Top 11 Computer Technician Certifications

Certifications are very important for computer technicians in the job market because they demonstrate a certain level of knowledge and competency. Employers want to hire someone who is qualified and certified, as it shows that they have the necessary skills to perform their job effectively. It also helps them stand out from other candidates who may not have the same qualifications. Certifications show employers that a technician has been trained and tested on specific topics, which can help them feel more confident in their abilities. Additionally, certifications can be used to negotiate higher salaries or get promotions within a company.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Computer Technicians and explains how they can help to further a computer technician's career.

What are Computer Technician Certifications?

Computer technician certification is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates a professional's knowledge and proficiency in the installation, maintenance, and repair of computer hardware, software, and networks. This certification can be obtained through training programs or exams administered by independent organizations such as CompTIA, Microsoft, or Cisco.

Having a computer technician certification can provide many benefits to those who pursue it. It can help demonstrate to employers that an individual has the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the field. Additionally, it can also open up more job opportunities as employers may be more likely to hire certified technicians over those without any certifications. Furthermore, having this certification can help set individuals apart from other applicants when applying for jobs or promotions. Finally, having a computer technician certification can result in higher salaries and better job security since certified technicians are often seen as being more reliable than those without the credential.

Pro Tip: When choosing a computer technician certification program, make sure to select one that is accredited by a recognized institution. This will ensure that the program meets industry standards and provides you with the necessary skills to succeed as a computer technician.

Related: What does a Computer Technician do?

Top 11 Computer Technician Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Computer Technicians today.

1. CompTIA A+

CompTIA A+ is a globally recognized certification that validates the skills of IT professionals. It is an entry-level certification for those who wish to pursue a career in the field of information technology.

CompTIA A+ is divided into two exams: Core 1 (220-1001) and Core 2 (220-1002). Both exams are 90 minutes long, and must be passed in order to receive the certification. The topics covered include hardware, networking, mobile devices, operating systems, software troubleshooting, security, and operational procedures.

In order to get CompTIA A+, you must first register for the exam at CompTIA's website. You can then purchase an exam voucher from CompTIA or from a third-party vendor. Once you have your voucher code, you can schedule your exam at any Pearson VUE testing center.

The cost of CompTIA A+ varies depending on where you take the exam and which version of the exam you take (Core 1 or Core 2). Generally speaking, it costs around $200 USD per exam.

Overall, it usually takes about three months to prepare for and pass both exams if you are studying full time. However, this timeline may vary depending on how much experience you have with computers and IT concepts prior to taking the exams.

2. Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA)

Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA) is a certification that validates an individual’s skills in managing and maintaining Windows Server systems. It is designed to help IT professionals demonstrate their knowledge of Windows Server technologies, such as Active Directory, Group Policy, Hyper-V, and more.

It typically takes around three months to complete the MCSA certification process. This includes studying for the exams, taking practice tests, and completing any required hands-on labs. The exact amount of time it takes will depend on your existing experience with Windows Server technologies and how much time you are able to dedicate to studying.

To get the MCSA certification, you must pass two exams: Exam 70-740 Installation, Storage and Compute with Windows Server 2016 and Exam 70-741 Networking with Windows Server 2016. You can purchase exam vouchers from Microsoft or through third-party vendors such as Pearson VUE or Prometric. Each exam costs $165 USD.

3. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is a certification program offered by Cisco Systems that validates an individual's ability to install, configure, operate and troubleshoot medium-sized routed and switched networks. It is one of the most popular IT certifications in the world and is considered an entry level certification for networking professionals.

It typically takes between 6 to 12 months to receive the CCNA certification, depending on how much time you are able to dedicate to studying and preparing for the exam. To get certified, you must pass two exams: ICND1 (100-105) and ICND2 (200-105). The cost of each exam varies by region but generally ranges from $125-$300 USD per exam.

To prepare for the CCNA exams, it is recommended that you have at least one year of experience working with Cisco routers and switches. Additionally, there are several online resources available such as practice tests, study guides, video tutorials, etc., which can help you prepare for the exams.

4. CompTIA Network+

CompTIA Network+ is an industry-recognized certification that validates a professional’s knowledge of networking concepts, hardware, and software. It is designed to help IT professionals demonstrate their understanding of network infrastructure, network operations, troubleshooting, and security.

