Free Online Computer Hardware Courses and Certifications 2024

What Are the Best Computer Hardware Certifications?

CompTIA A+ by CompTIA. This certification is the pioneer and best-known of all hardware credentials. It demonstrates your competencies in hardware, operating systems, software troubleshooting, and mobile devices. It covers topics such as PC components, laptops, printers, networking, security, cloud computing, and more. To earn this certification, you need to pass two exams: Core 1 (220-1001) and Core 2 (220-1002).

Cisco Certified Technician (CCT) by Cisco. This certification validates your skills in diagnosing, restoring, repairing, and replacing critical Cisco networking and system devices at customer sites. It covers topics such as Cisco equipment and related hardware, Cisco IOS software operating modes, Cisco command-line interface (CLI), and service-related knowledge. To earn this certification, you need to pass one of the three exams: CCT Routing & Switching (100-490 RSTECH), CCT Data Center (010-151 DCTECH), or CCT TelePresence (640-692 TPTECH).

Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) by Microsoft. This certification is an entry-level credential that introduces you to fundamental concepts in IT infrastructure, database design, and software development. It covers topics such as Windows operating systems, Windows server administration, networking fundamentals, security fundamentals, database fundamentals, software development fundamentals, HTML5 application development fundamentals, and mobility and device fundamentals. To earn this certification, you need to pass one of the 12 exams available.

Apple Certified Macintosh Technician (ACMT) by Apple. This certification proves your ability to troubleshoot and repair Mac computers and displays. It covers topics such as Mac service and repair processes, Mac tools and resources, Mac logic board architecture and components, Mac troubleshooting techniques and procedures, Mac preventive maintenance and safety measures, Mac display service and repair processes, and more. To earn this certification, you need to pass two exams: Apple Service Fundamentals Exam (SVC-19A) and ACMT 2019 Mac Service certification Exam (MAC-19A).

Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) by (ISC)². This certification demonstrates your technical skills and practical knowledge in implementing, monitoring, and administering IT infrastructure using security best practices, policies, and procedures. It covers topics such as access controls, security operations and administration, risk identification and analysis, incident response and recovery, cryptography, network and communications security, and systems and application security. To earn this certification, you need to pass one exam: SSCP Systems Security Certified Practitioner Exam.