Best IT Support Certifications & Help Desk Training Courses

Looking to level up your tech game? 

You're in the right spot! 

Whether you're just starting out or already have some experience, getting an IT support certification or certifications for help desk can really give your career a boost. 

In this post, we've rounded up the best certifications out there. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to take your IT skills to the next level!

IT help desk training program comparison chart (top 10 highest rated)

Ready for a quick dive into the top-rated IT training courses list? This chart will give you a snapshot of the top 10 highest-rated help desk certificate programs to make it easier for you to compare and choose the best one for your career goals. 

Diving into the realm of online IT support courses and IT support schools, let's explore our curated top 14 list of the best IT support certifications and help desk certifications.

What are the best IT support certifications & help desk certifications? Here’s our top 14 list:

Ready to discover the top players in the game? In this section, we're unveiling the best IT support certifications and help desk certifications out there. Our top 14 list features a mix of beginner-friendly and advanced certification courses to help you skyrocket your IT career. 

Let's jump right in!

1. CompTIA A+ (best IT support certification overall)

The CompTIA A+ certification is the golden standard for kick-starting your IT career and one of the most popular Comptia certifications. 

As a recognized and trusted credential in the IT industry, the CompTIA A+ certification lays a broad and robust foundation in crucial IT support domains—from networking, operating systems, security, and hardware to cloud computing and virtualization. It tackles resolving network issues and practical device issues.

With its emphasis on real-world problem solving, this certification validates that professionals can effectively handle critical IT support tasks under pressure. The two-part exam (Core 1 - 220-1101 and Core 2 - 220-1102) ensures a comprehensive understanding of the technologies and skills needed in today's hybrid workforce. 

Whether you aim to be an IT Specialist, Help Desk Technician, or a Business Analyst, CompTIA A+ will help you get there. It's the IT support certificate that truly opens doors.

Pros:

• In-demand, globally recognized and highly respected.

• Covers a wide range of fundamental IT topics.

• No prerequisites, great for entry-level candidates.

• Teaches you how to install, configure, and maintain PCs, laptops, printers and mobile devices.

Cons:

• Exam fees can be high.

• Might be broad for those looking to specialize quickly.

Pricing:

• $246/exam

Learn more about CompTIA A+
 

2. ITIL 4 Foundation (best help desk certification overall)

ITIL Foundation is a globally recognized certification that gives you a solid grounding in the core principles of IT service management. It equips you with the essential understanding of the ITIL framework, service lifecycle, and the links between lifecycle stages. 

This certification's practical approach to managing and delivering high-quality IT services makes it the best IT support certification overall. It's your ticket to understanding the language of IT and translating it into effective strategies.

Pros:

• Widely recognized and respected globally.

• Provides a strong foundation in IT service management.

• Applicable to various IT roles and functions.

• Improves your chances of being hired. 

Cons:

• More focused on theory than on practical skills.

• Exam cost can be on the higher end.

• Might be less relevant for those not involved in IT service management.

Pricing:

• Prices range between $500-800 for e-learning

Learn more about ITIL 4 Foundation
 

3. Coursera Google IT Support Professional Certificate (top IT support training for learning IT fundamentals)

The Coursera Google IT Support Professional Certificate is the perfect stepping stone if you’re a beginner who wants to break into the IT field. This comprehensive 6-month course, developed by Google, covers all the fundamentals. It dives deep into everything from the workings of the binary system and hardware to operating systems and computer networks. 

What's more, it doesn't just stop at theory; it ensures you get hands-on experience through interactive labs. This equips you with the practical skills needed in real-world IT situations. Its extensive curriculum, combined with its practical, hands-on approach, is what makes it stand out as the top IT support training for mastering IT fundamentals.

Pros:

• Created by industry leaders (Google).

• Covers a wide range of essential IT topics.

• Offers hands-on labs for practical experience.

• No prerequisites, perfect for beginners.

Cons:

• Might not delve as deeply into some specialized topics.

• Requires a subscription fee to Coursera.

• Completion time can be lengthy for those with limited time.

