The Most Popular IT Certification, Ranked
Voting rules: Choose the certification you think is the most popular!
Updated on Apr 17, 2024 07:14
In the fast-paced world of information technology, staying current with industry standards and skills is crucial. IT certifications can pave the way for professional growth, enhancing job prospects and credibility. However, with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to determine which certifications are the most beneficial and recognized in the field.
This dynamic ranking aims to clarify which IT certifications are valued most by professionals and industry experts. By participating and voting for the certifications you believe are the most impactful, you contribute to a community-curated resource that guides peers on their educational and career paths. Each vote helps ensure that the rankings genuinely reflect current trends and professional opinions in the world of IT.
What Is the Most Popular IT Certification?
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175votesThis certification is considered the industry standard for computer support technicians. It covers basic knowledge of hardware, software, and troubleshooting.The CompTIA A+ Certification is a widely recognized computer literacy certification designed to validate the foundational skills required for entry-level IT professionals. It covers a wide range of topics related to hardware, software, networking, and troubleshooting.
- Exam code: 220-1001, 220-1002
- Number of questions: 90 questions per exam
- Question format: Multiple-choice and performance-based
- Passing score: 220-1001: 675 out of 900, 220-1002: 700 out of 900
- Exam duration: 220-1001: 90 minutes, 220-1002: 90 minutes
CompTIA A+ Certification in other rankings- Position 2 of 10 in Most popular computer literacy certification
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222votes
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
Cisco SystemsThis certification is designed for network engineers and administrators who work with Cisco technologies. CCNA holders can install, configure, and troubleshoot Cisco networking equipment.The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is a widely recognized IT certification that validates the skills and knowledge required to install, operate, and troubleshoot small to medium-sized enterprise networks. It is an entry-level certification offered by Cisco Systems, a multinational technology conglomerate specializing in networking hardware, telecommunications equipment, and related services.- Certification Name: Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
- Certification Level: Entry-level
- Exam Code: 200-301
- Number of Exams: 1
- Exam Format: Multiple choice
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317votesThis certification focuses on the skills needed to design, implement, and manage Windows-based networks. It covers topics like networking, security, and server administration.Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) is a popular IT certification offered by Microsoft. It demonstrates expertise in designing, implementing, and maintaining various Microsoft technologies and solutions for enterprises. MCSE certifications were first introduced in 1997 and have been updated periodically to align with Microsoft's evolving technologies.
- Certification Level: Expert
- Required Exams: Varies depending on the specific MCSE specialization
- Specializations: MCSE certifications are available for various Microsoft products and technologies such as Windows Server, Azure, SharePoint, Office 365, SQL Server, etc.
- Validation Period: Valid for three years, after which recertification is required
- Prerequisites: Typically requires prior experience and foundational knowledge in the respective technology area
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413votesThis certification is aimed at security professionals who want to demonstrate their knowledge of security policies, procedures, and best practices. It covers topics like risk management, access control, and cryptography.The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is a globally recognized certification for information security professionals. It validates an individual's expertise in designing, implementing, and managing a secure business environment.
- Credentialing Body: International Information System Security Certification Consortium, Inc. (ISC)²
- Certification Level: Professional
- Focus: Information Systems Security
- Target Audience: Information security professionals
- Experience Requirement: Minimum of 5 years of cumulative, paid work experience in two or more of the eight domains of the CISSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK)
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) in other rankings- Position 2 of 10 in Most difficult certification exam
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517votesThis certification is for project managers who want to demonstrate their knowledge of project management principles and techniques. It covers topics like project initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, and control.The Project Management Professional (PMP) is a globally recognized certification exam that validates the knowledge and skills of professionals in project management. It is widely pursued by individuals seeking a career in project management or those already working in the field who want to enhance their skills and receive recognition for their expertise.
- Difficulty Level: Considered one of the most difficult certification exams
- Eligibility: Minimum 35 hours of project management education, 7,500 hours leading and directing projects (with a bachelor's degree), or 4,500 hours with a secondary degree
- Exam Format: Multiple-choice questions, situational analysis questions, and drag-and-drop questions
- Number of Questions: 200 questions
- Duration: 4 hours
Project Management Professional (PMP) in other rankings- Position 3 of 10 in Most difficult certification exam
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612votesThis certification is designed for security professionals who want to demonstrate their knowledge of how to identify and exploit vulnerabilities in computer systems. It covers topics like network scanning, system hacking, and social engineering.The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) is a professional certification exam that validates the skills and knowledge required to identify vulnerabilities and weaknesses in computer systems and networks in order to protect them from malicious cyber attacks.
- Exam Duration: 4 hours
- Number of Questions: 125
- Passing Score: 70%
- Exam Format: Multiple Choice
- Focus Areas: Network security, System security, Web security, Mobile security, Wireless security, Ethical hacking techniques
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) in other rankings- Position 6 of 10 in Most difficult certification exam
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75votesThis certification is for IT professionals who want to demonstrate their knowledge of virtualization technologies like VMware. It covers topics like installation, configuration, and management of virtual machines.The VMware Certified Professional (VCP) is a certification exam that validates an individual's expertise in VMware technologies and solutions. It is considered one of the most difficult certification exams in the field of virtualization and cloud computing.
