This guide will answer one of today’s biggest questions: Are IT Solutions certifications worth it? We’ll explore everything you need to know before diving into the world of tech certifications. Whether you’re totally new to IT or just looking for a fresh start, we’ve got your back.
To stay competitive today, businesses must keep up with the latest tech, including IT solutions. An IT solution is a collection of applications or services created to address a particular issue. It may comprise software, hardware, and services, or any combination of these three, and also include products created by third-party manufacturers.
With IT solutions in demand in all sectors, IT professional services are more important than ever. Companies need skilled people who can set up these solutions and keep them running smoothly and securely.
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One of the best ways to break into the industry—or level up if you’re already in it—is by earning IT Solutions certifications. These training programs help you build the skills employers are looking for, from setting up networks and managing cloud systems to troubleshooting software and securing sensitive data.
But with degrees and bootcamps already out there, you might wonder why go for a certification. Are IT Solutions certifications worth it?
What Are IT Solutions Certifications?
IT solutions certification serves as proof of your expertise in a specific skill or technology. They show employers that you’re not just guessing your way through tasks—you’ve been trained, tested, and validated.
These certifications usually focus on real-world skills, like setting up IT infrastructure, managing cloud services, protecting networks, or supporting end-users. You usually take a course (sometimes in-person, often online), study the material, maybe do some hands-on labs or practice tasks, and then take a certification exam.
Some certifications even come with digital badges or shareable links so you can flex your skills online.
Well-known tech companies and training providers offer them, often aligning with the tools and systems businesses actually use. Here are some of the top IT certifications:
- CompTIA A+ – Great for beginners. Covers basic IT support and troubleshooting.
- CompTIA Network+ – For those who want to work in networking.
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) – Super popular in the networking world.
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals / Administrator – Focused on cloud computing using Microsoft Azure.
- AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate – Amazon’s cloud certification. In demand like crazy.
- Google IT Support Certificate – Offered via Coursera. A budget-friendly way to get into IT support.
The value of IT certifications varies based on several factors—like which certification you choose, your current experience level, your career goals, and what employers in your area or field are actually looking for.
For example, an entry-level cert like CompTIA A+ might help you land your first help desk or IT support job. On the other hand, a more advanced cert like the AWS Solutions Architect could lead to a higher-paying role in cloud engineering—especially if you already have some tech experience under your belt.
More people are catching on. According to the latest IT Skills and Salary Report, 93% of tech professionals in 2024 said they have at least one certification—up from 88% the year before. That’s a strong sign that certifications are becoming a must-have, not just a nice-to-have.
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How Much Do IT Certifications Cost?
The cost is another important factor in answering the question, “Are IT Solutions certifications worth it?”
IT certifications can range anywhere from free to over $1,000, depending on the provider, the level of the certification, and what’s included.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Free or low-cost options – Some platforms, like Coursera or edX, offer some of the best IT certifications for beginners (like the Google IT Support Certificate) for under $50/month. Some even offer full scholarships or free trials.
- Mid-range certifications – Popular certs like CompTIA A+ or Network+ typically cost between $150 and $350 just for the exam, not including study materials or courses.
- Advanced and specialty certifications – Higher-level certs, like the AWS Solutions Architect – Associate or Cisco CCNA, can run anywhere from $300 to $600 for the exam alone. Add training courses, practice tests, and study guides, and you might spend upwards of $1,000.
While these prices may seem steep, they’re still far less than the cost of a college degree.
Affordable & Free Options
Like most people seeking certifications, you might not be ready to spend hundreds upfront. Here are some affordable IT certifications:
- Google IT Support Certificate (Coursera): First 7 days free, then $39/month. Depending on your pace, you can complete it in 3–6 months. Often offers financial aid if you apply!
- AWS Skill Builder: Offers free training courses. You only pay for the exam.
- Microsoft Learn: Tons of free, self-paced tutorials and learning paths.
- CompTIA ITF+: An intro-level cert that sometimes costs under $150.
- LinkedIn Learning: Offers prep for many certs, often free with a library card or free trial.
Financial Aid, Discounts, and Payment Plans
- Coursera: Many certs offer a “financial aid” application where you can get access for free if you qualify.
- Scholarships and Vouchers: Aside from financial aid for IT certifications, some nonprofits and workforce development programs offer vouchers for free or discounted exams.
- ISAs (Income Share Agreements): A few training programs (like Springboard or CareerFoundry) let you train now and pay later—but read the fine print.
- Monthly Payment Plans: Many platforms offer installment options, so you’re not dropping hundreds all at once.
How Do They Compare to a College Degree?
Let’s start comparing IT certification vs degree. While both options hold value, they serve different purposes and suit different types of learners and career paths.
| Category | IT Certifications | College Degree |
| Time | Weeks to months | 2–4 years |
| Cost | $100–$3,000 | $10,000–$100,000+ |
| Focus | Specific job skills | Broad education |
| Flexibility | Often online, self-paced | Structured schedule |
| Outcome | Job-ready skills | Long-term education foundation |
Short vs. Long-Term Commitment
Certifications are usually faster. You could be job-ready in under 6 months. Degrees take time—but they also open doors to jobs that require a bachelor’s.
