In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving technology landscape, earning an IT certification is one of the most effective ways to advance your career in the technology sector. Whether you’ve recently completed an IT apprenticeship, graduated from university, or are entirely new to IT, obtaining a certification is a powerful way to demonstrate your skills and expertise to potential employers. Certifications serve as tangible proof of your knowledge, setting you apart in a competitive job market.
With thousands of certifications available, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is the best fit for your career aspirations. It’s important to choose certifications that align with your interests and career goals, as well as those that offer the most value in terms of employability and salary potential. To simplify your decision-making process, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 entry-level IT certifications for 2018. These certifications are ideal for individuals who are starting their careers in IT, equipping you with the knowledge and practical skills needed to succeed in this rapidly growing field.
1. Cisco CCNA Routing and Switching
Average Salary: £40,000
Exams Required: ICND1 and ICND2
Prerequisites: 6 months of networking experience
As a leader in networking, Cisco has created a comprehensive certification portfolio for IT professionals. The CCNA Routing and Switching certification is one of the most popular entry-level certifications in the networking domain. Earning a CCNA proves your ability to work with Cisco networking equipment and establishes your proficiency in topics such as IPv4, IPv6 networks, network devices, security, and troubleshooting.
This certification can be achieved by passing two exams, ICND1 and ICND2, which cover the foundational aspects of networking. Once you’ve passed these exams, you’ll have a strong understanding of how to set up and manage a network. The CCNA also serves as a stepping stone for more advanced Cisco certifications, such as the CCNP or CCNA Cloud, making it a highly valuable certification for those looking to build a career in network engineering.
2. EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
Average Salary: £53,000
Exams Required: Certified Ethical Hacker (v9)
Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of Linux, TCP/IP, and Windows Server
The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification is perfect for those interested in pursuing a career in cybersecurity. Unlike black hat hackers, ethical hackers use the same tools and techniques to find vulnerabilities in systems before malicious actors can exploit them. By earning the CEH certification, professionals gain hands-on experience with hacking tools and techniques used in real-world cybersecurity scenarios.
This certification equips IT professionals with the skills to perform penetration testing and vulnerability assessments to safeguard network infrastructures. It is ideal for those who already have basic knowledge of networking and systems administration, such as those who have passed the CompTIA Network+ or CCNA certifications.
3. EC-Council Certified Network Defender (CND)
Average Salary: No data available
Exams Required: Certified Network Defender (CND) 312-38
Prerequisites: Basic understanding of network security
For those looking to develop specialized expertise in network security, the Certified Network Defender (CND) certification is an excellent choice. The CND certification teaches networking professionals how to defend networks against threats by using the tools and methods used by cybersecurity experts.
The CND certification covers a wide range of topics, including firewalls, risk assessments, and network defense solutions. It also focuses on incident response and troubleshooting. The CND is particularly beneficial for network administrators who want to enhance their security knowledge and protect their organization’s infrastructure.
4. PRINCE2® Foundation & Practitioner
Average Salary: £52,500
Exams Required: PRINCE2® Foundation Exam and PRINCE2® Practitioner Exam
Prerequisites: None
For individuals interested in project management, the PRINCE2® Foundation & Practitioner certification is one of the most widely recognized qualifications in Europe. PRINCE2® (Projects IN Controlled Environments) is a flexible and scalable project management methodology, widely used across different industries. Achieving this certification will equip you with the skills to manage projects from initiation to completion using the PRINCE2® methodology.
The PRINCE2® Foundation certification introduces you to the fundamentals of project management, while the PRINCE2® Practitioner level dives deeper into the application of PRINCE2® principles in real-world scenarios. This certification is ideal for those starting their careers in project management, and it is a useful qualification for professionals across a wide range of industries, including IT, construction, and business management.
