15 Easiest IT Certifications in 2026

<p>Your IT career doesn't have to start with a degree. There are many <a href="https://learn.org/articles/easy_certificate_programs_that_pay_well.html">easy certificate programs that pay well</a>, many of which you can earn online. Let's look closer at 15 of the easiest IT certifications you can pursue. </p> <h3 id="section---1.GoogleITSupportProfessionalCertificate">1. Google IT Support Professional Certificate</h3> <ul><li><b>Cost:</b> Free for seven days; $49 per month thereafter </li></ul><p>This online course series is available through Coursera and leads to one of the easiest tech certificates available. It is designed for those with no experience to earn professional credentials and begin IT careers within three to six months of self-paced study. </p> <p>The series consists of six individual courses and leads to a career certificate. Students can also use the program as transfer credit toward participating online degree programs. </p> <h3 id="section---2.CompTIAITFundamentalsITF">2. CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+)</h3> <ul><li><b>Cost:</b> $125 to $299 </li></ul><p>This certificate is one of the most basic offerings from the CompTIA, an organization providing many industry-standard certifications. ITF+ gives learners an opportunity to explore IT careers by providing instruction in basic skills and troubleshooting. </p> <p>This is a great certification for anyone just starting out and interested in learning what all goes into a tech career. It is also a great choice if you're hoping to start your career in technical support. </p> <h3 id="section---3.MicrosoftCertifiedAzureFundamentals">3. Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals</h3> <ul><li><b>Cost:</b> $99 </li></ul><p>This beginner-level certification in Microsoft Azure is designed for those with entry-level experience in IT who are hoping to demonstrate proficiency in cloud concepts and IT infrastructure. Those with basic skills in software development or related fields can complete the certification exam to earn this credential. </p> <p>Microsoft provides a short course to help learners prepare for the exam. The course consists of three modules and takes about six to seven hours to complete. </p> <h3 id="section---4.AWSCertifiedCloudPractitioner">4. AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner</h3> <ul><li><b>Cost:</b> $100 </li></ul><p>This top AWS certification is designed for those with no cloud or IT experience looking to begin a career in Amazon Web Services (AWS) cloud computing. Students gain a high-level understanding of cloud concepts, terminology, and services. </p> <p>To earn this certification, candidates must pass a 90-minute exam, available online or in person at an approved testing center. The exam consists of 65 questions, using a multiple-choice or multiple-response format, covering various aspects of AWS cloud computing. </p> <h3 id="section---5.CiscoCertifiedSupportTechnicianCCST">5. Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST)</h3> <ul><li><b>Cost:</b> $125 </li></ul><p>This certification offers three specializations: cybersecurity, networking, and IT support. Students can take online, self-paced courses through Cisco to prepare for the certification of their choice. </p> <p>To earn the desired credential, candidates complete a 50-minute exam online or at a proctored testing center. These certifications act as stepping stones toward more advanced credentials, such as the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification. </p> <h3 id="section---6.MetaFrontEndDeveloperCertificate">6. Meta Front-End Developer Certificate</h3> <ul><li><b>Cost:</b> Free for seven days; $49 per month thereafter </li></ul><p>The Meta Front-End Developer Certificate is another course series available through Coursera. It is self-paced and designed for those with no experience to be able to complete it within three months or so. </p> <p>There are nine courses in the series covering a range of topics, from UX/UI design to programming with JavaScript, as well as basic and advanced React concepts. Graduates of the course earn a career certificate to help them begin working as front-end developers and earn credits toward participating online degree programs. </p> <h3 id="section---7.ITILFoundation">7. ITIL Foundation</h3> <ul><li><b>Cost:</b> $150 to $500 </li></ul><p>The ITIL 4 Foundation course is available through Axelos. It prepares learners for entry-level careers in IT service management. </p> <p>The course prepares students to create and improve various real-world technology projects and services. Upon completing the course, students take a 60-minute exam that consists of 40 multiple-choice questions; they must answer at least 26 questions correctly to earn the certification. </p> <h3 id="section---8.LinuxEssentials">8. Linux Essentials</h3> <ul><li><b>Cost:</b> $120 </li></ul><p>The Linux Professional Institute offers the Linux Essentials certification. This course and exam help candidates