The Top 10 Hardware Certifications for Computer Technicians in 2023

As a computer technician getting certified in hardware can significantly boost your career opportunities and earning potential. But with so many options out there it can be tricky to determine which certifications are worth pursuing. In this article, I’ll break down the top 10 hardware certifications that are most valuable for aspiring and experienced computer technicians today.

Why Get Certified?

Before jumping into the certs it’s important to understand why you should consider getting certified in the first place. Here are some of the key benefits

• Prove your skills – Certifications validate that you have the technical skills and knowledge needed to work on hardware for computers, servers, networks and other devices.

• Increase hireability – Many employers specifically look for candidates with certifications when hiring for IT roles. It gives you a competitive edge.

• Higher pay – Certified technicians often command higher salaries than those without credentials. The cert acts as proof of your specialized expertise.

• Career advancement – Certifications allow you to take on more advanced roles with greater responsibility, paving the way for promotions.

• Confidence – Studying for and passing exams gives you the confidence that you possess the competencies to succeed as a hardware technician.

Now let’s explore the top certification options.

1. CompTIA A+

The CompTIA A+ certification is the industry standard credential for establishing core IT skills and knowledge. It covers fundamentals like hardware configuration, software installation, preventative maintenance, networking, security, and more.

The CompTIA A+ consists of two required exams:

• 220-1001 – Covers mobile devices, networking technology, hardware, virtualization, cloud computing and network troubleshooting.

• 220-1002 – Covers installing and configuring operating systems, expanded security, software troubleshooting and operational procedures.

This entry-level certification gets your foot in the door if you’re just starting out as a computer tech. It’s also a great credential to have even as you advance in your career.

2. CompTIA Network+

While the A+ focuses on baseline skills, the CompTIA Network+ certification goes a step further to validate your skills in enterprise networking. It covers topics like network technologies, installation and configuration, media and topologies, management, and security.

To earn the Network+, you must pass one 90-minute exam consisting of 90 multiple-choice questions. The exam costs around $320.

This is an intermediate-level credential that demonstrates you have the networking knowledge to work with hardware infrastructure across an organization.

3. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

For technicians working extensively with Microsoft products, the MCSE certification is a powerful credential. It demonstrates your ability to design, build, deploy and manage infrastructure solutions based on Microsoft technologies.

Some of the MCSE certification paths include:

• MCSE: Cloud Platform and Infrastructure – Validates expertise in Windows Server, cloud computing and platform virtualization.

• MCSE: Mobility – Focuses on deploying and managing Windows devices and apps.

• MCSE: Data Management and Analytics – Covers skills in data management, analysis, business intelligence and big data analytics using Microsoft solutions.

The MCSE typically requires passing 3-5 exams and 1-2 years of hands-on experience depending on the path. The credential doesn’t expire, but some exams may need to be retaken to stay current.

4. Cisco CCNA

The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification is a gold standard for networking technicians. It covers skills like installation, configuration, administration, security and troubleshooting of Cisco networking devices.

To become CCNA certified, you pass one exam covering basic networking concepts and skills. The 90 minute exam has around 100 questions and costs $300.

For computer technicians working extensively with Cisco switches, routers and other gear, having a CCNA is a huge advantage. It demonstrates your practical abilities to manage and troubleshoot Cisco network hardware.

5. Apple Certified Mac Technician (ACMT)

MacBooks and Apple desktops are commonplace in businesses and homes today. Technicians planning to service Mac hardware should strongly consider getting Apple Certified.

The Apple Certified Mac Technician (ACMT) certification involves passing two exams:

• Apple Service Fundamentals Exam – Tests core skills and best practices for supporting Apple products.

• ACMT Exam – Evaluates your technical ability to diagnose and repair Apple hardware issues.

Certified Mac techs gain access to Apple’s proprietary diagnostic tools and troubleshooting resources. The ACMT credential signals you have mastered the intricacies of Mac hardware repair.

6. CompTIA Server+

The CompTIA Server+ certification confirms your skills in the installation, management, troubleshooting and day-to-day operation of advanced server infrastructure.

It consists of one exam that covers server hardware, disaster recovery, security, troubleshooting and more. The 100-question exam takes 90 minutes.

For technicians responsible for administering business-critical servers, the CompTIA Server+ certification can help showcase your expertise while potentially opening doors to higher-level positions.

7. Dell EMC Proven Professional

Dell EMC offers a suite of specialized tracks for their Proven Professional program. These include:

• Cloud – Focuses on building cloud infrastructure solutions using Dell EMC products.

• Converged Infrastructure – Covers deploying and managing Dell EMC converged infrastructure platforms.

• Data Protection – Validates abilities to implement Dell EMC data protection systems.

• Networking – Demonstrates networking skills specific to Dell EMC technologies.

• Storage – Designed for technicians who configure and manage Dell EMC storage environments.

Each track involves passing an exam focused on installing, configuring and managing Dell EMC products for that technology area. These credentials help demonstrate your real-world abilities to support and integrate Dell’s infrastructure solutions.

8. Lenovo Certified System Technician

Technicians who service Lenovo workstations and servers should consider the Lenovo Certified System Technician certification. It validates your expertise to install, configure, upgrade and repair Lenovo computer hardware.

To earn this credential, you must pass two exams:

• Hardware – Tests skills in system components, installation, upgrades and troubleshooting.

• Software – Focuses on OS deployment, networking, data recovery and security.

The certification helps prove you can provide skilled support across Lenovo’s desktop, laptop and server portfolio.

9. HP Accredited Technical Associate (ATA)

For technicians working with HP hardware, the HP Accredited Technical Associate certification should be on your radar. It covers practical skills needed to install, manage, migrate, troubleshoot and maintain HP solutions for SMB and enterprise customers.

Two ATA exams are available:

• ATA – PC Hardware – Tests basic hardware support skills for HP workstations, desktops, laptops, thin clients and more.

• ATA – Servers and Storage – Focuses on skills to deploy and maintain HP server and storage products.

The HP ATA credential allows you to tap into HP training resources and enhances your career opportunities with HP partners and customers.

10. Juniper Networks Certified Specialist

The Juniper Networks Certified Specialist (JNCS) certifications validate your skills with Juniper infrastructure hardware and software. Two hardware-focused JNCS tracks are:

• JNCS-DC – Covers data center switching and routing platforms.

• JNCS-SEC – Focuses on Juniper security devices and software.

These certs allow technicians to demonstrate cross-functional expertise to work on Juniper data center and security infrastructure. Each track requires passing one exam and costs around $200.

Should You Get Certified?

Earning any of these top hardware certifications requires planning and commitment. But the payoff can be well worth the effort for established and aspiring computer technicians alike.

Certifications serve as an unbiased way to prove your competence and proficiency in supporting complex hardware infrastructure. They open doors to new job opportunities and higher salaries. And they allow you to keep advancing in your career by constantly expanding your technical skills.

So carefully consider which certification aligns closest with your experience, interests and professional goals. Then make the commitment to study hard, pass the exams, and get certified! The hardware skills you gain and credentials you earn will provide long-term value for your career as a computer technician.