The Most Valuable Certifications for Building a Career in IT Support

The IT support sector in Ireland continues to grow, yet many professionals find themselves stuck in entry-level roles without clear progression paths. Perhaps you've wondered what separates a Tier 1 help desk technician from someone commanding senior technical roles. The answer often lies in professional certifications.

These credentials aren't just certificates on a wall. They represent validated skills, improved earning potential, and doors that swing open when you knock. Whether you're starting fresh or looking to climb higher, understanding which certifications matter most can transform your career trajectory in ways that work experience alone cannot.

This guide explores the certifications that Irish IT support professionals should consider, from foundational credentials to advanced specialisations. We'll examine what each one offers, who benefits most, and how to choose the right path to meet your ambitions.

Why IT Support Certifications Matter More Than You Think

Here's something worth considering: according to recent industry research, 79% of HR professionals in medium and large organisations rely on technical certifications during hiring. That's not just a preference, it's practically a requirement.

But the value goes beyond landing interviews. Certified professionals typically earn 15-20% more than their non-certified colleagues in similar roles. Think about that over a 30-year career. The maths become quite compelling.

Certifications also provide structure to your learning. Rather than randomly picking up skills here and there, you follow proven frameworks developed by industry leaders. You learn what matters, not just what's interesting.

For those working in Ireland, certifications carry additional weight. Many multinational tech companies base their European operations here, and these firms almost universally require or prefer certified staff. 

Starting Your Journey: Foundation Certifications

CompTIA A+ Certification

CompTIA A+ remains the gold standard for anyone entering IT support. Think of it as your passport into the profession. This vendor-neutral certification covers hardware, software, networking basics, security, and troubleshooting, essentially everything you need to know for that first help desk role.

The exam splits into two parts:

Core 1 (220-1101) focuses on mobile devices, networking technology, hardware, virtualisation, and cloud computing.

Core 2 (220-1102) covers operating systems, security, software troubleshooting, and operational procedures.

You'll need to pass both exams within three years to earn the certification. Most people spend 2-3 months preparing if they're starting from scratch, though your mileage may vary depending on existing knowledge.

Who benefits most? Anyone without formal IT training or those switching careers from non-technical backgrounds. It's also valuable for recent graduates who need to prove they can apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios.

Google IT Support Professional Certificate

Google's entry-level programme offers a different approach. Rather than preparing you for a single exam, it's a series of online courses covering IT fundamentals, networking, operating systems, system administration, and security.

The programme takes roughly six months if you dedicate 10 hours per week. It's entirely self-paced, which suits people juggling full-time jobs or family commitments.

One interesting aspect: Google and CompTIA partnered to align this certificate with CompTIA A+ content. Complete the Google programme, and you've already covered much of what you'll see on the A+ exams. Some learners pursue both credentials simultaneously.

The certificate won't replace a full certification, but it strengthens your CV, particularly if you're targeting positions at companies that value Google's ecosystem. It also costs less than traditional certifications, making it accessible for those on tight budgets.

Building Technical Depth: Intermediate Certifications

CompTIA Network+ Certification

Once you've mastered basics, CompTIA Network+ takes you deeper into networking concepts. This certification covers designing, configuring, managing, and troubleshooting wired and wireless networks.

Topics include:

• Network architecture and design principles
• Network operations and security
• Troubleshooting methodology
• Network implementation
• Industry standards and best practices

The exam requires understanding both conceptual frameworks and practical application. You might see questions about subnet calculations, routing protocols, or network security threats. There's also significant focus on troubleshooting scenarios, the kind you'll face daily in network support roles.

CompTIA recommends 9-12 months of networking experience before attempting Network+, though dedicated study can compensate if you're coming straight from A+. The certification remains valid for three years, after which you'll need to renew through continuing education or retesting.

Career paths this opens: network support specialist, junior network administrator, help desk technician (Tier 2), or systems administrator roles.

Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals

Cloud computing dominates modern IT infrastructure, and Microsoft Azure powers countless enterprise environments. The Azure Fundamentals certification introduces cloud concepts, Azure services, security, privacy, compliance, and pricing.

