CompTIA is a global provider of vendor neutral IT certifications, such as the known A+, Security+, Network+, certifications. Most, if not all, CompTIA certifications are entry-level attracting students and those new to the IT field.
The most significant benefit of CompTIA certs is that they are not bound to a specific technology, like Microsoft, Cisco, VMware or other vendor-specific certifications. They're also a right way for beginners to get a start in the IT field.
But are CompTIA certs worth it?
Everyone and their Grandma have one ...
Are CompTIA Certifications Worthless? Many aspiring IT pros are concerned that the entry-level certs will not get them anywhere. The common complaint is that there are already too many people with CompTIA certs and the widespread fear is that the certifications are also necessary.
Others worry that CompTIA certifications won't help them get a job or a promotion; it's difficult for them to see the benefits of a certification that requires time and money and doesn't offer to set them apart from other IT pros in the field.
These might seem like disadvantages for CompTIA candidates, but the benefits that the certifications bring outweigh these concerns. Ask any successful IT professional and chances he started his career with at least one CompTIA certification.
The overwhelming response from the community was that CompTIA certifications are not only worth it, but they also look good on your resume, give you an edge when applying for jobs, and "are a prerequisite to applying for many jobs.
Those who have achieved CompTIA certifications are not disliking their decisions. Let's take a look at some of the real benefits CompTIA certifications bring to the table.
Benefits of Getting CompTIA Certifications
Make a Solid Foundation of Knowledge and Skills
CompTIA certifications help candidates build a solid foundation of essentials skills and knowledge that will help them advance their careers. Starting at a higher certification level might seem like a timesaver, but often this can delay your progress because you're missing the necessary fundamentals. It's like skipping algebra and going straight for calculus; it just won't work.
Get Extra Credit
Companies such as Microsoft, Cisco, Novell, HP and other recognize some CompTIA certification (like the A+ and Network+) in their certification tracks, and some universities and colleges offer college credit for students who earn CompTIA certifications.
Raise Your Salary and Find New Career Opportunities
Many companies and organizations have made CompTIA certifications mandatory for specific positions, and many job ads list the certs as requirements. Surveys also show that certified professionals earn more on average than non-certified IT pros in the same roles.
Build Your Confidence and Credibility
But probably the most significant advantage of CompTIA certifications, especially for those who are new to the IT field, is increasing your confidence. By achieving CompTIA accreditation, you obtain proof that you know what you are talking about, which gives you more credibility and determination to advance your career.
Job Opportunities for CompTIA Candidates
So what types of jobs will you be able to apply for and feel confident in attaining with CompTIA certifications under your belt? Well, that depends on which certifications you start with. Let's take a look at three of the most popular options:
CompTIA A+
With the CompTIA A+ certification, you will be able to apply for jobs as a computer technician, technical support representative, help desk specialist, printer repair technician and other similar opportunities. Some organizations, like Ricoh and CompuCom, have made CompTIA A+ certification mandatory for their service technicians.
CompTIA Network+
The CompTIA Network+ certification opens up even more job opportunities allowing you to work as a network administrator, network engineer, network technician, and other similar positions. Also, keep in mind that Cisco, Microsoft, Novell, and HP also recognize CompTIA Network+ as part of their certification tracks.
CompTIA Security+
The CompTIA Security+ certification allows you to apply for many of the jobs that require a security clearance; you will be able to work as a security analyst, security specialist, network security engineer and more. Many companies including Hewlett-Packard, IBM, Motorola, Symantec, as well as the U.S. Navy, Army, Air Force and Marines employ Security+ certified individuals.