Working in an IT help desk role is a fantastic entry point into the world of technology. The help desk is where many IT professionals begin their journey because it provides hands-on experience in a fast-paced, customer-centric environment. In this role, you are often the first line of defense when technical issues arise, and it allows you to work with a variety of technologies, from hardware to software, networks, and cloud systems.
However, despite the invaluable experience it provides, many IT professionals find themselves wanting to move beyond the help desk after a few years. The job can be repetitive and, at times, frustrating. Furthermore, while you gain broad exposure to various technologies, you may not specialize in any one area, which could limit career growth. This is where certifications become crucial.
Certifications provide a way to build upon your help desk experience and transition into specialized areas of IT, such as networking, cloud computing, or cybersecurity. With the right certifications, you can demonstrate to employers that you have the advanced technical skills and expertise needed to excel in these specialized roles.
Why Certifications Matter in IT
The IT industry is known for its constantly changing technology landscape. Companies are continually looking for professionals who can help them navigate these changes and stay competitive. While on-the-job experience is valuable, certifications provide a standardized measure of a candidate’s skills. They show that you are capable of handling specific technologies, tools, or systems.
When you decide to pursue certifications, you’re signaling to employers that you’re proactive, committed to your career, and eager to stay up-to-date with current trends. Employers value certifications because they help ensure that you have the practical knowledge needed to perform job tasks effectively. In addition, certifications help you stand out in a competitive job market, especially if you are looking to move up from an entry-level help desk role to a more senior position.
IT certifications also allow you to be more selective about the type of job you pursue. For example, a Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification could qualify you for a network engineer role, whereas a VMware certification may open the door to cloud virtualization positions. Each certification serves as a ticket to specific roles, and the more certifications you have, the broader your career opportunities will be.
When Should You Transition from the Help Desk?
Before diving into certifications, it’s essential to know when it’s the right time to transition away from the help desk. Many IT professionals enjoy their help desk roles and may not feel the need to move on. However, if you’ve been working at the help desk for several years and find yourself feeling stagnant or uninterested, it may be time to explore new opportunities.
Here are some signs that you may be ready for a change:
- Repetitive Tasks: If you find yourself solving the same types of problems day in and day out, you may want to consider a more challenging role.
- Limited Career Growth: If you’ve reached a plateau in terms of promotions or salary increases, additional certifications may help you gain the qualifications you need to move up.
- Lack of Specialized Knowledge: While general troubleshooting skills are essential, if you desire to become a subject matter expert in a particular area, certifications can help you achieve that goal.
- Desire for New Challenges: If you’re eager to tackle more complex technical problems and work with cutting-edge technologies, a specialized IT role may be the right fit.
If you’re seeing these signs, it’s time to start thinking about what you want to do next in your IT career. Certifications can act as a roadmap, guiding you toward the path that aligns with your interests and long-term career goals.
Exploring Essential Certifications to Propel Your IT Career
1. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
One of the most popular certifications for those moving beyond the help desk is the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA). Cisco’s reputation as a leader in networking technology makes this certification highly valuable. The CCNA certification focuses on the fundamentals of networking, such as IP addressing, routing, switching, and network security.
If you’ve spent any time troubleshooting network issues at the help desk, you’ll be familiar with the challenges that come with maintaining and troubleshooting a network. Having a CCNA certification under your belt allows you to officially step into networking roles, such as network administrator or network engineer, where you will be responsible for ensuring that an organization’s network infrastructure is running smoothly.
The CCNA certification is often seen as a foundational certification for those pursuing a career in networking. It covers both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, such as configuring routers and switches, setting up networks, and resolving connectivity issues. You will also gain expertise in network security, ensuring that you can protect an organization’s network from cyber threats and vulnerabilities.
Once you’ve earned your CCNA, you’ll be well-equipped to handle the most common networking issues that arise in the workplace. From there, you can pursue more advanced Cisco certifications, such as the Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) and the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE). Each of these certifications offers higher-level skills and greater earning potential, with CCIE professionals earning six-figure salaries.
