{"id":109451,"date":"2024-02-07T10:54:00","date_gmt":"2024-02-07T15:54:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/jumpcloud.com\/?p=109451"},"modified":"2025-04-11T14:14:11","modified_gmt":"2025-04-11T18:14:11","slug":"best-it-certifications","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/jumpcloud.com\/blog\/best-it-certifications","title":{"rendered":"The 23 Best IT Certifications in Demand for 2025"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
Note: Prices, prerequisites, and other certification specifics are up-to-date as of April 2024.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Certifications for IT not only demonstrate expertise and specialization in various tech domains but also showcase a commitment to staying current in an ever-changing landscape. The types of certifications available are as diverse as the IT industry itself, ranging from general foundational knowledge to highly specialized technical skills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Moreover, many of these certifications are offered by key industry vendors, underscoring the importance of being proficient in specific platforms and technologies that dominate the market. Whether you’re kickstarting your career in IT or looking to advance further, we\u2019ve curated the best IT certifications in demand today. Let\u2019s take a look!<\/p>\n\n\n\n IT certifications can be categorized into several types, each designed to validate specific skills and knowledge relevant to different aspects of information technology. <\/p>\n\n\n\n These are designed for those who are new to IT or seeking to start their IT careers. Foundational certifications typically cover basic concepts and help build a solid understanding of IT principles. Examples include CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) and Cisco’s Certified Technician (CCT). Certifications like these provide a general knowledge base for entry-level positions and further specialization.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Aimed at individuals with some industry experience, professional certifications are more specialized than foundational ones and focus on specific technologies or roles. They validate the ability to handle more complex tasks and solve real-world problems. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Notable certifications in this category include Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), AWS Certified Solutions Architect, and Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate. <\/p>\n\n\n\n These are certifications geared toward professionals looking to advance their careers in specific IT domains such as cybersecurity, cloud computing, or network administration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n These are targeted at seasoned IT professionals who have deep expertise in their area of specialization. Expert certifications are designed to validate an individual’s advanced skills and knowledge in complex scenarios, often focusing on leadership and high-level technical capabilities. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Examples include the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) and the VMware Certified Design Expert (VCDX). These are credentials that are highly respected in the IT industry and are associated with senior roles and higher levels of responsibility\u200b.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pocket-guide: Validates your ability to design and implement systems on AWS. It’s beneficial for various roles including cloud solution architects and project managers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The AWS Certified Solutions Architect certification<\/a> is designed for individuals who perform a solutions architect role. This certification validates an ability to design and deploy scalable, highly available, and fault-tolerant systems on AWS.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This certification is part of a broader category of AWS certifications and is a great starting point for IT professionals looking to establish their cloud credentials. It’s particularly relevant for those focusing on IT certifications online, and it stands out in any IT certifications list, especially for those just starting out or seeking to specialize in cloud-based solutions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can also see AWS certification paths<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pocket-guide: Validates your expertise in assessing, building, and implementing comprehensive privacy solutions. Ideal for professionals in data privacy governance, privacy architecture, and data lifecycle work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Certified Data Privacy Solutions Engineer (CDPSE)<\/a> certification is developed to assess the technical skills and knowledge necessary to implement and manage effective data privacy solutions. This certification is particularly relevant for those involved in the design and management of these privacy solutions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The CDPSE is a valuable asset for IT professionals aiming to specialize in data privacy. It’s particularly beneficial for those seeking IT certifications that pay well, and it’s a notable inclusion in any IT certifications list, especially for individuals with a strong foundation in privacy technology looking to validate their expertise formally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pocket-guide<\/strong>: Acknowledges expertise in cloud data, application security, and infrastructure management.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)<\/a> certification is a globally recognized credential that validates an individual’s expertise in cloud security. It’s designed for IT and information security leaders who have a deep understanding and experience in cloud security architecture, design, operations, and service orchestration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This certification is especially relevant for those looking for IT certifications that pay well and are in high demand. It’s a prominent addition to any IT certifications list, particularly for those with a strong background in IT or information security, looking to prove their expertise in cloud security at an international level.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pocket-guide<\/strong>: An update to the Certified Data Management Professional, this certification allows specialization in areas like business analytics and data governance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Certified Data Professional (CDP)<\/a> is a comprehensive certification program that covers a broad spectrum of data management skills. It’s aimed at IT professionals who work in data-centric roles and want to validate their expertise in areas such as data analytics, data governance, data warehousing, and data architecture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The CDP certification is an excellent choice for those seeking IT certifications for beginners, as well as for experienced professionals looking to validate their skills. It stands out in any IT certifications list, especially for those looking to specialize in data management and analytics, and is a valuable credential for those pursuing careers in data-driven fields.