5. Microsoft MCSA: Windows Server 2016
Average Salary: £40,000
Exams Required: 70-740, 70-741, 70-742
Prerequisites: Basic-to-intermediate understanding of networking
The MCSA: Windows Server 2016 certification is an essential qualification for IT professionals looking to build expertise in managing server environments. This certification demonstrates your ability to install, configure, and manage Windows Server 2016, one of the most widely used server operating systems globally.
This certification will allow you to prove your knowledge of core server management skills, including Active Directory, storage management, server migration, and network configuration. The MCSA certification serves as a foundation for more advanced certifications, such as the MCSE: Cloud Platform and Infrastructure, making it a valuable asset for those seeking to specialize in cloud computing or server management.
6. Microsoft MCSA: Cloud Platform
Average Salary: No data available
Exams Required: 70-532, 70-533, 70-534, 70-473 or 70-745
Prerequisites: Working knowledge of the Azure platform and C#
For professionals who want to specialize in cloud computing, the MCSA: Cloud Platform certification focuses on Microsoft Azure, one of the leading cloud computing platforms. Cloud computing is rapidly transforming the IT industry, and the MCSA: Cloud Platform certification ensures that you are equipped with the knowledge to design, manage, and deploy cloud applications.
This certification can be achieved by passing two of several available exams, which cover topics such as Azure infrastructure solutions, big data, and cloud data platforms. The MCSA: Cloud Platform certification can lead to roles such as cloud administrator, cloud engineer, or cloud architect.
7. BCS Certificate in Information Security Management Principles (CISMP)
Average Salary: £55,750
Exams Required: BCS Certificate in Information Security Management Principles Prerequisites: Basic IT knowledge and an understanding of IT security
The CISMP certification, created by the British Computing Society (BCS), provides foundational knowledge in information security management. This certification focuses on key aspects of cybersecurity, risk management, social media vulnerabilities, and cloud computing.
The CISMP is ideal for entry-level professionals interested in information security, whether you’ve completed an IT apprenticeship or a university degree. It provides a solid understanding of the principles of managing information security and is a great way to start a career in the growing field of cybersecurity.
8. ITIL Foundation
Average Salary: £37,718
Exams Required: ITIL Foundation Exam
Prerequisites: None
ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) is a globally recognized framework for IT service management. The ITIL Foundation certification provides fundamental knowledge of ITIL practices, helping you manage and optimize IT services effectively.
ITIL is used by thousands of organizations to improve IT service delivery, and the ITIL Foundation certification proves your understanding of key concepts like incident management, change management, and problem resolution. It’s an excellent certification for professionals looking to enter IT service management roles.
9. CompTIA Security+
Average Salary: £45,000
Exams Required: Security+ Exam SY0-401
Prerequisites: 2 years of IT admin and networking experience
CompTIA is well-known for providing vendor-neutral certifications, and Security+ is one of its most popular certifications. It validates your knowledge of network security, cryptography, and incident response, making it a crucial stepping stone for anyone pursuing a career in IT security.
If you’ve already earned certifications like CompTIA A+ and Network+, Security+ is a logical next step. The certification is recognized worldwide and required by many organizations, including the U.S. Department of Defense, for roles in cybersecurity.
10. CompTIA Cloud+
Average Salary: No data available
Exams Required: Exam CV0-001
Prerequisites: 2 years of experience in IT networking, storage, or data center administration
For professionals interested in cloud technologies, the CompTIA Cloud+ certification demonstrates your ability to manage and secure cloud environments. It covers topics such as cloud models, virtualization, security, and resource management, making it a great certification for anyone working in or transitioning to the cloud computing field.
Cloud computing continues to grow in importance, and this certification helps validate your ability to manage cloud infrastructure and ensure the continuity of business operations.
Cisco CCNA Routing and Switching: A Comprehensive Guide
In the fast-evolving world of IT, networking professionals are essential to the operation of every organization. As companies become more dependent on complex network infrastructures, the demand for skilled networking professionals is growing rapidly. One of the most respected certifications in this field is Cisco’s Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Routing and Switching certification. This certification proves that you have the skills to design, configure, troubleshoot, and manage local area networks (LANs) and wide area networks (WANs) using Cisco’s technologies.
