Popular IT Certifications to Advance in Your Career

What are IT Certifications?

Information technology certifications are professional documents that confirm that a person has suitable proficiency in certain disciplines of information technology. There are numerous organizations offering IT certifications, but these involve passing exams and other standards determined by the issuing organization. They are for enhancing resumes, proof of individual competence in particular areas of skills, and career development. It is the knowledge and experience that certifications provide for entry-level professionals and the professional excellence that seasoned IT experts can establish in the competitive job market.

These certifications are therefore critical for IT professionals looking to keep abreast of the constantly changing field. They validate skills already possessed but also promote further development of new competencies and better job opportunities and salaries. Consequently, IT certifications are of prime importance to anyone desiring to advance in their careers related to technology, including novices and experienced professionals.

IT Certifications or IT Certificates - What Exactly do You Need?

Determine what you need by considering your stage in your career and its goals. IT certifications are appropriate for those looking to validate their expertise in specific technologies or methodologies, which are usually experience-based and require a continuing education. For someone entering the IT industry, IT certificates can be appropriate for foundational knowledge and skills, making them ideal for entry-level positions. In any case, pursuing certifications can help to enhance your professional standing and provide a pathway to advanced career opportunities.

Are IT Certifications Worth it in 2025?

By 2025, certifications are expected to be important in advancing career opportunities within the technology industry. This is because organizations are keenly investing in digital transformation and therefore, are increasingly demanding experts with specialized knowledge of cloud computing, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. In such a context, the increasing global spending on IT of more than $5.5 trillion will help the candidate by using certification as a mark of credibility that separates the applicant from competition [1]. These skills, apart from being validated by specialized skills, open opportunities for high-paying roles and leadership positions. Obtaining IT-related certifications is a strategic career choice for those looking to future-proof their careers in alignment with the trends of the industry and what employers expect.

List of Best IT Certifications

1. Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate
2. Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate
3. Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert
4. Microsoft Certified: DevOps Engineer Expert
5. Microsoft Certified: Cybersecurity Architect Expert
6. CCNP Security
7. CCNP Enterprise
8. CCNP Collaboration
9. CompTIA Security+ Certification
10. CompTIA Network+ certification
11. CompTIA A+ Certification
12. EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
13. AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate
14. AWS Certified Developer - Associate
15. AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Professional
16. AWS Certified Security - Specialty
17. Google Cloud Certified Associate Cloud Engineer
18. Google Cloud Certified Professional Cloud Architect
19. CISSP - Certified Information Systems Security Professional
20. CGRC – Certified in Governance, Risk and Compliance

20 Most Demanding IT Certifications That Pay Well

Highest Paying IT Certifications Under Microsoft Training

Microsoft offers a range of certifications that validate an individual's skills related to any of its technologies and at various skill levels. Its certifications include entry-level, professional, and business intelligence expert levels in cloud computing, development, and administration. Participants will have the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively manage and implement Microsoft solutions.

Certifications Offered

• Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate
• Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate
• Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert
• Microsoft Certified: DevOps Engineer Expert
• Microsoft Certified: Cybersecurity Architect Expert

Microsoft Certified Azure Administrator Associate

Participants will learn to deploy, manage, and monitor Azure environments, focusing on core Azure services, security, and governance. Skills include the ability to manage Azure subscriptions, configure virtual networks, and implement storage solutions. The main impact of this certification is on the performance of jobs because it helps experts to optimize resource usage and stay in compliance within Azure environments.

Cost of Certification Exam: Approximately $2,495

Prerequisites of Azure Administrator Associate:

Candidates should have foundational knowledge of cloud services and experience with Azure.

Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate Career Opportunities

Salary and Sources for Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate

How to get Certified in Azure Administrator Associate?

To achieve this certification, candidates should take the following course:

• Azure Administrator Associate Training
• AZ-104 Microsoft Azure Administrator Exam

Start with foundational certifications like Microsoft Azure Fundamentals before progressing to the Azure Administrator Associate.

