Top Certifications for Support Engineers in 2024 (Ranked)

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Getting Certified as a Support Engineer

In the rapidly evolving tech industry, Support Engineers stand at the forefront of problem-solving and customer satisfaction. Certifications in this field serve as a testament to a professional's technical prowess and dedication to excellence in support services.

This guide aims to illuminate the path for Support Engineers seeking to enhance their credentials, providing a comprehensive overview of the top certifications that can propel their careers forward. By obtaining these certifications, Support Engineers not only validate their skill set but also gain a competitive edge in an industry where expertise and customer service are paramount.

Top Support Engineer Certifications

CompTIA A+

CompTIA

Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals

Microsoft

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Cisco

Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP)

Apple

Google IT Support Professional Certificate

Google

Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified Cloud Practitioner

Amazon Web Services (AWS)

Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals

Microsoft

ITIL 4 Foundation

AXELOS

Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)

Red Hat

Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP)

Apple

Best Support Engineer Certifications

CompTIA A+

Certification Provider

CompTIA

Best For

Entry-Level IT Technician, Help Desk Technician, Desktop Support Analyst, Field Service Technician, Data Support Technician, IT Support Specialist

Description

The CompTIA A+ certification is a globally recognized credential that validates foundational IT skills across a variety of devices and operating systems. It covers essential areas such as troubleshooting, networking, security, and operational procedures. This certification is designed for entry-level IT professionals and provides a solid foundation for a career in IT support. Earning the CompTIA A+ demonstrates a technician's ability to perform critical IT support tasks and is often a first step in a successful IT career.

Includes Certification

Yes

Time to Complete

120 hours

Price

$232 per exam (two exams required)

Prerequisites

No formal education requirements, but a high school diploma or equivalent is generally recommended.

9 to 12 months of hands-on experience in the lab or field is highly recommended.

Understanding of basic computer and networking concepts is beneficial.

Passing two exams: CompTIA A+ 220-1001 (Core 1) and 220-1002 (Core 2).

Each exam consists of a maximum of 90 questions, including multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, and performance-based questions.

There are no prerequisites to take the CompTIA A+ exams, but CompTIA recommends the above-mentioned experience and knowledge.

Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals

Certification Provider

Microsoft

Best For

IT Support Specialist, Cloud Enthusiast, Entry-level Cloud Practitioner, Recent Technology Graduates, Business Analysts with interest in cloud solutions, Sales and Marketing Professionals in tech companies

Description

The Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals certification is an entry-level credential that validates foundational knowledge of cloud services and how they are provided with Microsoft Azure. It covers basic cloud concepts, core Azure services, security, privacy, compliance, and trust, as well as Azure pricing and support. This certification is ideal for individuals looking to demonstrate an understanding of cloud concepts, Azure services, workloads, security, and privacy. It serves as a first step for those seeking to build a career in cloud computing and is beneficial for non-technical candidates interested in cloud services.

Includes Certification

Yes

Time to Complete

20-25 hours

Price

$99

Prerequisites

No formal technical experience is required.

A basic understanding of general technology concepts, including networking, storage, compute, application support, and application development, is recommended.

Familiarity with the concept of cloud computing and its basic components is beneficial.

Understanding of on-premises virtualization technologies, including: VMs, virtual networking, and virtual hard disks is helpful but not mandatory.

General knowledge of IT architecture can be advantageous.

Completion of the Azure Fundamentals learning path on Microsoft Learn is suggested as preparation.

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Certification Provider

Cisco

Best For

Network Administrator, Network Engineer, Systems Administrator, IT Manager, Technical Support Specialist, Network Analyst

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 network fundamentals, LAN switching technologies, IPv4 and IPv6 routing technologies, WAN technologies, infrastructure services, security, and management. Earning a CCNA certification is a foundational step for a career in IT networking and is recognized globally as a standard for 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 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 the 200-301 CCNA exam is required to earn the certification.

Cisco recommends the following courses for additional learning support: 'Introduction to Networks (ITN)' and 'Switching, Routing, and Wireless Essentials (SRWE)' for those new to networking.

Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP)

Certification Provider

Apple

Best For

IT Support Specialists, Technical Support Engineers, Help Desk Technicians, System Administrators with macOS experience, Apple Technology Consultants, Managed Service Providers (MSPs) specializing in Apple products

Description

The Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP) certification validates an individual's expertise in macOS support. It focuses on key troubleshooting techniques, the configuration of key services, and the management of multiple users on an Apple system. Earning the ACSP demonstrates a thorough understanding of macOS core functionality and an ability to customize and repair Apple systems, making it ideal for IT professionals who support Mac users in various environments.

Includes Certification

Yes

Time to Complete

40 hours

Price

Prerequisites

Basic knowledge of macOS and experience with Mac computers

Familiarity with macOS setup, installation, and configuration

Understanding of macOS troubleshooting and repair techniques

Completion of the recommended macOS Support Essentials course or equivalent experience

Registration for the ACSP exam through an Apple Authorized Training Provider

Payment of the applicable exam fee

Google IT Support Professional Certificate

Certification Provider

Google

Best For

Entry-Level IT Support Specialist, Help Desk Technician, IT Support Technician, Computer Support Specialist, Technical Support Representative, Career Changers with Interest in IT

Description

The Google IT Support Professional Certificate is an entry-level certification designed by Google to prepare individuals for IT support roles. This online program, available through Coursera, covers fundamental IT concepts including troubleshooting, customer service, networking, operating systems, system administration, and security. It is ideal for beginners seeking to gain practical knowledge and skills to kick-start a career in IT. The course is hands-on, with a mix of quizzes, interactive assessments, and real-world problem-solving. No prior experience is required, making it accessible to a wide range of learners.

Includes Certification

Yes

Time to Complete

100-200 hours

Price

Prerequisites

No formal education or prior experience in IT is required.

Basic understanding of English, as the course content is delivered in English.

Access to a computer and a stable internet connection to complete online coursework.

Commitment to approximately 5 hours per week over 6 months to complete the program.

Payment for the course, unless the individual qualifies for financial aid offered by Coursera.

Registration on the Coursera platform to access the course materials.

Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified Cloud Practitioner

Certification Provider

Amazon Web Services (AWS)

Best For

Entry-level IT professionals, Technical sales associates, Business analysts, Project managers, IT managers, Professionals seeking a career transition into cloud services

Description

The AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner is an entry-level certification offered by Amazon Web Services for individuals seeking to validate their overall understanding of the AWS Cloud. It covers fundamental AWS concepts, basic infrastructure, key services, security, and compliance, as well as pricing and support. Ideal for those new to cloud computing, this certification serves as a stepping stone for more advanced AWS certifications and provides a solid foundation for various cloud-based roles.

Includes Certification

Yes

Time to Complete

20-30 hours

Price

$100

Prerequisites

No formal prerequisites are required to take the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner exam.

Recommended to have at least six months of exposure to AWS Cloud in any role, including technical, managerial, sales, purchasing, or financial.

Applicants should have a basic understanding of IT services and their uses in the AWS Cloud platform.

It is beneficial to have knowledge of core AWS services and use cases, billing and pricing models, security concepts, and how cloud impacts your business.

Before taking the exam, AWS recommends completing the AWS Cloud Practitioner Essentials course or other relevant training resources.

Registration for the exam requires an AWS Training and Certification account.

Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals

Certification Provider

Microsoft

Best For

Entry-Level IT Professionals, Career Changers into IT, Sales and Marketing Professionals in Cloud Solutions, Recent Graduates in Computer Science or Related Fields, Business Analysts interested in Cloud Technology, Project Managers overseeing Cloud Projects

Description

The Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals certification is designed for individuals seeking to demonstrate foundational knowledge of cloud services and how those services are provided with Microsoft Azure. This certification covers basic cloud concepts, core Azure services, security, privacy, compliance, and trust, as well as Azure pricing and support. Ideal for beginners, it requires no pre-existing technical background and serves as a stepping stone for more advanced Microsoft certifications in cloud-based solutions and services.

Includes Certification

Yes

Time to Complete

20-30 hours

Price

$99

Prerequisites

No formal technical experience or IT background is required.

Understanding of general technology concepts, including networking, storage, compute, application support, and application development is helpful but not mandatory.

Familiarity with the concept of cloud computing and its basic principles is recommended.