Pricing:

• $39/month 

Learn more about Coursera Google IT Support Professional Certificate
 

4. Microsoft Certified: Fundamentals (best Microsoft help desk certification)

The Microsoft Certified: Microsoft 365 Fundamentals certification is an excellent choice for anyone keen on supporting the vast services within the Microsoft 365 ecosystem and learning the fundamentals. 

This Microsoft-certified help desk course offers you a robust understanding of Microsoft 365 cloud services, including Office 365, Windows 10, and Enterprise Mobility + Security. 

It's not just about understanding these services—it's also about knowing how to leverage them and make informed decisions about migrating to Microsoft 365 services. 

To be fully prepared for this Microsoft certification, you should also understand the skills being measured and study the relevant content on Microsoft Learn or take part in an instructor-led training event.

Pros:

• Focuses on widely used Microsoft 365 services.

• Provides a strong foundation in cloud service concepts.

• Globally recognized by businesses using Microsoft 365.

Cons:

• Can be quite specific and less relevant if not dealing with Microsoft 365.

• Requires consistent updating with Microsoft's evolving technology.

• May require additional learning resources to grasp some topics fully.

Pricing:

• $99/exam

Learn more about Microsoft Certified: Fundamentals
 

5. Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals (great IT support program for professionals who want to specialize in cloud services and solutions with Microsoft Azure)

The Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals certification serves as an excellent launching pad for professionals aiming to specialize in cloud services and solutions using Microsoft Azure. 

Whether you're a novice or an experienced professional, this program ensures you have a solid grasp of the basics of Microsoft Azure. It validates your knowledge of cloud concepts, Azure services, workloads, security, privacy, pricing, and support, making it a great advanced IT support program for Azure specialization.

Pros:

• Comprehensive coverage of Azure fundamentals.

• Validates understanding of cloud concepts and Azure services.

• Can pave the way for more advanced Azure certifications.

Cons:

• Specific to Azure, limiting in terms of other cloud platforms.

• Might require additional resources for a complete understanding.

• It’s not a prerequisite for any other Azure certification, which might mean more certifications needed for advanced roles.

Pricing:

• $99/exam

Learn more about Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals
 

6. AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate (IT support specialist certification for professionals who design and deploy applications on AWS)

The AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate certification is a comprehensive program designed for individuals with years of experience who design and deploy applications on AWS. This robust AWS certification empowers you to leverage the AWS Well-Architected Framework to design high-performance, cost-efficient solutions.

Recognized as the best IT support specialist certification for AWS environments, you'll learn how to deploy efficient and secure AWS services, manage applications and workloads on the cloud, and operate within the AWS Well-Architected Framework.

Pros:

• Demonstrates comprehensive knowledge of AWS services.

• Enhances credibility with stakeholders and customers.

• Offers deep insights into the Amazon Web Services Well-Architected Framework.

Cons:

• Lacks emphasis on hands-on coding experience.

• It may require additional learning for those new to cloud services.

• Focuses exclusively on AWS, limiting application to other cloud platforms.

Pricing:

• $150/exam

Learn more about AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate
 

7. CompTIA Network+ (good IT technician training if you want to start a career in network administration)

Stepping into network administrator role? The Comptia Network+ certification is a sought-after qualification for technical support and IT operational roles. 

This IT technician course equips you with a robust understanding of how to troubleshoot, configure, and manage networks on any platform, setting you apart in the field. With CompTIA Network+, you'll delve into networking fundamentals, network implementations, operations, and security, and learn effective network troubleshooting techniques. 

This certification is a launchpad for your career in network administration and can help you master the practical skills needed in today's IT landscape to impress any employer.

Pros:

• Industry-standard certification with a wide acceptance.

• Covers a broad range of networking concepts.

• Vendor-neutral, applicable to networks on any platform.

Cons:

• Some prior knowledge of networking may be required for a smooth learning experience.

• Requires dedication and regular study due to the breadth of topics covered.

• May require recertification or additional learning as networking technology advances.

Pricing:

• $358/exam

Learn more about CompTIA Network+
 

8. CompTIA Security+ (top desktop support certification for incident response)

CompTIA Security+ is a globally recognized desktop support certificate, validating the core skills required for IT security roles. 

