Are IT Certifications Worth It? Plus Our Guide to the Top IT Certificates

Deciding whether an IT certification is worth your time and money isn't straightforward. The value varies significantly by career stage, the role you're targeting, and which certificate you choose. What makes sense for someone breaking into IT for the first time is very different from what a mid-career professional needs to specialize, or what a senior leader should consider when adding credentials to an already strong track record.

This guide covers how IT certification value breaks down by career stage, which specific certificates deliver the strongest returns, what the salary data shows about typical payoffs, and how to choose the right credential for your goals.

Are IT Certifications Worth It?

IT certifications are worth it for most professionals, especially for breaking into the industry, passing automated resume filters, and advancing into specialized fields like cybersecurity and cloud computing. Entry-level certifications like CompTIA A+ are among the most reliable ways to land your first IT role without a computer science degree. Mid-career professionals use them to move into high-demand specializations like cloud or cybersecurity. At the senior level, value is more selective, though credentials like CISSP still carry weight in security leadership.

The return depends on your career stage:

• Certifications can help people advance in their careers or find a better-paying position with another company
• Some industries require employees to be certified to meet regulations for HIPAA and avoid issues with GDPR and other privacy regulations
• An IT certifications list will narrow things down and help companies find the best one, as each certificate has unique pros and cons

Key Benefits and ROI Quick Facts

• Employers see measurable value: 97% of IT decision-makers say certified staff add value; ~1 in 5 estimate that value at $30K+ per year (Source: Global Knowledge)
• Career outcomes for candidates: 32% report salary increases and 23% report promotions after certifying (Source: Pearson VUE)
• Organizations invest more: 71% of candidates say their employer increased training budgets for certifications (Source: Pearson VUE)
• Confidence and productivity: Certified staff often deliver ~50% more value by bridging skills gaps (Source: CIO)

When Certifications Pay Off Most

Here's how certification value breaks down across career stages:

Regulated sectors follow slightly different rules. In government, defense, and some healthcare environments, specific certifications aren't optional. CompTIA Security+ is required for many cybersecurity positions under DoD 8570. Healthcare IT roles may need credentials aligned with HIPAA and HITECH compliance frameworks.

Which Certification Is Best for IT Technology?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates over 2 million people work in computer and information technology, many with specific concentrations. Around 98% of them focused on information systems, computer management, security, telecommunications or computer science. With so many people working in varied areas, figuring out the best IT certifications is challenging.

So, what IT certification should I get? Employees should start by talking to their current employer about opportunities for promotion. Management can discuss the future career plans of their workers and see what gaps they can fill to work their way up in the department. Certificates can benefit companies and individuals when approached strategically. Although the certifications you need will depend on your department's strengths and weaknesses, none is objectively better than the others.

You may also need to meet certain regulatory requirements via training and certification. There will likely be a few IT certificates that pop up repeatedly in your research. These are the ones most companies seek in their employees.

How to Choose the Right Certification

The following are some things to consider when choosing an IT certification option:

• Role-Fit: Link exam objectives to the description of the job you are targeting
• Market-Fit: Prioritize certifications consistently listed in top-paying surveys
• Cost and Time: Include exam fees, study time, and renewal cycle
• Progression: Choose certifications that act as stepping stones to more advanced ones, such as CAPM leading to a PMP for project managers
• Hands-On: Choose programs with labs/performance-based testing

What Certifications are Worth Getting for Information Technology?

Here is a list of certifications companies and IT professionals should consider. Gaining a certificate requires basic information technology skills as a building block:

• Google IT Support Professional Certificate

  The Google IT Support Professional Certificate is one of the most accessible entry points in IT, designed specifically for people with no prior experience or a computer science degree.

  Unlike exam-based certifications, Google's program is course-based and includes hands-on labs covering troubleshooting, networking, operating systems, system administration, and security fundamentals. Graduates get access to the Google Employer Consortium, which connects them with hiring contacts at over 150 U.S. employers, including Google, Deloitte, Walmart, and Bank of America.

  For career changers and beginners on a budget, this is often the right first step before investing in a CompTIA A+ or other exam-based credential. The certificate doesn't expire, which removes the renewal cost that applies to most other certifications on this list.