The Cisco CCNA Routing and Switching certification is designed for IT professionals who are keen to demonstrate their ability to work with Cisco’s vast range of networking technologies. By earning this certification, you will prove your expertise in network devices, security, troubleshooting, and the configuration of scalable networks. This is a stepping stone to more advanced networking roles and can open doors to various career opportunities in the networking domain.
What is Cisco CCNA Routing and Switching?
The Cisco CCNA Routing and Switching certification is one of the most widely recognized qualifications for network professionals. It covers the foundational skills needed for working with Cisco’s networking technologies, focusing on the configuration and management of routers, switches, and other network devices. The CCNA Routing and Switching exam ensures that professionals understand the protocols, security practices, and the necessary tools for maintaining and troubleshooting a network.
Obtaining the CCNA certification validates your understanding of networking basics and enables you to configure and troubleshoot network devices. Cisco provides two primary exams that are required to earn the CCNA Routing and Switching certification: ICND1 and ICND2.
ICND1 (Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 1): This exam is the first step toward obtaining the CCNA certification. It focuses on basic networking concepts such as IP addressing, network fundamentals, and basic router and switch configuration.
ICND2 (Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 2): This second exam builds on the foundation laid by ICND1, introducing more complex concepts, including advanced routing protocols, network troubleshooting, and configuration of scalable networks.
Once both exams are passed, you will be awarded the full CCNA Routing and Switching certification, which opens doors to many career opportunities and positions you as an expert in Cisco’s networking technologies.
Average Salary and Career Opportunities
Earning the Cisco CCNA Routing and Switching certification can significantly enhance your earning potential. On average, a network professional with a CCNA Routing and Switching certification earns approximately £40,000 annually. This salary is competitive for an entry-level or mid-level networking role, and it may increase with experience and further specialization in areas such as network security, cloud computing, and virtualization.
In addition to the salary benefits, the CCNA certification offers several career opportunities across a wide range of industries, from small businesses to large enterprises. With a CCNA certification, you can pursue roles such as:
- Network Administrator
- Network Engineer
- Systems Administrator
- IT Support Specialist
- Network Analyst
- Routing and Switching Engineer
The CCNA Routing and Switching certification also serves as a solid foundation for further Cisco certifications and other advanced networking credentials. Many professionals go on to earn additional certifications in cloud computing, network security, and wireless technologies, which further increase their career prospects and earning potential.
Prerequisites for CCNA Routing and Switching
While there are no strict prerequisites for taking the CCNA Routing and Switching exams, Cisco recommends that candidates have at least six months of experience with networking concepts. This experience will help you understand the fundamentals of networking and enable you to grasp the more advanced topics covered in the ICND2 exam.
Having a basic understanding of networking concepts, such as the OSI model, IP addressing, subnetting, and network protocols, will be beneficial as you prepare for the CCNA exams. If you’re new to networking, consider completing a foundational course, such as the CompTIA Network+ certification, to build your knowledge before attempting the CCNA exams.
The Value of Cisco’s CCNA Certification
Cisco remains a dominant force in the networking industry, and obtaining the CCNA Routing and Switching certification is highly regarded by employers worldwide. Cisco’s networking technologies are used by millions of businesses and organizations, making CCNA-certified professionals highly sought after. The certification is respected not only for its depth and rigor but also because it provides hands-on experience with industry-standard networking devices.
In addition to the immediate career benefits, CCNA Routing and Switching certification also serves as a gateway to more advanced networking certifications, such as Cisco’s Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) and Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE). As you gain experience and expertise, you can pursue these more specialized certifications to further advance your career in networking.