The CompTIA Network+ exam typically takes about 90 minutes to complete and consists of 90 multiple-choice questions. The exam covers topics such as network technologies, installation and configuration, media and topologies, management, and security.

To get the CompTIA Network+ certification, you must pass the N10-007 exam. You can take the exam at a testing center or online using an approved proctoring service.

The cost of the CompTIA Network+ exam varies depending on your location but usually ranges between $300 and $400 USD.

5. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) is a professional certification program designed to help IT professionals demonstrate their expertise in designing and implementing Microsoft solutions. It is an industry-recognized qualification that validates the skills and knowledge needed to manage, maintain, and deploy business solutions based on Microsoft technologies.

The MCSE certification requires individuals to pass five exams: two core exams and three elective exams. To get certified, you must pass all five exams within two years of starting the program. The core exams cover topics such as Windows Server, Networking Infrastructure, Cloud Platforms & Infrastructure, and Security Solutions. The elective exams cover topics such as Business Intelligence, Data Management & Analytics, Messaging Solutions, SharePoint Solutions, and Mobility Solutions.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete the MCSE certification program depending on your experience level and the amount of time you can dedicate to studying for the exams.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on which version of the exam you take (online or in-person) as well as which country you’re taking it in. Generally speaking, each exam costs around $150 USD for online versions and $200 USD for in-person versions. So if you take all five exams online it would cost approximately $750 USD total.

6. Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP)

Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP) is an industry-recognized certification program designed to provide IT professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to support Apple products. It is offered by Apple and administered through Pearson VUE, a global leader in computer-based testing.

The ACSP certification requires that candidates demonstrate their ability to troubleshoot, configure, maintain, and optimize Mac computers running macOS Mojave or later. The exam covers topics such as system preferences, networking, user accounts, file systems, security features, and more.

It typically takes about two weeks to complete the ACSP certification process. Candidates must first register for the exam through Pearson VUE’s website. They then have 90 days from the date of registration to take the exam at a local testing center or online. After passing the exam, candidates will receive their official Apple Certified Support Professional certificate in the mail.

The cost of taking the ACSP exam varies depending on location but typically ranges from $150-$200 USD per attempt.

7. CompTIA Security+

CompTIA Security+ is an internationally recognized certification that validates the knowledge and skills of cybersecurity professionals. It is a vendor-neutral certification that covers the essential principles for network security and risk management. It is designed to help IT professionals demonstrate their competency in areas such as network security, compliance and operational security, threats and vulnerabilities, access control and identity management, and cryptography.

The CompTIA Security+ exam typically takes 90 minutes to complete, with a maximum of 100 questions. The exam covers topics such as network security, compliance and operational security, threats and vulnerabilities, access control and identity management, cryptography, application security, data security, disaster recovery/business continuity planning, risk management/assessment/mitigation strategies.

In order to obtain the CompTIA Security+ certification you must pass the CompTIA Security+ SY0-501 exam. You can prepare for this exam by taking an online course or attending an instructor-led training course. Additionally there are practice tests available to help you prepare for the exam.

The cost of the CompTIA Security+ exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $320-$400 USD (plus applicable taxes).

8. Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA)

Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) is a certification program designed to provide individuals with the foundational knowledge needed to pursue a career in technology. It is an entry-level certification that covers basic technology concepts and helps validate fundamental knowledge of core technical concepts. MTA certifications are available in four tracks: IT Infrastructure, Database, Developer, and Microsoft Office.

It typically takes around 10 hours to complete the MTA exam. The exam consists of multiple choice questions and must be taken at an authorized testing center. There is no time limit for the exam and it can be taken as many times as needed until passing scores are achieved.

The cost of taking the MTA exam varies depending on the country you are located in. Generally, it costs around $127 USD per exam.

To get started with MTA certification, you will need to create a Microsoft account and register for an exam through the Microsoft Learning website. Once registered, you will receive instructions on how to schedule your test at a local testing center or online proctored testing center.

9. CompTIA Server+

CompTIA Server+ is a vendor-neutral certification that validates the technical skills and knowledge of IT professionals who work with server hardware and software technologies. This certification covers topics such as storage, virtualization, networking, security, disaster recovery, and more. With CompTIA Server+, individuals demonstrate their ability to troubleshoot server issues and maintain optimal server performance in a variety of environments.

