The 10 Best Certifications to Boost Your Infrastructure Career

Certifications have become a cornerstone of success for IT professionals, playing a significant role in career growth and earning potential. They serve as proof of your skills and knowledge, offering a tangible way to demonstrate your expertise to employers and peers alike. As an infrastructure professional or someone looking to break into the field, obtaining relevant certifications can significantly enhance your career trajectory. According to studies by Global Knowledge, around 83% of IT professionals in North America hold some form of certification. On average, certified professionals earn an additional $84,400 per year compared to their non-certified counterparts, underlining the significant financial benefit of pursuing these credentials.

Why Certifications Matter

Certifications provide multiple advantages for both professionals and employers. First and foremost, they demonstrate a level of competence and understanding of the latest industry standards, tools, and technologies. In the fast-paced world of IT, where new technologies emerge regularly, keeping up-to-date with the latest advancements is crucial. Certifications are one of the best ways to ensure that you are not only current in your field but also stand out in a crowded job market.

For employers, certifications are a clear indication of a candidate’s commitment to their career. Employers recognize the importance of certifications in boosting employee performance. According to research, approximately 44% of decision-makers in IT believe that certifications positively impact the speed at which employees work. Additionally, 33% report that certifications contribute to a higher level of efficiency during the implementation of systems, and 23% agree that certified employees can deploy services and products faster and with fewer errors.

The IT job market is incredibly competitive, and having certifications can significantly improve your job prospects. Employers are more likely to prioritize candidates with certifications over those who have the same work experience but lack formal proof of their skills. In this way, certifications serve as a powerful tool for differentiating yourself from other candidates and positioning yourself as a highly qualified and desirable professional.

Earning Potential and Career Growth

The financial rewards for earning certifications are substantial. Certified IT professionals typically earn higher salaries due to their specialized knowledge and skill sets. The data shows that IT professionals who hold certifications earn, on average, $84,400 more annually than their non-certified counterparts. This makes certifications an investment not only in your skill development but also in your long-term financial growth.

Furthermore, certifications can accelerate career advancement. In many cases, a certification is a requirement for moving into higher-level positions. For instance, if you are looking to become a systems architect, a network engineer, or a cybersecurity specialist, certifications in the relevant fields will make you more competitive for these roles. Employers often look for certified professionals when filling leadership positions because these individuals are perceived as having a higher level of expertise and reliability.

Expanding Knowledge and Skills

Beyond career growth and earning potential, certifications also enhance your personal development. As technology continues to evolve, IT professionals are required to stay on top of emerging tools and methodologies. By pursuing a certification, you will deepen your understanding of your chosen field, gain practical experience, and develop the skills needed to solve complex problems.

For example, certifications like AWS Certified Solutions Architect or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) provide you with a deeper understanding of the cloud computing ecosystem and security practices, respectively. These are not just theoretical credentials; they require practical experience, enabling you to apply what you’ve learned to real-world challenges.

Furthermore, certifications often open the door to new opportunities. For example, obtaining a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification can lead to career shifts into project management roles, which are highly sought after across various industries. Similarly, a Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) credential can launch your career in cybersecurity, a field that continues to grow as organizations place greater emphasis on safeguarding their digital assets.

Employer Recognition of Certification Value

Employers today are increasingly valuing certifications as a standard qualification. Many organizations recognize that having certified professionals in their teams can lead to improved business outcomes, as these individuals can efficiently implement systems, manage IT resources, and solve complex challenges. Some employers even provide financial incentives for employees who achieve certifications, offering raises or bonuses as a way to reward their continued professional development.

Moreover, certifications can provide an edge in a highly competitive job market. They serve as a way to instantly convey your qualifications to potential employers, helping to make a strong first impression. For hiring managers, the process of reviewing resumes and conducting interviews can be time-consuming. However, when a candidate holds certifications from reputable organizations, it simplifies the selection process and gives them confidence in the candidate’s abilities.

Key Certifications for Infrastructure Professionals

As the IT landscape continues to evolve, infrastructure professionals must stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and methodologies. Certifications are the perfect way to validate skills, demonstrate expertise, and set yourself apart from the competition. The certifications highlighted in this section are highly regarded and recognized across the IT industry, especially for those specializing in infrastructure roles. Let’s explore some of the most valuable certifications that can boost your career in the infrastructure domain.

AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate

Amazon Web Services (AWS) continues to be a dominant force in the cloud computing world, making the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate certification one of the most valuable credentials for infrastructure professionals. This certification focuses on validating an individual’s ability to design scalable, secure, and cost-efficient systems on the AWS platform.

The AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate certification is ideal for professionals who are responsible for architecting and deploying applications on AWS. It ensures that the candidate can not only design systems but also ensure their reliability and security. Professionals who hold this certification are highly skilled in deploying scalable cloud applications, optimizing costs, and ensuring compliance with security standards.

To achieve this certification, candidates need to have at least one year of hands-on experience designing and developing systems on AWS. They should also possess knowledge of AWS services and programming languages to be able to develop and manage cloud applications effectively. The average salary for professionals with the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate credential is approximately $121,292 per year, reflecting the high demand for cloud expertise.

AWS Certified Developer – Associate

The AWS Certified Developer – Associate certification is tailored for developers who want to deepen their expertise in AWS services and cloud application development. This certification validates the ability to design, develop, and deploy applications on the AWS platform. As cloud technologies continue to shape industries across the globe, the demand for developers with cloud expertise has never been higher.

This certification requires professionals to have at least one year of hands-on experience working with AWS services. It also necessitates proficiency in at least one high-level programming language and a thorough understanding of AWS services and deployment practices. This credential is increasingly valuable as industries expand their adoption of cloud technologies such as machine learning and the Internet of Things (IoT). With the AWS Certified Developer – Associate certification, professionals can earn an average annual salary of $114,473.

Project Management Professional (PMP)

The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), is one of the most prestigious and globally recognized certifications in the field of project management. While it’s not specific to IT, it is highly relevant for infrastructure professionals who are involved in managing complex projects. The PMP certification ensures that candidates are well-versed in managing projects of all sizes, regardless of industry or methodology.

This certification is ideal for professionals who wish to take on leadership roles in project management, especially those who manage large-scale IT infrastructure projects. PMP-certified professionals are equipped with the knowledge of project management best practices, including how to handle the five key phases of a project life cycle: Initiation, Planning, Execution, Monitoring and Controlling, and Closing.

To be eligible for the PMP exam, candidates must have at least a four-year degree and three years of project management experience, or a secondary degree with five years of experience. They are also required to complete 35 hours of project management education. PMP-certified professionals earn an average salary of $114,475 per year, highlighting the lucrative nature of the certification.

Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

In the world of IT security, the ability to identify vulnerabilities and protect systems from cyberattacks is a highly sought-after skill. The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification, offered by EC-Council, is designed to validate the skills needed to recognize and address security vulnerabilities in computer systems. This credential enables professionals to think like hackers to design stronger defenses against malicious threats.

The CEH certification is ideal for professionals seeking to specialize in ethical hacking and penetration testing. The certification covers a wide range of security topics, including network and web application security, cryptography, and malware analysis. To be eligible for the CEH exam, candidates are required to have two years of work experience in information security. CEH-certified professionals typically earn an average salary of $106,375 per year.

Certified in the Governance of Enterprise IT (CGEIT)

For professionals in governance, risk management, and compliance roles, the Certified in the Governance of Enterprise IT (CGEIT) certification offered by ISACA is highly valuable. This credential validates an individual’s expertise in IT governance, ensuring that IT systems and resources align with the organization’s business goals and compliance requirements.

The CGEIT certification is designed for professionals who are involved in advisory, management, and oversight roles related to IT governance. These professionals typically hold positions such as IT directors, security executives, and consultants. To earn the CGEIT certification, candidates must have at least five years of experience in an advisory or oversight role and should know the IT governance framework.

CGEIT-certified professionals can manage and optimize enterprise IT resources, ensuring strategic alignment and risk mitigation. On average, professionals with this credential earn $121,363 per year, reflecting the high demand for IT governance expertise.

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

Cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing fields in IT, and the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification is one of the most respected credentials for IT security professionals. Administered by ISC², the CISSP certification is recognized globally and is often required for individuals in senior security roles.

CISSP validates a professional’s ability to implement security best practices and ensure that systems are protected against cyber threats. The certification is ideal for infrastructure professionals who are responsible for securing networks, systems, and applications. To qualify for the CISSP exam, candidates need at least five years of work experience in information security, including three years in a managerial role. CISSP-certified professionals can expect to earn an average salary of $111,475 per year.

Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)

The Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) certification, also offered by ISACA, is designed for professionals in managerial roles within information security. This certification focuses on managing, designing, and building enterprise security initiatives. CISM is highly relevant for professionals who oversee the security infrastructure of an organization.

