5 answers
5 answers
Updated
Sneha’s Answer
Hey Adrielle! If you're aiming for a job in IT, there are several valuable trainings and certifications that can give you a strong edge, especially if you're just starting out:
CompTIA A+ is a great foundational cert for IT support, covering hardware, networking, and troubleshooting.
CompTIA Network+ focuses on networking basics and is useful for help desk, network tech, and admin roles.
CompTIA Security+ is ideal if you're interested in cybersecurity and teaches essential security skills.
Google IT Support Certificate or IBM IT Support Professional Certificate are beginner-friendly and flexible online programs.
Microsoft Azure, AWS Cloud Practitioner, or Google Cloud are helpful if you're aiming for cloud-focused IT roles.
Basic scripting or coding in Python, PowerShell, or Bash is not required for all IT jobs but can be very useful.
Also, get hands-on practice by setting up home labs (virtual machines, networks), and look for internships, part-time tech roles, or volunteer work to build real experience. Good luck!
CompTIA A+ is a great foundational cert for IT support, covering hardware, networking, and troubleshooting.
CompTIA Network+ focuses on networking basics and is useful for help desk, network tech, and admin roles.
CompTIA Security+ is ideal if you're interested in cybersecurity and teaches essential security skills.
Google IT Support Certificate or IBM IT Support Professional Certificate are beginner-friendly and flexible online programs.
Microsoft Azure, AWS Cloud Practitioner, or Google Cloud are helpful if you're aiming for cloud-focused IT roles.
Basic scripting or coding in Python, PowerShell, or Bash is not required for all IT jobs but can be very useful.
Also, get hands-on practice by setting up home labs (virtual machines, networks), and look for internships, part-time tech roles, or volunteer work to build real experience. Good luck!
Updated
Matt’s Answer
Hey Adrielle! It’s awesome that you’re thinking ahead about getting into IT—there are so many paths you can take, and starting while you're still a student gives you a big advantage.
Here are a few beginner-friendly training options to help you get started:
Start with the Basics
Look into certifications like CompTIA A+—it’s perfect for beginners and teaches you how computers, software, and troubleshooting work. It’s a great foundation for most IT roles.
Try Free or Low-Cost Online Courses
Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Google Career Certificates offer student-friendly programs. The Google IT Support Certificate is especially great—it’s designed for people new to tech and can be completed at your own pace.
Explore What Interests You
Not sure which area of IT you like most? Try out short courses in networking, cybersecurity, or cloud computing (like AWS or Microsoft Azure). These are all hot fields with lots of job opportunities.
Get Hands-On Practice
Even simple things like setting up your own website, helping friends with tech problems, or using virtual labs can build confidence and experience.
Join Student Tech Communities
Clubs, online forums, or LinkedIn groups for students in IT can connect you with others and open up internship or mentorship opportunities.
You don’t need to know everything right away—just start small, stay curious, and build from there!
Here are a few beginner-friendly training options to help you get started:
Start with the Basics
Look into certifications like CompTIA A+—it’s perfect for beginners and teaches you how computers, software, and troubleshooting work. It’s a great foundation for most IT roles.
Try Free or Low-Cost Online Courses
Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Google Career Certificates offer student-friendly programs. The Google IT Support Certificate is especially great—it’s designed for people new to tech and can be completed at your own pace.
Explore What Interests You
Not sure which area of IT you like most? Try out short courses in networking, cybersecurity, or cloud computing (like AWS or Microsoft Azure). These are all hot fields with lots of job opportunities.
Get Hands-On Practice
Even simple things like setting up your own website, helping friends with tech problems, or using virtual labs can build confidence and experience.
Join Student Tech Communities
Clubs, online forums, or LinkedIn groups for students in IT can connect you with others and open up internship or mentorship opportunities.
You don’t need to know everything right away—just start small, stay curious, and build from there!
Updated
Awan’s Answer
Hello Adrielle, I'm excited to help you on your journey toward an IT career in 2025! To thrive in the latest tech, think about learning in areas like Generative AI, Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing (using platforms like AWS or Azure), Data Science, Blockchain technologies, DevOps practices, and Full Stack Development. These fields are in high demand and offer exciting opportunities. Also, getting certifications like AWS Certified Solutions Architect or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) can really boost your credentials. Wishing you amazing success in your future IT adventures!
Updated
Raj’s Answer
For General IT / Help Desk (great entry-level path):
- CompTIA A+ – Gold standard for entry-level IT. Covers hardware, troubleshooting, networking basics, and operating systems.
- Google IT Support Professional Certificate (Coursera) – Beginner-friendly and well-respected. Great if you're starting from scratch.
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) – Good introduction to cloud computing.
- Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) – Basics of networking, a good starting point for Cisco certifications.
For Networking:
- CompTIA Network+ – Builds on A+, focused on networking fundamentals.
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) – Well-respected and more in-depth in networking concepts.
For Cybersecurity:
- CompTIA Security+ – A solid starting point for cybersecurity. Covers threats, vulnerabilities, and risk management.
- TryHackMe or Hack The Box – Hands-on platforms that teach real-world security skills.
- Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate – A newer but comprehensive certificate for beginners.
For Cloud/DevOps Roles:
- AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner – Entry-level certification for Amazon Web Services.
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) – Equivalent for Microsoft's cloud platform.
- Linux Essentials – Useful for working with servers, cloud infrastructure, and DevOps environments.
Bonus Tips:
- Learn basic scripting – Python or PowerShell are both valuable for automation and troubleshooting.
- Get hands-on experience – Set up a home lab, or use online platforms like TryHackMe, Codecademy, or Udemy.
- Work on soft skills – Communication, problem-solving, and resourcefulness are just as important as technical knowledge.
- CompTIA A+ – Gold standard for entry-level IT. Covers hardware, troubleshooting, networking basics, and operating systems.
- Google IT Support Professional Certificate (Coursera) – Beginner-friendly and well-respected. Great if you're starting from scratch.
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) – Good introduction to cloud computing.
- Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) – Basics of networking, a good starting point for Cisco certifications.
For Networking:
- CompTIA Network+ – Builds on A+, focused on networking fundamentals.
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) – Well-respected and more in-depth in networking concepts.
For Cybersecurity:
- CompTIA Security+ – A solid starting point for cybersecurity. Covers threats, vulnerabilities, and risk management.
- TryHackMe or Hack The Box – Hands-on platforms that teach real-world security skills.
- Google Cybersecurity Professional Certificate – A newer but comprehensive certificate for beginners.
For Cloud/DevOps Roles:
- AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner – Entry-level certification for Amazon Web Services.
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) – Equivalent for Microsoft's cloud platform.
- Linux Essentials – Useful for working with servers, cloud infrastructure, and DevOps environments.
Bonus Tips:
- Learn basic scripting – Python or PowerShell are both valuable for automation and troubleshooting.
- Get hands-on experience – Set up a home lab, or use online platforms like TryHackMe, Codecademy, or Udemy.
- Work on soft skills – Communication, problem-solving, and resourcefulness are just as important as technical knowledge.
Updated
Therald’s Answer
The training you choose should align with your passions and future aspirations, and there's a straightforward path to get you started. Begin by building a strong foundation in IT. A fantastic starting point is the Google IT Support Certificate, which teaches essential skills like troubleshooting, networking, system administration, and security. This is perfect if you're new to IT and eager to learn how systems work.
After mastering the basics, dive into networking and system operations. Certifications like CompTIA A+, Network+, or Security+ provide valuable insights that are useful for many IT careers, especially if you're interested in support, system administration, or cybersecurity. At the same time, getting to know operating systems like Windows and Linux is crucial. Being able to navigate file systems, use command-line tools, and manage users or services will boost your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios.
Cloud computing is also a key area in today’s IT field. Understanding platforms like Microsoft Azure or Amazon AWS can give you a significant advantage. Introductory certifications like AZ-900 or AWS Cloud Practitioner are designed to help you grasp cloud concepts without requiring advanced technical experience.
Hands-on practice is just as important. Setting up virtual labs at home with tools like VirtualBox, tackling challenges on platforms like TryHackMe or Hack The Box, or experimenting with Cisco Packet Tracer can solidify your learning. These experiences not only increase your confidence but also provide practical context for your knowledge.
Don't forget the power of soft skills. IT professionals often interact with people who aren't tech-savvy, so strong communication, patience, and the ability to explain technical issues clearly can really make you stand out.
Once you've gained some training and practical experience, you'll be well-prepared to pursue entry-level IT jobs like IT support specialist, help desk technician, or junior system administrator. If you have a specific IT area you're passionate about—like cybersecurity, cloud, or networking—let me know, and I can help tailor your training path even further.
After mastering the basics, dive into networking and system operations. Certifications like CompTIA A+, Network+, or Security+ provide valuable insights that are useful for many IT careers, especially if you're interested in support, system administration, or cybersecurity. At the same time, getting to know operating systems like Windows and Linux is crucial. Being able to navigate file systems, use command-line tools, and manage users or services will boost your problem-solving skills in real-world scenarios.
Cloud computing is also a key area in today’s IT field. Understanding platforms like Microsoft Azure or Amazon AWS can give you a significant advantage. Introductory certifications like AZ-900 or AWS Cloud Practitioner are designed to help you grasp cloud concepts without requiring advanced technical experience.
Hands-on practice is just as important. Setting up virtual labs at home with tools like VirtualBox, tackling challenges on platforms like TryHackMe or Hack The Box, or experimenting with Cisco Packet Tracer can solidify your learning. These experiences not only increase your confidence but also provide practical context for your knowledge.
Don't forget the power of soft skills. IT professionals often interact with people who aren't tech-savvy, so strong communication, patience, and the ability to explain technical issues clearly can really make you stand out.
Once you've gained some training and practical experience, you'll be well-prepared to pursue entry-level IT jobs like IT support specialist, help desk technician, or junior system administrator. If you have a specific IT area you're passionate about—like cybersecurity, cloud, or networking—let me know, and I can help tailor your training path even further.