This isn't a deep technical dive, it's intentionally designed as a starting point. You'll learn about Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS). The exam covers Azure architectural components, compute services, storage options, and networking capabilities.

Preparation time varies, but most candidates report 20-40 hours of study suffices, especially if they already work with cloud technologies. Microsoft offers free learning paths through Microsoft Learn, which is brilliant for budget-conscious professionals.

Why pursue this certification? Azure skills are increasingly essential for IT support roles. Even basic troubleshooting often involves cloud-hosted services, virtual machines, or Azure Active Directory. Demonstrating Azure knowledge makes you more valuable to employers operating in Microsoft environments.

The certification serves as a stepping stone to associate-level credentials like Azure Administrator Associate or Azure Security Engineer Associate. Starting with fundamentals builds confidence before tackling more advanced material.

HDI Desktop Support Technician

The HDI Desktop Support Technician certification focuses on something other certifications sometimes neglect: the human side of IT support. Technical skills matter, but so does customer service, communication, and service management.

This credential covers:

• Service desk best practices
• Customer service techniques
• Technical troubleshooting processes
• Desktop environment management
• Problem-solving methodologies

HDI (Help Desk Institute) certifications are particularly valued in organisations with mature ITSM frameworks. If you work in an environment where service quality metrics matter as much as technical resolution, this certification proves you understand the bigger picture.

The exam includes scenarios testing both technical knowledge and soft skills. You might need to demonstrate how to handle difficult customers while simultaneously diagnosing technical issues, exactly what you face daily in real support environments.

Advanced Networking: CCNA Certification

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) represents a significant step up from entry-level credentials. This vendor-specific certification validates ability to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot medium-sized routed and switched networks.

The current CCNA exam (200-301) covers an impressive range:

• Network fundamentals and access
• IP connectivity and services
• Security fundamentals
• Automation and programmability

Cisco restructured CCNA in 2020, consolidating multiple specialist tracks into one comprehensive exam. This means you'll need broader knowledge across different networking domains rather than deep specialisation in one area.

Be realistic about preparation time. Most candidates spend 3-6 months studying, and that assumes networking experience. Without prior exposure to routing, switching, and network protocols, you might need longer. Cisco recommends at least one year working with Cisco technologies before attempting CCNA.

CCNA opens paths toward network engineering, network security, and other specialist roles that entry-level certifications cannot touch.

One consideration: CCNA is vendor-specific. You'll learn Cisco's way of doing things, which dominates enterprise environments but isn't the only approach. If your career goals involve diverse networking equipment, you might balance CCNA with vendor-neutral certifications like CompTIA Network+.

Securing Your Future: CompTIA Security+

Cybersecurity concerns affect every organisation, making security skills essential even for general IT support roles. CompTIA Security+ provides baseline knowledge for anyone working with security-sensitive systems.

The certification covers:

• Threats, attacks, and vulnerabilities
• Architecture and design
• Implementation
• Operations and incident response
• Governance, risk, and compliance

Security+ sits at an intermediate level, more advanced than A+ but not as specialised as dedicated security certifications like CISSP or CEH. It's perfect for support professionals who handle security-related tasks without being full-time security specialists.

You'll learn practical skills: configuring firewalls, identifying malware, implementing access controls, and responding to security incidents. These abilities prove valuable whether you're supporting end users, managing systems, or aspiring toward security-focused roles.

Many organisations, particularly those handling sensitive data or operating in regulated industries, require Security+ or equivalent certifications for any staff with system access. In Ireland, financial services firms and healthcare providers often mandate security credentials for IT support staff.

Preparation typically requires 2-3 months of focused study if you have networking fundamentals. CompTIA recommends Network+ knowledge as a foundation, though it's not formally required.

Service Management Framework: ITIL Foundation

ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) isn't about technical skills, it's about how IT services are delivered, managed, and improved. ITIL Foundation introduces the ITIL 4 framework, which focuses on creating value through IT services.