  Quick Notes

  • Who it's for: Complete beginners, career changers, and people testing whether IT support is the right career path
  • Time and cost: $49 (Coursera subscription); 3-6 months at self-paced 10 hrs/week
  • Renewal: Not required; the certificate does not expire
  • What it proves: Foundational IT support skills across troubleshooting, networking, operating systems, and security

• AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner

  Amazon's cloud-based systems work with big and small organizations to provide web hosting, storage and even a delivery system to sell software. Working within the Amazon Web Services environment is different from other cloud-based systems, so knowing the ins and outs requires training.

  Those seeking AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner certification must understand how cloud computing works but don't necessarily need technical knowledge. Gaining a certificate shows employers an individual can communicate about working in the AWS environment and understand instructions.

  Seeking certification ensures you'll understand basic IT services and how to utilize them on AWS Cloud. You'll also gain knowledge of AWS services, billing and pricing, overall security and how a business improves by using the cloud. The exam costs $100, and it takes about 90 minutes to answer 65 multiple-choice questions.

  Organizations with AWS-certified employees will experience improved communications and fewer misunderstandings. Since it's a popular cloud platform, the knowledge often transfers from one job to the next.

  Quick Notes

  • Who it's for: Beginners and non-engineers who need cloud literacy
  • Time and cost: ~$100; 65 questions, 90 minutes
  • Renewal: Valid 3 years
  • What it proves: Baseline AWS cloud fluency and terminology

• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

  Testing your systems to ensure hackers can't easily get through shores up your security and protects crucial digital assets. Rather than hiring a third party to find weaknesses, enlist the help of one or more internal workers to probe your system for vulnerabilities.

  Certified Ethical Hacking certification takes the knowledge your IT department already has and teaches workers more legal and ethical techniques they can use. CEH certification starts with understanding what employees should and shouldn't do while hacking your systems, even for tests. Individuals with this type of training stay out of trouble and add value to the brands they serve.

  A CEH certificate leans toward a firm understanding of the network security framework. It's an intense certification for which you'll need to develop new skills. However, the effort is worth it as employees gain skills that help protect the company they work for now and in the future.

  Quick Notes

  • Who it's for: Security analysts, pen-testers
  • Time and cost: Varies widely — ~$950–$1,200 for exam-only, or $1,699–$3,499+ with EC-Council training packages and bootcamps
  • Renewal: Every 3 years via continuing education credits
  • What it proves: Ability to legally/ethically identify vulnerabilities

• CISM

  CISM stands for Certified Information Security Manager. To earn your CISM credentials, you need five or more years of information security experience and a minimum of three years of information security management and other practice analysis.

  You must gain experience first, so you'll need some information management knowledge ahead of time. The process is challenging but ensures only those with the proper training and credentials are ready for more rigorous responsibilities.

  Your organization's cybersecurity is one of the most crucial aspects of your business. CISM then may be one of the best cyber security certifications to ensure only those most qualified manage your security. Your team will gain credibility and improve efficiency, proving the value of IT certification.

  Quick Notes

  • Who it's for: Security managers with 5+ years' experience
  • Time and cost: ~$760; rigorous application process
  • Renewal: Annual maintenance required -- 20 CPEs each year (120 over 3 years) plus an annual fee
  • What it proves: Governance and leadership in cybersecurity programs

• CISSP

  Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) gives you the authority to be a cybersecurity expert. Similar to CISM, candidates for this IT security certification must have five years of experience in the field. A four-year college degree satisfies one year of the requirement.

  Getting credentialed in cybersecurity protects your organization from cyberattacks and adds legitimacy to your IT team.

  Quick Notes

  • Who it's for: Experienced cybersecurity professionals
  • Time and cost: ~$749; 3-hour exam
  • Renewal: Every 3 years via continuing credits plus annual fee
  • What it proves: Advanced security expertise across the 8 CISSP "domains"

• CompTIA

  CompTIA certification is another acknowledgment. According to CompTIA their A+ certification is the industry standard for launching IT careers. They offers many different types, from general IT support (A+) to networking (Network+) and security (Security+). A+ is entry-level support, not a security cert; Security+ is typically the baseline for many junior security roles and some public-sector requirements.

  Passing the tests isn't enough to land a job, though. Employers want to know how you apply the knowledge you've gained in real-life situations. CompTIA has no prerequisites, but the organization does recommend two years of experience in IT management and security before taking the exam.