Microsoft Certified Azure Developer Associate

This training would teach participants the design of cloud applications and services based on Microsoft Azure. One would learn skills in design and building cloud-native applications, managing APIs, as well as Azure functions implementations. Professionals would better deliver scalable applications, streamlined processes in development, and leverage Azure services within projects.

Cost of Certification Exam: Approximately $2,995

Prerequisites of Microsoft Certified Azure Developer Associate:

Candidates should have experience in cloud development and familiarity with Azure services.

Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate Career Opportunities

Salary and Sources for Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate

How to get Certified in Azure Developer Associate?

To achieve this certification, candidates should take the following course:

• Azure Developer Associate Training
• AZ-204 Developing Solutions for Microsoft Azure

Certification Path of Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate

Begin with fundamental courses before advancing to the developer associate level.

Microsoft Certified Azure Solutions Architect Expert

Participants will be mastering designing and implementing solutions that run on Azure, such as aspects like identity management, security, data storage, and business continuity. It provides the skills needed by architects to develop an integrated cloud strategy that aligns with the business objectives. The proficiency enhances their ability to provide robust and secure solutions customized to organizational needs.

Cost of Certification Exam: Approximately $2,495

Prerequisites of Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert:

Candidates should possess advanced experience in IT operations and familiarity with cloud architecture.

Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert Career Opportunities

Salary and Sources for Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert

How to get Certified in Azure Solutions Architect Expert?

To achieve this certification, candidates should take the following course:

• Azure Solutions Architect Expert Training
• AZ-305 Designing Microsoft Azure Infrastructure Solutions

Certification Path of Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert

Candidates should first complete relevant associate-level certifications before pursuing this expert-level certification.

Microsoft Certified Azure DevOps Engineer Expert

It will cover implementing DevOps practices on Azure technologies. Participants learn how to design and implement CI/CD pipelines, manage source control with GitHub, and monitor application performance. This skill helps professionals in fostering collaboration between the development and operations teams that result in more efficient workflows and faster delivery of software solutions.

Cost of Certification Exam: Approximately $2,495

Prerequisites of Microsoft Certified: DevOps Engineer Expert

Candidates should have experience in both development and operations and hold an associate-level certification.

Microsoft Certified: DevOps Engineer Expert Career Opportunities

Salary and Sources for Microsoft Certified: DevOps Engineer Expert

How to get Certified in DevOps Engineer Expert?

To achieve this certification, candidates should take the following course:

• DevOps Engineer Training
• AZ-400 Microsoft Azure DevOps Solutions

Certification Path of Microsoft Certified: DevOps Engineer Expert

Start with an associate-level certification in either administration or development before advancing to the DevOps Engineer expert level.

Microsoft Certified Cybersecurity Architect Expert

It will cover implementing DevOps practices on Azure technologies. Participants learn how to design and implement CI/CD pipelines, manage source control with GitHub, and monitor application performance. This skill helps professionals in fostering collaboration between the development and operations teams that result in more efficient workflows and faster delivery of software solutions.

Cost of Certification Exam: Approximately $2,495

Prerequisites of Microsoft Certified: Cybersecurity Architect Expert

Candidates should have extensive experience in cybersecurity architecture and hold relevant associate-level certifications.

Microsoft Certified: Cybersecurity Architect Expert Career Opportunities

Salary and Sources for Microsoft Certified: Cybersecurity Architect Expert

How to get Certified in Cybersecurity Architect Expert?

To achieve this certification, candidates should take the following course:

• Cybersecurity Architect Training
• SC-100 Microsoft Cybersecurity Architect

Certification Path of Microsoft Certified: Cybersecurity Architect Expert

Begin with foundational cybersecurity knowledge before pursuing this expert-level certification.

Highest Paying IT Certifications Under AWS Training

Amazon Web Services offers full sets of certification that is proof of a person's expertise and competency in terms of cloud computing with services. Certification portfolio covers the entire skill range, right from fresh learners to experienced professionals, all through architecture, development, and security aspects. Participants will get first-hand experience and knowledge pertinent for designing and managing scalable, secure, and efficient solutions in the cloud.

