In the fast-paced world of technology, IT certifications have become a gateway to lucrative and rewarding careers. Whether you’re just starting out or transitioning into tech, certifications offer a clear and structured path to develop essential skills. For beginners, having the right certification on your resume can open doors to entry-level roles that lead to long-term growth in the industry.
The certifications that were popular last year might no longer hold the same value as new technologies like cloud computing and cybersecurity continue to grow. This article will guide you through the top five IT certifications for beginners in 2024, helping you choose the right one to kickstart your journey.
Whether you’re interested in networking, cloud computing, or basic IT support, we’ve got you covered. These certifications will equip you with the skills and credibility needed to land your first job and build a solid foundation for your future.
Why IT Certifications Matter for Beginners
IT certifications have long been a staple for career starters and professionals seeking to expand their expertise. For beginners, they provide more than just knowledge — they offer proof of your commitment to mastering essential tech skills. In an industry as competitive as IT, certifications serve as a differentiator for hiring managers who seek qualified candidates.
The IT sector is growing at a remarkable pace. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in computer and information technology are projected to grow by 10% from 2021 to 2031, adding about 530,000 new jobs over the decade. This growth is driven by increased demand for IT services, cybersecurity solutions, and cloud technologies.
But why should beginners care? First, certifications can validate your skills without requiring years of experience. For those without a traditional tech background, certifications serve as a stepping stone to gaining practical, hands-on experience that employers value. Certifications also tend to cost significantly less than a college degree, offering a more accessible path into the tech world.
In today’s job market, companies are looking for skilled workers who can hit the ground running. By obtaining a certification, you’re signaling that you are serious about your IT career, and you’re ready to tackle real-world problems right away.
Top 5 IT Certifications for Beginners in 2024
The CompTIA A+ certification is often regarded as the ideal starting point for those new to IT. It covers a broad range of foundational skills, including hardware, software, networking, and troubleshooting. If you’re aiming for a career in IT support, helpdesk roles, or technical support, CompTIA A+ is an excellent choice.
This certification is designed for individuals with no prior experience in IT, making it accessible for true beginners. The exam consists of two parts: Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102), both of which cover essential knowledge on topics like installation, configuration, mobile devices, and operational procedures.
- Exam Cost: Approximately $253 per exam in USA.
- Key Job Roles: Helpdesk technician, IT support specialist, technical support analyst.
- Salary Expectation: CompTIA A+ holders earn an average salary of $52,800 in entry-level roles.
The CompTIA A+ certification is widely recognized and respected by employers, making it an excellent first step. It not only teaches technical skills but also customer service skills, which are vital in IT support roles. Plus, many companies, including Dell, Intel, and HP, require or recommend this certification for entry-level positions.
For those looking to dive into networking, the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is the go-to certification. It’s particularly useful for individuals interested in building and managing networks, which are the backbone of modern businesses. As an entry-level certification, CCNA provides a solid foundation in networking, security, and automation.
The CCNA exam is challenging but rewarding. It covers networking fundamentals, IP connectivity, IP services, security fundamentals, and network automation. The course material is designed to give you practical, hands-on experience, which will prepare you for real-world networking challenges.
- Exam Cost: $300.
- Key Job Roles: Network administrator, network engineer, systems administrator.
- Salary Expectation: CCNA holders often command salaries ranging from $31,000 to $158,000, with an average of $109,040 in the United States, according to ZipRecruiter, depending on location and experience.
Networking is essential in the modern IT landscape, and the demand for skilled network professionals continues to grow. With a CCNA certification, you can be confident that you’ll have the skills to manage complex networks and troubleshoot connectivity issues effectively.
As cloud technology becomes increasingly integral to business operations, understanding cloud platforms like AWS is crucial for IT professionals. The AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner certification is an entry-level certification designed for individuals who want to understand cloud computing but have little to no technical background.
This certification covers the basics of AWS Cloud, its architecture, security, and pricing models. It’s a great stepping stone for those who eventually want to dive deeper into cloud technologies but aren’t ready for more advanced certifications like the AWS Solutions Architect.
- Exam Cost: $100.
- Key Job Roles: Cloud support associate, cloud technician, cloud administrator.
- Salary Expectation: As of September 12, 2024, the average salary for an Entry Level AWS Cloud Practitioner in the U.S. is $85,866 per year. Salaries range from $50,500 to $117,000, with top earners making up to $154,500.
With businesses increasingly moving to cloud infrastructures, the demand for cloud professionals has skyrocketed. AWS is the market leader in cloud services, and this certification helps you understand its ecosystem, setting you up for more advanced cloud roles.
Google Cloud is another major player in the cloud industry, and the Google Associate Cloud Engineer certification is a great entry point for those interested in working with Google Cloud Platform (GCP). This certification focuses on deploying applications, monitoring operations, and managing enterprise solutions on Google Cloud.
- Exam Cost: $125.
- Key Job Roles: Cloud engineer, cloud consultant, junior cloud administrator.
- Salary Expectation: As of September 12, 2024, the average salary for an Associate Google Cloud Engineer in the U.S. is $82,636, with a range from $65,500 to $95,000. Top earners can make up to $116,000.
With a focus on practical experience, this certification is perfect for beginners who want to gain hands-on knowledge of Google’s cloud platform and work toward higher-level certifications down the line.
Microsoft Azure is one of the most popular cloud platforms used by enterprises worldwide. The Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) certification is a perfect entry point for anyone interested in cloud computing. It covers the basics of cloud concepts, core Azure services, and Azure pricing and support.
- Exam Cost: $99.
- Key Job Roles: Azure administrator, cloud architect, cloud consultant.
- Salary Expectation: Azure professionals can expect starting salaries in the $60,000 to $70,000 range.
As businesses continue to adopt cloud solutions, having foundational knowledge in Microsoft Azure opens up opportunities in a range of industries.
How to Choose the Right IT Certification for You
Choosing the right certification depends largely on your career goals and interests. If you’re more interested in troubleshooting and hardware, CompTIA A+ is a great fit. If networking excites you, CCNA will provide the right skills. On the other hand, if you see yourself working with cloud technologies, then certifications like AWS Cloud Practitioner or Azure Fundamentals are a good starting point.
When making your decision, consider the specific job roles you’re targeting. For instance, if you want to work in cloud infrastructure, AWS and Google Cloud certifications will be more relevant than a network certification like CCNA.
It’s also important to think about the long-term. Which certifications will help you grow into more advanced roles? Many certifications, like AWS Cloud Practitioner or Azure Fundamentals, serve as building blocks for more advanced certifications that lead to high-paying, specialized roles.
Conclusion
In 2024, the IT industry continues to grow, and certifications remain one of the best ways to enter the field. Whether you’re interested in cloud computing, networking, or IT support, there is a certification to match your goals. Starting with one of the top beginner certifications will give you the skills and credibility to land your first job and build a strong career foundation.
Don’t wait — take the first step toward your IT career by choosing the certification that aligns with your goals and start preparing for a bright future in tech!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Start with CompTIA A+ if you're new to IT and want a broad introduction to technology fundamentals.
Yes, they provide a clear pathway into tech jobs and validate your skills for employers.
Yes, many entry-level IT roles require certifications, especially in support, networking, and cloud.
It varies; most entry-level certifications take 1-3 months of preparation.
The Microsoft Azure Fundamentals exam, priced at $99, is one of the most affordable options.