  Quick Notes

  • Who it's for: Entry-level IT (A+), networking (Network+), security (Security+) (examples)
  • Time and cost: Vary depending on the exam
  • Renewal: Every 3 years
  • What it proves: Baseline IT support, networking, or security knowledge

• Cisco CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate)

  The Cisco CCNA is the most widely recognized networking certification in the industry, consistently appearing at the top of salary surveys for mid-level IT professionals. Unlike CompTIA Network+, the CCNA is vendor-specific, tied to Cisco's networking equipment and protocols, which dominate enterprise infrastructure worldwide.

  CCNA holders know how to configure, operate, and troubleshoot Cisco routers and switches. The certification was overhauled in 2020 to consolidate multiple specialty tracks into a single, broader exam (200-301), covering IP connectivity, network access, security fundamentals, and network automation basics.

  For IT professionals targeting network engineer or network administrator roles, especially in enterprise environments, the CCNA is often the specific credential hiring managers look for by name.

  Quick Notes

  • Who it's for: Aspiring network engineers and network administrators; professionals targeting Cisco-heavy enterprise environments
  • Time and cost: $300 per attempt; single 120-minute exam (200-301)
  • Renewal: Every 3 years via recertification exam or continuing education credits
  • What it proves: Proficiency in configuring, operating, and troubleshooting Cisco networks; also covers automation and programmability basics

• ISACA

  The Information Systems Audit and Control Association offers IT security certifications like the COBIT framework, CRISC, CGEIT, CET and ITCA. The group's purpose is to help tech professionals and their companies understand the positive potential of technology.

  Prerequisites vary depending on the information security certifications your employees seek. Finding a place where workers can take multiple exams and learn simultaneously saves you time and effort and ensures you obtain all the necessary skills.

  Quick Notes

  • Who it's for: Audit, risk, and IT governance professionals
  • Time and cost: Varies
  • Renewal: Every 3 years via continuing credits plus annual fee
  • What it proves: Risk, audit, and IT governance expertise

• ITIL

  The Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL®) sets forth some basic practices for IT Service Management and asset applications. Learning how to best use the framework benefits any brand creating digital goods and services.

  The ITIL 4 Foundation helps people learn about the ITIL framework in networks and certifies professionals in its use. ITIL is used from development to delivery for creating and improving tech products and services for the public.

  Certification focuses on using the framework and tapping into the resources library. The exam has 40 multiple-choice questions and takes about 60 minutes. To gain certification, you must answer 26 questions correctly.

  Quick Notes

  • Who it's for: IT service managers and process owners
  • Time and cost: Varies widely; 40 questions, 60 minutes, 65% pass mark
  • Renewal: Every 3 years
  • What it proves: Understanding of ITIL service management framework

• CAPM

  While many certifications focus on technology, IT departments need project leaders as well. CAPM is the Certified Associate in Project Management certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It's an entry-level program that builds foundational knowledge and skills for leading project teams. It also focuses on Agile principles and business analysis.

  Candidates are required to obtain 23 contact hours of project management education before applying. This can be fulfilled using an Authorized Training Partner.

  Lastly, a CAPM certification means automatically meeting the 35 hours of project management education and training required to sit for the advanced Project Management Professional (PMP) exam.

  Quick Notes

  • Who it's for: Entry-level project managers
  • Time and cost: ~$225–$300; 3-hour exam
  • Renewal: 15 Professional Development Units (PDUs) every 3 years
  • What it proves: Foundational project management knowledge

Brief Salary Outlook and High-Value Certifications

Cloud and security credentials continue to top global salary surveys. For instance, AWS Certified Security–Specialty holders report ~$200K annually, while Google Cloud Professional Architect averages ~$190K. These don't guarantee earnings but signal strong employer demand. See more information on these from the Skillsoft page.

Limitations and Caveats to IT Certifications

As always with benefits, there can be caveats. Here are a few regarding IT certifications:

• No automatic job guarantee: Certifications open doors but don't replace experience
• Exam-focused: Some argue they overemphasize test preparations vs. real skills
• Renewal costs: Many require recertification every so-many years

Business Benefits of IT Certifications for Employers

Beyond individuals or employees themselves, there can be a benefit to the employers of certified personnel, such as:

• Certified staff close skill gaps faster and improve team efficiency
• Companies see ~$30K in additional annual value from certified employees (Source: Global Knowledge)
• In regulated industries, baseline certifications are mandatory to meet compliance requirements

IT Certifications vs. Experience: What Matters More to Employers?

This is the question most job seekers reach eventually: if you had to choose between studying for a certification or building hands-on experience, which delivers a better return?

