Why are IT certifications important?
IT certifications can demonstrate a candidate’s ability to ensure your software and hardware systems are secure and stable. Earning IT qualifications takes time, effort and financial investment. Having various IT certifications can be a strong indication of a candidate’s dedication to their career.
Well-trained IT professionals with current, relevant certifications can provide valuable expertise and help strengthen and improve business-centric technology.
“When a prospective employee has taken the time to prove their skills by obtaining a certification, it definitely makes them stand out from other candidates.”
—Scott Nameth, CEO and Java programmer
Entry-level IT certifications
Entry-level IT certifications provide a gateway into the IT sector. If you’re filling an entry-level IT position, keep an eye out for these certifications:
CompTIA A+
CompTIA’s CompTIA A+ certification covers a wide range of IT-related subjects, including hardware, troubleshooting and tech support. Candidates with this foundational qualification understand IT security, operational procedures, mobile devices, networking and a range of operating systems.
Recertification: CompTIA A+ certifications require renewal every three years to ensure knowledge remains current.
Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA)
Microsoft offers a range of different entry-level technology certifications called Microsoft Technology Associates (MTAs). These certifications help candidates demonstrate foundational knowledge across several key areas, including:
- Database fundamentals
- Introduction to programming
- Network fundamentals
- Security fundamentals
- Software development fundamentals
- Windows Server administration fundamentals
- Windows operating system fundamentals
Candidates with an introduction to programming MTA understand the fundamentals of HTML, Java, JavaScript, CSS and Python.
Recertification: MTA certifications do not expire, making them a lasting credential for entry-level IT professionals.
Linux certifications
Linux is behind many modern technologies, from web servers and cloud infrastructure to embedded systems and supercomputers. Strong Linux skills are valuable for IT professionals and the following certifications are usually recognized benchmarks in the industry:
Red Hat Certified Engineer
The Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) is considered one of the most respected Linux certifications for those specializing in Red Hat systems and enterprise environments.
Recertification: RHCE certifications do not expire, but Red Hat recommends renewal every three years to maintain current expertise.
CompTIA Linux+
A vendor-neutral certification, Linux+ is a well-regarded entry-level certification that covers a broad range of Linux topics and is a good alternative to LPI Linux Essentials for those who prefer a more comprehensive approach.
Recertification: CompTIA Linux+ certifications require renewal every three years.
Linux Professional Institute
The Linux Professional Institute Certification (LPIC) is a program that validates the skills and knowledge of Linux professionals. It is vendor-neutral, meaning it applies across various Linux distributions, such as Red Hat, CentOS, Debian, Ubuntu and OpenSUSE.
Recertification: The Essentials Series Linux Professional Institute certifications do not expire. More advanced certifications expire after five years.
Cloud computing certifications
Cloud-based technology has become the standard in IT and a growing number of cloud certifications, many vendor-specific, can help validate a candidate’s expertise in this area:
AWS Certified Solutions Architect
Candidates with this Amazon certification can build, deploy and maintain cloud environments via Amazon Web Services. Amazon is the world leader in cloud computing, so an AWS-certified solutions accreditation can be a substantial addition to a resume.
Recertification: AWS certifications require renewal every three years.
CompTIA cloud+
This vendor-neutral certification demonstrates comprehensive knowledge of cloud computing. Individuals with CompTIA Cloud+ certification have the skills to configure, deploy, secure, manage and troubleshoot cloud systems.
Recertification: CompTIA Cloud+ certifications require renewal every three years.
Google Cloud Certified Professional Cloud Architect (GCP)
Google Cloud Certified Professional Cloud Architects know how to design and implement cloud architectures. GCP cloud architects can manage scalable, robust, dynamic solutions with Google Cloud Platform technology. This certification shows expertise in cloud architecture and best practices.
Recertification: GCP cloud architect certifications require renewal every two years.
Salesforce Certified Development Lifecycle and Deployment Designer
An important step toward full Salesforce Certified Systems Architect certification, the Salesforce Certified Development Lifecycle and Deployment Designer qualification can be a great addition to an IT resume.
Recertification: Professionals are required to complete one Trailhead maintenance module per year to maintain their Salesforce IT certifications.
VMware Certified Professional 6 – Data Center Virtualization (VCP6-DCV)
VCP6-DCV-qualified technology professionals can manage data center virtualization in the cloud using VMware’s vSphere 6.0.
Recertification: Although they’re valid indefinitely, many IT professionals upgrade their VCP6-DCV certifications every two years to remain current.
