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Best systems support specialist certifications
The best certifications for a systems support specialist are Certified Network Computer Technician (CNCT), Certified Information Systems Security Professional - Architecture (CISSP), and Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician (MCDST).
Systems support specialist certifications demonstrate your competency as a systems support specialist to employers. However, not all systems support specialist certifications provide the same value.
Below is a list of the best systems support specialist certifications. Obtaining a systems support specialist certification will give you a leg up when you apply for jobs and increase your potential salary.
14 best certifications for systems support specialists
14 best systems support specialist certifications
1. Certified Network Computer Technician (CNCT)
Certified Network Computer Technicians are expected to obtain knowledge of computer electronics basic concepts, Internet and networking technology applicable to various areas of the computer industry. Once the CNCT has acquired these skills, abilities and knowledge, he or she will be able to enter employment in any part of the computer industry. With minimal training in areas unique to the specific products, the CNCT should become a profitable and efficient part of the computer industry workforce.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 4 year(s)
2. Certified Information Systems Security Professional - Architecture (CISSP)
CISSP-ISSAP requires a candidate to demonstrate 2 years of professional experience in the area of architecture and is an appropriate credential for Chief Security Architects and Analysts who may typically work as independent consultants or in similar capacities. The architect plays a key role within the information security department with responsibilities that functionally fit between the C-suite and upper managerial level and the implementation of the security program. The candidate would generally develop, design, or analyze the overall security plan. Although this role may typically be tied closely to technology, it may be fundamentally closer to the consultative and analytical process of information security.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
3. Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician (MCDST)
Boost your IT support career with unmatched validation as a Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician (MCDST). This credential proves your ability to successfully troubleshoot desktop environments that run on the Microsoft Windows operating system. It also shows you have the necessary soft skills to educate users and help them solve hardware and software operation and application problems on Windows.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? No
4. Software Engineering Master Certification (SEMC)
This professional competency certification requires successful completion of Certificates of Proficiency in twelve key knowledge areas: Software Engineering Requirements, Software Engineering Design, Software Engineering Construction, Software Engineering Testing, Software Engineering Maintenance, Software Engineering Configuration Management, Software Engineering Quality, Software Engineering Processes, Software Engineering Models & Methods, Software Engineering Management, Software Engineering Project Management, Software Engineering Economics and the successful completion of two advanced applied modules.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
5. Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT)
The Cisco CCENT (Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician) certification validates the skills required for entry-level network support positions, the starting point for many successful careers in networking. Candidates should have the knowledge and skill to install, operate and troubleshoot a small enterprise branch network, including basic network security. CCENT certification is the first step toward achieving CCNA, which covers medium size enterprise branch networks with more complex connections.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
6. Information Systems Security Management Professional (ISSMP)
Demonstrates competence in the rigorous requirements for information security management.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required?
7. Certified UNIX System Administrator (CUSA)
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? No
8. Certified Instrumentation Specialist (CIS)
Technology changes. Standards update. Instrumentation evolves. The learning curve for Central Service professionals is steep and ever-changing, and the demands placed on them ever-growing. To help professionals stay abreast of rapidly changing medical technology, IAHCSMM offers the Certified Instrument Specialist (CIS) exam, which tests knowledge and recognition of medical instruments, as well as reviewing instrumentation practice skills. The CIS exam will test your proficiency in the identification and cleaning of medical instruments, and upon completing and passing the exam you will hold the designation of Certified Instrument Specialist (CIS).
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 1 year(s)
9. Computer Service Technician (CST)
The following can be expected to identify the major areas of training-study-knowledge and skills which the Computer Service Technician needs in order to perform the job of servicing the hardware and the systems software for personal computers: Computer Assembly-Disassembly; Motherboards; Buses; System Resources, Processor Characteristics; Memory Characteristics (Physical & Electronic); Secondary Storage Devices; Peripheral Devices; I/O Ports; Power Concepts and Power Supplies; Basic Networking Concepts; Portables; Digital Concepts; Troubleshooting/Preventive Maintenance; current Operating Systems; File Management; Safety Procedures/Handling; and Workplace Practices.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 4 year(s)
10. Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist: .NET Framework 3.5, Windows Workflow Fnd Applications (MCTS)
Candidates work on a team in a medium-sized or large development environment that uses Microsoft Visual Studio .NET 2003 Enterprise Developer, Microsoft Visual Studio 2005, or Microsoft Visual Studio 2008. Candidates should have at least two to three years of experience developing Web-based, Windows-based, or distributed applications by using the Microsoft .NET Framework 1.0, the .NET Framework 1.1, the .NET Framework 2.0, or the .NET Framework 3.5. Candidates should have a working knowledge of Microsoft Visual Studio 2005 or Visual Studio 2008.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required?
11. Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS)
A Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist certification proves your skills on a particular Microsoft technology, such as the Windows operating system, Microsoft Exchange Server, Microsoft SQL Server, or Microsoft Visual Studio. MCTS certifications are no longer in development. However, your MCTS certification will remain valuable as long as companies are using the technology on which it certifies. Please check the retired exams and retired certifications pages for specific retirement dates.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required?