Moreover, as businesses continue to transition to cloud-based infrastructure, the role of a network professional has evolved. CCNA-certified professionals are now more critical than ever, with an increasing number of organizations seeking individuals who can secure and manage cloud-based networks. This trend further strengthens the value of the CCNA Routing and Switching certification as it enables professionals to work across traditional on-premises and cloud-based network environments.
Preparation for the CCNA Exams
Preparing for the CCNA Routing and Switching certification requires dedicated study and hands-on practice. The exams test both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, so it is important to practice configuring and troubleshooting real network devices, not just learn theoretical concepts. Examlabs provides valuable resources for candidates looking to prepare for the ICND1 and ICND2 exams. Their comprehensive practice exams, study materials, and expert-led tutorials offer a structured and effective way to master the knowledge and skills needed to pass the CCNA exams.
The resources offered by Examlabs give candidates an opportunity to simulate the actual exam environment, helping them become familiar with the exam format and types of questions. By practicing with these materials, candidates can improve their confidence and ensure they are ready to pass the exams on the first attempt.
EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): A Pathway to Cybersecurity Mastery
The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification, offered by the EC-Council, is a globally recognized credential that focuses on the knowledge and skills required for ethical hacking and penetration testing. Designed for professionals interested in cybersecurity, the CEH equips individuals with the tools to assess and strengthen the security of systems, networks, and applications by understanding the tactics used by malicious hackers. As cyber threats continue to evolve, the demand for cybersecurity professionals with ethical hacking expertise is on the rise. The CEH certification provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the methods that attackers use and offers professionals the opportunity to help defend systems against these vulnerabilities.
What Does the CEH Certification Entail?
The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification covers a wide array of topics, each of which is crucial to understanding the mindset and techniques used by malicious hackers. Unlike traditional security measures, the CEH certification focuses on the proactive side of cybersecurity — teaching you how hackers exploit system weaknesses to compromise and steal sensitive data. By learning how hackers think and operate, you will be equipped to better protect your systems from a range of attacks.
The CEH exam involves multiple domains related to cybersecurity, including understanding system vulnerabilities, exploiting weaknesses, securing networks, and defending against cyberattacks. Candidates are trained to use real-world hacking tools and techniques to identify security flaws within systems and networks. Once the flaws are identified, ethical hackers implement strategies to patch those vulnerabilities and strengthen the overall security posture of an organization. The CEH is an essential certification for professionals aiming to specialize in penetration testing, network security analysis, and broader cybersecurity practices.
Prerequisites for the CEH Certification
Before attempting the CEH exam, it is recommended that candidates possess a basic understanding of several critical technical areas. These prerequisites include:
Basic Knowledge of Linux: Since many security tools and systems are built on Linux-based platforms, candidates should be familiar with navigating the Linux operating system, using its command line, and understanding Linux security structures.
Understanding TCP/IP: A solid understanding of TCP/IP protocols is essential for ethical hackers to diagnose network traffic, assess potential security issues, and interact with different network layers.
Experience with Windows Server: Many organizations still rely on Windows Server for their network infrastructure. Knowing how to secure and identify vulnerabilities within Windows Server environments is essential for performing effective ethical hacking.
While these prerequisites are recommended, they are not strictly required. Individuals without these skills can still pursue the CEH certification, provided they are willing to study and learn these concepts through preparatory courses or practical experience. Examlabs offers a range of resources and study materials, including practice exams and comprehensive training, to ensure candidates are well-prepared for the CEH exam.
Ideal Candidates for the CEH Certification
The CEH certification is ideal for individuals looking to enter the field of cybersecurity or those already working in the industry and seeking to enhance their technical expertise. The CEH is especially beneficial for:
Security Professionals: Individuals already working in cybersecurity roles who want to deepen their understanding of ethical hacking techniques and bolster their skills in penetration testing and vulnerability assessment.
Network Engineers: Professionals managing network infrastructure who wish to expand their knowledge of security and learn how to proactively secure their network from attacks.