demonstrate their proficiency in foundational Linux skills. </p> <p>The course requires no prerequisites and is designed for beginners. The exam consists of 40 questions and must be completed within 60 minutes. Those who earn this credential can then opt to earn the more advanced Linux Professional certification. </p> <h3 id="section---9.GoogleCybersecurityCertificate">9. Google Cybersecurity Certificate</h3> <ul><li><b>Cost:</b> Free for seven days; $49 per month thereafter </li></ul><p>The Google Cybersecurity Certificate can be found on Coursera. Students commonly complete this course series within six months &mdash; and don't need to have any prior experience to begin. </p> <p>Students receive essential training and skills to begin an entry-level cybersecurity career through this nine-course series. Topics covered include managing security risks, tools of the trade, automating tasks with Python, and accelerating the job search using artificial intelligence. </p> <h3 id="section---10.CompTIAA">10. CompTIA A+</h3> <ul><li><b>Cost:</b> $265 to $1,010 </li></ul><p>The CompTIA A+ certification is considered the industry standard for entry-level tech careers. Students gain foundational skills in hardware and software, networking, troubleshooting, and security issues. </p> <p>Learners complete coursework that prepares them for the Core 1 and Core 2 exams. Upon completing these exams, candidates can begin working in beginner careers such as help desk technician and IT support specialist. </p> <h3 id="section---11.LinkedInLearningITHelpDeskCertificate">11. LinkedIn Learning IT Help Desk Certificate</h3> <ul><li><b>Cost:</b> Free for one month; $19.99 to $39.99 per month thereafter </li></ul><p>This beginner-level course is completed online and consists of six chapters divided into short lessons. It leads to a certificate of completion that can help you in your search for entry-level IT support positions. </p> <p>The course covers both essential technical skills in networking, software, and troubleshooting, as well as essential soft skills necessary for success as a help desk technician. The program is a great option for those just starting out in IT or who have a few basic skills but want to expand their knowledge. </p> <h3 id="section---12.Microsoft365CertifiedFundamentals">12. Microsoft 365 Certified: Fundamentals</h3> <ul><li><b>Cost:</b> $99 </li></ul><p>This certificate is for those hoping to demonstrate proficiency in using Microsoft 365. It's an entry-level certificate designed for those with no experience. </p> <p>Students complete a four-part course to prepare for the exam. The exam itself takes about 45 minutes to complete. </p> <h3 id="section---13.GoogleWorkspaceAdministratorCertificate">13. Google Workspace Administrator Certificate</h3> <ul><li><b>Cost:</b> $125 </li></ul><p>This certificate prepares students for careers as associate Google Workspace administrators. These professionals perform various basic duties (e.g., account management and troubleshooting). </p> <p>Learners complete a course and practice questions in preparation for the certification exam. The exam can be taken online or in-person and requires no prerequisites. </p> <h3 id="section---14.CompTIASecurity">14. CompTIA Security+</h3> <ul><li><b>Cost:</b> $425 to $900 </li></ul><p>The CompTIA Security+ certification is a top computer science credential that enables IT professionals to demonstrate proficiency in essential skills for the cybersecurity job market. Network security and data integrity are just a couple of topics covered in this comprehensive credential. </p> <p>Learners can pursue numerous careers with this certification, including penetration tester, data analyst, and IT manager. </p> <h3 id="section---15.AdobeCertifiedProfessionalWebAuthoring">15. Adobe Certified Professional: Web Authoring</h3> <ul><li><b>Cost:</b> $150 </li></ul><p>This credential from Adobe is specifically designed for those pursuing skills in using Adobe Dreamweaver to create content for websites and mobile devices. </p> <p>The exam takes about 50 minutes to complete and consists of two parts. The first part comprises true/false, multiple-choice, and other types of questions, while the second part requires test-takers to complete hands-on tasks using Dreamweaver. </p> <h2 id="section---JobsYouCanGetWithAnITCertificate">Jobs You Can Get With an IT Certificate</h2> <p>You can pursue many IT career paths depending on the specific credentials you earn with your certifications. Some top in-demand job titles to consider include: </p> <ul><li><b>Web developer:</b> These IT professionals are responsible for building websites, web pages, and computer applications. </li><li><b>Computer support specialist:</b> Also known as help desk technicians, these IT employees interact with customers to provide troubleshooting services and direct them to more specialized professionals for significant issues. </li><li><b>Systems administrator:</b> Systems administrators maintain and operate server technologies within a