If you are starting an IT career, the right certification can help you get past resume filters and prove you have the fundamentals. The challenge is choosing where to begin. Here are the best IT certifications for beginners, organized by career path.
For IT support and help desk
CompTIA A+
The most recognized entry-level IT support certification, covering hardware, operating systems, networking, security and troubleshooting. See our CompTIA A+ guide.
Google IT Support Professional Certificate
A beginner-friendly online program that teaches support fundamentals.
ITIL 4 Foundation
Introduces IT service management concepts used by service desks. See ITIL 4 Foundation.
For networking
CompTIA Network+
Vendor-neutral networking fundamentals. See Network+.
Cisco CCNA
A deeper, hands-on networking certification. See CCNA.
For cybersecurity
CompTIA Security+
The most common entry-level security certification. See Security+.
ISC2 Certified in Cybersecurity (CC)
An entry-level certification from ISC2, the organization behind CISSP.
Read how to become a cybersecurity analyst.
For cloud computing
AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
Microsoft AZ-900 Azure Fundamentals
See AZ-900.
Google Cloud Digital Leader
A business-focused introduction to Google Cloud.
Compare in best cloud certifications.
For data and AI
Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate
See our review.
Microsoft Power BI Data Analyst (PL-300)
For dashboard and reporting roles.
AWS Certified AI Practitioner
See AI Practitioner.
For project and agile roles
- CAPM from PMI for entry-level project management
- Scrum Master certification (CSM or PSM I) for agile teams
How to choose your first certification
- Pick a target role — see entry-level tech jobs
- Check job postings for the certifications they mention most
- Start with fundamentals if you are completely new
- Pair certification with hands-on practice — a home lab, cloud free tier or portfolio project
- Don’t collect certifications without direction — two well-chosen certifications plus projects beat five random ones
Suggested beginner paths
- IT support: A+ → Network+ → Security+
- Cloud: Cloud Practitioner or AZ-900 → associate-level cloud certification
- Security: Network+ → Security+ → CySA+
- Data: Google Data Analytics → PL-300 → SQL and Python projects
See how to get an IT job with no experience and how to study for a certification exam.
Frequently asked questions
What is the easiest IT certification to get?
Foundational certifications such as AWS Cloud Practitioner, AZ-900 and ITIL 4 Foundation are generally considered the most approachable.
Which IT certification pays the most for beginners?
Cloud and security certifications tend to lead to higher-paying roles, but experience and projects matter as much as the credential.
Can I get an IT job with just a certification?
A certification helps, especially combined with hands-on practice, customer service skills and a tailored resume.
Earned a new certification? Make sure recruiters’ software sees it.
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