For those looking to further specialize in networking, the CCNA provides a stepping stone to various career paths. You could move into roles such as network architect, field network engineer, or systems administrator. With the demand for skilled networking professionals on the rise, pursuing a CCNA can open doors to some of the most rewarding positions in IT.
2. VMware Certified Professional (VCP)
Another valuable certification for those looking to move beyond the help desk is the VMware Certified Professional (VCP) certification. VMware is the leading provider of virtualization technology, which enables IT professionals to create virtual versions of servers, storage devices, and networks. Virtualization plays a crucial role in cloud computing, making this certification particularly valuable in today’s IT job market.
The VCP certification focuses on VMware’s vSphere platform, which is widely used in enterprise IT environments. The certification covers essential topics such as setting up and configuring virtualized environments, managing virtual machines, and optimizing virtualized resources. As more organizations move toward cloud-based infrastructures, the demand for virtualization experts continues to rise.
For help desk professionals, the VCP certification offers an opportunity to specialize in a high-demand area of IT. Virtualization is used in everything from data centers to desktop environments, and VCP-certified professionals are in high demand to manage these systems. Virtualization technologies allow organizations to optimize their IT resources, reduce hardware costs, and increase operational efficiency.
The VCP certification opens the door to a variety of career opportunities, including roles such as systems administrator, cloud engineer, and virtualization consultant. With cloud adoption on the rise, virtualization skills are increasingly sought after, and VCP professionals can expect competitive salaries and career advancement opportunities.
The Role of Additional Certifications in Expanding Your IT Career
3. CompTIA Network+
One of the most recognized and respected certifications in the IT industry is CompTIA’s Network+. CompTIA has been a leading provider of vendor-neutral certifications for years, and its Network+ certification is often regarded as the foundation of networking knowledge. Unlike other certifications that may be product-specific (such as Cisco), the CompTIA Network+ focuses on general networking principles, making it ideal for those looking to establish a well-rounded understanding of how networks function.
CompTIA’s Network+ certification covers a broad array of topics, including network troubleshooting, network hardware, IP addressing, routing, and network security. For help desk professionals looking to take the next step, Network+ offers an opportunity to develop deep networking knowledge that can translate directly to more advanced technical roles.
This certification is perfect for individuals who want to move into networking roles but don’t necessarily want to tie themselves to a specific technology or vendor. It also allows for greater flexibility and mobility within the industry. For example, with a Network+ certification, you can qualify for jobs such as network engineer, systems administrator, and IT support specialist, where networking expertise is a key component of the role.
What makes Network+ especially valuable for those leaving the help desk is that it provides knowledge applicable to both small-scale and enterprise environments. You will gain a deep understanding of how to install, manage, and troubleshoot network infrastructures, which is a skill set that is essential for any company with more than a handful of computers. Network+ is also recognized globally, meaning that regardless of location, this certification can help you land networking roles almost anywhere.
When you add Network+ to your resume alongside your help desk experience, it signals that you are ready to take on more complex networking responsibilities, including managing routers, switches, and network security devices. For example, the skills you’ve gained on the help desk, such as troubleshooting network connectivity or working with end-user devices, will complement the more advanced concepts you’ll learn with Network+.
In terms of salary, Network+ certified professionals earn a competitive wage. According to PayScale, the average salary for someone with a Network+ certification is around $63,000 per year. However, this number can vary based on the job role, level of experience, and geographic location. Network+ also serves as a stepping stone to higher-level certifications, including Cisco’s CCNA or CompTIA’s Security+ certification.
4. AWS Cloud Practitioner
Cloud computing is one of the fastest-growing fields in IT, with companies migrating their infrastructure and services to the cloud in droves. As organizations continue to leverage cloud-based solutions, the demand for cloud-certified professionals is only expected to rise. If you’re looking to transition from the help desk into the cloud industry, the AWS Cloud Practitioner certification is an excellent starting point.
Amazon Web Services (AWS) is one of the dominant cloud providers, and the Cloud Practitioner certification serves as an entry-level credential for those who want to gain an understanding of AWS. This certification covers the core components of the AWS cloud, including cloud security, compliance, and the services offered by AWS. It provides a solid foundation for individuals who want to understand the fundamental concepts of cloud computing.