System Administrators: IT administrators responsible for maintaining servers, databases, and systems who need to understand vulnerabilities and mitigation strategies for securing their infrastructure.
Aspiring Penetration Testers: Those interested in pursuing a career in penetration testing or ethical hacking will find the CEH to be a foundational certification that opens doors to exciting career opportunities.
The CEH is also an excellent starting point for those looking to advance to more advanced cybersecurity certifications, such as the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or the Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP).
Benefits of Becoming a Certified Ethical Hacker
Career Opportunities: As organizations increasingly face cybersecurity threats, ethical hackers are in high demand. The CEH certification is widely respected in the industry and can help professionals secure roles as penetration testers, security consultants, network security engineers, or incident responders. The certification is highly valued in various sectors, including government agencies, financial institutions, tech companies, and private organizations.
Increased Earning Potential: Due to the specialized nature of ethical hacking and the increasing demand for cybersecurity professionals, individuals with the CEH certification tend to earn higher salaries compared to those without it. According to industry data, the average salary for a Certified Ethical Hacker is approximately £53,000 per year. This figure can increase significantly with experience, additional certifications, or seniority in cybersecurity roles.
Hands-On Skills and Real-World Knowledge: Unlike many certifications that focus solely on theoretical knowledge, the CEH certification emphasizes practical skills and hands-on experience. Candidates will gain proficiency with real hacking tools and techniques, such as network sniffers, password cracking tools, and vulnerability scanners. This practical knowledge is crucial for success in ethical hacking roles, as it directly translates to real-world capabilities.
Staying Ahead of Cyber Threats: Cybersecurity is a fast-evolving field, with new threats and vulnerabilities emerging every day. By obtaining the CEH certification, professionals ensure that they are up-to-date with the latest hacking techniques and security measures. This continual learning process helps to stay ahead of malicious hackers, making the CEH an essential certification for those committed to securing digital infrastructures.
Reputation and Credibility: The EC-Council is a globally recognized and respected body in the field of cybersecurity. Holding the CEH certification establishes credibility, signaling to employers and colleagues that you are highly skilled in ethical hacking practices. This reputation is invaluable for professionals looking to build trust and gain recognition in the cybersecurity community.
The Role of Examlabs in CEH Exam Preparation
Examlabs offers a range of resources that are incredibly helpful for candidates preparing for the CEH exam. With expert-led study guides, practice exams, and mock tests, Examlabs ensures that you are well-prepared for the certification process. The practice exams offered by Examlabs mirror the format of the actual CEH exam, providing a realistic simulation of the test environment. These resources are invaluable in helping candidates understand the exam structure, identify areas of weakness, and practice answering questions efficiently under timed conditions.
EC-Council Certified Network Defender (CND): A Comprehensive Guide to Building Network Security Skills
Average Salary: No Data Available
Exams Required: Certified Network Defender (CND) 312-38 exam
Prerequisites: Basic understanding of network security
As the world becomes more digitally connected, network security has become a crucial element of any organization’s infrastructure. Network administrators play a pivotal role in protecting an organization’s data, ensuring that sensitive information remains secure and preventing unauthorized access. However, as cyber threats grow in sophistication, there is an increasing need for IT professionals to specialize in network security. For those who are looking to strengthen their skills in defending networks from attacks, the Certified Network Defender (CND) certification by EC-Council offers an excellent opportunity.
This certification focuses on equipping professionals with the skills required to secure, monitor, and defend networks against various cyber threats. By obtaining the CND certification, network administrators will gain an in-depth understanding of how to detect and respond to network security incidents. It is an ideal qualification for those who work in IT roles with a focus on network administration and security.
What is the Certified Network Defender (CND) Certification?
