Let’s be real. “Getting into IT” sounds about as vague as “getting your life together.” But if you’re starting from scratch and want a clear, credible way to show employers you’re not just Googling your way through this—CompTIA certifications are your new best friend.
Whether you’re pivoting careers, reentering the workforce, or finally putting that “tech-savvy friend” title to use, earning a CompTIA certification is one of the fastest and most employer-recognized ways to prove you have the foundational knowledge to succeed.
What are CompTIA certifications?
CompTIA (short for the Computing Technology Industry Association) is a nonprofit that offers vendor-neutral IT certifications. Translation? Their certs aren’t tied to a specific brand like Cisco or Microsoft. Instead, they focus on broad, foundational knowledge you can use across roles and systems.
The most popular ones for beginners:
- CompTIA ITF+ (IT 足球竞彩网amentals): For those starting from zero.
- CompTIA A+: The gold standard for entry-level IT support roles.
- CompTIA Network+: Teaches how networks actually work.
- CompTIA Security+: A solid introduction to cybersecurity and risk management.
Each of these stacks nicely, meaning you can start small and build your expertise over time.
Why employers value CompTIA certifications
CompTIA certifications offer a standardized, recognized way to validate skills across a wide range of IT disciplines. For hiring managers, that means less guesswork. If a candidate has CompTIA A+ or Security+, they’ve demonstrated an ability to troubleshoot systems, understand security protocols, and navigate common IT challenges.
According to CompTIA, 96% of hiring managers use IT certifications as screening or hiring criteria.
These certifications signal to employers that a candidate is ready to contribute immediately, with less ramp-up time—especially valuable in roles where responsiveness and reliability are essential.
How these certs prepare candidates for the real world
CompTIA doesn’t just test textbook knowledge. Their certification paths are designed around real-world scenarios. That means candidates aren’t just memorizing facts—they’re learning how to solve actual business problems.
For example:
- A+ certified candidates can manage and troubleshoot operating systems, configure hardware, and support end-users.
- Network+ certified professionals understand how data flows across systems and how to secure that flow.
- Security+ holders have foundational knowledge of threat detection, risk management, and compliance frameworks.
All of this translates to stronger support teams, better-informed security protocols, and smoother IT operations for organizations.
The return on investing in CompTIA-certified talent
When you hire someone with a CompTIA certification—especially an IT Bootcamp grad from GA—you’re getting more than just a trained technician. You’re getting:
- A professional with hands-on experience from labs and simulations
- Someone trained in current tools, systems, and frameworks
- A candidate who’s already passed an industry-standard assessment
And yes, the ROI is there. According to CompTIA, IT professionals who obtained a new certification saw their salary increase by nearly $13,000.
Where GA comes in
We don’t just prepare people to pass tests—we prepare them for real careers. Our IT & Cybersecurity 足球竞彩网amentals Workshop is a quick, approachable way to learn the basics of networking, troubleshooting, and cybersecurity.
For learners ready to dive deeper, our IT Bootcamp is a 12-week, part-time program that takes them from beginner to job-ready. Students leave with the knowledge to gain certifications (whose cost is included in the bootcamp price) like A+ and Network+, as well as hands-on experience solving real-world problems.
The bottom line
Whether you’re an individual looking to break into IT and cybersecurity, or a business leader exploring talent pipelines, CompTIA certifications are a smart place to start. For learners, they’re a launchpad. For employers, they’re a signal of job readiness.
And when those certifications come backed by GA’s hands-on, practical education? That’s when you know you’re ready to hit the ground running.