That said, a LOT of tech jobs don’t require a degree anymore. Google, Apple, and IBM have all said they don’t care about college as much as they care about skills.
Cost Comparison
We’re talking a couple of hundred bucks vs. tens of thousands. If you’re on a tight budget, certifications are a way to start earning sooner without drowning in debt.
The cost of IT certifications is only a fraction of what you’d pay for a college degree, and in many cases, you can start working right after getting certified. That means you’re not just saving money—you’re also cutting down the time it takes to land a job and start earning a paycheck.
Plus, some employers even reimburse certification costs or offer training support if you’re already working in IT. So not only is it cheaper upfront, but it might not come out of your pocket at all.
And here’s the best part: Certifications can stack. You don’t need to commit to one huge program all at once. You can earn one, get a job, gain experience, and then pick up another cert when you’re ready to level up. It’s a flexible, step-by-step path into the tech world—especially for those who want a career change or a faster entry point.
But What About Value?
This is the real question: Are you getting a good return on your investment?
If your goal is to get into tech fast, start earning, and maybe work your way up later, certifications give you amazing value. If your dream is to become a tech manager or go into computer science research, you might still want that degree later—but a cert can help you get a foot in the door now.
Will an IT Certification Help Me Get a Job?
Yes, but it depends.
An IT certification can absolutely help you land a job, especially if you’re just starting or trying to switch careers. Yet, a certification alone won’t guarantee a job. Most employers are looking for a mix of things—some hands-on experience, good communication skills, problem-solving ability, and yes, some proof of technical knowledge (that’s where the cert comes in).
The kinds of jobs you can pursue with online IT certifications will also depend on what certification you earn and what area of IT you want to work in. Here are some of the best IT certifications that pay well, ranging from beginner to advanced levels.
Entry-Level IT Certifications and Roles:
- CompTIA A+
- Great for beginners. Covers the basics of hardware, software, troubleshooting, and security.
- Possible job titles:
- IT Support Specialist
- Help Desk Technician
- Network Technician
- Junior Cloud Administrator
- Systems Support Analyst
- Google IT Support Certificate (via Coursera)
- Another beginner-friendly option for those looking to break into IT support roles
Mid-Level to Advanced Certifications and Roles:
- CompTIA Network+ / Cisco CCNA
- Ideal for those interested in networking.
- Possible job titles:
- Network Administrator
- Network Engineer
- Infrastructure Technician
- AWS Certified Solutions Architect / Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
- Best for cloud-related roles.
- Possible job titles:
- Cloud Support Associate
- Cloud Administrator
- Junior DevOps Engineer
- CompTIA Security+ / Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
- Perfect for getting started in cybersecurity.
- Possible job titles:
- Security Analyst
- SOC Analyst (Security Operations Center)
- Information Security Technician
Who Should Consider IT Certifications?
Honestly? A lot of people, especially
- High school graduates
- Working adults who want a change
- Career changers
- People who can’t afford college right now
- Students or Recent grads looking for an edge
Essentially, an IT certification is a good choice if you want to improve your skills, get more experience, or move forward in your career — especially if you’re new to the field or don’t have other similar qualifications yet.
Final Thoughts: Are They Worth It?
Let’s circle back to the big question: Are IT Solutions certifications worth it? They can be. The career benefits of IT certifications are vast—but like anything, it depends on your goals.
Here’s when getting an IT certification could be worth it:
- You’re new to the IT field. If you are without prior work experience, school projects, or personal IT projects to show in interviews, an IT certification can help you stand out.
- You’re already working in IT but seek advancement. If you want to move into a new specialty or expand your expertise, certifications can help you get there.
- You’re looking to boost your salary. Certifications and skill development are linked to salary increases in IT. According to Skillsoft, IT professionals saw an average raise of 5% in 2024.
- You’ve considered certification costs. While the upfront cost may seem high, certifications often pay off by opening doors to well-paying careers. For instance, CISSP holders earned an average of $129,000 in 2025. Entry-level jobs for those with a CompTIA A+ certification typically offer salaries between $45,000 and $60,000.
- Certifications are required for the job. For example, working in information assurance for the Department of Defense requires approved certifications.
Cases when you can skip getting certified:
- Your job doesn’t require it. Nearly half of tech pros don’t have certifications and report they aren’t needed for their roles. If you’re doing well and learning on the job, certification might not be a priority.
- You have strong hands-on experience. If your practical skills and experience already prove your abilities, a certification may not add much value right now.
If you’re ready to invest the time and money, and you pick certifications that align with your career path, they can definitely be worth it. But always weigh the costs, your current skills, and your goals before jumping in.
If you’re serious about getting started, check out:
- Top 17 IT Certifications in Demand
- Tips on how to get Scholarships for College
- CompTIA IT certification
There’s no one-size-fits-all path. Whether you’re climbing the career ladder or establishing your career path, certifications might just be the tool you need to get started.