Server Certifications

The 10 best Server certifications to consider exploring in 2025 for your career growth.

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In the rapidly evolving world of information technology, server professionals stand at the heart of maintaining, managing, and securing the backbone of digital infrastructures. Pursuing server certifications is a strategic move that not only bolsters your technical acumen but also showcases your commitment to professional growth and excellence in a field where reliability and expertise are paramount.

This guide will serve as your compass in the vast sea of certification options, steering you towards the credentials that best match your career goals and the industry's current standards. Whether you're just embarking on your journey or aiming to fortify your position as a seasoned server expert, understanding the significance and benefits of these certifications is a key step in carving out a distinguished path in server administration and management.

Top Server Certifications

IBM Certified System Administrator - AIX
IBM
CompTIA Server+
CompTIA
Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate
Microsoft
Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)
Red Hat
VMware Certified Professional - Data Center Virtualization (VCP-DCV)
VMware
Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified SysOps Administrator - Associate
Amazon Web Services (AWS)
Oracle Certified Associate, Oracle Linux 5 and 6 System Administrator
Oracle
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
Cisco
Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA)

Best Server Certifications

IBM Certified System Administrator - AIX

Certification Provider
IBM
Best For
System Administrator - AIX, Senior UNIX Administrator, IT Infrastructure Specialist, Technical Support Engineer with AIX focus, UNIX Systems Engineer, AIX Solutions Architect
Description
The IBM Certified System Administrator - AIX certification is designed for experienced AIX system administrators with a deep understanding of the IBM AIX operating system. It validates the candidate's ability to install, configure, and maintain AIX systems, manage system resources, and troubleshoot. The certification focuses on advanced AIX features and requires hands-on experience. Earning this credential demonstrates a high level of proficiency in managing AIX environments and can enhance career opportunities in IT administration.
Includes Certification
Yes
Time to Complete
Price
Prerequisites
  • Basic knowledge and experience with IBM AIX operating system.
  • Understanding of AIX system administration and troubleshooting.
  • Experience in managing AIX user accounts, storage, and system security.
  • Familiarity with network configuration and services management in an AIX environment.
  • Ability to install, configure, and upgrade AIX systems.
  • Recommended to have hands-on experience equivalent to at least two years as an AIX system administrator.

    • CompTIA Server+

    Certification Provider
    CompTIA
    Best For
    System Administrator, Server Support Technician, IT Technician with server management experience, Network Administrator, Data Center Technician, IT Specialist with a focus on infrastructure
    Description
    The CompTIA Server+ certification is a globally recognized credential designed to ensure proficiency in server management across various platforms. It validates the skills necessary to maintain, secure, and troubleshoot server hardware and software. With a focus on the latest server technologies, this certification covers areas such as virtualization, data storage, and security. Ideal for IT professionals seeking to solidify their server support skills, it involves passing an exam that tests the ability to implement and manage robust server environments.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    50-100 hours
    Price
    $338
    Prerequisites
  • 18 to 24 months of work experience in IT support or a related field is recommended.
  • Familiarity with server hardware and software technologies.
  • Understanding of basic networking concepts and practices.
  • Knowledge of security best practices for server environments.
  • There are no mandatory prerequisites to take the CompTIA Server+ exam, but prior certifications like CompTIA A+ can be beneficial.
  • Passing the CompTIA Server+ certification exam (SK0-005) is required to earn the credential.

    • Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate

    Certification Provider
    Microsoft
    Best For
    Cloud Administrator, Systems Administrator, Azure Cloud Engineer, IT Operations Manager, Network Administrator, DevOps Engineer
    Description
    The Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate certification validates an individual's expertise in managing cloud services that span storage, security, networking, and compute cloud capabilities. It focuses on the skills needed to implement, monitor, and maintain Microsoft Azure solutions, including major services related to computing, storage, network, and security. Candidates should have a strong grasp of Azure services, Azure workloads, security, and governance. This certification involves passing a rigorous exam that tests a candidate's ability to complete technical tasks related to Azure administration.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    120 hours
    Price
    $165
    Prerequisites
  • Understanding of on-premises virtualization technologies, including VMs, virtual networking, and virtual hard disks.
  • Knowledge of network configuration, including TCP/IP, Domain Name System (DNS), virtual private networks (VPNs), firewalls, and encryption technologies.
  • Familiarity with Active Directory concepts, including domains, forests, domain controllers, replication, Kerberos protocol, and Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP).
  • Knowledge of resilience and disaster recovery, including backup and restore operations.
  • Experience with using the Azure Portal, ARM templates, operating systems, cloud infrastructure, storage structures, and networking.
  • Passing the Exam AZ-104: Microsoft Azure Administrator, which is the required exam for the certification.

    • Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)

    Certification Provider
    Red Hat
    Best For
    System Administrators, Linux Administrators, IT Professionals with Linux experience, Network Engineers seeking Linux expertise, Technical Support Specialists, DevOps Engineers
    Description
    The Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) is a prestigious certification offered by Red Hat that validates the skills and knowledge required to effectively manage and operate Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems. This certification focuses on practical competencies in system administration, including installation and configuration of Red Hat Linux systems, managing users and groups, and handling security. Earning the RHCSA serves as a benchmark for IT professionals seeking to prove their expertise in Linux environments and is often a stepping stone for more advanced Red Hat certifications.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    50-80 hours
    Price
    $400
    Prerequisites
  • Basic understanding of Linux and computing fundamentals
  • Experience with Red Hat Enterprise Linux or equivalent training is recommended
  • No prior certifications are required to take the RHCSA exam
  • Being comfortable using a shell prompt and issuing commands in Linux
  • Familiarity with common Linux text editors, such as vi or nano, for editing configuration files
  • Understanding of file system navigation and management in a Linux environment

    • VMware Certified Professional - Data Center Virtualization (VCP-DCV)

    Certification Provider
    VMware
    Best For
    Systems Administrator, Network Administrator, IT Manager, Virtualization Engineer, Data Center Engineer, Cloud Infrastructure Engineer
    Description
    The VMware Certified Professional - Data Center Virtualization (VCP-DCV) certification validates a professional's ability to install, configure, manage, and optimize VMware vSphere environments, which are crucial for modern data center operations. It demonstrates expertise in deploying and managing virtual infrastructure solutions. The certification process involves rigorous training, hands-on experience, and passing a comprehensive exam, ensuring that certified individuals possess the skills necessary to maintain virtualized data center systems effectively.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    120 hours
    Price
    $250
    Prerequisites
  • Completion of one of the required VMware vSphere training courses.
  • Hands-on experience with VMware vSphere technologies.
  • Understanding of data center virtualization concepts and how to apply them using VMware vSphere.
  • Passing the VMware Certified Professional - Data Center Virtualization (VCP-DCV) exam.
  • If you already hold a VCP certification, you may need to meet additional requirements depending on the specific path and your current certification status.
  • Agreement to the VMware Certification Agreement and the VMware Code of Conduct.

    • Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified SysOps Administrator - Associate

    Certification Provider
    Amazon Web Services (AWS)
    Best For
    System Administrators, DevOps Engineers, Cloud Operations Engineers, IT Managers with AWS experience, Network Administrators with cloud focus, Security Engineers with interest in cloud platforms
    Description
    The AWS Certified SysOps Administrator - Associate certification validates technical expertise in deployment, management, and operations on AWS. Aimed at system administrators and those in a DevOps role, it covers the core principles of the AWS platform, ensuring candidates can provision systems, ensure data integrity, handle backups, and maintain the AWS environment. This certification requires a combination of practical experience, knowledge of AWS services, and the ability to troubleshoot. It's ideal for IT professionals seeking to solidify and showcase their cloud management skills.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    80-120 hours
    Price
    $150
    Prerequisites
  • At least one year of hands-on experience with AWS technology, including deploying, managing, and operating workloads on AWS.
  • Familiarity with AWS CLI, AWS APIs, AWS CloudFormation templates, the AWS Billing Console, and the AWS Management Console.
  • Understanding of network technologies as they relate to AWS, such as DNS, TCP/IP, and firewalls.
  • Knowledge of AWS security concepts, including access control and data encryption methods.
  • Experience with operating systems, virtualization, cloud concepts, storage, and networking.
  • No formal education or certification prerequisites, but prior completion of AWS technical essentials courses or other relevant training is recommended.

    • Oracle Certified Associate, Oracle Linux 5 and 6 System Administrator

    Certification Provider
    Oracle
    Best For
    System Administrators, Linux Administrators, Technical Support Engineers, IT Professionals with Linux experience, Oracle Database Administrators, Network Administrators with Linux focus
    Description
    The Oracle Certified Associate, Oracle Linux 5 and 6 System Administrator certification is designed for IT professionals seeking to validate their expertise in Oracle Linux system administration. This certification focuses on fundamental skills such as installation, configuring, and managing Oracle Linux systems. Candidates will demonstrate proficiency in areas like system maintenance, network configuration, and security, ensuring efficient operation and troubleshooting of Oracle Linux versions 5 and 6. This credential is a stepping stone for advanced Oracle Linux certifications and a valuable asset for system administrators in the Oracle ecosystem.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    Prerequisites
  • Basic understanding of Linux operating systems and familiarity with UNIX/Linux command line.
  • Knowledge of fundamental networking concepts.
  • Experience in administering Linux systems, although there are no strict experience requirements.
  • Completion of recommended Oracle Linux training courses, such as the "Oracle Linux System Administration" course, although training is not mandatory.
  • Passing the Oracle Linux 5 and 6 System Administration exam (1Z0-100).
  • Registration with Oracle University and payment of the exam fee.

    • Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

    Certification Provider
    Cisco
    Best For
    Network Administrator, Network Engineer, Systems Administrator, IT Manager, Technical Support Specialist, Entry-level Network Professional
    Description
    The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is a prestigious certification offered by Cisco that validates a professional's ability to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot medium-size routed and switched networks. It covers a range of topics including network fundamentals, LAN switching technologies, IPv4 and IPv6 routing technologies, WAN technologies, infrastructure services, security, and management. Earning the CCNA certification is a foundational step for a career in IT networking and is recognized globally as a benchmark for associate-level network engineers.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    200-300 hours
    Price
    $300
    Prerequisites
  • No formal prerequisites for the CCNA certification, but having a basic understanding of network fundamentals is highly recommended.
  • It is beneficial to have one or more years of experience implementing and administering Cisco solutions.
  • Knowledge of basic IP addressing and a good understanding of network fundamentals.
  • Completion of the training course "Implementing and Administering Cisco Solutions (CCNA)" is recommended but not mandatory.
  • Passing one exam, currently the 200-301 CCNA, is required to earn the certification.
  • Recertification is required every three years to maintain the validity of the certification.

    • Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

    Certification Provider
    Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA)
    Best For
    IT Auditors, Information Security Analysts, IT Risk and Assurance Consultants, Internal Auditors, IT Compliance Officers, Audit Managers
    Description
    The Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) is a globally recognized certification offered by ISACA that validates an individual's expertise in auditing, controlling, and assuring information systems. The certification focuses on the critical skills needed to manage vulnerabilities and ensure compliance with standards. CISA holders demonstrate their ability to assess an organization's IT and business systems, ensuring that they are securely managed and aligned with the organization's goals. This certification is ideal for IT auditors, audit managers, consultants, and security professionals.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    150-170 hours
    Price
    $575 - $760
    Prerequisites
  • A minimum of five years of professional information systems auditing, control, or security work experience (waivers for up to three years of experience may be available for certain education or additional certifications).
  • Successful completion of the CISA examination.
  • Adherence to the ISACA Code of Professional Ethics.
  • Compliance with the Continuing Professional Education (CPE) Policy, which requires maintaining and expanding skills with 120 CPE hours over a three-year period, with a minimum of 20 hours per year.
  • Agreement to abide by the Information Systems Auditing Standards as set by ISACA.
  • Submission of the CISA Certification Application, including the application processing fee.

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    Benefits of Having a Server Certification

    Professional Validation and Respect: Achieving a Server certification is a clear indication of your dedication and proficiency in the hospitality industry. It showcases to employers, colleagues, and customers that you have undergone rigorous training and assessment, validating your skills in providing exceptional service. This recognition can earn you respect and a competitive edge in the bustling food service sector.

    Comprehensive Skill Enhancement: Server certifications often encompass a wide range of skills, from food safety and handling to customer service excellence and sales techniques. By obtaining a certification, you're not just learning to serve; you're mastering the art of creating memorable dining experiences, managing diverse customer needs, and operating efficiently under pressure.

    Increased Job Mobility and Earning Potential: Certified Servers are in high demand as they bring verified expertise to the table. This can lead to better job prospects, the opportunity to work in more prestigious establishments, and the potential for higher earnings. A certification can be particularly beneficial for those looking to move up to supervisory or management positions within the hospitality industry.

    Access to Exclusive Resources and Networks: Many Server certification programs provide access to exclusive resources, ongoing training, and a community of hospitality professionals. These networks can be instrumental in staying informed about industry trends, finding mentorship opportunities, and discovering new career paths within the food and beverage sector.

    Confidence in Service Excellence: Earning a Server certification can significantly boost your self-assurance in your ability to deliver top-notch service. It equips you with the knowledge and practical experience to handle various scenarios with poise and professionalism. Confident Servers contribute to a positive dining atmosphere, leading to satisfied customers and successful establishments.