For help desk professionals who have been exposed to cloud technology in their daily duties whether by assisting users with cloud-based applications or troubleshooting cloud environments AWS Cloud Practitioner is the perfect certification to formalize your skills and transition into cloud-specific roles. It demonstrates to employers that you not only understand how the cloud works but also have the skills to manage cloud environments.
The benefits of earning an AWS Cloud Practitioner certification extend beyond simply getting your foot in the door. Cloud computing is the future of IT infrastructure, and organizations are looking for cloud-certified professionals who can help them migrate to and manage their cloud services. Having the Cloud Practitioner certification will position you for job titles such as cloud solutions architect, cloud support associate, and cloud engineer.
The AWS Cloud Practitioner certification is relatively affordable at $100 for the exam, making it accessible to a wide range of individuals looking to enter the cloud space. AWS also offers a free tier, so you can get hands-on experience with AWS services without spending money on cloud resources. If you are new to cloud technologies, this is a great way to get your feet wet before committing to more specialized certifications like the AWS Certified Solutions Architect or the AWS Certified SysOps Administrator.
Furthermore, the salary potential for cloud-certified professionals is substantial. According to PayScale, AWS-certified professionals can earn anywhere between $90,000 and $150,000 per year, depending on their level of expertise and the roles they hold. As cloud computing continues to expand, these figures are expected to increase, making AWS certifications a smart investment for long-term career growth.
5. Microsoft MTA Certifications
Microsoft offers a range of certifications designed for those who want to work with their technologies and platforms. The Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) certification is an entry-level credential that covers foundational knowledge in areas like networking, databases, security, and software development. While it may not be as specialized as other certifications, it serves as an excellent starting point for those looking to break into IT or switch from a help desk role to a more specific IT function.
The MTA certification offers several paths, including certifications in networking, databases, and cloud technologies. For instance, if you are interested in database management, the MTA exam 98-364 focuses on fundamental database concepts, while exam 98-366 provides knowledge of networking fundamentals. If you want to move into the cloud, the MTA 98-369 exam focuses on cloud technologies.
For help desk professionals, the MTA certification is a way to enhance the skills gained in their daily duties and take them to the next level. While the help desk provides exposure to a wide range of technologies, the MTA offers an opportunity to specialize in specific areas, whether it’s databases, cloud computing, or networking. Earning the MTA certification can help you break into these specialized fields by giving you the foundational knowledge necessary to pursue more advanced certifications down the line.
One of the advantages of the MTA certification is that it serves as a stepping stone for more advanced Microsoft certifications, such as the Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) and Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE). These certifications are highly regarded in the industry and can lead to roles like systems administrator, network engineer, and cloud solutions architect.
The MTA certification is relatively low-cost compared to other certifications, making it an affordable option for those looking to build a solid foundation in IT. The MTA is also vendor-neutral, meaning it provides a broad understanding of IT concepts, which makes it easier to transition into other areas of technology.
For help desk professionals, the MTA certification can enhance your resume and make you stand out to employers who are looking for individuals with more specialized skills. It can also help you move into higher-level roles such as systems administrator, IT support specialist, or cloud administrator.
Advance IT Career
As you move beyond the help desk and pursue a more advanced IT career, certifications play a pivotal role in enhancing your skill set and providing you with the specialized knowledge required to excel in specific roles. Whether you choose to specialize in networking, virtualization, cloud computing, or any other area of IT, the right certifications can help you stand out to employers and position you for higher-paying, more rewarding roles.
Remember, certifications are not just about passing exams, they are about demonstrating your knowledge, proving your expertise, and showing employers that you are dedicated to continuous learning. Each certification serves as a building block, helping you grow from an entry-level help desk professional to an expert in your chosen field.
By earning certifications such as Cisco’s CCNA, VMware’s VCP, CompTIA’s Network+, AWS’s Cloud Practitioner, or Microsoft’s MTA, you can unlock a wide range of career opportunities and increase your earning potential. Take the time to research which certifications align with your interests and long-term goals, and start preparing for the next step in your IT career. The journey from help desk to IT professional can be both exciting and rewarding, and certifications are your ticket to success.
