Top 10 Must-have IT certifications for 2025

In 2025, IT certifications will continue to play an essential role in advancing careers in a constantly evolving sector. In this article, we reveal the 10 must-have IT certifications for the upcoming year, those that will allow you to gain skills and recognition in the job market. From cybersecurity to cloud computing and project management, each selected certification offers unique opportunities and incomparable added value. Discover which of these certifications will be a stepping stone for your professional growth.

Summary:

1. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
2. AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate
3. Google Professional Cloud Architect
4. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
5. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
6. CompTIA A+ and CompTIA Security+
7. Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert
8. Certified Data Professional (CDP)
9. Linux Professional International Certification (LPIC-1 and LPIC-2)
10. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Key Points

• IT certifications such as CISSP, AWS Certified Solutions Architect, and Certified Ethical Hacker are essential for enhancing skills and employability in a competitive job market.
• Most certifications require relevant experience, rigorous exams, and registration fees, reflecting the commitment necessary to obtain these qualifications.
• Certifications like CompTIA Security+ and CompTIA A+ are ideal for beginners, providing an entry point into IT and paving the way for promising careers.

Why Get an IT Certification?

In the ever-evolving IT sector, certifications have become essential for professional advancement. They provide proof of concrete, specific skills, demonstrating expertise in particular technical fields. A certification also shows a professional’s commitment to continuous learning, a quality highly valued by employers seeking skilled and up-to-date employees.

How do certifications make a difference?

Today, the demand for specialized IT skills is skyrocketing. With the rise of cloud computing, cybersecurity, and data analytics, companies are looking for experts who can address today’s digital challenges. A certification allows professionals to validate standardized skills, boosting their credibility. For employers, hiring certified candidates reduces the risks associated with qualifications while ensuring a well-defined level of skills.

Getting certified: a decisive asset for the future

Choosing to get certified is a worthwhile investment to boost one’s career. Certifications allow access to more rewarding, often better-paid roles and open doors to advancement. They keep professionals informed about industry developments, ensuring employability. In short, an IT certification is an undeniable competitive advantage for anyone looking to stand out and advance quickly in their career.

1 – Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification is one of the most recognized in the cybersecurity field. It demonstrates deep expertise in various security principles, making it an ideal certification for security professionals. Candidates must have at least five years of relevant experience in two or more CISSP domains, although a relevant four-year degree or another approved certification can count for one year of experience.

The process to obtain the CISSP certification is rigorous. It requires passing a six-hour exam consisting of 250 questions, with a minimum of 70% correct answers. This demanding certification proves that the professional has verified skills in IT security, which is essential in a world where cyber threats are constantly evolving.

Main advantages:

1. Global recognition: The CISSP certification is recognized worldwide, increasing the credibility and value of certified professionals.
2. Mastery of cybersecurity: It attests to advanced expertise in information security, covering areas such as risk management and cryptography.
3. Leadership opportunities: CISSP opens doors to cybersecurity management positions, such as Chief Information Security Officer (CISO).

Accessible Careers:

• Cybersecurity analyst
• Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)
• IT security consultant

2 – AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate

The AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate certification is crucial for professionals working with Amazon Web Services (AWS). It validates skills in designing and deploying applications on the AWS platform, which is essential in a world where cloud computing plays an increasingly significant role. AWS-certified professionals are highly sought after, and this certification can open doors to lucrative positions.

To obtain this certification, candidates must have at least two years of hands-on experience with AWS and pass the exam. The AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate certification is a key step for those who wish to prove their expertise in cloud architecture and stand out in the job market.

Main advantages:

1. Expertise in cloud computing: This certification validates skills in designing and deploying applications on AWS, a crucial skill for cloud.
2. High demand: Companies are actively seeking AWS architects for their cloud migration projects.
3. Career progression: It serves as a stepping stone to more advanced certifications and high-level roles in cloud computing.

Accessible Careers:

• AWS Cloud Architect
• Cloud Engineer
• Cloud Solutions Consultant

3 – Google Professional Cloud Architect

The Google Professional Cloud Architect certification is ideal for cloud computing professionals. It assesses essential skills in cloud solutions architecture, including design, management, and optimization. In an ever-evolving technological landscape, this certification helps professionals stay at the forefront of cloud computing trends and best practices.

