To help you choose the right certification, we’ve compiled a list of the top seven IT certifications that you can study for at home. Most of these certifications can be completed in just four weeks, though a few may require longer study time, especially if you are new to the subject matter. Below are some of the best certifications you can consider pursuing from the comfort of your home.
If you’re interested in pursuing any of these certifications, it’s a great idea to start with a structured learning plan. These certifications can help build your skill set, increase your marketability, and make you a more competitive candidate in the IT field. Commit to earning a certification today and start advancing your career!
1. Microsoft Azure Administrator
The Microsoft Azure Administrator certification is one of the most sought-after cloud certifications. This certification path requires passing the AZ-104 exam, which covers the fundamental aspects of managing Microsoft Azure environments.
Overview of Microsoft Azure Administrator
The AZ-104 exam tests your ability to manage Azure subscriptions, implement storage solutions, manage virtual networks, and ensure the security of Azure resources. It’s designed for individuals who want to build their expertise as an Azure Administrator. Although this certification is aimed at those with some experience in IT, it is accessible to those willing to dedicate time to learning the Azure platform.
The AZ-104 exam was created from content that was previously covered by the retired AZ-100 and AZ-101 exams. These exams were discontinued in May 2019, and the AZ-104 now serves as the core certification for Azure Administrators.
Passing the AZ-104 is one of two pathways to becoming a Microsoft DevOps Engineer. While you don’t need to be an expert in systems administration to begin your studies, it is helpful to have a basic understanding of IT infrastructure and systems management.
Estimated Study Time for the Microsoft Azure Administrator Certification
The total time required to prepare for the AZ-104 exam varies depending on your level of experience. On average, most individuals can complete their preparation in 20 to 30 hours of study. However, if you are new to Azure or cloud computing, it may take you closer to four to six weeks to feel confident in your knowledge.
It’s important to note that Microsoft recommends working through practice exams and additional resources to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the material. Some areas, such as network configurations and virtual machine management, may take additional time to master, depending on your previous experience.
2. Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900)
The AZ-900 exam is an entry-level certification exam that provides foundational knowledge of Microsoft Azure. It is an excellent starting point for anyone new to cloud computing or Microsoft Azure, as well as for professionals who may already have experience with other cloud platforms.
Overview of Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
The AZ-900 exam is designed to introduce basic concepts about cloud computing and how Azure provides cloud services. The exam focuses on general cloud concepts, core Azure services, pricing, and support options. Since it covers a wide range of foundational topics, it’s perfect for individuals who are exploring cloud computing for the first time or those who are transitioning into a cloud-based role.
This certification is also useful for those who are looking to expand their knowledge in Azure before diving into more advanced certifications, such as the Azure Administrator or Azure Developer certifications. If you’re not sure where to start with Azure, the AZ-900 will give you a solid foundation to build upon.
Estimated Study Time for Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
You can complete the AZ-900 exam preparation in a relatively short amount of time. Most individuals can go through the material in about eight hours, which is typically broken down into about eight study sessions. Because the exam covers the fundamentals of Azure, the material is relatively easy to grasp for individuals with prior knowledge of cloud computing.
The AZ-900 exam doesn’t require deep technical knowledge, so you don’t need to be an expert in networking or programming to succeed. The key is to familiarize yourself with the core concepts of cloud computing and Azure services. After working through the study materials, you can take a few practice exams to identify any areas that require additional focus.
3. CompTIA Security+ (SY0-601)
The CompTIA Security+ certification is widely regarded as a foundational certification for cybersecurity professionals. This certification exam evaluates your knowledge of the security principles and practices required to protect information and network systems.
Overview of CompTIA Security+ Certification
The Security+ certification focuses on the basics of cybersecurity, including network security, cryptography, risk management, and compliance. The exam consists of a mix of multiple-choice questions and performance-based questions that test your ability to respond to security incidents. By earning the Security+ certification, you demonstrate your ability to recognize, mitigate, and resolve security threats across different environments.
CompTIA Security+ is a great entry point for those who are new to cybersecurity but also a valuable certification for professionals with experience who want to solidify their security knowledge. Many IT professionals in network administration, systems administration, and information technology support roles pursue this certification as a way to expand their skill set and improve their job prospects.
Estimated Study Time for CompTIA Security+
The time it takes to prepare for the CompTIA Security+ exam depends on your prior experience. For individuals with a solid understanding of IT concepts, preparation may take between 23 to 30 hours. For those new to security, it may take longer, approximately 4 to 6 weeks, to become fully prepared.