The CISM certification is ideal for those working in security management roles, such as security directors and managers. To be eligible for the exam, candidates must have five years of experience in information security, with a focus on security management. CISM-certified professionals earn an average salary of $108,045 per year, making it a valuable credential for anyone in security management.

Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC)

Risk management is a critical aspect of IT operations, and the Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC) certification, offered by ISACA, is designed to prepare professionals for the challenges associated with managing IT risks. This certification focuses on risk identification, assessment, and response, making it ideal for professionals in IT and enterprise risk management roles.

To earn the CRISC certification, candidates must have at least three years of experience in at least two of the four topics covered by the exam. These topics include risk management, monitoring, assessment, and reporting. The average salary for professionals holding the CRISC certification is $111,049 per year, reflecting the importance of risk management expertise in today’s IT landscape.

Additional Essential Certifications for IT Professionals

As technology continues to advance, infrastructure professionals must remain competitive by acquiring certifications that help them master the tools, technologies, and methodologies that shape the modern IT landscape. This section highlights additional certifications that are highly valuable for infrastructure professionals looking to enhance their career prospects, improve their technical capabilities, and increase their earning potential.

Certified Scrum Master (CSM)

In today’s agile-driven world, project management methodologies like Scrum have become essential for IT professionals working in environments where speed and adaptability are crucial. The Certified Scrum Master (CSM) certification, offered by Scrum Alliance, is one of the most popular certifications for those interested in mastering the Scrum framework.

The CSM credential is designed for individuals who want to become effective Scrum Masters. Scrum Masters play a vital role in guiding teams through the Scrum process, ensuring that all team members collaborate efficiently and meet project milestones. This certification validates your knowledge of Scrum principles, the roles within Scrum teams, and the implementation of Scrum in the workplace.

To earn the CSM certification, candidates must attend a two-day in-person course delivered by a certified Scrum trainer. This course covers key Scrum concepts, roles, responsibilities, and practices. After completing the course, candidates must pass an exam to become a certified Scrum Master. Professionals with the CSM certification can earn an average salary of $106,938 per year. The certification is an excellent choice for IT professionals interested in project management, particularly in Agile environments.

Six Sigma Green Belt

Six Sigma is a set of management techniques aimed at improving the quality of processes by eliminating defects and reducing variability. The Six Sigma Green Belt certification is the entry-level credential in the Six Sigma methodology, focusing on process improvement and quality management.

The Six Sigma Green Belt certification is ideal for professionals who are working in process improvement roles or those who lead projects that involve process optimization. Green Belts typically work under the guidance of Black Belts, the advanced Six Sigma professionals, to apply Six Sigma tools and techniques to streamline operations and enhance efficiency.

To earn the Six Sigma Green Belt certification, candidates must have at least three years of hands-on experience in one area of the Six Sigma Body of Knowledge. This certification provides professionals with the tools to drive improvements in operational processes, making it valuable for those in industries where efficiency and quality control are essential. On average, Six Sigma Green Belt-certified professionals earn $104,099 per year.

ITIL Foundation Certification

The Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) framework is widely adopted for IT service management (ITSM). ITIL provides a set of practices for delivering high-quality IT services that meet customer needs and business goals. The ITIL Foundation certification is an entry-level credential that provides a comprehensive understanding of the ITIL framework and its key concepts.

This certification is essential for IT professionals who are involved in managing or delivering IT services within an organization. The ITIL Foundation certification covers core concepts such as service strategy, design, transition, operation, and continual service improvement. It is ideal for professionals working in roles such as service managers, IT consultants, and infrastructure specialists.

The ITIL Foundation certification is widely recognized across industries, and professionals who hold this certification are highly regarded in the IT service management field. The average salary for professionals with the ITIL Foundation certification is around $95,000 per year, depending on their role and experience.

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Networking remains one of the most critical aspects of modern IT infrastructure. The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification is one of the most valuable credentials for professionals seeking to specialize in networking and network administration. Cisco, a leader in networking hardware and software, offers a range of certifications, with the CCNA being an entry-level credential that provides a solid foundation in networking technologies.

The CCNA certification covers essential networking topics such as IP addressing, network security, routing and switching, and troubleshooting network issues. It’s ideal for professionals looking to work as network engineers, network administrators, or IT support specialists. By earning the CCNA certification, professionals demonstrate their ability to install, configure, and troubleshoot network devices and systems.