The CND certification is a specialized credential designed for professionals who want to build expertise in network defense, firewall security, incident response, and risk management. The certification covers the essential domains needed to defend an organization’s network infrastructure against both external and internal threats. It provides the necessary knowledge to act as the first line of defense during security incidents, ensuring that organizations are protected from malicious activities.
CND is recognized worldwide and is vendor-neutral, meaning it applies to various network platforms and technologies. This makes it a highly versatile certification that will benefit network administrators regardless of the specific network technologies or vendors used in their workplace. It is particularly useful for professionals looking to transition into network security roles or enhance their expertise in this critical area of IT.
Key Skills Covered in the CND Certification
The CND certification offers a deep dive into several key topics, providing professionals with the expertise to defend against cyber threats and security breaches. Here are some of the major skills and concepts covered in the program:
Network Security Fundamentals: The certification covers the foundational aspects of network security, including an understanding of different types of security threats, vulnerabilities, and the tools needed to mitigate them. This foundational knowledge is essential for any network administrator looking to improve their network’s security posture.
Threat Detection and Response: One of the primary functions of a network defender is to detect and respond to security incidents. The CND certification trains professionals to act as the first responder during a security breach. You’ll learn how to identify malicious traffic, investigate potential threats, and assess the risk level of an incident. The certification helps professionals build the skills needed to implement incident response strategies, ensuring that network security incidents are handled quickly and effectively.
Firewall Configuration and Management: Firewalls are one of the most important tools for securing a network. CND teaches how to configure and manage firewalls to protect network infrastructure from unauthorized access. You’ll also gain an understanding of how to evaluate and manage firewall rules, ensuring they are optimized for security.
Risk Assessment and Management: In the CND program, you will learn how to assess the security risks to your network and determine the best approach to mitigate them. This includes identifying vulnerabilities and ensuring that proper controls are in place to reduce the likelihood of cyberattacks. You’ll gain the skills necessary to conduct risk assessments and develop security strategies that can be implemented throughout your organization.
Network Monitoring and Security Auditing: Continuous monitoring is crucial for detecting potential security breaches. The CND certification trains professionals in using various monitoring tools and techniques to track network traffic, analyze data, and detect anomalous behavior that may indicate a security incident. You will also learn how to conduct security audits to ensure your network security practices are effective and compliant with industry standards.
Securing Network Devices: CND teaches how to secure different types of network devices, such as routers, switches, and wireless access points. Since these devices are often targeted by attackers, securing them is essential for maintaining overall network integrity. The certification covers how to configure and secure these devices to prevent unauthorized access and minimize vulnerabilities.
Implementing Network Security Controls: You’ll also learn how to implement various network security controls, including intrusion detection systems (IDS), intrusion prevention systems (IPS), and virtual private networks (VPNs). These technologies play a crucial role in safeguarding networks against unauthorized access and potential attacks. CND equips professionals with the expertise to select, configure, and manage these security tools effectively.
Who Should Pursue the CND Certification?
The Certified Network Defender certification is ideal for IT professionals who are already working in network administration roles and want to enhance their security skills. It is particularly beneficial for individuals who have a basic understanding of network security and are looking to build specialized expertise in securing and defending network infrastructures.
Some typical job roles that benefit from the CND certification include:
Network Administrators: Network administrators can use the CND to enhance their ability to secure networks, manage network security devices, and respond to incidents.
Security Analysts: The certification is also beneficial for those in security analyst roles, as it covers critical skills for managing and defending network security systems.
IT Managers: IT managers responsible for overseeing network operations will gain valuable knowledge on how to lead their teams in implementing effective security measures.
System Administrators: System administrators with a focus on network security can use the CND to expand their skills in defending the network infrastructure they manage.
Benefits of the CND Certification
Achieving the CND certification offers numerous benefits to IT professionals looking to advance their careers in network security. Here are a few of the key advantages:
Increased Earning Potential: Network security professionals are in high demand, and obtaining the CND certification can significantly boost your earning potential. While specific salary data for CND is not readily available, network administrators with security certifications generally earn higher salaries due to the critical role they play in protecting their organizations’ infrastructure.