Passing the AZ-900: Microsoft Azure Fundamentals exam is required to earn the certification.

Microsoft offers optional training courses and materials that can be beneficial for exam preparation.

Registration for the exam through the official Microsoft website or a certified testing center is necessary.

ITIL 4 Foundation

Certification Provider

AXELOS

Best For

IT Service Managers, IT Support Staff, IT Consultants, IT Project Managers, IT Architects, Quality Analysts

Description

The ITIL 4 Foundation certification, provided by AXELOS, is a globally recognized entry-level qualification that introduces the management of modern IT-enabled services. It covers the ITIL framework's core concepts, terminologies, and practices, focusing on service value system and service value chain. This certification is designed for IT professionals seeking to understand IT service management and improve their skills in aligning IT services with business needs. It involves a comprehensive curriculum that prepares candidates for a foundational understanding of ITIL 4 principles and the ability to contribute to an organization's service management strategy.

Includes Certification

Yes

Time to Complete

20-30 hours

Price

Prerequisites

No formal prerequisites for the ITIL 4 Foundation certification.

A basic understanding of IT concepts and terminology is recommended.

Interest in or some experience with IT service management is beneficial.

Completion of an accredited training course is highly recommended but not mandatory.

Self-study is an option, and official ITIL 4 Foundation publications and study guides can be used.

Passing the ITIL 4 Foundation exam is required to receive 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 with a focus on Linux systems, 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 for system administration across Red Hat Enterprise Linux environments. It focuses on understanding and managing the Red Hat operating system, including installation and configuration of local components and services, as well as the creation and maintenance of network connections. Earning the RHCSA demonstrates a professional's competency in handling real-world system administration tasks, making it a valuable credential for IT professionals seeking to advance their careers.

Includes Certification

Yes

Time to Complete

80 hours

Price

$400

Prerequisites

Basic understanding of Linux or UNIX operating systems

Familiarity with Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) is recommended but not required

No formal prerequisites; however, Red Hat recommends RHCSA candidates to have the Red Hat System Administration I (RH124) and II (RH134) courses or equivalent experience

Being comfortable using a shell prompt and issuing commands in Linux

Understanding of file system navigation and file manipulation from the command line

Experience with managing users and groups, as well as configuring local storage

Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP)

Certification Provider

Apple

Best For

IT Support Specialist, Help Desk Technician, Technical Support Engineer, Systems Administrator, Apple Solutions Consultant, Macintosh Consultant

Description

The Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP) certification validates an individual's expertise in macOS support. It covers the core functionality of macOS, including configuration, troubleshooting, and network management. This certification is ideal for IT professionals who manage and support Mac computers. Earning the ACSP demonstrates a thorough understanding of macOS systems and an ability to assist Mac users with technical issues, making it a valuable credential for advancing a career in IT support.

Includes Certification

Yes

Time to Complete

Price

Prerequisites

Basic knowledge of macOS and experience with Mac computers

Familiarity with macOS setup, installation, and configuration

Understanding of macOS troubleshooting and repair techniques

Ability to manage networks and use macOS network services

Completion of the latest macOS Support Essentials course (recommended but not mandatory)

Passing the ACSP certification exam for the current version of macOS

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

Certification Provider

(ISC)²

Best For

Information Security Manager, Cybersecurity Analyst, Security Architect, IT Director/Manager, Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), Network Security Engineer

Description

The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is a globally recognized credential offered by (ISC)². It validates an individual's expertise in designing, implementing, and managing a best-in-class cybersecurity program. With a focus on eight core domains of information security, the CISSP certification ensures that holders are equipped with advanced knowledge and skills in security and risk management, asset security, security architecture and engineering, communication and network security, identity and access management (IAM), security assessment and testing, security operations, and software development security. It is ideal for experienced security practitioners, managers, and executives interested in proving their knowledge across a wide array of security practices and principles.

Includes Certification

Yes

Time to Complete

100-150 hours

Price

$749

Prerequisites

A minimum of five years cumulative, paid work experience in two or more of the eight domains of the CISSP CBK (Common Body of Knowledge).

A four-year college degree (or equivalent) or an approved credential from the (ISC)² approved list, which can satisfy one year of the required experience.