Certifications Offered

• AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate
• AWS Certified SysOps Administrator - Associate
• AWS Certified Developer - Associate
• AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Professional
• AWS Certified Security - Specialty

AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate

This training will enable learners to design and deploy scalable, highly available, and fault-tolerant systems on AWS. It teaches them to choose the appropriate AWS services according to the requirements of a project, develop cost-effective solutions, and manage application performance. This certification equips professionals with the skills to build secure and compliant cloud architectures that are aligned with business objectives.

Cost of Certification Exam: Approximately $1,620

Prerequisites of AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate

Candidates should have at least one year of hands-on experience designing cloud solutions using AWS services.

AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate Career Opportunities

Salary and Sources for AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate

How to get Certified

To achieve this certification, candidates should take the following course:

• Architecting on AWS
• SAA-C03 AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate

Certification Path of AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate

Candidates can pursue this certification after gaining foundational knowledge in cloud computing or by starting with the AWS Cloud Practitioner certification.

AWS Certified SysOps Administrator - Associate

This training equips participants with knowledge on how to deploy, manage, and operate scalable systems on AWS. Skills gained include monitoring system performance, automating tasks using AWS tools, and implementing backup and recovery strategies. Professionals will be able to maintain operational excellence in cloud environments with high availability and security of applications.

Cost of Certification Exam: Approximately $1,620

Prerequisites of AWS Certified SysOps Administrator - Associate

Candidates should have at least one year of experience in systems administration and familiarity with AWS services.

AWS Certified SysOps Administrator - Associate Career Opportunities

Salary and Sources for AWS Certified SysOps Administrator - Associate

How to get Certified

To achieve this certification, candidates should take the following course:

• Cloud Operations on AWS
• SOA-C02 AWS Certified SysOps Administrator – Associate

Certification Path of AWS Certified SysOps Administrator - Associate

This certification is ideal for those with foundational knowledge in cloud operations and systems administration.

AWS Certified Developer - Associate

Participants will be skilled in AWS application development with an understanding of core services like AWS Lambda, DynamoDB and S3. The list of skills learned is developed code for cloud-based applications, integration of AWS Services, and debugging the same application in the cloud environment. This certification allows them to develop scalable, and efficient applications by utilizing good practices for cloud development.

Cost of Certification Exam: Approximately $1,620

Prerequisites of AWS Certified Developer - Associate

Candidates should have experience in developing applications on AWS and familiarity with core AWS services.

AWS Certified Developer - Associate Career Opportunities

Salary and Sources for AWS Certified Developer - Associate

How to get Certified

To achieve this certification, candidates should take the following course:

• Developing on AWS
• DVA-C02 AWS Certified Developer - Associate

Certification Path of AWS Certified Developer - Associate

This course is suitable for developers who wish to extend their skill in the development of cloud applications.

AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Professional

This is a certification in designing complex architectures on AWS. Students learn to evaluate existing architectures and design migration strategies while maintaining high availability and disaster recovery. The skills acquired will allow architects to create highly complex solutions that optimize performance and cost efficiency in large-scale environments.

Cost of Certification Exam: Approximately $1,620

Prerequisites of AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Professional

Candidates should have two or more years of hands-on experience designing and deploying cloud architectures on AWS.

AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Professional Career Opportunities

Salary and Sources for AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Professional

How to get Certified

To achieve this certification, candidates should take the following course:

• Advanced Architecting on AWS
• SAP-C02 AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Professional

Certification Path of AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Professional

This certification is meant for professionals who have achieved the associate-level certification and want to gain higher expertise.

AWS Certified Security - Specialty

Participants will explore securing AWS environments through identity management, incident response, and data protection measures. Skills acquired include implementing security best practices for cloud applications and ensuring compliance with industry standards. This certification enhances professionals' ability to safeguard sensitive data while managing risks associated with cloud computing.

Cost of Certification Exam: Approximately $1,620

Prerequisites of AWS Certified Security - Specialty

Candidates should have a minimum of five years of IT security experience with at least two years focused on securing AWS workloads.