A well-rounded study plan will include both theoretical learning and hands-on practice to help you build real-world skills in responding to security incidents. It’s essential to review practice exams thoroughly, especially performance-based questions, to ensure you are ready for the exam’s varied question formats.
Microsoft Azure Administrator, Microsoft Azure Fundamentals, and CompTIA Security+ are excellent certifications to pursue if you are looking to advance your career in IT. The certifications range from entry-level to more advanced exams, offering something for professionals at different stages in their careers. Each certification requires a solid understanding of the foundational concepts, but with structured study and preparation, you can earn these certifications from the comfort of your home.
We explored three popular IT certifications that you can pursue from home: Microsoft Azure Administrator, Microsoft Azure Fundamentals, and CompTIA Security+. These certifications cover a wide range of cloud computing and cybersecurity concepts that are essential in today’s IT landscape. In this second part, we will dive into additional certifications that are highly regarded in the IT industry, especially for those seeking to enhance their networking skills and knowledge of IT infrastructure. The certifications we will discuss in this section include CompTIA Network+, CompTIA A+, and others that serve as important milestones in an IT career. These certifications can be valuable for anyone looking to build or solidify their understanding of networking, troubleshooting, and IT infrastructure. Let’s look at them in greater detail.
4. CompTIA Network+ (N10-009)
CompTIA Network+ is a foundational certification for IT professionals that validates your knowledge of networking concepts and the ability to manage and troubleshoot networks. Whether you are working with small office networks or large-scale enterprise environments, CompTIA Network+ helps you demonstrate your ability to support and maintain critical network infrastructure.
Overview of CompTIA Network+
CompTIA Network+ is a vendor-neutral certification, meaning it does not focus on specific hardware or software from any one manufacturer. Instead, it covers a broad range of networking technologies that apply to virtually any networking environment. Topics include network architecture, protocols, security, and troubleshooting, as well as wireless networking and cloud technologies. For individuals just starting their careers in IT, CompTIA Network+ is an essential certification that helps you understand the core concepts that form the backbone of IT systems and communication. This certification also prepares you for more advanced networking certifications, such as Cisco’s CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate), by building a solid foundation in network theory and practical application. While the certification does not dive deeply into advanced network management topics, it covers all the necessary basics you need to understand how data is transmitted, how networks are structured, and how network resources are secured.
Estimated Study Time for CompTIA Network+
The amount of time you will need to dedicate to preparing for the CompTIA Network+ exam largely depends on your prior knowledge and experience. For newcomers to IT, it may take around 3 to 6 months to become fully prepared for the exam. Individuals with prior networking experience can generally prepare in 4 to 8 weeks. The CompTIA Network+ exam itself consists of around 90 questions, covering topics such as network topologies, hardware devices, IP addressing, network security, and troubleshooting techniques. To ensure you are fully ready, it is a good idea to work through study materials, practice exams, and hands-on labs that allow you to apply the knowledge you’ve gained. You should also plan on dedicating time to reinforcing weak areas, especially if you encounter any challenges with specific topics such as IP addressing or network protocols. In general, expect to spend between 20 to 30 hours studying for the exam, with additional time needed for practical exercises and practice exams.
5. CompTIA A+ (220-1101 & 220-1102)
CompTIA A+ is one of the most well-known entry-level certifications for IT professionals. It is a comprehensive certification that covers both hardware and software aspects of IT systems. The A+ certification consists of two exams: Core 1 (220-1101) and Core 2 (220-1102). The Core 1 exam focuses on hardware, networking, and troubleshooting, while the Core 2 exam delves into operating systems, security, and software troubleshooting.
Overview of CompTIA A+
CompTIA A+ is the foundational certification for anyone looking to start a career in IT support or technical troubleshooting. While it may not be as specialized as some of the other certifications on this list, it covers an essential range of topics that will be crucial in your day-to-day IT work. It is commonly required for IT support roles at major technology companies such as Dell, HP, and Intel. The Core 1 exam primarily focuses on hardware technologies, including how to assemble and maintain a PC, install and configure network devices, and identify and resolve hardware issues. In addition to hardware, it also covers mobile devices, networking, and troubleshooting techniques. Core 2, on the other hand, is more focused on operating systems, security, and IT operations. Topics covered in this section include configuring and managing operating systems like Windows, macOS, and Linux, as well as troubleshooting software, security threats, and system performance issues.
