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According to a Network World survey, earning an IT certification led to a new job or a raise in 50 to 60 percent of instances. Other sources like Monster.com and CIO have confirmed that a salary gap exists between the certified and those that lack IT certifications as well. Here are some tech certifications that will boost your earning potential. 1. CompTIA A+ Although it is a common certification, the fact that it is vendor-neutral and shows that you know how to install, configure, protect, and troubleshoot software on a computer makes it a high-demand certification for many employers. The CompTIA A+ certification can help you command a higher salary as an IT technician or help desk support staff. 2. CompTIA Network+ This certification is similar to the previous one, but deals with entire networks rather than just individual computers. Most businesses with more than a handful of employees need a network to communicate and handle their IT needs, making network administrators and technicians an essential part of IT departments today. 3. Certified Information Systems Security Architecture Professional (CISSP) Network and server security is an exploding field within IT, and there is a severe shortage of qualified security professionals that seems like it will only get worse. CISSP certification can even help IT security professionals earn a six figure salary and is required for most upper level IT security jobs, according to Network World. 4. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Cisco certifications were rated most valuable by Network World study participants, and this basic Cisco certification can be a stepping stone to more advanced certifications that will be even more in demand for high-paying positions. IT certifications Your earning potential can skyrocket with the right IT certification. 5. Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) The CCIE certification is listed by multiple sites as a certification that can bring higher-paying job opportunities your way and boost your salary significantly. Monster.com reports that systems engineers with a CCIE certification could earn up to 27 percent more than their uncertified counterparts. 6. Microsoft Certified IT Professional or Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer Microsoft certifications are generally desirable, and these two, in particular, have been known to boost salaries and generate promotions, so they are definitely worth the time they take to prepare for. More than three-quarters of IT professionals surveyed by Network World said they thought IT certifications were valuable for increasing salaries and earning promotions. The best way to prepare for IT certifications is in the classroom, with an instructor who knows the exam and can guide you in what to study. PC AGE offers preparation courses for many of the certifications listed here, with top-notch instruction that will not only help you pass certification exams but will also give you the skills you need to progress in your IT career. Request information about PC AGE’s programs today.

A career in systems administration can be satisfying and rewarding for hardworking individuals capable of managing a complex workload. Systems administrators supervise the maintenance of a company’s networks and servers, software, and hardware.