Making the Transition from Help Desk to IT Professional
Bridging the Gap: How Certifications Help Move You Forward
Making the leap from help desk to a more specialized IT role can be a challenging but rewarding experience. The help desk, while playing an essential role, is often viewed as a starting point for those looking to break into IT. While working on the help desk, you gain valuable technical experience by troubleshooting hardware and software issues, assisting end-users, and managing day-to-day IT support requests. However, the role may become limiting if you’re seeking growth and want to delve deeper into specialized areas of IT. This is where certifications come into play.
Certifications are a powerful tool to help bridge the gap between your current experience and the role you aspire to. They provide proof that you have gained advanced knowledge and skills in specific areas of IT, whether that’s in networking, security, cloud computing, or another specialty. They not only improve your technical capabilities but also demonstrate your commitment to professional development to potential employers.
One of the most important things to understand is that certifications don’t just improve your resume, they give you the confidence and competence needed to excel in more technical and specialized roles. Certifications signal to hiring managers that you are more than just a help desk technician who handles day-to-day technical issues. They show that you’ve invested time and effort into mastering more advanced topics, positioning you as a capable and qualified IT professional.
As someone already familiar with solving IT problems, a certification will take your existing knowledge to the next level, whether it’s in networking, security, cloud computing, or another field. You’ll be able to apply your troubleshooting experience to more complex environments, participate in more strategic decision-making processes, and ultimately take on more responsibility. It’s an investment in your future career, one that pays dividends in the form of career advancement and salary growth.
Certifications to Consider for Career Advancement
Let’s explore some of the top certifications that can help you transition from a help desk role to a more advanced IT career. These certifications are widely recognized by employers and can make a significant impact on your job prospects.
1. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
The CCNA certification is one of the most valuable certifications in the IT industry. It is especially beneficial for individuals who want to move into networking, an area where there is a constant demand for skilled professionals. As a help desk technician, you’ve likely encountered network-related issues regularly. Whether it’s troubleshooting connectivity issues or explaining network configurations to end-users, your experience on the help desk has already provided you with a foundation in networking concepts.
With a CCNA certification, you can deepen your knowledge of networking and gain the expertise needed to handle more complex networking issues. The CCNA covers topics such as IP addressing, routing and switching, network security, and wireless networking. It provides a strong foundation for network engineers, network administrators, and systems engineers.
The CCNA is particularly valuable because it opens the door to a wide range of networking roles across industries. For example, with a CCNA, you can qualify for positions such as network administrator, network analyst, systems administrator, and even network engineer, all of which typically offer higher salaries and more responsibilities than help desk roles.
Additionally, CCNA certification is an excellent stepping stone for more advanced Cisco certifications like the Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) and Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE), which are among the highest-level certifications available in the networking field. Cisco certifications also have a strong return on investment, with CCNA-certified professionals earning an average salary of $76,000 per year, according to PayScale.
2. VMware Certified Professional (VCP)
If you’re looking to specialize in virtualization, the VMware Certified Professional (VCP) certification is a great option. Virtualization is a crucial part of modern IT infrastructures, allowing businesses to reduce costs and improve efficiency by running multiple virtual servers on a single physical machine.
As a help desk technician, you may have come across virtual machines or worked with IT teams that manage virtualized environments. The VCP certification takes this knowledge further and dives into VMware’s suite of virtualization technologies. It covers topics such as installing and configuring VMware vSphere, managing virtual machines, and troubleshooting virtualization issues.
Virtualization is a rapidly growing field, with many companies moving to virtualized environments to support their IT infrastructures. The VCP certification can help you qualify for roles such as systems administrator, network engineer, and virtualization administrator. The average salary for a VCP-certified professional is approximately $80,000 per year, according to PayScale.
Additionally, VMware offers a range of other certifications, such as the VMware Certified Advanced Professional (VCAP) and VMware Certified Design Expert (VCDX), for those who want to continue advancing their skills in virtualization. Given the demand for virtualization expertise, the VCP can be a powerful way to differentiate yourself in a competitive job market.