IT database technology certifications
Database technology certifications are often vendor-specific and validate a candidate’s ability to manage, maintain and optimize enterprise data systems. Here are four certifications:
CCIE Data Center
Cisco CCIE Data Center certification holders are data center experts. They can plan, construct, run, monitor and troubleshoot complicated data-related networks.
Recertification: CCIE data center certifications are valid for three years.
Certified Data Professional (CDP)
This comprehensive Institute for Certification of Computing Professionals (ICCP) qualification comprises five tiers ranging from entry-level to executive management. Certified Data Professionals generally specialize in areas such as data governance, data analytics and data warehousing.
Recertification: Technology professionals are required to complete 60 hours of Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits every three years to maintain their CDP certificates.
Oracle Certified Professional
Oracle Certified Professionals demonstrate advanced expertise in Oracle technologies. Certification paths include database application development, database administration, data warehousing, analytics and big data. These credentials validate a candidate’s ability to manage and optimize Oracle-based systems and enterprise databases.
Recertification: Oracle periodically retires and replaces its credentials. Certificate-holders have 12 months from the date of expiry to upgrade to an equivalent current Oracle credential.
SAP Certified Technology Associate—SAP HANA 2.0
IT professionals with SAP HANA 2.0 certificates can install, migrate, monitor, manage and troubleshoot SAP databases.
Recertification: SAP HANA 2.0 certificate holders are required to upgrade their certifications whenever new versions of the credential are released.
ISACA certifications
ISACA is a globally respected professional organization focused on IT governance, security and risk management. It offers five international certification schemes, each one designed to enhance and protect business IT systems:
Certified in the Governance of Enterprise IT (CGEIT)
A framework-agnostic certification, the CGEIT is highly versatile and professionals with the qualifications are renowned in the IT industry. Study topics include benefits realization, risk optimization, IT resources and governance of enterprise IT.
Recertification: ISACA certificate holders are required to earn at least 20 CPE hours per year to maintain their certification to ensure their knowledge is up to date.
Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC)
IT professionals with a CRISC certification are skilled in identifying, assessing and managing enterprise-level IT risks. They can also create, implement and maintain IS controls to ensure security and compliance across business operations.
Recertification: ISACA certificate holders are required to earn at least 20 CPE hours per year to remain qualified.
Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
A CISM certification demonstrates mastery in information security governance, program development and incident management. These professionals can develop and manage programs to protect information, including risk and incident management programs.
Recertification: ISACA certificate holders are required to earn at least 20 CPE hours per year to remain qualified.
Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
ISACA Certified Information Systems Auditors are trained in effective IT security auditing, monitoring and controlling techniques. They can also assess your IT infrastructure, identify vulnerabilities and ensure compliance with security and control standards.
Recertification: ISACA certificate holders are required to earn at least 20 CPE hours per year to remain qualified.
Cybersecurity Fundamentals (CSX)
Individuals with a CSX Cybersecurity Fundamentals certificate know how to protect internet-connected IT systems. This qualification is a requirement for both entry-level IT security professionals and industry veterans.
Recertification: ISACA certificate holders are required to earn at least 20 CPE hours per year to remain qualified.
IT help desk certifications
You ideally have well-qualified problem-solving technology pros if you run an internal IT help desk for employees or a tech support department for clients. These certifications demonstrate both technical troubleshooting ability and strong communication skills.
Here are three customer-service certifications for IT pros:
Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP)
If you run an Apple-based business or sell macOS apps, you’ll require an Apple-certified expert on your team. ACSP certificate holders are proficient with macOS and can manage Mac-based networks, resolve technical issues and provide exceptional end-user support.
Recertification: Apple certifications don’t expire.
HDI certifications
There are various HDI certifications, all of which focus on customer outreach and support. HDI qualifications give both entry-level and experienced IT professionals extra credibility. HDI-certified professionals demonstrate excellence in customer service, incident management and communication, key components of effective IT support.
Recertification: HDI certifications don’t expire, but technology professionals can consider upgrading their credentials every two years.
ITIL 4
ITIL is an industry-standard framework for IT service management. Recently updated, the ITIL certification program has four different levels: Foundation, ITIL 4 Managing Professional, ITIL 4 Strategic Leader and Master.
Recertification: ITIL certifications don’t expire.
IT management certifications
Consider the following IT management certifications:
Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)
The Project Management Institute CAPM certification isn’t IT specific, but it’s a technology management essential nonetheless. CAPM-certified professionals have a solid understanding of project planning, budgeting and execution, including the foundational principles of project management methodology.