The certification covers:

• Key concepts of service management
• The four dimensions of service management
• ITIL service value system
• ITIL practices
• Continual improvement

Why does this matter for support professionals? Because modern IT operates as a service business. Understanding incident management, problem management, change control, and service delivery helps you work more effectively within organisational structures.

ITIL knowledge proves particularly valuable in larger enterprises with formal ITSM processes. If you've ever wondered why certain procedures exist or felt frustrated by seemingly bureaucratic requirements, ITIL explains the reasoning behind these frameworks.

The exam is straightforward compared to technical certifications. Most candidates pass after 20-30 hours of study. The challenge isn't difficulty, it's understanding how theoretical concepts apply to real-world situations.

Career benefits extend beyond salary increases. ITIL-certified professionals often move into service desk management, ITSM coordination, or process improvement roles. It demonstrates that you think beyond just fixing problems to improving how services are delivered.

Many Irish organisations, particularly multinationals and government departments, value ITIL certifications highly. If you're targeting these sectors, ITIL Foundation becomes almost essential.

Microsoft Ecosystem Specialisation

Microsoft 365 Certified: Modern Desktop Administrator Associate

As organisations shift toward cloud-based productivity suites, Microsoft 365 skills become increasingly valuable. This associate-level certification validates abilities to deploy, configure, secure, manage, and monitor devices and applications in enterprise environments.

The certification requires passing two exams:

MD-100 (Windows Client) covers Windows 10/11 deployment, updates, configuration, and troubleshooting.

MD-101 (Managing Modern Desktops) focuses on device management, app deployment, security, and compliance.

You'll learn to work with Microsoft Endpoint Manager, Intune, Autopilot, and various security features. These are real skills you'll use daily supporting modern Windows environments, not abstract knowledge that sits unused.

Who should pursue this? Anyone supporting desktop environments in organisations using Microsoft 365. That includes help desk technicians, desktop administrators, and systems administrators. Given Microsoft's dominance in Irish business environments, these skills remain highly marketable.

Preparation time varies based on existing Microsoft experience. If you already support Windows devices and Microsoft 365, perhaps 2-3 months suffices. Coming fresh, expect 4-6 months of dedicated study.

This certification can serve as a foundation for more advanced Microsoft credentials in areas like security or enterprise administration.

Combining Credentials: CompTIA IT Operations Specialist

CompTIA's stackable certification model allows combining multiple credentials into specialist certifications. The IT Operations Specialist (CIOS) combines CompTIA A+ and Network+, demonstrating comprehensive operational capabilities.

This isn't a separate exam, it's awarded automatically when you hold both A+ and Network+ certifications. Think of it as recognition that you've developed well-rounded skills covering both endpoint support and network operations.

Why does stacking matter? It signals to employers that you're committed to continuous learning rather than stopping after one certification. It also provides clear progression paths. After CIOS, you might add Security+ to earn the CompTIA Secure Infrastructure Specialist (CSIS) certification.

The stackable approach offers flexibility. You can earn certifications at your own pace, building a portfolio of credentials rather than pursuing one massive certification. This suits professionals balancing career development with work and personal commitments.

Alternative Paths: Vendor-Specific Training

AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner

While Azure dominates in many Irish enterprises, Amazon Web Services powers significant infrastructure. The AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner provides foundational knowledge of AWS cloud services, security, architecture, and pricing.

Like Azure Fundamentals, this isn't deeply technical. You'll learn AWS terminology, understand core services, and grasp basic architectural principles. It's designed for anyone working with AWS, regardless of role.

The exam covers:

• Cloud concepts and AWS global infrastructure
• Security and compliance
• Technology (compute, database, networking, storage)
• Billing and pricing

Preparation requires perhaps 20-30 hours if you have general cloud knowledge. AWS offers free digital training and practice exams, making this an accessible starting point for cloud certifications.

Consider AWS certifications if you work in environments using multiple cloud providers or if you're targeting roles at AWS-focused companies. Many Irish tech firms and startups build on AWS infrastructure, creating demand for these skills.

Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST)

Cisco recently introduced the CCST certifications as entry points into Cisco technologies. These sit below CCNA, focusing on foundational skills in networking or cybersecurity.

CCST Networking covers basic network concepts, addressing infrastructure and troubleshooting. It's designed for those just starting with Cisco equipment, requiring no prior experience.

CCST Cybersecurity introduces security concepts, network security, endpoint security, and vulnerability assessment.

These certifications appeal to those wanting Cisco-specific credentials without CCNA's intensity. They're relatively new, so market recognition is still developing, but they provide structured paths into Cisco's certification ecosystem.

Choosing Your Certification Path

With so many options, how do you decide? Consider these factors:

Career stage matters. Starting out? Foundation certifications like CompTIA A+ or Google IT Support come first. Several years in? Look toward intermediate credentials like Network+ or Security+. Ready for specialisation? Pursue advanced certifications in your chosen focus area.

Your work environment guides choices. Supporting Microsoft environments? Microsoft certifications make sense. Working with Cisco networks? CCNA becomes priority. Mixed environments? Vendor-neutral CompTIA certifications offer flexibility.

Industry context influences value. Financial services often require security credentials. Managed service providers value broad knowledge across multiple technologies. Enterprise organisations appreciate ITIL certification for anyone in service roles.

Budget constraints affect decisions. CompTIA certifications typically cost €300-€400 per exam. Microsoft exams run around €150-€200. Google's IT Support certificate costs roughly €40 monthly until completion. Factor in study materials, which can add €100-€300 depending on resources chosen.

Time availability determines feasibility. Full-time work plus family commitments? Self-paced options like Google's certificate or Microsoft Learn paths offer flexibility. Instructor-led training accelerates preparation but requires schedule coordination.

Learning style shapes success. Some people thrive with self-study and books. Others need instructor guidance and structured classes. Most certifications offer multiple preparation routes. Choose what works for your learning preferences.

Employment goals matter most. Check job listings for roles you want. Which certifications appear repeatedly in requirements or preferences? That tells you what employers value. Target those credentials first.

One approach that works well: start with a foundation certification (CompTIA A+ or Google IT Support), then specialise based on where you find yourself working. If you join a networking-focused role, pursue Network+ or CCNA. If security becomes your focus, add Security+. Let your actual work experience guide specialisation choices rather than trying to predict the future.

Practical Considerations for Irish Professionals

Exam Costs and Funding Options

Certification costs add up quickly. Here's what you're looking at:

CompTIA certifications: €300-€400 per exam, with most requiring 2-3 exams for full certification

Microsoft certifications: €150-€200 per exam

Cisco CCNA: €300-€350 for the exam

ITIL Foundation: €250-€350 depending on training provider

Many Irish employers offer training budgets or will fund certifications relevant to your role. Don't hesitate to ask about available support. Some organisations require commitments to stay with the company for a specified period after certification, usually 1-2 years. That's reasonable considering their investment.

Professional development funding through Skillnet Ireland sometimes covers IT certification training, particularly for small and medium enterprises. Check whether your employer participates in relevant Skillnet programmes.

Study Resources and Preparation

Official study guides remain the foundation for most certifications. Publishers like Sybex, Pearson, and others produce comprehensive books covering exam objectives.

Online platforms offer alternatives:

• Udemy and Pluralsight provide video courses for most certifications
• Microsoft Learn offers free training for all Microsoft certifications
• Linux Academy (now part of A Cloud Guru) covers cloud and Linux topics
• CompTIA's CertMaster learning tools provide official preparation materials

Practice exams prove invaluable. They identify knowledge gaps and familiarise you with question formats. Never skip practice exams, they're worth the investment.

Maintaining Your Certifications

Most modern certifications expire after 2-3 years. You'll need to renew through continuing education or retesting. CompTIA's CE programme allows renewal by earning continuing education units (CEUs) through activities like completing courses, attending conferences, or publishing articles.

Microsoft certifications renew by passing a free online assessment each year. This seems manageable, but it does require keeping skills current.