12. Dell Certified Systems Expert (DCSE)
Dell offers hardware maintenance training through the Dell Certified Systems Expert program. DCSE prepares independent service maintenance technicians or companies with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide their own maintenance. Technicians are required to pass an exam to achieve an accreditation on client systems (portables, desktops and workstations) or servers. Technician may receive accreditation in both areas if desired.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 1 year(s)
13. Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)
With a CCNP, a network professional can install, configure, and troubleshoot local and wide area networks for enterprise organizations with networks from 100 to more than 500 nodes. The content emphasizes topics such as security, converged networks, quality of service (QoS), virtual private networks (VPN) and broadband technologies.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 2 year(s)
14. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
CCNA certification is the first level of Cisco Career certification and indicates a foundation in and apprentice knowledge of networking. CCNA certified professionals can install, configure, and operate LAN, WAN, and dial access services for small networks (100 nodes or fewer), including but not limited to use of these protocols: IP, IGRP, Serial, Frame Relay, IP RIP, VLANs, RIP, Ethernet, Access Lists.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
What is the best certification for a systems support specialist?
The best systems support specialist certification is Certified Network Computer Technician (CNCT). The Certified Network Computer Technician (CNCT) is awarded by the ETA International. This certification is great to have as it shows an improvement in your competency to perform your role. You can earn this certification at the beginning of your career, as it often doesn't require a minimum education level and work experience.
Here's a bit more background on how to obtain this systems support specialist certification:
- To become a certified Certified Network Computer Technician (CNCT), you need to pass the exam.
- Lucky you - certification doesn't require more than two years of work experience.
- Renew certification every 4 year.
What are some of the most in-demand certifications for systems support specialists?
The most in-demand systems support specialist certification is Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician based on all active job postings. Having this systems support specialist certification will give you access to more systems support specialist jobs with higher salaries.
What certifications can impact a systems support specialist career and salary?
The Computer Service Technician certification will help you to secure a information systems technician position, which will increase your pay and career trajectory. A information systems technician's average salary is $57,498 whereas systems support specialists make an average salary of $61,744.
The most common combination of systems support specialist certifications include: Certified Network Computer Technician (CNCT), Certified Information Systems Security Professional - Architecture (CISSP), and Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician (MCDST).
Online courses for systems support specialists to earn certifications
1. Introduction to Technical Support
Technical Support professionals are in great demand! This is the first course in the IBM IT Support Professional Certificate program, designed to prepare you for a rewarding career in technical support. You will begin this self-paced course by learning what Informational Technology (IT) support is all about. You'll find out the roles and responsibilities of Technical Support professionals and become familiar with all the different career paths you can take in Technical Support. You will also...
2. IBM IT Support
Prepare for an in-demand career in Information Technology (IT). In this program, you’ll develop a strong foundation in IT fundamentals, networking, cybersecurity, and cloud computing to get job-ready in as little as 3 months, with no prior experience or degree needed to get started.\n\nAlmost every organization, business, or individual relies on technology. A career in IT Support is about providing technological assistance to better optimize organizational efficiency. This can include...
3. Computer Hardware, Operating System and Networking
For Any Graduates/Engineering/Diploma/Arts & Science/Freshers/Home Users/Individuals/Desktop Support/FM/Service Engineer...
4. Desktop IT Support Level 1 & 2 in real life (Troubleshooting
Learn everything in real life Troubleshooting for IT Help Desk , Helpdesk , IT Support , System Administration and IT...
5. Introduction to Hardware and Operating Systems
Get ready to enter the thriving field of Information Technology (IT), with job ready skills! This beginner friendly course provides the core hardware and operating system knowledge needed by anyone new to IT and computer hardware who wants to start a new career in technology, including IT Support, Networking, Cybersecurity, and Software Development. You will first be introduced to computing fundamentals, the four functions of computing, and the benefits of computing. You will become...
6. IT Support Technical Skills Bootcamp
Hands-on Technical skills for IT Support Professionals...
7. IT Support Technical Skills Helpdesk
Hands-on Technical skills for IT Support Learners...
8. Basic Computer Course - Windows 7/10 - IT & Desktop Support
Basic computer course with troubleshooting skills -computer hardware and computer networking, for IT support technicians...
9. Computer Network Fundamentals- IT Helpdesk & Desktop Support
Learn the basic fundamentals of computer networking & OSI model for desktop support and IT service desk technicians...
10. Introduction to Business Support System - BSS
Learn about business support system employed in telecom domain...
11. IT & Technical Support Guide to Helpdesk, Desktop & Servers
Learn how the different levels of IT technical support work, from service desk to infrastructure and server support...
12. Advanced IT Troubleshooting for Helpdesk Support Technicians
Learn some of the less common IT troubleshooting techniques for Windows computers...
13. Active Directory & Group Policy Administration for IT Techs
Active Directory & Group Policy Administration Basics for Helpdesk and Desktop / IT Support Technicians...
14. Windows Server 2019: Active Directory, GPO, R. Server Access
Training For Beginners - Become a Network Administrator in Microsoft Windows Server 2019 with Remote Server Access!...
15. Essential Tools for Windows System Administrators
[Windows] [System Administration] Learn Windows Builtin Tools & Open Source Tools for Efficient System Administration...
16. IT/Desktop Computer Support- Troubleshooting for Technicians
Learn how to troubleshoot desktop computer issues as an IT Support Technician on real-world organisational networks...
17. Customer Service & Support For Customer Service Executives
Learn Customer Service Skills & Provide Excellent Customer Support, Customer Experience & How To Manage Upset Customers...
18. Customer Service, Customer Support, And Customer Experience
Customer service, customer support, and customer experience training. Loyal clients through world-class customer service...
19. Distributed Systems & Cloud Computing with Java
Learn Distributed Java Applications at Scale, Parallel Programming, Distributed Computing & Cloud Software Architecture...
20. Fundamentals of Unix and Linux System Administration
Master Linux/Unix System administration through a practical and hands on approach...