AWS Certified Security - Specialty Career Opportunities

Salary and Sources for AWS Certified Security - Specialty

How to get certified

To achieve this certification, candidates should take the following course:

• Security Engineering on AWS
• SCS-C01 AWS Certified Security - Specialty

Certification Path of AWS Certified Security - Specialty

This specialty certification is ideal for professionals looking to deepen their knowledge in cloud security after obtaining foundational certifications.

Highest Paying IT Certifications Under Google Cloud Training

Google Cloud provides a strong suite of certifications that confirm proficiency in the use of its cloud platform. The certification is offered for different levels of expertise, from beginner to advanced professional, so that a person can show their competence in Google Cloud technologies. Learners will be able to acquire crucial knowledge and hands-on experience required for the management and implementation of cloud solutions.

Certifications Offered

• Google Cloud Certified Associate Cloud Engineer
• Google Cloud Certified Professional Cloud Architect

Google Cloud Certified Associate Cloud Engineer

Deploy, manage, and monitor operations applications on Google Cloud Platform for enterprise solutions. Such training leaves one with skills including secure configuration of cloud resources according to compliance requirements. In total, this certification sets business application optimization for users who have learned to work using GCP.

Cost of Certification Exam: Approximately $125

Prerequisites of Google Cloud Certified Associate Cloud Engineer

Candidates should have at least six months of hands-on experience with Google Cloud and a basic understanding of cloud concepts.

Google Cloud Certified Associate Cloud Engineer Career Opportunities

Salary and Sources for Google Cloud Certified Associate Cloud Engineer

How to get certified

To achieve this certification, candidates should take the following course:

• Architecting with Google Compute Engine
• ACE Google Cloud Certified Associate Cloud Engineer

Certification Path of Google Cloud Certified Associate Cloud Engineer

This is suitable for beginners in cloud engineering; it will provide them with foundational knowledge before advancing to professional-level certifications.

Google Cloud Certified Professional Cloud Architect

This certification will help participants learn how to design solid cloud architectures using GCP services. Skills acquired will encompass the assessment of business needs to build scalable solutions within the bounds of security best practice. Professionals will be fully equipped to lead cloud initiatives that effectively align technology to organizational goals.

Cost of Certification Exam: Approximately $200

Prerequisites of Google Cloud Certified Professional Cloud Architect

Candidates should have three or more years of industry experience, including one year working with Google Cloud.

Google Cloud Certified Professional Cloud Architect Career Opportunities

Salary and Sources for Google Cloud Certified Professional Cloud Architect

How to get certified

To achieve this certification, candidates should take the following course:

• Architecting with Google Cloud Design and Process
• PCA Google Cloud Certified Professional Cloud Architect

Certification Path of Google Cloud Certified Professional Cloud Architect

This certification is designed for experienced professionals who wish to deepen their expertise in designing and managing cloud architecture on the Google platform. It is recommended to complete the Associate level before pursuing this advanced certification.

Highest Paying IT Certifications Under CompTIA Certifications Training

CompTIA offers a variety of globally recognized certifications that validate foundational skills necessary for IT professionals. These certifications cover essential areas such as security, networking, and technical support, making them ideal for individuals looking to start or advance their careers in information technology. Participants will gain practical knowledge and hands-on experience crucial for addressing real-world IT challenges.

Certifications Offered

• CompTIA Security+ Certification
• CompTIA Network+ Certification
• CompTIA A+ Certification

CompTIA Security+ Certification

Participants will acquire base knowledge in cybersecurity principles; this includes risk management, threat analysis, and response to incidents. Skills acquired help professionals implement rudimentary security measures in various settings. This certification is important to those who want to break into the cybersecurity field or enhance what they are doing in an IT role.

Cost of Certification Exam: Approximately $404

Prerequisites of CompTIA Security+ Certification

There are no formal prerequisites, but it is recommended that candidates have two years of IT experience with a security focus.