To qualify for the CCNA exam, candidates must have a basic understanding of networking concepts, although prior networking experience is not a strict requirement. The average salary for CCNA-certified professionals is around $90,000 per year, but it can increase depending on additional certifications and experience.

Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert

As cloud adoption continues to rise, Microsoft Azure has become one of the most popular cloud platforms. For infrastructure professionals, the Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert certification is an excellent credential that validates your expertise in designing and managing complex Azure-based infrastructures.

The Azure Solutions Architect Expert certification is intended for professionals who have extensive experience with designing cloud solutions and managing the full lifecycle of cloud applications. This certification requires candidates to pass two exams: one focused on Azure infrastructure and one on Azure development.

To earn the certification, candidates should have experience working with Azure services, understanding cloud security best practices, and designing scalable cloud architectures. With this certification, professionals can earn an average salary of $120,000 per year, depending on their experience level and job role.

CompTIA Network+

CompTIA Network+ is a widely recognized certification for IT professionals interested in building and maintaining network infrastructures. This entry-level certification covers foundational networking concepts and is ideal for professionals who wish to specialize in network administration, support, or management.

The CompTIA Network+ certification validates skills in network configuration, troubleshooting, and management. Candidates who earn this certification demonstrate a solid understanding of networking concepts such as protocols, network devices, and network security. The certification is particularly valuable for IT professionals who work with routers, switches, and other networking hardware.

The Network+ certification is vendor-neutral, meaning it is not tied to a specific brand or technology. This makes it applicable across a wide range of industries and environments. Professionals with the CompTIA Network+ certification can expect to earn an average salary of $60,000 to $80,000 per year, depending on their role and experience.

VMware Certified Professional (VCP)

For infrastructure professionals who focus on virtualization technologies, the VMware Certified Professional (VCP) certification is one of the most prestigious credentials in the field. VMware is a leader in virtualization technology, and the VCP certification is highly regarded for those working with VMware products such as vSphere and vCloud.

The VCP certification demonstrates a professional’s ability to deploy and manage VMware virtual environments. It validates knowledge of virtualization concepts, including creating virtual machines, managing storage, and configuring networks within virtual environments. VMware professionals with this certification are highly sought after in data center and cloud computing roles.

To earn the VCP certification, candidates must pass the VCP exam and have hands-on experience with VMware products. Professionals with the VCP certification can earn an average salary of $95,000 to $120,000 per year, depending on their experience and job role.

Specialized Certifications for IT Professionals

For infrastructure professionals who want to stand out in specific areas of IT, specialized certifications provide opportunities to hone expertise in niche fields. These certifications are highly regarded within particular industries, ensuring that professionals are equipped with the advanced knowledge and skills required to excel in their chosen domains. In this section, we will explore some of the most valuable and specialized certifications that can help you elevate your career in infrastructure roles.

Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)

As organizations continue to migrate their systems to the cloud, ensuring cloud security has become a top priority. The Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) certification, offered by ISC², is designed for IT professionals who specialize in cloud security. This certification validates your ability to secure cloud environments, design cloud security architectures, and manage cloud-based risks.

The CCSP certification covers several domains, including cloud architecture, governance, compliance, risk management, and cloud security operations. It is highly valuable for professionals working in cloud architecture, cloud security, and cloud compliance roles. The certification is particularly relevant for professionals who work with cloud service providers like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform (GCP).

To qualify for the CCSP exam, candidates must have at least five years of work experience in information technology, with three years of experience in cloud security. For professionals who are new to the cloud security domain, the certification is an excellent way to build expertise. Professionals with the CCSP certification earn an average salary of $123,000 per year, reflecting the growing demand for cloud security expertise.

Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect

Google Cloud is a major player in the cloud computing space, and the Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect certification validates a professional’s ability to design, develop, and manage robust, scalable cloud architectures on the Google Cloud Platform (GCP). This certification is ideal for infrastructure professionals who want to specialize in building cloud solutions on GCP.

The certification exam tests knowledge of cloud architecture principles, including designing and deploying scalable cloud infrastructure, optimizing cloud costs, and ensuring security compliance. Candidates who pursue the Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect certification must have experience with Google Cloud products and services, as well as a strong understanding of cloud computing and architecture best practices.

The demand for cloud architects continues to grow as businesses increasingly adopt cloud technologies. Professionals with this certification are well-positioned to advance their careers in cloud architecture. The average salary for individuals with the Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect certification is approximately $130,000 annually.