Recertification: CAPM certificate holders are required to earn at least 15 professional development units (PDUs) over three years to keep their qualifications current.
Certified Scrum Master
Accredited by the Scrum Alliance, Certified Scrum Masters or Leaders know about highly efficient Agile and Scrum techniques. CSMs are skilled at leading collaborative development teams, managing iterative projects and ensuring continuous improvement.
Recertification: Scrum Masters are required to recertify every two years.
Project Management Professional (PMP)
IT candidates with the PMI Project Management Professional certification can handle challenging information technology projects.
Recertification: Project management professionals are required to earn at least 60 PDUs every three years to maintain their certifications.
Networking certifications
Cisco is an industry leader and Cisco certifications demonstrate a candidate’s understanding of network technology. Most networking specialists possess either the CCNA or the CCNP certificate, or both.
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
To earn a CCNA certification, individuals are required to learn fundamental networking topics, including network access, IP security, IP connectivity, automation and network programming. This certification is a strong foundation for anyone beginning or advancing a career in network administration.
Recertification: CCNA certificates expire every three years.
Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)
Cisco offers various expert-level CCNP certifications. Specialist options include CCNP Data Center, CCNP Enterprise, CCNP Collaboration and Cisco Certified CyberOps Professional certificates. CCNP-certified experts possess the technical depth to design, implement and troubleshoot complex network solutions across a range of environments.
Recertification: CCNP certificates expire every three years.
IT security certifications
Here are three additional security-based technology certificates for IT professionals:
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
Security professionals with CEH qualifications can detect security vulnerabilities and improve IT system safety. CEH-certified experts understand penetration testing, network scanning, malware threats and system hardening techniques.
Recertification: Ethical hackers are required to recertify every three years and complete 120 or more ECE credits during each three-year period.
Global Information Assurance Certifications (GIACs)
There are several types of GIAC, including Digital Forensics and Incident Response, Management and Leadership, Cyber Defense and Offensive Operations. These certifications validate deep technical knowledge and hands-on security expertise. GIACs are among the very best IT security certificates available.
Recertification: GIAC certifications expire every four years.
Certified Information Systems Security Professional
Cybersecurity experts with CISSP certificates are sought after for a reason. CISSP-certified tech professionals are security experts and the CISSP certification meets U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Directive 8570.1 standards.
Recertification: CISSP-qualified networking professionals are required to renew their certificates every three years.
8 interview questions for IT candidates
Certifications are just one part of evaluating a candidate. The interview process is where you can assess a candidate’s technical ability and problem-solving mindset. The following eight questions can help you learn more about an IT professional’s skills, experience and approach during an interview:
1. What’s the toughest IT challenge you’ve ever faced? How did you tackle it?
People grow through adversity. You can gauge a candidate’s problem-solving abilities when you ask them this question. Their response can reveal how they approach complex challenges, manage pressure and learn from difficult situations.
2. What do you consider your greatest strengths in IT?
When candidates discuss their strengths, they may be able to communicate why the skills they hold fit your open IT position.
3. What IT skills do you still need to work on?
This one’s about humility as well as ability. Individuals who are self-aware and willing to learn on the job tend to work more effectively within an existing team.
4. Why do you want to work with us?
You’ll find out how much an interviewee knows about your company when you ask them this question. A well-informed applicant can reference your company’s mission, technology stack or culture, showing genuine interest and alignment with your goals.
5. What do you think you can bring to this role?
This question can help you determine whether the candidate has read your job description thoroughly. Strong candidates can tell you why they’d make a good addition to your team and how they might grow professionally within your company.
6. Can you tell me about your proudest accomplishment as an IT professional?
Employees who take pride in their work usually perform better than those who don’t. Ask your applicant to share a career highlight. This can help you determine if they would feel fulfilled at your company.
7. Can you tell me three things about you that aren’t on your resume?
This question can reveal more about a candidate’s personality, values and relevant experiences that may not be reflected in their formal work history. It’s a great way to get a sense of how they might fit into your team dynamic.
8. Can you tell me about a time you solved a problem creatively or outside the box?
This interview question is a powerful tool for assessing a candidate’s resourcefulness and ingenuity. It goes beyond basic problem-solving to uncover their ability to innovate and find solutions when conventional approaches fail.
IT certifications help validate expertise across entry-level support, Linux, cloud, databases, governance, help desk, management, networking and security, demonstrating dedication and current skills.
When hiring, consider prioritizing relevant credentials to ensure candidates can secure systems, drive initiatives and align with business needs.