Estimated Study Time for CompTIA A+
The time it takes to prepare for the CompTIA A+ exams can vary greatly depending on your prior knowledge and experience. On average, it takes about 100 hours to study for both exams. Most individuals spend around 8 to 12 weeks preparing for the certification, especially if they are new to IT. This timeframe allows you to cover the material thoroughly and reinforces your understanding with practice exams and troubleshooting labs. The first exam, Core 1, can take around 30 to 40 hours of study time, depending on your prior experience with hardware and networking. The second exam, Core 2, will require another 40 to 50 hours of study, with a strong focus on operating systems, security, and software troubleshooting. If you have a background in IT support or related fields, you may be able to cut down on the study time. However, for most newcomers, the six to eight-week preparation period is typical.
6. AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate
Amazon Web Services (AWS) is one of the leading cloud computing platforms in the world, and AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate is one of the most sought-after certifications in the cloud computing space. This certification focuses on building and deploying scalable applications on AWS and managing the underlying infrastructure.
Overview of AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate
The AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate certification is ideal for professionals who want to demonstrate their ability to design and deploy scalable and reliable applications in the cloud. This certification covers topics such as choosing the right AWS services, designing high-availability systems, and ensuring cost-effective solutions for cloud-based applications. This certification is more advanced than entry-level certifications like the AZ-900, but it is still a great option for individuals with some experience in cloud technologies or IT infrastructure. If you are already familiar with AWS or have experience working with cloud platforms, you may find this exam to be a natural next step in your career development. Key topics for this certification include cloud architecture principles, AWS core services, security, cost optimization, and implementation strategies for AWS cloud services.
Estimated Study Time for AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate
Most candidates for this certification typically spend between 100 and 120 hours of study time. Depending on your experience with AWS or cloud technologies, this could take anywhere from 3 to 6 months to prepare. If you’re familiar with AWS services or have experience working with cloud environments, you may need less time to prepare. However, if you’re new to AWS or cloud architecture, expect to spend additional time learning core concepts, such as Virtual Private Cloud (VPC), EC2 instances, and cloud storage options. The AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate exam is known for its challenging scenarios, so it is essential to reinforce your knowledge through hands-on labs, practice exams, and sample projects to ensure you are well-prepared.
7. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is one of the most prestigious certifications for networking professionals. Cisco is one of the leading providers of network equipment, and the CCNA certification demonstrates your knowledge of networking fundamentals, IP addressing, routing, and switching, as well as network security.
Overview of Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
The CCNA exam is geared towards individuals who want to advance their careers as network administrators, engineers, or specialists. It covers a broad range of topics, including network fundamentals, IP connectivity, network access, and automation and programmability. This certification is designed for professionals who have a solid understanding of basic networking concepts and want to take their skills to the next level. While the exam can be quite challenging, it is highly respected in the industry and can lead to better job opportunities, higher salaries, and professional recognition. Key topics for the CCNA exam include IP addressing and routing protocols, network security, LAN/WAN technologies, and troubleshooting network issues. Additionally, the exam covers newer technologies, such as network automation and cloud computing integration.
Estimated Study Time for CCNA
The recommended study time for the CCNA exam is around 150 hours. If you have a strong networking background, you may be able to complete your preparation in 2 to 3 months. However, if you’re relatively new to networking concepts or Cisco technologies, it may take 4 to 6 months to adequately prepare. Cisco provides a wealth of training resources, including books, labs, and simulation tools, to help you prepare for the exam. Hands-on practice is crucial for this certification, as the material includes complex networking scenarios and problem-solving exercises. You can also benefit from studying sample questions and taking practice exams to familiarize yourself with the format and difficulty level of the CCNA exam.
We’ve covered several additional IT certifications, including CompTIA Network+, CompTIA A+, AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate, and Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA). These certifications are essential for building your skills in networking, cloud computing, and IT infrastructure. Whether you’re new to the IT field or looking to advance your career, these certifications offer significant value and can help you secure better job opportunities in an increasingly competitive market. Taking the time to invest in these certifications from home is a great way to build your expertise and improve your professional prospects. In the next section, we will continue to explore the final certifications in this series. Stay tuned for part three as we dive into more specialized IT certifications!