Candidates without the required experience can take the exam to become an Associate of (ISC)² while working towards the experience needed for full certification.

Endorsement by an existing (ISC)² certified professional in good standing, attesting to the candidate's professional experience and ethical standing.

Agreement to the (ISC)² Code of Ethics.

Passing the CISSP examination with a score of 700 points or greater out of 1000 points.

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Benefits of Having a Support Engineer Certification

Professional Validation and Expertise: A Support Engineer certification is a professional endorsement of your technical abilities and customer service skills. It demonstrates to employers that you have a comprehensive understanding of support systems, technical troubleshooting, and the nuances of customer interaction. This validation can be a significant asset in establishing your reputation as a knowledgeable and reliable professional in the field.

Up-to-Date Technical Proficiency: Technology is constantly evolving, and a certification ensures that you are up-to-speed with the latest tools, technologies, and best practices in technical support. It provides a structured way to learn and master new skills, which can help you resolve issues more efficiently and effectively, thereby enhancing your value to any team.

Career Growth and Mobility: Earning a certification can be a catalyst for career advancement, whether you're looking to move up within your current organization or seeking new opportunities elsewhere. It can distinguish you from other candidates when applying for jobs, and it may also position you for higher-level roles and responsibilities, leading to increased job satisfaction and earning potential.

Expanded Professional Network: Certification programs often come with the added benefit of connecting you with a community of like-minded professionals. This network can be a rich resource for collaboration, mentorship, and job opportunities. Engaging with this community can also provide exposure to a variety of support scenarios and solutions, broadening your professional horizon.

Confidence in Problem-Solving: The process of obtaining a Support Engineer certification can significantly boost your confidence in your technical and customer support abilities. It equips you with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, ensuring that you are well-prepared to tackle complex support issues and provide exceptional service to users, which is at the heart of any support engineer's role.

How to Choose the Best Support Engineer Certification

Choosing the right certification as a Support Engineer is a strategic move that can significantly enhance your technical expertise, credibility, and marketability in the IT support field. With a plethora of certifications available, it's essential to select one that not only aligns with your current skills and experience but also positions you for future growth and success in your career. This section provides targeted advice to help you navigate the certification landscape and select a program that will bolster your career as a Support Engineer.

Evaluate Technical Alignment: Scrutinize the certification's curriculum to ensure it matches your technical interests and the demands of your current or desired support role. If you specialize in a particular technology or platform, seek out certifications that deepen your expertise in that area. For example, if you work with cloud services, consider certifications from providers like AWS, Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud.
Industry Demand and Specialization: Research the market demand for various certifications. Certifications in high demand can open more doors and often lead to better job prospects. Additionally, consider whether you want to generalize or specialize. General certifications can provide a broad knowledge base, while specialized ones can make you an expert in a niche area, which might be more valuable in certain industries or companies.
Accreditation and Industry Recognition: Verify the accreditation and industry recognition of the certification body. Renowned and respected certifications are more likely to be acknowledged by employers and can enhance your professional reputation. Certifications from organizations like CompTIA, Cisco, or Microsoft are widely recognized and can add significant credibility to your resume.
Professional Development and Advancement: Consider certifications that offer continuous learning opportunities and have clear paths for advancement. This can include certifications with multiple levels of expertise or those that require ongoing education to maintain. This demonstrates to employers your commitment to staying current and growing in your field.
Access to Resources and Community: Look for certifications that provide access to additional resources, such as membership in professional communities, forums, or ongoing educational materials. Being part of a professional network can offer support, insider knowledge, and opportunities for career advancement that go beyond the certification itself.

Preparing for Your Support Engineer Certification

Preparing for a Support Engineer certification is a strategic endeavor that can significantly enhance your technical expertise and service capabilities. As a Support Engineer, obtaining a certification not only validates your skills but also demonstrates your commitment to professional growth and excellence in customer support. To maximize the benefits of certification and ensure a successful outcome, a thoughtful and well-organized approach to preparation is essential. The following guidelines are designed to help you navigate the preparation process effectively, enabling you to not only pass the certification exam but also to integrate the knowledge into your daily work for improved performance and career advancement.