The exam includes 50 to 60 multiple-choice questions, with case studies representing a significant portion of the assessment. It is recommended to have at least three years of industry experience, including one year specifically in Google Cloud solutions, before attempting the exam.

The certification is valid for two years, requiring regular renewal to stay up-to-date with the latest technologies.

Main advantages:

1. Mastery of Google Cloud solutions: This certification guarantees competence in designing, managing, and optimizing Google Cloud solutions.
2. Technological adaptability: Certified individuals learn to adapt infrastructures to changing business needs.
3. Positioning in a growing market: Google Cloud is expanding, increasing job opportunities.

Accessible Careers:

• Google Cloud Architect
• DevOps Engineer
• Google Cloud Solutions Consultant

4 – Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification is essential for those looking to specialize in cybersecurity as ethical hackers. It covers various types of attacks, including reconnaissance, scanning, and intrusion detection, allowing professionals to develop practical skills for countering threats. Previous training or two years of cybersecurity experience is required to obtain this certification.

The CEH certification exam consists of 125 questions and is valid for three years, after which it must be renewed to maintain updated skills. The practical exercises included in the certification preparation are designed to develop real-world skills in professional environments.

Main advantages:

1. Cyberattack prevention: The CEH certification allows for an understanding of hacking techniques to better defend systems.
2. Practical skill development: CEH includes lab exercises for strong field skills.
3. Strategic positioning in cybersecurity: It is highly regarded in the security field.

Accessible Careers:

• Ethical hacker
• Offensive security analyst
• Cybersecurity consultant

5 – Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)

The Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) certification is awarded by ISACA and has been recognized globally since 2002. It is designed for professionals aspiring to leadership roles in information security management.

The exam covers four knowledge domains:

1. Information security governance
2. Risk management
3. Security incident management
4. Security asset management

This certification is a valuable asset for those aiming for leadership roles in the information security field.

To obtain this certification, candidates must have at least five years of experience in the field. The exam has 150 questions and is offered three times a year through computerized sessions.

Main advantages:

1. Security management skills: CISM focuses on governance, risk management, and incident response.
2. Access to leadership positions: CISM is recognized for management roles in information security.
3. Governance asset: It helps align security strategies with business objectives.

Accessible Careers:

• Information Security Manager
• Risk management officer
• IT governance consultant

6 – CompTIA A+ and CompTIA Security+

The CompTIA A+ certification is one of the most fundamental for entry-level IT professionals. It covers the basics of working with hardware, networks, and IT systems. Recommended for recent IT graduates, this certification provides a competitive advantage in the job market.

The skills validated by the CompTIA A+ certification are essential and open the door to many career opportunities, preparing professionals for more advanced roles in the industry.

As for the CompTIA Security+ certification, it’s an ideal entry point for beginners in cybersecurity. Recognized worldwide, it is often required for positions in information security. The exam has 75 to 90 questions, lasting 90 minutes, with a minimum score of 750 out of 900 required. This certification is considered one of the top certifications for cybersecurity professionals. The certification must be renewed every three years to maintain skills validity.

Main advantages:

1. Introduction to IT and cybersecurity: These certifications provide solid foundations for starting in IT.
2. Versatile skills: CompTIA A+ covers networking, maintenance, and systems, while Security+ focuses on cybersecurity.
3. Accessibility: These certifications are designed for beginners and ease entry into the job market.

Accessible Careers:

• IT support technician
• Junior security analyst
• System and network administrator

7 – Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert

The Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert certification demonstrates advanced competence in designing cloud and hybrid solutions on the Azure platform. Candidates must have an in-depth understanding of IT operations, including networking, virtualization, and identity management. This certification is essential for professionals who want to advise stakeholders and translate business needs into Azure solution designs.

Collaboration with developers, administrators, and security engineers is also crucial for implementing Azure solutions. The certification was updated in October 2024, incorporating the latest technological and market changes.