    How to Choose the Best Server Certification

    Choosing the right certification as a Server is a strategic step that can significantly enhance your professional profile and open doors to advanced opportunities within the hospitality industry. As a Server, certifications can validate your expertise, demonstrate your commitment to the profession, and provide you with the skills necessary to excel in various dining environments. The key to selecting the best certification lies in understanding your personal career objectives, the specific skills you wish to develop, and the standards of the establishments you aim to work for. Here are five tips to guide you in making a well-informed decision about which certifications to pursue:
    • Evaluate Your Career Ambitions: Reflect on where you see yourself in the hospitality industry. Are you looking to become a sommelier, a restaurant manager, or perhaps a specialist in a particular type of cuisine? Choose certifications that are directly aligned with these goals. For example, if you're interested in fine dining, consider certifications in wine knowledge or gourmet food service.
    • Industry Relevance and Specialization: Research certifications that are in demand within the restaurant and hospitality sector. If there's a growing trend for craft beer or mixology, a certification in these areas could make you more marketable. Specialized certifications can set you apart from other candidates and show potential employers your dedication to the craft.
    • Accreditation and Industry Recognition: Ensure that the certification is accredited by a reputable culinary or hospitality institution. Recognized certifications are more likely to be valued by employers and can enhance your credibility as a professional Server.
    • Practical Skills and Customer Service Excellence: Opt for certifications that offer hands-on training and emphasize customer service excellence. As a Server, your interaction with customers is paramount, and certifications that enhance your service skills can be incredibly beneficial. Look for programs that include role-playing scenarios, conflict resolution techniques, and service efficiency.
    • Consult with Industry Veterans: Speak with experienced Servers, restaurant managers, or mentors in the hospitality industry. They can provide insights into which certifications helped them advance in their careers and which ones are most respected by industry leaders. Their advice can help you weigh the potential return on investment for each certification.

    Preparing for Your Server Certification

    Pursuing a certification as a Server in the hospitality industry is a commendable step towards professional development and career advancement. It's an opportunity to validate your skills, learn new service techniques, and understand the intricacies of customer service and restaurant management. However, the journey to becoming certified is not just about passing an exam; it's about truly absorbing the knowledge and being able to apply it effectively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. Here's how you can prepare for your Server certification to ensure you not only succeed in the exam but also enhance your capabilities in the field.

    Identify Your Certification Goals: Before embarking on your study journey, pinpoint exactly why you're seeking certification. Are you looking to refine your customer service skills, learn about wine pairings, or become proficient in restaurant technology? Understanding your goals will help you select the right certification and focus your efforts on the areas that will benefit your career the most.

    Develop a Comprehensive Study Schedule: Once you've chosen your certification, create a detailed study schedule. Break down the syllabus into topics and subtopics, and set aside regular, dedicated time slots for studying each section. This approach will help you tackle the material methodically and avoid last-minute cramming. Incorporate time for practical exercises, role-playing scenarios, and mock tests to simulate the certification exam.

    Immerse Yourself in the Service Industry: Beyond the books, immerse yourself in the world of hospitality. Follow industry blogs, join forums, and connect with experienced servers and restaurant managers. Attend workshops, webinars, and trade shows to stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in the service industry. Networking with professionals can offer invaluable insights and firsthand advice on how to excel in your certification and career.

    Apply Knowledge Through Hands-On Experience: Theory is vital, but there's no substitute for practical experience. Apply the concepts you're learning by practicing them during your shifts. Whether it's perfecting your table setting technique, experimenting with upselling strategies, or managing difficult customer interactions, real-life application will reinforce your learning and give you the confidence to execute your skills flawlessly during the certification exam and in your daily work.

    Certification FAQs for Servers

    Is getting a Server certification worth it?

    The value of a Server certification can vary depending on the segment of the hospitality industry you're aiming for. For those new to serving, a certification can demonstrate a commitment to the profession, provide essential knowledge on food safety and customer service, and potentially give you an edge in a crowded job market. For seasoned servers, it can be a way to validate your experience, learn about the latest industry trends, and position yourself for advancement into supervisory roles.

    While not always mandatory, obtaining a certification can signal to employers that you take your role seriously and are invested in delivering a high standard of service, which could lead to better job opportunities and increased earning potential.

    Do you need a certification to get a job as a Server?

    In the realm of food service, obtaining a certification is not typically a prerequisite for becoming a Server. However, certain certifications, such as those in food safety or alcohol service, can enhance your qualifications and make you a more appealing candidate to potential employers. These certifications demonstrate your commitment to industry standards and can provide a competitive edge in a crowded job market.

    While hands-on experience and excellent customer service skills are often the most critical factors for success in serving roles, holding relevant certifications can underscore your professionalism and readiness to comply with health and safety regulations, which is highly valued in the hospitality industry.

    Can Server certifications help pivoters make the transition into Customer Service from another career path?

    Yes, Server certifications can be advantageous for those transitioning from a different career into the hospitality industry. These certifications often encompass essential service skills, food safety knowledge, and customer interaction techniques, equipping newcomers with industry-specific expertise. They signal to employers a dedication to mastering the role and understanding of the service environment. Additionally, certifications can provide a competitive edge in the job market, showcasing a proactive approach to professional development and a serious commitment to the new career path.
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