Cisco certifications require recertification every three years, either by retesting or completing professional development activities.

Budget time and money for renewals. Letting certifications lapse wastes your initial investment and creates gaps on your CV. Set calendar reminders at least six months before expiration so you're not scrambling at the last minute.

Beyond Certifications: Building Real Experience

Certifications alone won't build your career, they're tools, not destinations. The real value comes from applying certified knowledge in actual work situations.

Home labs let you practice without risking production systems. You don't need expensive equipment, most technologies can be studied using virtualisation software like VirtualBox or VMware. Build test networks, break things, fix them, and learn how everything works.

Side projects demonstrate initiative. Can you build a home server running various services? Set up network monitoring? Create documentation for your learning process? These activities provide talking points during interviews and show you're genuinely interested in technology, not just collecting credentials.

Contributing to open-source projects or writing technical blogs establishes your professional presence. You'll learn more by teaching others, and potential employers can see your knowledge in action.

Certifications open doors, but you still need to walk through them prepared to do the work. Balance credential collection with genuine skill development.

Emerging Trends and Future-Proofing

The IT support field continues to change. Several trends will shape which certifications and skills remain valuable:

Automation and AI are transforming support roles. Rather than replacing support professionals, these technologies handle routine tasks, freeing humans to focus on complex problems requiring judgement and creativity. Understanding how to work alongside automation tools becomes essential.

Cloud expertise will only grow more critical. As organisations migrate to cloud platforms, support roles increasingly involve cloud services management, troubleshooting cloud connectivity, and supporting cloud-based applications.

Security skills become universal requirements rather than specialisations. Every IT professional needs security awareness and capabilities, not just dedicated security teams.

Remote support tools and technologies dominate modern service delivery. The ability to support users and systems remotely, regardless of location, defines contemporary IT support work.

Soft skills matter more. As technical tasks become automated, communication, problem-solving, and customer service abilities differentiate effective support professionals from merely technically competent ones.

Consider these trends when planning certification paths. Foundational technical skills remain important, but complement them with cloud, security, and automation knowledge. Don't neglect development of interpersonal abilities, they're increasingly what separates good support professionals from great ones.

Common Certification Mistakes to Avoid

Learning from others' mistakes saves time and money. Here are pitfalls to avoid:

Pursuing certifications without clear goals. Collecting credentials randomly doesn't build coherent career narratives. Choose certifications that align with realistic career objectives.

Ignoring prerequisites and recommendations. Jumping to advanced certifications without foundationl knowledge leads to frustration and failure. Follow recommended progression paths.

Relying solely on exam dumps. Memorising specific questions might help pass exams, but you won't develop actual skills. Employers will quickly discover the gap between credentials and capabilities.

Neglecting hands-on practice. Reading books and watching videos only takes you so far. You need practical experience applying concepts to truly understand them.

Letting certifications expire. Allowing credentials to lapse wastes your investment and creates awkward CV gaps. Plan renewal activities well in advance.

Choosing certifications based only on salary data. Higher average salaries for certified professionals don't guarantee individual results. Market demand, location, experience, and other factors all influence actual earnings.

Underestimating preparation time. Most people need more study time than they initially expect. Buffer your timeline to avoid last-minute cramming or rescheduling exams.

Focusing exclusively on technical certifications. ITIL or project management credentials often provide as much career value as additional technical certifications, particularly as you progress toward leadership roles.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become certified in IT support?

The timeline varies significantly based on starting knowledge and chosen certification. CompTIA A+, the most common entry point, typically requires 2-3 months of dedicated study for beginners. Google's IT Support Professional Certificate takes approximately 6 months at 10 hours weekly. More advanced certifications like CCNA might require 4-6 months, even with networking experience. You can accelerate timelines with intensive study, but rushing often leads to inadequate preparation and failed exams. Budget a realistic time based on your current knowledge, learning pace, and available study hours.

Do I need a degree to get IT support certifications?