Main advantages:

1. Expertise in hybrid cloud architecture: It covers skills in designing cloud solutions on Microsoft Azure.
2. Cross-domain collaboration: Certified architects often work with developers, administrators, and security engineers.
3. Advanced skills validation: This certification demonstrates mastery of Azure solutions for complex architectures.

Accessible Careers:

• Azure Architect
• Azure Cloud Consultant
• Cloud Administrator

8 – Certified Data Professional (CDP)

The Certified Data Professional (CDP) certification is designed for data management and analytics professionals. It attests to advanced skills in these fields, allowing professionals to stand out in the job market. Internationally recognized, the CDP enhances the credibility of certified professionals and opens up numerous career opportunities.

The certification offers two levels, professional and advanced, each with specific training and experience requirements. It is particularly intended for those pursuing a career in data platform administration or business analytics.

Main advantages:

1. Specialization in data management: The certification validates advanced skills in data analysis and platform administration.
2. International recognition: CDP is recognized worldwide, increasing professional credibility.
3. Options for specialization: Two levels are available (professional and advanced) to progress in the field.

Accessible Careers:

• Data Analyst
• Database Administrator
• Data Scientist

9 – Linux Professional International Certification (LPIC-1 & LPIC-2)

The Linux Professional International Certification (LPIC) is divided into two levels, LPIC-1 and LPIC-2. LPIC-1 demonstrates the ability to perform maintenance tasks via the command line, install and configure Linux systems, and set up basic networks. It’s an ideal certification for beginning Linux administrators.

LPIC-2 builds on LPIC-1 and focuses on administering mixed networks in small and medium-sized organizations, including advanced network configuration and management. This certification is intended for advanced Linux administrators and requires a valid LPIC-1 certification.

Main advantages:

1. Linux system management skills: LPIC-1 covers Linux system maintenance and configuration, while LPIC-2 delves into network management.
2. High versatility: The skills are applicable in mixed environments and network administration.
3. Recognition in the open-source domain: The certification is an asset for companies using Linux.

Accessible Careers:

• Linux System Administrator
• Linux Network Engineer
• Linux Support Specialist

10 – Project Management Professional (PMP)

The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is a prestigious recognition for project management professionals, confirming their mastery of standards and practices defined by the Project Management Institute (PMI). Based on the PMBOK Guide (Project Management Body of Knowledge), the PMP certification covers all the essential skills to lead a project from start to finish, while respecting timelines, budgets, and set objectives.

For IT professionals, the PMP provides a methodical structure and tools that facilitate planning and executing complex projects while fostering better collaboration between technical teams and stakeholders. The skills gained through this certification not only enhance efficiency but also minimize risks and adapt to the frequent changes in the sector.

Main advantages:

1. Mastery of best practices: PMP is based on the PMBOK guide, known for its rigor in project management.
2. Career advancement: PMP-certified professionals are often promoted to management positions.
3. Global networking: The certification offers networking opportunities in the PMP community.

Accessible Careers:

• Project Manager
• Project Management Consultant
• Program Director

In Summary

In summary, IT certifications play a crucial role in the development and advancement of IT professionals’ careers. From cybersecurity to project management, cloud computing to data management, each certification featured in this article provides unique advantages and opens the door to new opportunities.

Thus, investing in a certification is not only a way to validate your skills but also a way to demonstrate your commitment to excellence and continuous progress. In 2025, IT certifications will be increasingly important for staying competitive in the job market in this competitive field.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which certification is best for starting a career in cybersecurity?

The CompTIA Security+ certification is ideal for starting a career in cybersecurity. It provides a solid foundation of essential knowledge in this field.

What is the cost of the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate certification?

The cost of the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate certification is $300. It is recommended to budget this amount for your exam preparation.

What is the validity period of the Google Professional Cloud Architect certification?

The Google Professional Cloud Architect certification is valid for two years. It is important to renew it to keep your skills up to date.

Who can benefit from cloud computing certifications?

Cloud computing certifications can benefit anyone with a professional interest in this field, including software developers, system administrators, and business analysts. This opens varied opportunities for those looking to specialize or advance in their careers.