Desktop Support

CompTIA A+ Computer Technician Certification
For Whom: Individuals seeking an entry-level position in computer support.
Requirements: Two exams required - A+ Core Hardware and A+ OS Technologies.
Brief: If you don't have any work experience in computer support, then this is the certification to start with. Both hardware and operating system (OS) configuration knowledge and skills are essential for supporting desktop computer systems.

Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP)
For Whom: Individuals seeking an entry-level position in computer support.
Requirements: One exam required, most any Microsoft exam will count.
Brief: After A+ certification, individuals should take a Microsoft exam that covers administering Microsoft Windows on the desktop. Microsoft Windows is by far the most prevalent operating system to be found on desktop computers.

Systems Administration

Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA)
For Whom: Individuals seeking a position supporting systems within a Microsoft network environment.
Requirements: Three core exams and one elective exam. A+ and Network+ can count towards the elective exam requirement.
Brief: A systems administrator working in a Microsoft network environment needs to administer both the desktop and server operating systems as well as the network services that run on the servers. The three core exams cover these three aspects of administration within a Microsoft network environment..

CompTIA Linux+ Certification
For Whom: Individuals seeking an entry-level position supporting Linux systems.
Requirements: One exam required.
Brief: Although Linux is not used much as a desktop operating system, it can be found running network services behind the scenes. This certification is an entry-level certification because it covers the basics of administering a Linux operating system. It does not cover the administration of specific network services such as web servers, e-mail servers and firewalls.

Networking/Telecommunications Technician

CompTIA Network+ Certification
For Whom: Individuals seeking an entry-level position as a network technician.
Requirements: One exam required.
Brief: This certification covers a broad range of networking concepts and procedures that are needed in order to develop more advanced skills and knowledge. This certification covers material needed for more advanced certifications such as Cisco's CCNA.

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
For Whom: Individuals seeking an entry-level position configuring Cisco switches and routers.
Requirements: One or two exams required.
Brief: Cisco is the dominant presence in networking hardware for medium to large network environments. Technicians are needed to configure the Cisco switches and routers found in these environments.

Additional Computer/Network Support Certification Links

Linux

• Linux Professional Institute (LPI)
• RedHat

Microsoft

• Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE)
• Microsoft Certified Database Administrator (MCDBA)
• MCSA or MCSE: Which Certification is Right for You?

Cisco

• Cisco Certified Design Associate (CCDA)
• Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)

Certified Internet Webmaster (CIW)

• CIW Associate
• CIW Professional
• CIW Security Analyst
• Master CIW Administrator

CompTIA

• i-Net+
• Server+
• Security+
• Project+
• Home Technology Integrator (HTI+)