7 Best IT Certs to Study for From Home. We’ve examined several IT certifications that can help you build a strong foundation in networking, cloud computing, and IT infrastructure. Now, we’ll delve into more advanced certifications and specialized IT areas that can boost your career prospects in specific domains, such as project management, data analysis, and cybersecurity. This part will explore certifications like Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Project Management Professional (PMP), Google Professional Cloud Architect, and others that provide valuable credentials for those looking to advance their IT careers. Let’s take a closer look at these certifications and the paths they offer.
8. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is a globally recognized certification for cybersecurity professionals. The CISSP is offered by (ISC)² and is designed for individuals who are responsible for securing the IT infrastructure of an organization. This certification is essential for those in leadership or managerial positions in IT security.
Overview of CISSP
The CISSP certification is often seen as a gold standard in the cybersecurity industry. It covers a wide range of topics, including risk management, network security, access control, and security operations. CISSP is highly valued by employers looking for professionals who can design, implement, and manage robust security strategies to protect critical information systems from cyber threats.
The CISSP exam focuses on eight domains of cybersecurity, which are:
- Security and Risk Management: Covers security governance, risk management practices, and legal, regulatory, and compliance considerations.
- Asset Security: Focuses on data classification, privacy protection, and maintaining confidentiality.
- Security Engineering: Explores how to secure architectures and infrastructure across the lifecycle.
- Communication and Network Security: Covers the protection of network communication and the design of secure network architectures.
- Identity and Access Management (IAM): Deals with managing identities, access controls, and authentication systems.
- Security Assessment and Testing: Focuses on evaluating security systems through assessments and testing.
- Security Operations: Covers the management and implementation of security solutions in day-to-day operations.
- Software Development Security: Emphasizes the security considerations in software development.
Estimated Study Time for CISSP
Becoming CISSP-certified requires significant preparation, with most candidates spending 4 to 6 months studying for the exam. The CISSP exam consists of 100 to 150 questions, and it typically takes about 3 hours to complete. Study materials for this certification include books, video tutorials, and practice tests. It is important to have at least 5 years of experience in IT security before attempting the CISSP exam, as this ensures that candidates have practical knowledge of the concepts covered. For individuals without sufficient experience, an Associate of (ISC)² designation can be obtained while working towards the full certification.
Due to the vast scope of topics covered in the exam, candidates should prioritize studying real-world scenarios and familiarizing themselves with security best practices. It’s also a good idea to engage in group study sessions, as discussing complex security concepts with peers can provide a deeper understanding.
9. Project Management Professional (PMP)
The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), is one of the most prestigious certifications for project managers worldwide. While not strictly an IT-specific certification, it is incredibly valuable for IT professionals who manage teams, projects, and initiatives. IT projects are often complex and involve multiple stakeholders, and the PMP certification provides the knowledge and skills needed to manage projects effectively from initiation to closure.
Overview of PMP
The PMP certification focuses on project management methodologies, tools, and techniques. It is designed for individuals who want to demonstrate their ability to lead and direct projects successfully. Topics covered in the PMP certification include project integration management, scope management, time management, cost management, quality management, human resources management, and risk management. Additionally, the PMP certification also covers procurement management and stakeholder management, which are essential for ensuring that projects meet the expectations of both clients and organizational stakeholders.
The PMP exam consists of 180 multiple-choice questions, covering a range of topics from the PMBOK Guide (Project Management Body of Knowledge). To be eligible for the PMP exam, candidates must meet specific education and experience requirements, which typically include a bachelor’s degree and at least 3 years of project management experience, or a high school diploma with 5 years of experience. Additionally, candidates must have completed 35 hours of project management education or training.
Estimated Study Time for PMP
The PMP certification is known for its challenging exam, and candidates typically spend 3 to 6 months preparing for it. This preparation requires extensive study of the PMBOK Guide and other project management resources. On average, candidates spend between 150 to 250 hours preparing for the exam. The key to success is practicing project management concepts through real-world examples and gaining hands-on experience in leading projects.
Studying for the PMP exam involves learning about the five project management process groups (initiating, planning, executing, monitoring, and controlling, and closing) and understanding the various tools and techniques used to manage projects effectively. It is highly recommended that candidates utilize practice exams, study guides, and flashcards to reinforce their knowledge and improve their exam-taking skills.
10. Google Professional Cloud Architect
The Google Professional Cloud Architect certification is designed for IT professionals who want to showcase their ability to design and manage solutions on Google Cloud Platform (GCP). Google Cloud is one of the most widely adopted cloud platforms, and this certification demonstrates your ability to architect, manage, and optimize cloud solutions on GCP.