It's our top desktop support technician training for cybersecurity that teaches you how to assess an organization's security, monitor and secure hybrid environments, and respond to security incidents.

With this hands-on training, you'll learn to mitigate threats and vulnerabilities, manage identity and access, understand risk management, and comply with regulations. This course sets the stage for a career in cybersecurity, making you more proactive in preventing cyber attacks.

Pros:

• Global recognition, enhancing your career prospects.

• Emphasizes practical, hands-on cybersecurity skills.

• Covers latest trends and techniques in cybersecurity.

Cons:

• The course is comprehensive, requiring dedicated study time.

• Some prior IT knowledge may be beneficial for understanding complex concepts.

• Cybersecurity is a rapidly changing field, necessitating regular updates to skills and knowledge.

Pricing:

• $392/exam

Learn more about CompTIA Security+
 

9. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) (great help desk technician certification for cybersecurity professionals) 

The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is a globally recognized certification for cybersecurity professionals. It is highly revered in the IT industry, focusing on developing an in-depth understanding of security concepts and practices.

With CISSP, you will master areas like security and risk management, asset security, security architecture, and communication and network security, among others. It's the ideal certification for help desk technicians seeking to specialize in cybersecurity.

Pros:

• Comprehensive coverage of cybersecurity topics.

• Globally recognized; can help you begin a career.

• Designed for professionals, enhancing specific cybersecurity skills.

Cons:

• Requires substantial time and commitment to prepare for the exam.

• Expensive compared to some other certifications.

• Demands relevant work experience, which may not suit beginners.

Pricing:

• $749/exam

Learn more about Certified Information Systems Security Professional
 

10. HDI Customer Service Representative (HDI-CSR): (level 1 help desk training for enhancing customer service and communication skills in IT support)

Looking to upgrade your customer service skills in a tech-centered environment? The HDI Customer Service Representative (HDI-CSR) training could be just what you need. 

This program focuses on call-handling practices, effective communication and listening techniques, as well as problem-solving and conflict negotiation strategies. It's designed to equip you with the necessary skills to exceed customer expectations and quickly resolve incidents.

Pros:

• Provides an extensive understanding of best practices in service and support.

• Enhances communication skills, both oral and written.

• Teaches effective strategies for dealing with challenging customer behaviors.

• Preparation for the HDI Customer Service Representative certification exam.

Cons:

• May not cover technical aspects in depth.
• The training could be too generic if you're looking for industry-specific skills.

Pricing:

• $79 for the practice test 

• Exam retakes can be purchased for a fee of $99

Learn more about HDI Customer Service Representative
 

11. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) (IT support specialist certification for learning network fundamentals)

The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification can help you showcase your networking skills. This IT support specialist training proves you have the foundational skills about networking, IP services, and security. It also shows you're up to speed with automation and programmability.

The CCNA is a flexible certificate that shows you can handle today's complex networks. Plus, it's a strong starting point for your career, letting you move in any direction in IT. Because CCNA has tough standards and is known worldwide, it can help you stand out in the job market.

Pros:

• Provides comprehensive knowledge of networking basics and emerging fields like automation.

• Demonstrates your ability to manage and optimize advanced networks.

• Widely recognized certification that adds credibility to your IT career.

• Versatile credential that opens opportunities in various IT domains.

Cons:

• The exam can be challenging, requiring dedicated study and preparation.

• It has a relatively high cost.

• Requires recertification every three years.

Pricing:

• $300 

Learn more about Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
 

12. CompTIA CySA+ (Cybersecurity Analyst) (IT support training for cybersecurity analysis and threat mitigation)

The CompTIA CySA+ (Cybersecurity Analyst) IT support course might be your ticket to a career in cybersecurity analysis and threat mitigation. This certification arms you with crucial skills for detecting and managing security incidents through continuous monitoring.

The CompTIA CySA+ demonstrates your understanding of current trends affecting security analysts' work, including hybrid and cloud environments. This certification showcases your expertise in detecting and analyzing potential threats using advanced tools and methods. 