No degree is required for most IT certifications. CompTIA, Microsoft, Cisco, and other certification bodies focus on demonstrated knowledge rather than formal education. This makes certifications particularly valuable for career changers and self-taught professionals. Some advanced certifications recommend work experience, but even these don't mandate university degrees. That said, many employers prefer candidates with both certifications and degrees for senior positions. Certifications can sometimes compensate for a lack of formal education, particularly at entry and intermediate levels.

Which certification should I start with if I'm completely new to IT?

CompTIA A+ or Google IT Support Professional Certificate are ideal starting points for complete beginners. CompTIA A+ offers broader recognition and validates foundational skills across hardware, software, networking, and security. Google's certificate provides structured learning at lower cost, though it carries slightly less industry recognition. If the budget is tight, start with Google's programme to build foundation knowledge, then pursue CompTIA A+ for formal certification. Both options prepare you for entry-level help desk and technical support roles without requiring prior IT experience.

Are CompTIA certifications recognised in Ireland and across Europe?

Yes, CompTIA certifications are globally recognised, including throughout Ireland and Europe. Many multinational corporations with Irish operations specifically request CompTIA credentials in job postings. The vendor-neutral nature of CompTIA certifications makes them particularly valuable in diverse technology environments. However, some European organisations may place greater emphasis on vendor-specific certifications from Microsoft or Cisco, depending on their technology stack. Overall, CompTIA certifications are well-respected throughout Ireland's IT sector and provide excellent value for building foundational skills.

How much does it cost to get certified in IT support in Ireland?

Certification costs in Ireland align with international pricing. CompTIA exams cost €300-€400 each, with most certifications requiring two exams. Microsoft certification exams run €150-€200. Cisco CCNA costs approximately €300-€350. ITIL Foundation ranges from €250-€350, depending on the  training provider. Additional costs include study materials (€100-€300) and optional training courses (€500-€2,000). Total investment for starting certifications typically falls between €800-€1,500. Many Irish employers offer training budgets to offset these costs. Also investigate Skillnet Ireland funding opportunities for potential financial support.

Can I take certification exams online or must I go to a testing centre?

Most major certifications now offer online proctored exams as alternatives to testing centres. CompTIA, Microsoft, and Cisco all provide online testing through platforms like Pearson VUE. You'll need a computer with a webcam, stable internet connection, and quiet private space. Online proctors monitor you via webcam throughout the exam to ensure integrity. Some people prefer testing centres for better internet reliability and fewer environmental distractions. Testing centres operate throughout Ireland in Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Galway, and other cities. Choose based on your comfort level and available facilities.

How often do I need to renew IT certifications?

Most modern certifications require renewal every 2-3 years to ensure skills remain current. CompTIA certifications expire after three years and can be renewed through continuing education units or retesting. Microsoft certifications require annual renewal via free online assessments. Cisco certifications last three years before requiring recertification. ITIL Foundation doesn't expire but may be viewed as outdated over time. Budget time and potential costs for renewals when planning certification paths. Some employers cover renewal expenses, particularly for certifications relevant to your current role.

Will certifications guarantee me a job in IT support?

Certifications don't guarantee employment, but they significantly improve prospects. They demonstrate knowledge, commitment to professional development, and meet many employers' minimum requirements. However, hiring decisions also consider experience, soft skills, cultural fit, and other factors. Certifications are most effective when combined with relevant experience, whether through entry-level positions, volunteer work, or personal projects. They're powerful tools for opening doors and getting interviews, but you still need to demonstrate capability during the hiring process and on the job.

Summary Table: Key IT Support Certifications

Ready to Advance Your IT Support Career?

Certifications provide the foundation, but skilled support requires more than credentials. At Auxilion, we understand the challenges facing IT support professionals because we've built our business around solving them.

Whether you're looking to join a team that values continuous learning or your organisation needs expert IT support services, we're here to help. Our experienced professionals hold the certifications that matter and apply them daily in real-world situations.

Get in touch with Auxilion today to discuss how our IT support services can support your organisation or explore career opportunities with a team committed to professional growth.