They serve different purposes in the hiring process. Certifications carry the most weight at the initial screening stage, where specific certification names trigger applicant tracking system (ATS) filters and signal baseline competence to reviewers working through a stack of applications.

A ISC2 study of 929 cybersecurity hiring managers found that 89% would consider candidates with only an entry-level cybersecurity certification, compared to 90% who would consider candidates with only prior IT work experience. The gap is effectively zero. When asked to identify what they consider "critical," hiring managers rated certifications (47%) slightly ahead of IT experience (44%), with formal education lowest at 43%.

The common assumption that experience matters more than certifications doesn't hold in cybersecurity hiring, and likely not in most technical IT roles either. What certifications can't demonstrate on their own is the problem-solving judgment that comes from real work history, which is why the strongest candidates have both. For career changers without work history yet, a relevant certification combined with a documented personal project, a home lab, or a GitHub portfolio is the most competitive substitute.

Company type matters too. Government agencies, defense contractors, and large enterprises are more likely to require certifications explicitly. Startups and mid-market companies typically care more about what you've built than what exam you've passed.

The Final Word for IT Certifications

The above list of IT certifications should help you determine what's best for your company.

Stay inside the parameters of GDPR and other privacy regulations, including HIPAA or HITECH. Check out how Giva's certifications page digs into the details of crucial employee training and provides information on good IT certifications to have.

IT Certification FAQs

• Are IT certifications worth it without a degree?

  Yes. IT certifications are one of the most effective substitutes for a CS degree in automated resume screening.

  Many help desk and entry-level IT support roles don't require a four-year degree when the candidate holds a relevant certification. CompTIA A+, the Google IT Support Professional Certificate, and CompTIA Network+ are the most commonly accepted entry credentials instead of a degree. A certification combined with documented hands-on experience, such as a home lab or personal project, and strong communication skills makes for a competitive profile for most Tier 1 and Tier 2 IT support roles.

• Which IT certification should I get first?

  CompTIA A+ is the most widely recommended first IT certification for beginners.

  It covers foundational IT support skills including hardware, networking, operating systems, and troubleshooting, and is recognized by major employers including the U.S. Department of Defense. If cost is a concern, the Google IT Support Professional Certificate (~$234 via Coursera) covers similar ground with a more accessible format and no expiration date. After A+, the typical next step is CompTIA Network+ or Security+ depending on whether your target role is in networking or cybersecurity.

• How much can an IT certification increase your salary?

  Pearson VUE's 2025 Value of Certification research found that 32% of certified professionals received a salary increase after certifying, with most raises falling between 6% and 20% of base pay.

  Among those who received a raise, 31% saw increases above 20%. The fastest path to realizing the salary increase is typically moving to a new employer within 12 months of certifying, since internal raises for existing employees tend to lag what the market pays for newly certified candidates. For high-value credentials like CISSP, independent salary surveys suggest significant premiums over non-certified peers, though exact figures vary by geography and employer.

• Are cloud certifications worth it?

  Yes. Cloud certifications consistently rank among the highest-paid credentials in IT.

  AWS Solutions Architect Associate holders average around $135,000 per year in the U.S. The three major cloud providers offer tiered certification paths: AWS (Cloud Practitioner through Solutions Architect Professional), Microsoft Azure (AZ-900 Fundamentals through expert-level credentials), and Google Cloud Professional. AWS holds approximately 31% of the global cloud infrastructure market, making AWS certifications the most broadly applicable. Azure certifications may offer a better return for professionals in enterprise environments already built on Microsoft's ecosystem.

• How long does it take to get an IT certification?

  Study timelines range from 4 to 6 weeks for entry-level certifications to 3 to 6 months for advanced credentials like CISSP.

  CompTIA A+ typically requires 100 to 150 hours of study, which most candidates cover in 4 to 8 weeks. Mid-level certifications like CCNA or AWS Solutions Architect Associate typically require 3 to 5 months of dedicated study. CISSP, which also requires 5 years of verified work experience, is best approached as a 3 to 6-month study program for candidates who already meet the experience requirement.

• Do IT certifications expire?

  Most IT certifications expire every 3 years and require renewal through continuing education credits or by retaking the exam.

  CompTIA certifications (A+, Network+, Security+) require 20 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) over the 3-year period or a passing score on the current exam version. CISSP requires 120 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits over 3 years plus an annual maintenance fee. AWS certifications renew by retaking the current exam or passing a higher-tier exam in the same track. The Google IT Support Professional Certificate is a notable exception, since it doesn't expire.