding of IT service management practices, and position yourself as a valuable asset in organizations striving for excellence in delivering tech-enabled solutions and services.

Take a step further with the following ITIL certification.

Course Title Role Level
ITIL4-CDS: ITIL 4 Specialist Create, Deliver and Support Certification Service Management Specialist Advanced
ITIL4-CAI: ITIL® 4 Specialist: Collaborate, Assure & Improve IT Service Improvement Manager Advanced
ITIL4-ITAM: ITIL® 4 Specialist: IT Asset Management (ITAM) IT Asset Management Specialist Advanced
ITIL4-PIC: ITIL® 4 Specialist: Plan Implement and Control IT Change Manager Advanced
Top it certifications for beginners: AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner

7. AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner (Best For Cloud Beginners)

Ready to explore the possibilities of the AWS Cloud? Get started with the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner certification, designed for beginners in AWS. With millions of customers leveraging AWS cloud solutions for flexible and reliable applications, now is the perfect time to dive into the basics.

This AWS training course provides a comprehensive understanding of AWS Cloud fundamentals, covering topics like the AWS Global Infrastructure, compute, storage, database, networking, security, and monitoring. Whether you have a technical or non-technical background, this course prepares you for the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner exam.

Fun Fact: According to KnowledgeHut, AWS Cloud Practitioner certification can lead to an increase of up to 8 percent in salary. As you progress to roles like Solutions Architect, the salary spike can reach 67 percent. This certification holds tangible value and opens doors to rewarding career opportunities.

During the course, you’ll gain insights into coding, cloud architecture, debugging, implementation, migration, and performance testing. You’ll also explore business applications like Amazon Alexa, Amazon Chime, and Amazon Work Mail. The exam covers Cloud Concepts, Security and Compliance, Technology, and Billing and Pricing.

As organizations actively seek individuals with expertise in cloud computing, earning this certification can significantly enhance your career prospects and open doors to exciting job opportunities.

Get your AWS Cloud journey started today with the AWS Cloud Practitioner certification!

Want to take a step further? Take advantage of our exclusive AWS bundle promo 2023! This package not only includes the AWS Cloud Practitioner certification but also allows you to choose one out of three paths: Solution Architect, SysOps Administrator, or Developer. By selecting this bundle, you can save over RM2500! Check it out today!

Take advantage of our exclusive AWS bundle promo 2023!

This package not only includes the AWS Cloud Practitioner certification but also allows you to choose one out of the three paths for your advancement. By selecting this bundle, you can save over RM2500! Check it out today!

Course Title Role Level
AWS-ARC: Architecting on AWS Solutions Architect Intermediate
AWS-COA: Cloud Operations on AWS SysOps Administrator Intermediate
AWS-DEV: Developing on AWS Developer Intermediate
Top it certifications for beginners: begin your it career today.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the top IT certifications for beginners provide a transformative opportunity to enter the world of technology and unlock a multitude of career possibilities. Whether you’re looking to specialize in hardware, software, cybersecurity, networking, service management, or cloud computing, there is a certification tailored to your interests and goals.

These certifications serve as a solid foundation, equipping you with the essential knowledge and skills needed to excel in the IT industry.

So, whether you’re starting from scratch or seeking to advance your existing skills, take that first step today. Choose a certification that aligns with your aspirations, and embark on a rewarding and fulfilling career in the exciting realm of technology.

The opportunities are vast, and with determination and perseverance, you can shape a successful future in the dynamic field of IT.

Didn’t find what you were looking for?

No worries! We’ve got more valuable insights for you. Check out our blog on the top top IT skills in 2023, where we explore the essential skills that will shape the future of the tech industry. From low code/no code development to cybersecurity, artificial intelligence to cloud computing, we’ve covered it all. Take a read today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How do IT certifications benefit beginners?

A1: IT certifications provide beginners with a solid foundation of knowledge and skills in specific IT domains. They validate their expertise, enhance employability, and open doors to entry-level positions in the IT industry. Certifications also offer a structured learning path and provide a competitive edge in the job market.

Q2: How long does it take to earn an IT certification?

A2: The time required to earn an IT certification varies depending on the specific certification and the individual’s prior experience and dedication. Some certifications can be completed in a matter of weeks, while others may require several months of study and preparation.

Q3: Do I need prior experience or technical background to pursue IT certifications?

A3: While prior experience or technical background can be helpful, many IT certifications are designed with beginners in mind. They provide comprehensive training and cover fundamental concepts, making them accessible to individuals with little to no prior experience in the field.

Q4: Are IT certifications recognized by employers?

A4: Yes, IT certifications are widely recognized and valued by employers. They demonstrate your commitment to professional development, validate your skills, and differentiate you from other candidates in the job market. Many employers specifically seek candidates with relevant certifications for specific roles.

Q5: Can IT certifications lead to higher salaries?

A5: Yes, IT certifications can contribute to higher salaries. Certified professionals often earn more than their non-certified counterparts. Certifications showcase your expertise and dedication, which employers value and are willing to compensate accordingly.

Q6: How do I choose the right IT certification for me?

A6: To choose the right IT certification, consider your interests, career goals, and the skills in demand in the industry. Research different certifications, their prerequisites, and the job opportunities they can provide. Additionally, seek guidance from industry professionals or consult with training providers who can help assess your goals and recommend suitable certifications.

Q7: Can I pursue multiple IT certifications?

A7: Absolutely! Many professionals pursue multiple IT certifications throughout their careers. Certifications in different areas of IT can complement each other and broaden your skill set. However, it’s important to balance your time and resources to ensure effective preparation and avoid overwhelming yourself.

Q8: Do IT certifications expire?

A8: Some IT certifications do have expiration dates, requiring professionals to renew their certification periodically. This ensures that certified individuals stay updated with the latest industry trends and technologies. It’s important to review the certification requirements to understand renewal processes and stay current in your field.

Q9: How can I get IT certifications?

A9: To obtain IT certifications, it is essential to seek out a trusted training provider that offers comprehensive courses and resources for exam preparation. At Trainocate Malaysia, an award-winning training provider, we offer a wide range of training programs, study materials, and expert-led courses to help you acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in certification exams. Enrolling with a reputable training provider like us allows you to receive guidance, support, and hands-on learning experiences, significantly enhancing your chances of achieving IT certifications.

About the Author

Lim Li Chong

Digital Marketing Specialist, specialised in developing and implementing effective campaigns to drive brand awareness and achieve measurable results.