Plus, it's proof of your familiarity with incident response, vulnerability management, and important communication skills for security analysis and compliance.

Pros:

• Recognized as the industry standard in cybersecurity analysis.

• Trains you in the latest methods and support tools for threat detection and analysis.

• Demonstrates your ability to respond effectively to security incidents.

• Highlights your communication skills, vital for security analysis and compliance.

Cons:

• The exam may be challenging for those without prior cybersecurity experience.

• Requires continuous learning to stay current with evolving cybersecurity trends.

Pricing:

• $392

Learn more about CompTIA CySA+
 

13. Apple Certified Support Professional (best Apple help desk certification)

More and more people are getting Apple certifications, as Mac computers are being used a lot in businesses, and many companies are moving from using PCs to Macs. The Apple Certified Support Professional certification is designed for you if you’re considering a career supporting Apple devices. 

This certification aims at IT professionals who manage Macs, iPhones, and iPads in a business environment. It proves your knowledge and technical expertise to support Apple platforms, products, and services. 

The certification process involves passing the Apple Device Support exam. Although there are no prerequisites, Apple suggests viewing their free tutorials and gaining hands-on experience with their devices. 

Holders of this certification can use it to establish their career in the Apple domain further.

Pros:

• Validates your knowledge and technical skills to support Apple platforms and products.

• Prepares you for additional certifications like the Apple Certified IT Professional.

• Useful as Apple devices become more common in enterprise environments.

Cons:

• Requires considerable preparation (30-60 hours) to pass the exam.

• Focused exclusively on Apple products.

Pricing:

• $149

Learn more about Apple Certified Support Professional
 

14. Complete Beginner Course: Technical Support Overview (best free help desk training)

If you want to kickstart your IT support career for free, take a look at the 'Complete Beginner Course: Technical Support Overview'. This IT help desk for beginners course includes a comprehensive introduction to the role of Technical Support. 

The course covers vital topics like the OSI model, DNS concepts, DHCP, Client/Server Architecture, and remote tools. 

It also delves into best practices for handling tickets and provides a basic understanding of networking. Please note that this course is free but does not confer a certification upon completion.

Pros:

• Provides a comprehensive overview of key IT support concepts.

• Absolutely free, making it accessible for everyone.

• Ideal for fresh IT help desk technicians and students interested in improving their IT skills.

Cons:

• No certification is offered upon completion.

• The course content is introductory, not suitable for experienced professionals seeking advanced knowledge.

• The course may not cover all aspects of IT support in depth.

Pricing:

• Free 

Learn more about Complete Beginner Course: Technical Support Overview
 

Which of the certifications for help desk & IT support is best for me? Final points

Choosing the best IT support and help desk certifications ultimately depends on your personal goals, career trajectory, and the specific IT skills you aim to hone. There's no one-size-fits-all solution, as every certification offers unique opportunities and caters to different skill sets and career aspirations.

If you're a beginner trying to break into the industry, the 'Complete Beginner Course: Technical Support Overview' could be a great start. If you’re interested in specializing in certain areas, certifications like 'CompTIA CySA+' for cybersecurity analysis, 'CCNA' for networking, or 'Apple Certified Support Professional' for Apple-specific support can be a better choice.

For IT support professionals who want to validate their expertise and stand out in the job market, pursuing more advanced certifications like 'CISSP' or 'HDI-CSR' could prove beneficial. 

Remember, the value of an IT help desk certification goes beyond merely having another credential in your portfolio. It's about enhancing your skill set, keeping up with evolving technology trends, and making a strong statement about your commitment to your IT career. So, take time to assess what you're trying to achieve in your career, consider the career paths you're interested in, and choose the certification that best aligns with your goals. 

As you further your journey in the IT support and help desk fields, we invite you to explore more valuable resources. Our comprehensive list of the best IT support ticket system tools can offer insight into the top tools in the industry. 

If you're preparing for an upcoming job interview or looking to improve your interviewing skills, our post detailing the most commonly asked help desk support interview questions is a must-read. 

Both these resources are designed to complement your certification efforts and help you navigate the complex world of certifications for IT support and help desk roles. Happy reading, and all the best in your IT career!