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pocket-guide<\/strong>: Focuses on the latest hacking techniques and methodologies used by ethical hackers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification<\/a> is offered by the EC-Council and is one of the most sought-after certifications in the field of information security. It’s designed for security officers, auditors, security professionals, site administrators, and anyone concerned about the integrity of network infrastructure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The CEH certification is an essential credential for IT professionals focusing on network security and risk assessment. It is a standout certification in any IT certifications list, particularly appealing to those seeking IT certifications that pay well and offer a path to specialized roles in cybersecurity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pocket-guide<\/strong>: Demonstrates advanced skills in developing and managing enterprise information security programs. Ideal for infosec managers, aspiring managers, or IT consultants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)<\/a> certification is an advanced certification indicating proficiency in managing an enterprise’s information security. Offered by ISACA, it focuses on information security governance, risk management, program development and management, and incident management.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The CISM is particularly valuable for those looking for IT certifications that pay well and is a significant addition to any IT certifications list, especially for professionals aspiring to reach managerial roles in information security.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pocket-guide<\/strong>: Beginner-friendly program that provides comprehensive training in both front-end and back-end web development, equipping learners with the skills needed to build complete web applications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n CareerFoundry’s Full-Stack Web Development Program<\/a> is an in-depth course designed for individuals looking to develop skills in both front-end and back-end web development. The program covers a wide range of topics including HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Node.js, and database management, among others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This program is a great entry point for beginners and stands out in any IT certifications list, particularly for those focusing on IT certifications online and seeking a comprehensive understanding of web development.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pocket-guide<\/strong>: Validates a fundamental understanding of the AWS Cloud, including its architecture, security, and key services. Ideal for individuals new to cloud computing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner certification is an entry-level certification for those new to cloud computing and AWS. It covers essential AWS services, security and compliance aspects, billing, and pricing models.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner is a great choice for beginners in cloud computing, offering foundational knowledge that is crucial for further specialization in AWS services.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pocket-guide<\/strong>: Demonstrates advanced skills in designing, managing, and utilizing Google Cloud technologies. Ideal for professionals seeking to showcase their expertise in Google Cloud Platform (GCP).<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Google Professional Cloud Architect certification<\/a> validates an individual’s ability to design, develop, and manage robust, secure, scalable, highly available, and dynamic solutions to drive business objectives on Google Cloud Platform.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Google Professional Cloud Architect is highly regarded in the IT industry, especially for those focusing on Google Cloud solutions. It’s a valuable addition to any IT certifications list, particularly for individuals looking to demonstrate their advanced skills in cloud architecture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pocket-guide<\/strong>: Provides a set of practices for IT service management (ITSM) that focuses on aligning IT services with the needs of businesses. ITIL certification is ideal for professionals looking to improve IT service management within organizations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n ITIL certifications<\/a> demonstrate an understanding of the framework and best practices for delivering high-quality IT services. They cover various aspects of IT service management, including service strategy, design, transition, operation, and continual service improvement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The ITIL certification is highly valued in IT service management and is a significant addition to any IT certifications list, especially for those focusing on the service management aspect of IT.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pocket-guide<\/strong>: Validates foundational knowledge of Google Cloud Platform, emphasizing its capabilities and how they benefit organizations. Ideal for professionals seeking to understand cloud services and solutions offered by Google.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Google Cloud Digital Leader Certification<\/a> is designed for individuals who wish to demonstrate a broad understanding of core cloud concepts and Google Cloud’s services, including its infrastructure, application modernization, and data management capabilities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Google Cloud Digital Leader Certification is a valuable entry point for IT professionals looking to gain a fundamental understanding of Google Cloud services and is a notable inclusion in any IT certifications list, especially for those new to cloud computing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pocket-guide<\/strong>: Validates expertise in networking solutions, including implementation and troubleshooting of both local and wide area networks. Suitable for professionals aiming to advance their networking skills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The CCNP certification<\/a> is designed for IT professionals with solid knowledge in networking. This certification allows individuals to design, implement, troubleshoot, and manage complex network solutions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The CCNP is a significant certification for those focusing on IT certifications that pay well and is an essential credential in any IT certifications list, especially for networking professionals seeking advanced skills and knowledge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pocket-guide<\/strong>: Recognized as one of the most prestigious networking certifications, CCIE demonstrates expertise in designing, implementing, and troubleshooting complex and highly advanced network infrastructures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The CCIE certification<\/a> is targeted at senior networking professionals and is considered one of the most challenging and respected certifications in IT networking. It covers deep technical networking knowledge and requires candidates to pass a rigorous two-part exam: a written qualification exam and a hands-on lab exam.