Career Advancement: The CND certification opens the door to new career opportunities in the field of network security. With growing concerns over cyber threats, organizations are increasingly looking for professionals who are equipped with the skills to secure their networks effectively. The CND provides a clear pathway for advancement in roles such as security consultant, network security engineer, and IT security manager.
Industry Recognition: The CND certification is globally recognized, making it a highly respected credential in the IT industry. It is an excellent way to demonstrate your expertise to employers, colleagues, and clients.
Vendor-Neutral Knowledge: The CND certification is vendor-neutral, meaning it covers network security tools and techniques that can be applied to various platforms, not just those from specific vendors. This makes it a versatile certification that is useful for professionals working in diverse environments.
Preparing for the CND Exam
To successfully pass the CND exam, you need to gain a comprehensive understanding of network security principles and best practices. Examlabs offers valuable study resources, including practice exams, training courses, and study guides that can help you prepare for the CND certification exam.
In addition to theoretical knowledge, gaining hands-on experience with network security tools and technologies is critical for success in the exam. Many professionals opt to take official EC-Council CND training courses, which provide hands-on labs and real-world scenarios to reinforce the material.
PRINCE2® Foundation & Practitioner
Average Salary: £52,500
Exams Required: PRINCE2® Foundation and Practitioner exams
Prerequisites: None
PRINCE2® (Projects IN Controlled Environments) is a highly regarded project management methodology used globally. This certification teaches you the principles of managing and directing projects, which are applicable across many industries. Whether you’re involved in IT projects, business operations, or construction, the PRINCE2® Foundation & Practitioner certification offers the skills to manage and control projects efficiently.
The certification includes two levels: Foundation (entry-level) and Practitioner. It’s a great starting point for professionals looking to manage projects more effectively. With no prerequisites, PRINCE2® can be undertaken at any stage of your career, making it accessible for beginners.
Microsoft MCSA: Windows Server 2016
Average Salary: £40,000
Exams Required: 70-740, 70-741, and 70-742
Prerequisites: Basic-to-intermediate understanding of networking
The MCSA: Windows Server 2016 certification is essential for IT professionals looking to demonstrate expertise in server management. This certification validates your ability to install, configure, and manage Windows Server environments. It’s an excellent credential for those working in data centers, IT infrastructure, or cloud computing.
Once you’ve achieved the MCSA, you can pursue the MCSE: Cloud Platform and Infrastructure certification by passing just one more exam, opening up even more career prospects in cloud management.
Microsoft MCSA: Cloud Platform
Average Salary: No Data Available
Exams Required: 70-532, 70-533, 70-534, 70-473, or 70-745
Prerequisites: Working knowledge of Azure and C#
For those interested in cloud technologies, the MCSA: Cloud Platform certification focuses on Microsoft Azure and cloud services. It validates your ability to implement, manage, and deploy cloud applications, and is ideal for anyone looking to specialize in cloud computing.
With exams covering a range of topics like Big Data, cloud data platform solutions, and infrastructure, this certification offers flexibility for individuals pursuing various cloud-related roles, from cloud engineer to cloud architect.
BCS Certificate in Information Security Principles (CISMP)
Average Salary: £55,750
Exams Required: BCS Certificate in Information Security Management Principles
Prerequisites: Basic IT knowledge and understanding of IT security
The CISMP certification is designed for professionals wanting to build a career in information security. This certification will provide foundational knowledge of cyber security principles, risk management, and best practices in cloud computing and social media vulnerabilities.
It’s perfect for those who want to step into the field of IT security, and its vendor-neutral approach makes it an excellent certification for anyone entering the security management space.
ITIL Foundation
Average Salary: £37,718
Exams Required: ITIL Foundation exam
Prerequisites: None
The ITIL Foundation certification is a globally recognized qualification that focuses on the best practices in IT service management. ITIL, which stands for Information Technology Infrastructure Library, is widely used in organizations to improve IT services and operations.