3. CompTIA Security+
For those interested in cybersecurity, CompTIA’s Security+ certification is an excellent place to start. As cyber threats continue to evolve, organizations are increasingly seeking skilled professionals who can protect their networks and systems from malicious attacks. The Security+ certification is recognized as one of the top cybersecurity certifications, and it covers essential topics such as network security, cryptography, identity and access management, and risk management.
As a help desk technician, you’ve likely encountered security-related issues such as malware infections, phishing attempts, or unauthorized access requests. The Security+ certification will help you build on this knowledge and understand how to secure systems and networks more effectively. It will also give you the skills needed to handle security breaches, conduct risk assessments, and implement security measures in your organization.
Cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing fields in IT, with a significant shortage of qualified professionals. By earning the Security+ certification, you can position yourself for roles such as security analyst, security consultant, and network security engineer. According to PayScale, the average salary for a Security+ certified professional is $72,000 per year, with the potential to earn significantly more as you gain more experience and advance in your career.
4. AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate
If you’re interested in cloud computing, AWS is one of the leading cloud platforms, and the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate certification is an excellent way to demonstrate your expertise in this area. Cloud computing is transforming the way businesses operate, and AWS plays a pivotal role in powering cloud services for companies across the globe.
As a help desk technician, you may have already interacted with cloud-based applications or supported cloud services. The AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate certification builds on this experience by teaching you how to design and deploy scalable, highly available, and cost-effective cloud solutions using AWS services. It covers topics such as cloud security, architecture best practices, and cost optimization.
The demand for cloud professionals is soaring, and earning the AWS certification can open up a wide range of career opportunities in cloud engineering, cloud architecture, and cloud support. According to PayScale, AWS-certified professionals earn an average salary of $107,000 per year, making it a highly lucrative field to enter.
Transitioning from Help Desk to IT Professional: Key Strategies
While certifications are an essential part of advancing your IT career, they are not the only factor that will help you succeed. It’s important to build a holistic strategy for making the transition from help desk to a more specialized IT role. Here are some additional strategies to help you succeed in this journey:
1. Build Your Networking Skills
In addition to technical certifications, networking skills are crucial for career advancement. Building relationships with other IT professionals, both inside and outside of your organization, can open doors to new opportunities. Attend local meetups, conferences, and industry events to meet people in your desired field. Engaging with online communities, such as LinkedIn groups or tech forums, can also help you stay updated on industry trends and make valuable connections.
2. Gain Hands-on Experience
Certifications provide the theoretical knowledge needed to succeed, but hands-on experience is just as important. Look for opportunities to work on projects outside of your regular help desk duties. This might involve volunteering for tasks or taking on side projects that give you exposure to networking, security, or cloud technologies. The more experience you gain in different areas of IT, the more confident you’ll be when applying for new roles.
3. Highlight Your Soft Skills
While technical expertise is essential, soft skills such as communication, problem-solving, and teamwork are also highly valued by employers. As a help desk professional, you’ve likely developed strong communication and customer service skills, which are transferable to more advanced IT roles. Be sure to highlight these soft skills on your resume and in interviews, as they can set you apart from other candidates.
4. Stay Updated on Industry Trends
Technology is constantly evolving, so it’s important to stay updated on the latest trends and developments in the IT industry. Subscribe to industry blogs, participate in online courses, and stay informed about new certifications and technologies. This will help you stay ahead of the curve and ensure that you are prepared for the next step in your career.
Conclusion
The journey from help desk technician to an advanced IT professional is not an overnight process, but it is entirely achievable with the right approach. Certifications play a key role in helping you transition to specialized roles by providing the technical expertise and credibility needed to stand out to employers. Whether you choose to pursue networking, security, virtualization, or cloud computing, each certification offers a unique path to career advancement.
By combining certifications with hands-on experience, soft skills, and a commitment to continuous learning, you can successfully transition from help desk to a rewarding IT career. With the demand for skilled IT professionals growing every year, now is the perfect time to take the next step and propel your career to new heights.