Overview of Google Professional Cloud Architect
The Google Professional Cloud Architect certification validates your skills in designing and managing cloud-based solutions using Google Cloud services. Topics covered in the certification exam include cloud architecture design, security, cost management, GCP infrastructure, application development, and GCP tools for monitoring and debugging applications.
Key areas of focus for the Google Professional Cloud Architect certification include:
- Cloud Solution Design: Architecting reliable, secure, and scalable cloud solutions using GCP.
- Cloud Security: Implementing and managing security controls for cloud applications and services.
- Cost Optimization: Ensuring the efficient use of resources and cost management within GCP.
- Application Development: Designing applications that are compatible with GCP and leveraging cloud services to meet business needs.
- Operational Excellence: Managing the lifecycle of applications and cloud resources to ensure operational efficiency.
The Google Professional Cloud Architect exam consists of 50 multiple-choice and multiple-select questions, and the exam duration is 2 hours. The certification is highly recommended for professionals with experience working with cloud platforms and those already familiar with Google Cloud tools and services.
Estimated Study Time for Google Professional Cloud Architect
Preparation for the Google Professional Cloud Architect exam typically takes around 2 to 3 months for those with some experience using Google Cloud Platform. On average, candidates spend 80 to 120 hours preparing for the exam, depending on their familiarity with GCP tools and cloud computing concepts. Google provides a wealth of resources, including study guides, online courses, and hands-on labs, which can significantly enhance your preparation.
It is important to gain hands-on experience with GCP by working on practical projects, as this will give you a deeper understanding of how to deploy and manage applications on the platform. Additionally, engaging in practice exams and mock scenarios can help familiarize you with the format and complexity of the real exam.
11. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification is designed for individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in ethical hacking and penetration testing. Offered by EC-Council, the CEH certification validates your ability to identify vulnerabilities in computer systems and applications and suggests appropriate countermeasures to prevent security breaches.
Overview of CEH
The CEH certification focuses on penetration testing techniques and ethical hacking practices. Ethical hackers are employed by organizations to conduct controlled cyberattacks (also known as penetration tests) to identify vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malicious hackers. The CEH certification exam covers a wide range of topics, including:
- Footprinting and Reconnaissance: Techniques for gathering information about a target system or network.
- Scanning Networks: Understanding the tools and techniques for identifying network vulnerabilities.
- System Hacking: Exploiting system vulnerabilities to gain unauthorized access.
- Malware Threats: Understanding various types of malware, such as viruses, worms, and Trojans.
- Sniffing and Spoofing: Techniques for intercepting and manipulating network traffic.
The CEH certification provides valuable skills for cybersecurity professionals who want to take an offensive approach to securing systems and networks. The certification is ideal for penetration testers, security consultants, and anyone responsible for securing IT infrastructure.
Estimated Study Time for CEH
The typical study time for the CEH certification is around 3 to 4 months, with candidates investing between 120 to 150 hours of preparation. The certification exam is difficult and requires in-depth knowledge of hacking techniques, network security, and ethical hacking tools. Many candidates choose to take formal training or use EC-Council’s self-paced study materials, which include practice exams and virtual labs.
Since ethical hacking requires hands-on skills, it’s critical for candidates to gain practical experience by setting up test environments and using penetration testing tools. Practice exercises and labs will help reinforce your knowledge and improve your ability to identify vulnerabilities in real-world scenarios.
Conclusion
In this section, we’ve explored advanced IT certifications, including CISSP, PMP, Google Professional Cloud Architect, and CEH. These certifications provide deep expertise in cybersecurity, project management, cloud architecture, and ethical hacking. For IT professionals seeking to elevate their careers, these certifications are crucial for gaining specialized knowledge in specific domains and positioning themselves as leader in the IT industry. The time investment in preparing for these exams may be significant, but the rewards in terms of job opportunities, salary potential, and career growth are well worth the effort.
As we conclude this series, it’s clear that pursuing IT certifications from home is a viable and rewarding way to enhance your skills, improve your resume, and stay competitive in an ever-evolving technological landscape. Whether you’re looking to expand your foundational knowledge or specialize in advanced topics, these certifications will help you stay ahead in your IT career.
Stay tuned for the final installment, where we will review additional certifications and conclude this series.