CompTIA Security+ Certification Career Opportunities

Salary and Sources for CompTIA Security+ Certification

How to get certified

To achieve this certification, candidates should take the following course:

• CompTIA Security+ Certification Prep (Exam SY0-701)
• SY0-701 CompTIA Security+ Exam

Certification Path of CompTIA Security+ Certification

This certification serves as a foundational credential for those pursuing a career in cybersecurity and can lead to advanced certifications like CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+).

CompTIA Network+ Certification

These basic networking concepts include network architecture, troubleshooting, and security protocols. Participants gain skills in configuring networks and their management of network devices through practical experience. It would be very important for these IT professionals who maintain networks with reliable infrastructures.

Cost of Certification Exam: Approximately $369

Prerequisites of CompTIA Network+ Certification

While there are no formal prerequisites, it is recommended that candidates have CompTIA A+ certification and some networking experience.

CompTIA Network+ Certification Career Opportunities

Salary and Sources for CompTIA Network+ Certification

How to get certified

To achieve this certification, candidates should take the following course:

• CompTIA Security+ Certification Prep (Exam SY0-701)
• SY0-701 CompTIA Security+ Exam

Certification Path of CompTIA Network+ Certification

This certification is ideal for those starting their networking career and can be a stepping stone to more advanced networking certifications like Cisco's CCNA.

CompTIA A+ Certification

Participants will be taken through basic IT skills installation, troubleshooting of operating systems, and customer service. This entry-level certification sets the stage for individuals in carrying out various IT support roles effectively in solving technical problems.

Cost of Certification Exam: Approximately $506 

Prerequisites of CompTIA A+ Certification

There are no formal prerequisites, but it is recommended that candidates have some hands-on experience with computers.

CompTIA A+ Certification Career Opportunities

Salary and Sources for CompTIA A+ Certification

How to get certified

To achieve this certification, candidates should take the following course:

• CompTIA A+ Certification Prep (Exam 220-1101 & 220-1102)
• 220-1102 CompTIA A+ Certification Exam
• 220-1101 CompTIA A+ Certification Exam

Certification Path of CompTIA A+ Certification

This entry-level certification is essential for anyone starting in IT support roles and can lead to more specialized certifications in networking or security.

Highest Paying IT Certifications Under EC-Council Certifications Training

EC-Council is one of the well-known organizations in cybersecurity education and certification, especially famous for its Certified Ethical Hacker program. This training is an essential certification which ensures the skills to recognize the vulnerabilities of systems and apply those corrective measures to eliminate them in the systems. It, therefore, helps professionals who have chosen ethical hacking and cybersecurity as their career path, develop a mindset like hackers for protection against cyber threats to their organizations.

Certifications Offered

• EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

The qualification teaches the participants the skills of ethical hacking to expose vulnerabilities in systems. Other skills include penetration testing methods and tools to evaluate the security posture. This way, the professionals can protect the systems proactively from attacks, using penetration testing to simulate the occurrence in a controlled manner.

Cost of Certification Exam: Approximately $3,550 (includes training and exam voucher)

Prerequisites of EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

Candidates are recommended to have two years of work experience in an information security role or complete an official EC-Council training course.

EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) Career Opportunities

Salary and Sources for EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

How to get certified

To achieve this certification, candidates should take the following course:

• EC-Council CEH: Certified Ethical Hacker v12
• 312-50 CEH Pro Bundle (Includes 3 Exam Retakes)

Certification Path of EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

After obtaining the CEH certification, candidates can pursue advanced certifications such as the CEH Practical or specialize further with certifications like Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP). 

Highest Paying IT Certifications Under Cisco Certifications Training

Cisco provides several professional-level certifications, which shall establish skills in networking, security, and collaboration technologies. It's indispensable to the IT professionals seeking the enhancement of added skills in advancing their career in the constantly emerging technological world. Through this training, learners shall gain knowledge of managing the details and applying the skills with which to protect a network environment.

