Too Many IT Certs! How to Pick the Right One for Your Career

 The IT industry is booming, and with it comes an overwhelming number of certifications. From vendor-neutral options like CompTIA to specialized tracks from Microsoft, AWS, Oracle, and more—how do you choose the right one?

The key is to align your certification path with your career goals. Picking the right cert can boost your resume, increase your salary, and open doors to new opportunities. But with so many choices, where do you start?

Let’s break it down.

Step 1: Define Your Career Path

Not all IT certifications are created equal. Some are foundational, while others are expert-level. Your choice should depend on:

Your current role (Are you in IT support, cloud computing, cybersecurity, or databases?)

Your end goal (Do you want to become a cloud architect, network engineer, or DevOps specialist?)

Popular IT Career Paths & Relevant Certs

1. IT Support / Technician

CompTIA A+ (Fundamental IT skills)

Microsoft Office Specialist (For administrative/help desk roles)

CompTIA Network+ (Networking basics)

2. Cloud Computing

Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900)

AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner

Google Associate Cloud Engineer

3. Cybersecurity

CompTIA Security+

Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

CISSP (Advanced security professionals)

4. Database Administration

Oracle Database Certifications

Microsoft SQL Certifications

MySQL Certifications

5. Linux/System Administration

Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)

CompTIA Linux+

Step 2: Start with Fundamentals

Every expert was once a beginner. If you’re new to a field, start with an entry-level certification to build a strong foundation.

For example:

Cloud? Start with AZ-900 (Azure) or AWS Cloud Practitioner.

Cybersecurity? Begin with CompTIA Security+.

Networking? Try CompTIA Network+ or CCNA.

These certs are easier but provide a broad overview of the field, helping you decide if you want to specialize further.

Step 3: Progress from Associate to Expert

Once you’ve mastered the basics, move to associate-level and then expert-level certifications.

Example Path for Cloud Engineers:

AZ-900 (Fundamental) → AZ-104 (Associate) → AZ-305 (Expert)

AWS Cloud Practitioner → AWS Solutions Architect (Associate) → AWS Solutions Architect (Professional)

Step 4: Combine Certs with Real-World Experience

Certifications alone won’t land you a job—experience matters. If you lack work experience:

Build a home lab (Set up virtual networks, cloud environments, or cybersecurity labs).

Work on projects (Create a GitHub portfolio, automate tasks with scripts, or set up a small business network).

Freelance or volunteer (Offer IT support to nonprofits or small businesses).

Step 5: Don’t Overdo It—Quality Over Quantity

You don’t need every certification in your field. Instead:

✔ Pick one fundamental cert (to start)

✔ One associate-level cert (to specialize)

✔ One expert-level cert (to master your domain)

This approach keeps you focused without burning out.

Bonus Tip: It’s Okay to Explore!

Switching paths? No problem! IT is vast, and sometimes a different certification can open unexpected doors.

Example:

A network engineer learning AWS can transition into cloud networking.

A help desk technician studying Security+ can move into cybersecurity.

Final Thoughts

The best IT certification is the one that aligns with your career goals. Start small, build experience, and progress strategically.

Don’t stress—just start! 🚀

What’s your next certification? Share in the comments!

(Need personalized advice? Drop your career goals below, and I’ll help you pick the right cert!)