- Certification level: Entry-level
- Exam format: Multiple choice
- Passing score: 300 out of 500
- Exam duration: 120 minutes
- Prerequisites: Completion of a required training course
VMware Certified Professional (VCP) in other rankings- Position 7 of 10 in Most difficult certification exam
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811votesThis certification is for professionals who want to demonstrate their knowledge of Agile and Scrum methodologies. It covers topics like project planning, sprint reviews, and retrospectives.The Certified Scrum Master (CSM) is one of the most popular Agile certifications that focuses on the Scrum framework for agile project management. It is designed to validate the knowledge and understanding of individuals in implementing Scrum practices and principles in their teams and organizations.
- Certification Level: Foundation
- Prerequisites: None
- Exam Format: Multiple Choice
- Exam Duration: 60 minutes
- Passing Score: 74%
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910votes
Amazon Web Services Certified Solutions Architect (AWS-CSA)
Amazon Web Services (AWS)This certification is for IT professionals who want to demonstrate their knowledge of designing and deploying applications on Amazon Web Services (AWS) cloud infrastructure. It covers topics like AWS architecture, security, and deployment.The Amazon Web Services Certified Solutions Architect (AWS-CSA) is a widely recognized IT certification that validates the knowledge and skills required to design and deploy scalable, reliable, and cost-effective applications on the Amazon Web Services (AWS) platform.- Certification Level: Associate
- Focus Area: Solutions Architecture
- Prerequisites: None, but some AWS experience recommended
- Exam Duration: 130 minutes
- Number of Questions: 65
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1011votesThis certification is for IT professionals who want to demonstrate their knowledge of designing and managing secure, scalable, and highly available cloud infrastructure on Google Cloud Platform. It covers topics like cloud architecture, security, and networking.The Google Certified Professional Cloud Architect certification is a highly recognized certification that validates an individual's knowledge and skills in designing, developing, and managing scalable and secure cloud architecture solutions using Google Cloud Platform (GCP). This certification demonstrates the ability to design and plan cloud solutions, manage and provision GCP resources, and orchestrate cloud deployments.
- Exam Code: Professional Cloud Architect
- Exam Duration: 2 hours
- Number of Questions: 50
- Passing Score: 70%
- Exam Format: Multiple Choice and Scenario-based
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Ranking factors for popular certification
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Industry DemandConsider the current job market and whether there is a high demand for professionals with a specific certification. A certification with a higher demand generally indicates its relevance and popularity in the IT industry.
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Salary PotentialExamine the average salary of professionals holding a particular IT certification. A certification that leads to higher salaries typically suggests its market value and popularity among employers.
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Knowledge and Skill DevelopmentEvaluate the depth and breadth of knowledge a certification provides. High-quality certifications offer comprehensive training and equips candidates with relevant skills required in their field.
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Vendor RecognitionAssess if the certification is associated with a well-known and respected vendor or organization in the IT industry. Certifications from reputable vendors are likely to be popular and highly valued.
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Certification ExamsAnalyze the difficulty and format of the certification exam(s). A more challenging exam may indicate a more in-depth understanding of the subject matter, leading to higher demand and popularity among professionals.
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Renewal and Update RequirementsAssess the frequency of updates for a specific certification and its renewal requirements. A certification that stays up-to-date with the latest industry trends and requires regular re-certification is more likely to remain popular and relevant.
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Job Roles and Career Advancement OpportunitiesConsider the various job roles and career paths associated with a particular certification. A popular certification typically corresponds to multiple job roles and provides opportunities for career advancement.
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Network and Community SupportInvestigate the size and activity level of the professional community associated with the certification. A larger, more active community can provide networking opportunities and indicates a popular certification.
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Training and Learning ResourcesResearch the availability of learning resources, such as online courses, books, and practice exams. The more resources available for a specific certification, the more popular it is likely to be among IT professionals.
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Entry Requirements and PrerequisitesConsider the prerequisites and entry requirements for the certification. A certification with fewer or lower entry barriers may be more popular among professionals. However, this should be balanced with the certification's overall market value and demand.
About this ranking
This is a community-based ranking of the most popular IT certification. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Certificate is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!
Statistics
- 2093 views
- 194 votes
- 10 ranked items
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Voting Rules
A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Certificate once every 24 hours. The rank of each Certificate is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.
More information on most popular it certification
In today's highly competitive job market, having an IT certification can give you a significant advantage. IT certifications validate your skills and expertise in a specific technology or field, and can help you stand out from other candidates during job interviews. With the increasing demand for IT professionals, there are a wide variety of certifications available to choose from. However, some certifications are more popular than others. So, what is the most popular IT certification? Let's explore some of the top certifications and their benefits.
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