Define Your Certification Goals: Before embarking on your certification journey, it's crucial to identify what you aim to accomplish. Are you seeking to solidify your foundational support skills, or are you looking to specialize in a particular technology or vendor-specific platform? Understanding your career objectives will help you select the right certification and tailor your preparation to focus on the areas that will most benefit your professional development.

Develop a Comprehensive Study Strategy: Once you've chosen your certification, create a detailed study plan that encompasses all the topics outlined in the certification syllabus. Allocate dedicated study times in your schedule and break down the content into smaller, digestible segments. This structured approach will help you tackle the material methodically and avoid last-minute cramming. Incorporate regular intervals for revision and make use of practice exams to gauge your understanding and readiness for the actual test.

Utilize a Variety of Learning Resources: Don't limit yourself to just the official certification materials. Expand your preparation by utilizing a mix of resources such as online tutorials, forums, books, and hands-on labs. Diversifying your study resources can provide a more rounded understanding of the subject matter and can introduce you to different teaching styles and perspectives that may resonate with you more effectively.

Join a Support Engineer Community: Engaging with a community of peers who are also pursuing certifications can be incredibly beneficial. Join study groups, participate in relevant online communities, and attend meetups or conferences. These interactions can offer moral support, clarify complex topics, and provide insights into the certification experience, including what to expect on exam day.

Apply Knowledge Practically: Theory is important, but the real value of a certification lies in its practical application. Whenever possible, apply the principles and techniques you're learning to real-life situations in your job. Whether through troubleshooting exercises, simulations, or volunteering for projects that require the skills you're studying, hands-on experience will reinforce your learning and make the knowledge stick.

Stay Updated and Refresh Your Skills: Technology and best practices in support engineering evolve rapidly. Make sure to stay current with industry trends and updates even as you prepare for your certification. After achieving your certification, continue to refresh your knowledge and skills to maintain the relevance and value of your credential

Certification FAQs for Support Engineers

Is getting a Support Engineer certification worth it?

The worth of a Support Engineer certification hinges on your career objectives and the technical complexity of your target industry. For novices, it can solidify technical prowess, familiarize you with support tools and processes, and signal dedication to prospective employers. For seasoned engineers, certifications can refresh or deepen niche expertise, keeping pace with evolving technologies.

Certifications often serve as a testament to your skills and commitment to the field, potentially setting you apart in a job market that values both formal knowledge and hands-on experience. They can also be a gateway to higher responsibilities and positions within the technical support hierarchy.

Do you need a certification to get a job as a Support Engineer?

Certifications are not strictly necessary to become a Support Engineer, but they can be a significant asset. They demonstrate a commitment to the profession and a mastery of specific technical skills that are highly valued in support roles. For those new to the field or looking to specialize in certain technologies, certifications can help bridge the gap between formal education and practical, hands-on experience.

Employers often look for a blend of problem-solving abilities, customer service skills, and technical knowledge. While certifications can bolster your technical expertise, they should ideally complement your interpersonal skills and any relevant experience you have in troubleshooting and support.

Can Support Engineer certifications help pivoters make the transition into Information Technology from another career path?

Yes, Support Engineer certifications can be a significant asset for those shifting from another career. These certifications typically cover essential technical skills, troubleshooting methodologies, and customer service best practices, which are crucial for the role. They can fill in any skill gaps and showcase to employers your dedication to mastering the core competencies of support engineering. Additionally, the process of certification often includes practical, hands-on experience that can be directly applied to job scenarios, making you a more attractive candidate for support positions.

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Read About Support Engineer Tools & Software

Support Engineer Certifications

Getting Started as a Support Engineer

Getting Certified as a Support Engineer

Top Support Engineer Certifications

Best Support Engineer Certifications

CompTIA A+

Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP)

Google IT Support Professional Certificate

Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified Cloud Practitioner

Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals

ITIL 4 Foundation

Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)

Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP)

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

Track Certifications for Free with Teal

Benefits of Having a Support Engineer Certification

How to Choose the Best Support Engineer Certification

Preparing for Your Support Engineer Certification

Certification FAQs for Support Engineers

Is getting a Support Engineer certification worth it?

Do you need a certification to get a job as a Support Engineer?

Can Support Engineer certifications help pivoters make the transition into Information Technology from another career path?

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