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The CCIE certification is highly sought after in the IT industry for its depth and rigor, making it a key credential in any IT certifications list, particularly for experienced networking professionals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pocket-guide: <\/strong>Recognized globally as a standard of achievement in cybersecurity, CISSP is ideal for experienced security practitioners, managers, and executives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The CISSP certification, offered by (ISC)2, validates expertise in designing, implementing, and managing a best-in-class cybersecurity program. It covers a broad spectrum of security topics including risk management, cloud computing, mobile security, and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n CISSP is a highly valued certification in the IT industry, especially for those aiming for senior roles in cybersecurity. It’s a key inclusion in any IT certifications list for professionals dedicated to security management and strategy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pocket-guide<\/strong>: Focuses on managing solutions within the Salesforce Platform, covering aspects of development and deployment requirements. It’s essential for specialists in Salesforce development and deployment strategies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Salesforce Certified Development<\/a> Lifecycle and Deployment Designer certification is tailored for professionals who handle the development lifecycle and deployment processes in the Salesforce environment. It emphasizes the importance of managing development strategies and deployment techniques effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pocket-guide<\/strong>: Offers a range of certifications across Oracle technologies, catering to various expertise levels, from database management to cloud solutions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Oracle Certification Program<\/a> encompasses a wide array of certifications, each targeting different aspects of Oracle technologies. These certifications cover areas such as Oracle Database, Java, Oracle Cloud, Oracle Applications, and more, providing a structured path to validate technical skills and knowledge in Oracle systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pocket-guide: The CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification is designed as an introduction to the IT field, ideal for beginners or those changing careers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The ITF+ explores a range of basic IT topics, including software, hardware, security, networking, and basic IT literacy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n This certification is particularly beneficial for individuals aiming to gauge their interest in IT before committing to more specialized training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pocket-guide:<\/strong> A foundational certification for IT professionals, covering essential IT skills such as hardware, software, and troubleshooting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n CompTIA A+<\/a> is widely recognized as the industry standard for starting a career in IT, especially in technical support and IT operational roles. It covers essential areas such as computer repair, software & operating systems, network administration, information security, cloud computing, and troubleshooting of both hardware and software.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This certification is particularly recommended for beginners in IT and is a notable entry in any IT certifications list, especially for those seeking foundational IT knowledge and skills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pocket-guide: CompTIA Security+ is a global certification that validates the baseline skills necessary to perform core security functions and pursue an IT security career. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The CompTIA Security+ covers essential principles for network security and risk management and is compliant with ISO 17024 standards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This is an entry-level certification for those looking to jump into a cybersecurity role. It provides foundational knowledge that will come in handy for when you want to explore more advanced cybersecurity certifications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pocket-guide: CompTIA Network+ is a mid-level certification aimed at professionals with foundational IT skills. <\/p>\n\n\n\n This certification goes over the essential knowledge needed to design, configure, manage, and troubleshoot any wired and wireless devices. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Network+ ensures an understanding of emerging technologies, including cloud and virtualization technologies, and makes a great starting point for a networking career.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pocket-guide<\/strong>: Designed for beginners in IT, this certificate provides foundational IT support knowledge and skills, covering key areas like networking, security, system administration, and troubleshooting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Google IT Support Professional Certificate is an entry-level certification that offers training in fundamental IT support skills. Created by Google, it covers a range of topics including computer networking, operating systems, system administration, security, and troubleshooting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Google IT Support Professional Certificate is a prominent choice for those looking at IT certifications for beginners and stands out in any IT certifications list for individuals starting their career in IT support.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Pocket-guide<\/strong>: Focuses on Agile and Scrum methodologies, providing skills in facilitating, coaching, and leading a team in a Scrum environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\nTypes of IT Certifications<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Foundational Certifications<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Professional Certifications<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Expert Certifications<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
1. AWS Certified Solutions Architect<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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2. Certified Data Privacy Solutions Engineer (CDPSE)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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3. Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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4. Certified Data Professional (CDP)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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5. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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6. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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7. CareerFoundry\u2019s Full-Stack Web Development Program<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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8. AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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9. Google Professional Cloud Architect<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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10. Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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11. Google Cloud Digital Leader Certification<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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12. Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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13. Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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14. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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15. Salesforce Certified Development Lifecycle and Deployment Designer<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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16. Oracle Certification Program<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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17. CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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18. CompTIA A+<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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19. CompTIA Security+<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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20. CompTIA Network+<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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21. Google IT Support Professional Certificate<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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22. Certified ScrumMaster<\/h2>\n\n\n\n