It typically takes about three months to study for the CompTIA Server+ exam. To get certified, you must pass the SY0-501 exam. The exam consists of 90 multiple choice questions and covers topics such as system architecture, installation and configuration, disaster recovery planning and implementation, network fundamentals, security fundamentals, virtualization technologies, server performance management, troubleshooting theory and practice.

The cost of the CompTIA Server+ exam varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, the cost ranges from $220-$330 USD per exam attempt.

10. VMware Certified Professional (VCP)

The VMware Certified Professional (VCP) is a certification program designed to validate an individual's knowledge and skills in virtualization technologies. It is offered by VMware, a leading provider of virtualization software and services. The VCP certification is the most popular and widely recognized certification for virtualization professionals.

To become a VCP, an individual must pass an exam that tests their knowledge of the core concepts and features of VMware products, such as vSphere, vCloud Director, vRealize Suite, NSX, and more. The exam covers topics such as installation, configuration, management, troubleshooting, security, networking, storage and optimization.

It typically takes about two months to prepare for the VCP exam. During this time period individuals should review course materials provided by VMware or attend instructor-led training courses from authorized training centers. Preparation materials can be purchased through VMware's website or from authorized training centers.

The cost of the VCP exam varies depending on where it is taken but generally ranges from $250 - $400 USD per person. There may also be additional fees for any additional exams required for recertification or other certifications associated with the VCP program.

Once an individual passes the exam they will receive their official VCP certificate and digital badge which can be used to demonstrate their expertise in virtualization technologies to employers or clients.

11. EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

The EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) is a professional certification program designed to help IT professionals identify and mitigate security vulnerabilities in networks and systems. The CEH exam tests candidates' knowledge of the tools, techniques, and processes used by malicious hackers to exploit system weaknesses. It also covers the latest topics in ethical hacking, such as cloud computing, mobile device security, and web application security.

The CEH exam takes approximately four hours to complete. Candidates must pass a 200-question multiple-choice exam with a score of at least 70% in order to obtain the certification. The exam is administered at Pearson VUE testing centers around the world.

In order to become certified, candidates must first register for the CEH program through EC-Council's website or an authorized training provider. After registering, they must then attend an approved CEH training course or purchase self-study materials from EC-Council's website. Once they have completed their training, they can then register for the CEH exam online or through an authorized testing center.

The cost of the CEH certification varies depending on where you take your training and which materials you use for study purposes. Generally speaking, it will cost between $500-$1000 USD for all fees associated with obtaining the certification.

Do You Really Need a Computer Technician Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on a few things. First, what type of computer technician job do you want to pursue? If you are looking for a job in the IT field, then a computer technician certificate may be beneficial. A certificate could give you an edge over other applicants and demonstrate your knowledge in the field. It could also open up more opportunities for advancement within the company.

On the other hand, if you are looking for a job as a computer repair technician or help desk specialist, then a certificate may not be necessary. Many employers hire people with general technical skills and offer on-the-job training to teach them specific tasks. In fact, many companies prefer to hire someone with some experience in the field rather than someone who has just completed a certificate program.

Ultimately, it is up to you to decide whether or not you need to get certified as a computer technician. If you have the time and resources available, getting certified can help enhance your resume and may make it easier for you to get hired in certain positions. However, if you are already working in the industry or don't have the time or money to invest in certification courses, then it may not be necessary for your particular situation.

Related: Computer Technician Resume Examples

FAQs About Computer Technician Certifications

1. What is a Computer Technician Certification?

Answer: A computer technician certification is a professional credential that demonstrates your knowledge and skills related to computer repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

2. Is a Computer Technician Certification Required?

Answer: No, there is no universal requirement for a computer technician certification; however, many employers prefer to hire candidates who have achieved this type of credential.

3. What are the Benefits of Obtaining a Computer Technician Certification?

Answer: Obtaining a computer technician certification can help you stand out among other applicants when seeking employment in the field of computers, as well as give you an edge over your peers when competing for promotions or raises. In addition, having this type of credential may also open up opportunities for career advancement and higher salaries.

4. How Do I Become Certified as a Computer Technician?

Answer: To become certified as a computer technician, you must first complete an accredited training program or course in the subject matter. After completing the necessary training, you must then pass an exam administered by an approved certifying body in order to be certified as a computer technician.

5. How Long Does it Take to Get Certified?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to get certified depends on the certifying body and program chosen; however, most programs take between six months and two years to complete.