This entry-level certification is ideal for those working in IT service management or support roles, as it teaches you how to optimize IT processes for greater efficiency. It’s recognized by thousands of organizations worldwide and provides a solid foundation for anyone pursuing a career in IT operations.
CompTIA Security+
Average Salary: £45,000
Exams Required: Security+ Exam SY0-401
Prerequisites: 2 years of experience in IT admin and networking
CompTIA Security+ is an essential certification for anyone looking to enter the IT security field. The exam covers key topics like cryptography, access control, and security incident response.
Security+ is considered a stepping stone to more advanced IT security certifications. It is recognized by the U.S. Department of Defense and many other organizations as a standard requirement for cybersecurity roles.
CompTIA Cloud+
Average Salary: No Data Available
Exams Required: Exam CV0-001
Prerequisites: 2 years of experience in IT networking, storage, or data center administration
CompTIA Cloud+ is designed for IT professionals with a background in networking or storage who want to specialize in cloud computing. It covers cloud models, virtualization, resource management, and business continuity.
With cloud technologies being integral to most modern businesses, this certification will prepare you for cloud administration roles and provide you with valuable expertise in managing cloud environments.
Conclusion
These entry-level IT certifications represent some of the best pathways for individuals looking to launch a successful career in IT. Whether you’re interested in networking, security, cloud computing, or project management, each of these certifications offers unique advantages and can help you build the skills needed to advance your career.
Certifications like Cisco’s CCNA, Microsoft’s MCSA, EC-Council’s CEH, and CompTIA’s Security+ are particularly valuable for opening doors to in-demand IT roles. By obtaining these certifications, you can demonstrate your expertise, expand your knowledge, and secure a competitive advantage in the IT job market. Investing in your certification today can set the stage for a rewarding and successful career in the ever-growing technology sector.
These entry-level IT certifications represent some of the best options for anyone looking to break into the IT industry. Whether you’re interested in networking, cybersecurity, cloud computing, or project management, each certification equips you with valuable skills that are in high demand across the technology sector. By obtaining these certifications, you’ll gain the knowledge, confidence, and credentials needed to jumpstart your IT career and stand out to potential employers. Start your journey today and take the first step towards building a rewarding career in IT.
The Cisco CCNA Routing and Switching certification is a valuable credential for IT professionals looking to advance in the networking field. It equips you with the skills and knowledge needed to work with Cisco’s networking technologies and proves your ability to configure, manage, and troubleshoot network systems. With a solid foundation in networking concepts and hands-on experience, a CCNA-certified professional is well-equipped to handle the complexities of modern IT environments.
The career benefits of earning the CCNA certification are significant, including higher salaries, increased job opportunities, and access to advanced Cisco certifications. For those ready to advance their networking skills and pursue a career in the growing field of IT networking, the CCNA Routing and Switching certification is a must-have credential.
At Examlabs, we provide everything you need to succeed on the CCNA exams. From practice tests and study guides to expert-led training, our resources are designed to help you pass the exams and start building a rewarding career in networking.
The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification is one of the most respected credentials for professionals in the field of cybersecurity. Whether you’re new to ethical hacking or looking to deepen your skills, the CEH certification provides essential knowledge and expertise in the areas of penetration testing, vulnerability assessment, and incident response. As cyber threats continue to evolve, the need for skilled ethical hackers grows, and the CEH certification offers a proven pathway to a successful career in cybersecurity.
With Examlabs’s practice exams and comprehensive study resources, you’ll be well on your way to mastering ethical hacking techniques and advancing your career in the fast-growing field of cybersecurity. By enrolling in the CEH course, you not only gain valuable technical skills but also position yourself for high-paying roles in an industry that is critical to the protection of digital assets and infrastructures.