company's computer systems. </li><li><b>IT project manager:</b> IT project managers organize and oversee various projects and programs within a company's IT department. </li><li><b>Information security analyst:</b> These professionals are responsible for ensuring a company's computer systems and networks are secure. They run tests, install new software programs, and handle data breaches. </li><li><b>Information security manager:</b> Information security managers oversee employees and processes within a company's information security department. </li><li><b>Cloud platform architect:</b> Cloud platform architects manage, design, and develop secure cloud infrastructure to ensure maximum security and scalability. </li><li><b>Network administrator:</b> These professionals install and configure computer systems and networks and troubleshoot any problems that come up. </li><li><b>Database administrator:</b> Database administrators develop and maintain computer databases to keep company data as secure as possible. </li><li><b>Systems engineer:</b> Also known as cloud engineers, these professionals design Amazon Web Services solutions and assist companies with using these services. </li></ul><h2 id="section---FAQsAboutTheEasiestITCertificates">FAQs About the Easiest IT Certificates</h2> <p>If you're still wondering about building your tech skill set through easy IT certificates, you're not alone. Read on as we answer some questions you may be wondering about. </p> <h3 id="section---IsAnITCertificateWorthIt">Is an IT Certificate Worth It?</h3> <p>Certifications play a crucial role in the IT field. Having specific credentials and certifications proves that you possess the necessary IT skills for specific roles and tasks, which in turn makes it easier for IT professionals to find and keep jobs. Many employers require specific certifications, and these certifications often must be maintained through continuing education to help employees stay up to date on the latest trends and developments. </p> <h3 id="section---AreITCertificationsEasierThanADegree">Are IT Certifications Easier Than a Degree?</h3> <p>Some learners consider IT certifications to be easier than degree programs. They are much less time-intensive, as college degrees typically take two to four years to complete. You can earn many IT certifications by taking short, specialized online courses that teach specific skills, whereas degree programs cover a much broader range of skills and also require general education courses. </p> <h3 id="section---DoYouNeedACollegeDegreeToWorkInIT">Do You Need a College Degree to Work in IT?</h3> <p>Many entry-level IT jobs provide a starting point in IT and don't require a degree as long as you have the specific skills and certifications needed. Advanced certifications may be required for some positions, and those looking for career advancement may opt to earn a degree later. Exploring schools with the <a href="https://learn.org/articles/easiest_tech_degree.html">easiest tech degrees</a> can help you advance your position in the IT industry as efficiently as possible. </p> <h3 id="section---HowMuchDoesAnITCertificateCost">How Much Does an IT Certificate Cost?</h3> <p>Certificate programs vary widely in cost. Those offered online and/or through tech companies, such as the options featured above, generally cost under $1,000 &mdash; and sometimes much less. Certificate programs available through colleges and universities may cost upwards of $5,000 to $10,000, depending on school tuition costs. Completing a <a href="https://learn.org/articles/fafsa_approved_online_certificate_programs.html">FAFSA-approved online certificate program</a> can help you save money as you work toward enhancing your skill set. </p> <h3 id="section---HowLongDoesItTakeToGetAnEntryLevelITCertificate">How Long Does It Take to Get an Entry-Level IT Certificate?</h3> <p>Different entry-level certifications have different average completion times. Many programs are self-paced, allowing students to complete them on their own schedule; others follow set study times. Check the specific requirements for any certification you're considering to get a better idea of how long it's going to take you. </p> <h3 id="section---WhichITCertificateShouldIStartWithAsABeginner">Which IT Certificate Should I Start With as a Beginner?</h3> <p>Choosing an easy IT certificate is the best option for someone looking to get their foot in the door and gain some hands-on experience in the IT industry. Any of the options outlined above are great for beginners, as they provide in-demand credentials that allow learners to begin accumulating work experience in their chosen field. </p> <h2 id="section---FindAnITCertificateOnline">Find an IT Certificate Online</h2> <p>If you're ready to launch your career by pursuing the easiest and best IT certifications, explore the resources featured here on Learn.org. Contact any of the schools or organizations offering IT certifications to learn more about the programs and choose the right one for you.</p>