VMware Certified Advanced Professional (VCAP)

As virtualization technologies become more integral to modern data centers, the VMware Certified Advanced Professional (VCAP) certification is a highly sought-after credential for professionals working with VMware products. The VCAP certification is designed for IT professionals who are already familiar with VMware’s vSphere platform and want to deepen their knowledge of advanced VMware solutions.

The VCAP certification is offered in different tracks, including data center virtualization, cloud management, and automation. Earning this certification demonstrates advanced expertise in deploying and managing VMware environments, making it highly valuable for professionals working in virtualization and cloud computing roles.

To earn the VCAP certification, candidates must first hold the VMware Certified Professional (VCP) certification and have hands-on experience with VMware products. VCAP-certified professionals are recognized for their ability to design, deploy, and optimize complex VMware environments. Professionals with the VCAP certification earn an average salary of $110,000 per year, with the potential for higher earnings as they advance in their careers.

Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

The Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) certification is ideal for IT professionals who specialize in auditing, controlling, and monitoring information systems. This certification, offered by ISACA, is globally recognized and demonstrates expertise in information systems auditing, governance, and risk management.

CISA-certified professionals are responsible for ensuring that organizations’ information systems are secure, effective, and comply with regulatory standards. The certification covers areas such as IT governance, system auditing, risk management, and IT control frameworks.

To qualify for the CISA certification, candidates must have at least five years of experience in information systems auditing or a related field. However, exceptions can be made for candidates with relevant education or other certifications. The average salary for CISA-certified professionals is approximately $115,000 per year, reflecting the high demand for skilled auditors in today’s IT landscape.

Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE)

Linux systems play a critical role in many modern IT environments, and the Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) certification is one of the most respected credentials for professionals who work with Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL). This certification is designed for experienced Linux administrators who want to demonstrate their advanced skills in managing and configuring Red Hat systems.

The RHCE certification focuses on a wide range of topics, including system administration, networking, storage management, and security. It is ideal for infrastructure professionals who manage Linux-based servers, databases, and cloud environments. To earn the RHCE certification, candidates must pass the Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) exam and then complete the RHCE exam, which tests advanced Linux administration skills.

The RHCE certification is highly valued in industries that rely on Linux and open-source technologies, and professionals with this certification can earn an average salary of $100,000 per year.

Citrix Certified Associate (CCA-V)

Citrix is a leader in virtualization and remote desktop solutions, and the Citrix Certified Associate (CCA-V) certification is ideal for professionals who specialize in Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops. This certification validates a professional’s ability to install, configure, and manage virtual desktop environments using Citrix technologies.

The CCA-V certification covers essential Citrix concepts such as deploying and managing Citrix Virtual Apps, configuring Citrix delivery controllers, and managing user profiles and security. This certification is valuable for professionals working in roles related to virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) and remote desktop services.

To earn the CCA-V certification, candidates must pass the Citrix 1Y0-203 exam, which tests their knowledge of Citrix Virtual Apps and Desktops 7.x. The average salary for professionals with the CCA-V certification is approximately $95,000 per year.

Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA)

As containerization continues to dominate the software development and IT operations fields, Kubernetes has become the go-to platform for orchestrating containerized applications. The Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA) certification, offered by the Cloud Native Computing Foundation (CNCF), is designed for IT professionals who want to validate their skills in managing Kubernetes clusters and deploying containerized applications.

The CKA certification covers a wide range of topics, including Kubernetes architecture, networking, security, and troubleshooting. It is ideal for professionals who work in DevOps, cloud computing, or container orchestration roles. The CKA certification ensures that candidates have the necessary expertise to manage and scale Kubernetes clusters efficiently.

Given the rapid growth of containerization and microservices architectures, the CKA certification is highly valuable in today’s IT market. Professionals with the CKA certification earn an average salary of $130,000 per year, reflecting the high demand for Kubernetes expertise.

Conclusion

Specialized certifications are essential for IT professionals who want to deepen their expertise and excel in niche areas of infrastructure. Whether you’re interested in cloud security, Kubernetes, or Linux administration, these certifications not only validate your skills but also position you as a valuable asset to employers. Certifications such as the Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP), Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect, and VMware Certified Advanced Professional (VCAP) are some of the most sought-after credentials for professionals looking to stay ahead of the curve in their careers.

By pursuing these specialized certifications, you can unlock new career opportunities, earn higher salaries, and become a recognized expert in your field. The investment in these credentials will not only benefit your professional development but also ensure that you remain competitive in a fast-changing IT landscape.