Certifications Offered

• CCNP Security
• CCNP Enterprise
• CCNP Collaboration

CCNP Security

This certification has comprehensive knowledge related to securing Cisco networks. Its participants will learn secure access, VPNs, firewalls, and intrusion prevention systems for network security in the enterprise. These skills enable network engineers to design and maintain secure network infrastructures that are protected from sensitive data and other cyber threats.

Cost of Certification Exam: Approximately $600 (includes one core exam and one concentration exam)

Prerequisites of CCNP Security

While there are no formal prerequisites, Cisco recommends having three to five years of experience implementing security solutions and a solid understanding of networking fundamentals.

CCNP Security Career Opportunities

Salary and Sources for CCNP Security

How to get certified

To achieve this certification, candidates should take the following course:

• Securing Email with Cisco Email Security Appliance (SESA) v3.2
• 300-710 SNCF Securing Networks with Cisco Firepower
• 300-720 SESA Securing Email with Cisco Email Security Appliance

Certification Path of CCNP Security

Candidates can pursue the CCNP Security certification after obtaining foundational knowledge through the CCNA certification or equivalent experience. This certification can lead to advanced roles or further specialization with the CCIE Security certification.

CCNP Enterprise

Participants will attain high-end enterprise networking skills in protocols for routing, infrastructure security, and network automation. This certification sets the professional in a position of readiness to develop scalable networks that can handle organizational requirements, with efficiency and reliability in complex settings.

Cost of Certification Exam: Approximately $600 (includes one core exam and one concentration exam)

Prerequisites of CCNP Enterprise

There are no formal prerequisites, but Cisco recommends having a good understanding of enterprise networking concepts and some hands-on experience.

CCNP Enterprise Career Opportunities

Salary and Sources for CCNP Enterprise

How to get certified

To achieve this certification, candidates should take the following course:

• Implementing and Operating Cisco Enterprise Network Core Technologies (ENCOR) v1.3
• 350-401 ENCOR Implementing Cisco Enterprise Network Core Technologies

Certification Path of CCNP Enterprise

This certification is suitable for professionals looking to advance their networking skills after completing the CCNA or equivalent foundational training.

CCNP Collaboration

This certification focuses on collaboration technologies within Cisco environments. Participants learn how to apply voice and video solutions; they can manage unified communications systems, troubleshoot any issues, and enhance one's ability to create seamless experiences across organizations.

Cost of Certification Exam: Approximately $600 (includes one core exam and one concentration exam)

Prerequisites of CCNP Collaboration

While there are no formal prerequisites, Cisco recommends having a solid understanding of collaboration technologies and some hands-on experience.

CCNP Collaboration Career Opportunities

Salary and Sources for CCNP Collaboration

How to get certified

To achieve this certification, candidates should take the following course:

• Implementing and Operating Cisco Collaboration Core Technologies (CLCOR) v1.3
• 350-801 CLCOR Implementing Cisco Collaboration Core Technologies

Certification Path of CCNP Collaboration

This certification is ideal for those looking to specialize in collaboration technologies after obtaining foundational knowledge through the CCNA or equivalent experience. These Cisco certifications equip professionals with essential skills in network security, enterprise networking, and collaboration technologies.

Highest Paying IT Certifications Under ISC2 Certifications Training

The Certified Information Systems Security Professional certification, often abbreviated as CISSP, is accepted worldwide by the International Information System Security Certification Consortium. It is officially known as (ISC)². It is a testament to a person's comprehensive knowledge and expertise in every aspect of information security. As such, it is accredited for senior security practitioners who are experts or managers/executives involved in designing or implementing, developing, and handling an overall security program within an organization.

CISSP - Certified Information Systems Security Professional

Participants will learn a comprehensive understanding of information security principles about eight domains, which include domains such as risk management and asset security and incident response. Skills acquired allow professionals to design effective security programs with the protection of organizational assets against evolving threats while ensuring adherence to regulations.

Cost of Certification Exam: Approximately $4,095 ISC2 members.

Prerequisites of CISSP - Certified Information Systems Security Professional

To earn the CISSP certification, candidates must have a minimum of five years of cumulative, full-time work experience in at least two of the eight domains covered by the CISSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK). Candidates can waive one year of experience with a relevant four-year degree or an approved certification.

