IT certificates: a comprehensive guide

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Key takeaways

IT certificates provide credible proof of skills and can shape faster, clearer career progression.

  • Choose a certification that matches your target role and current experience, not just what is popular.
  • Employers use certifications as a quick, standardised signal of practical capability and commitment to learning.
  • Passing is more likely with a routine that blends short lessons, hands on labs, and timed mock exams.
  • Budget for exam fees and retakes, and check prerequisites before booking a test slot.
  • Combine vendor neutral foundations with vendor specific depth to stay flexible and employable.

CompTIA None (recommended: basic IT
Google IT Support ProfessionalGoogle/CourseraNone5 courses with assessmentsApprox. £39/month (Coursera)6 months (part-time)
CISSPISC25 years professional IT security experience (may waive 1 year with a degree or another credential)

Learn the fundamentals of enterprise change management. Practitioner Includes Foundation & Practitioner combined option. PROGRAMME MANAGEMENT