CISSP - Certified Information Systems Security Professional Career Opportunities

Salary and Sources for CISSP - Certified Information Systems Security Professional

How to get certified

To achieve the CISSP certification, candidates should take the following course:

• CISSP - Certified Information Systems Security Professional Certification Prep

Certification Path of CISSP - Certified Information Systems Security Professional

Candidates may begin with foundational certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or other relevant credentials before pursuing the CISSP. After obtaining the CISSP, professionals can further their expertise with specialized concentrations like CISSP-ISSAP or CISSP-ISSEP.

Domains Covered in CISSP

The CISSP exam covers eight key domains:

1. Security and Risk Management: Understanding security governance, compliance, and risk management principles.
2. Asset Security: Protecting organizational assets through proper classification and handling.
3. Security Architecture and Engineering: Designing secure systems and understanding security models.
4. Communication and Network Security: Ensuring secure communication channels and network infrastructure.
5. Identity and Access Management (IAM): Managing user identities and access controls.
6. Security Assessment and Testing: Evaluating security controls and conducting audits.
7. Security Operations: Managing security operations and incident response.
8. Software Development Security: Integrating security into the software development lifecycle.

The CISSP certification is highly regarded in the field of cybersecurity, providing professionals with the knowledge to manage an organization's information security effectively. Achieving this certification not only enhances career opportunities but also demonstrates a commitment to maintaining high standards in information security practices.

CGRC – Certified in Governance, Risk and Compliance

This certification is focused on integrating governance frameworks with risk management strategies within organizations. It teaches participants how to assess compliance requirements while implementing effective controls. The skills acquired will enable professionals to make their organizations more resilient against risks while remaining compliant with regulatory standards.

Cost of Certification Exam: Approximately $3,495

Prerequisites of CGRC – Certified in Governance, Risk and Compliance

Candidates must have a minimum of two years of cumulative work experience in one or more of the seven domains outlined in the CGRC Common Body of Knowledge (CBK). Alternatively, candidates can pass the CGRC examination to become an Associate of (ISC)² and then gain the required experience within three years.

CGRC – Certified in Governance, Risk and Compliance Career Opportunities

Salary and Sources for CGRC – Certified in Governance, Risk and Compliance

How to get certified

To achieve this certification, candidates should take the following course:

• CGRC - Certified in Governance, Risk and Compliance Certification Prep
• CGRC CGRC – Certified in Governance, Risk and Compliance

Certification Path of CGRC – Certified in Governance, Risk and Compliance

Candidates may start with foundational certifications in information security or risk management before pursuing CGRC. After obtaining the CGRC certification, they can further specialize with advanced certifications such as CRISC (Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control).

Domains Covered in CGRC

The CGRC exam covers several key domains:

1. Security and Privacy Governance: Creating a governance structure that ensures security practices are in alignment with the goals of the organization.
2. Risk Management Program: Creating a risk management plan.
3. Controls Selection and Approval: Selecting proper security controls based on risk.
4. Implementation of Controls: Properly executing security measures.
5. Assessment/Audit of Controls: Measuring the effectiveness of controls implemented.
6. System Compliance: Ensuring systems are in compliance with regulations.

The CGRC certification is ideal for professionals seeking to enhance their expertise in governance, risk management, and compliance within the cybersecurity landscape. By achieving this certification, individuals can significantly improve their career prospects while contributing to their organization's security posture and regulatory compliance efforts.

Top IT Certifications with Average Salaries in 2025

Steps to get an IT Certification and Become Certified IT Pro in 2025

1. Identify Your Career Goals: Identify what area of IT you wish to specialize in, such as cybersecurity, cloud computing, networking, or data management.
2. Research Certifications: Identify the certifications that fit your career goals. Look for factors such as industry demand, salary potential, and prerequisites.
3. Choose the Right Certification: Choose a certification that fits your current skill level, foundational for beginners or professional for those with experience.
4. Prepare for the Exam: Enroll for online or in-person courses. Use books, practice exams, and online resources.
5. Practical Experience: Hands-on is essential. Find an internship, volunteer, or a lab environment to practice your skills.
6. Exam Registration: When you feel ready, enroll for the certification exam on the website of the certifying body.
7. Exam: Proceed with the preparations and sit for the exam on the date scheduled.
8. Maintain Your Certification: Once certified, stay current on industry trends and complete any continuing education that is required to maintain active certification.
   

   IT Certifications - Key Questions Answered

   What is the best IT Certification to have in 2025?

   The best certification to have in 2025 will depend on which career goals you have and what area of the IT sector you want to pursue; however, there are various certifications that consistently rank due to their industry recognition and potential for career advancement.

   • The Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate certification: It is poised to be one of the best IT certifications to pursue in 2025. As organizations increasingly adopt cloud technologies, the demand for skilled professionals who can develop and maintain applications on Microsoft Azure continues to grow. 
   • AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate: This is for one who specializes in cloud computing, mainly focusing on Amazon Web Services as the organization has a good number of users for this system.
   • CISSP: It is the globally recognized certification that for professionals in cybersecurity means validation of advanced skills to design and manage programs.
   • CompTIA A+: A basic certification for entry-level IT professionals, it covers the essentials of hardware and software.
   • Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect: This certification is increasingly valuable as organizations move to Google Cloud Platform.
   
   

   All these certifications can significantly improve the prospects for employment and salary increases in the field of IT.

   Can You Get a Job With an IT Certification?

   Yes, you can definitely have a job with IT certifications. They act as proof of your abilities in specific areas of information technology, so they attract lots of potential employers to offer you jobs. Lots of entry-level jobs in the IT field require or preferably hire individuals who hold pertinent certifications, such as the CompTIA A+, Network+, or Security+.

   The certifications can show the seriousness of the student to that particular field, thus demonstrating the ability of meeting industry standards. This further provides a chance to have more salary and more jobs to apply for, particularly in hot areas such as cybersecurity, cloud computing, and data analytics. As a result, obtaining an IT certification is a strategic move for anyone looking to enter or advance in the IT job market.

   How much these Most Desired IT Certifications can increase your earning potential?

   IT certifications are significant and potentially lead to significant pay increases depending on how many you possess in popular fields. One study from Robert Half stated that a professional with specified certifications would earn a hefty increase in pay. Based on information and research, it is observed that the specific certification received by an employee can help them earn at the following ranges:

   
   
   • Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): This certification can lead to salaries ranging from $130,000 to $160,000 annually, reflecting the high demand for cybersecurity expertise.
   • AWS Certified Solutions Architect: Professionals with this certification range anywhere from $120,000 to $150,000 per year, owing to the importance of cloud computing in most industries nowadays.
   • Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect: The salary for certification lies between $125,000 and $155,000 annually, indicating what money is spent on good architectural skills.
   • Project Management Professional (PMP): Not strictly an IT certification, PMP holders are commonly found in IT project management and can earn between $110,000 and $140,000 per year.
   • CompTIA Security+: Entry-level professionals with this certification can expect to earn between $70,000 and $90,000 annually, providing a solid foundation for a career in cybersecurity.
   • Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP): This certification may attract salaries between $90,000 and $120,000, which are highly demanded for networking skills.

   How can NetCom Learning help earn IT Certifications that Pay Well?

   NetCom Learning can help learners earn well-paying IT certifications by offering comprehensive training programs for various certifications. It has a wide range of courses that include essential topics in cloud computing, cybersecurity, networking, and data management to equip learners with the necessary knowledge and skills to perform well in their certification exams.

   These also encompass access to expert instructors and flexible learning options, webinars, blogs, e-books, handouts, assessments, media, and special offers. In addition, NetCom provides test-taking study aids and practice tests that help prepare for the examination. With these resources at their disposal, future IT professionals can better position themselves to achieve the highly valuable and lucrative certifications that open more substantial job opportunities in the intense and competitive IT environment.