Best IT Infrastructure Certifications in 2026

IT infrastructure certifications cover IT support, networking, Linux and endpoint administration. Start with the systems you need to support: A+ for support roles, Network+ or CCNA for networking, RHCSA for Linux and Endpoint Administrator for managing company devices.

Validates knowledge of network fundamentals, routing, switching, IP services, security and automation for managing connected systems.

300IntermediateNo prerequisites
CompTIA A+ credential artwork

CompTIA A+

CompTIA · Exam 220-1201 / 220-1202

Validates foundational IT support knowledge across hardware, operating systems, networking, security and troubleshooting common technical problems.

548EntryNo prerequisites
Google IT Support Professional Certificate credential artwork

Google IT Support Professional Certificate

Google · Course certificate

Validates practical skills in IT support, including troubleshooting, networking, operating systems, system administration and security.

147EntryNo prerequisites
CompTIA Network+ credential artwork

CompTIA Network+

CompTIA · Exam N10-009

Validates knowledge of networking concepts, implementation, operations, security and troubleshooting for managing and supporting modern networks.

399EntryNo prerequisites
CompTIA Tech+ credential artwork

CompTIA Tech+

CompTIA · Exam FC0-U71

Validates foundational IT knowledge across computing basics, hardware, software, programming concepts, databases and security.

129EntryNo prerequisites

Validates practical skills in administering Red Hat Enterprise Linux, including software, storage, file systems, networking, users and security.

500IntermediateNo prerequisites
CompTIA Linux+ credential artwork

CompTIA Linux+

CompTIA · Exam XK0-006

Validates knowledge of Linux system management, services and users, security, automation and scripting, and troubleshooting.

399IntermediateNo prerequisites

How to choose a certification

Which certification fits your goal?

  • IT support foundations: CompTIA A+. CompTIA's entry point into IT support: setting up, securing and troubleshooting PCs, mobile devices, networks and operating systems. You pass two exams, Core 1 and Core 2.
  • Vendor-neutral networking: CompTIA Network+. A vendor-neutral networking exam on how networks work, how to manage them and how to diagnose common faults.
  • Networking with Cisco: CCNA. Cisco's networking certification covering routing, switching, IP services, security and automation, including Cisco device configuration. Choose it if networking is your focus.
  • Linux administration: RHCSA. A hands-on exam on a live Red Hat Enterprise Linux system: you complete administration tasks rather than answer questions. Choose it for Linux administration roles.
  • Microsoft endpoint administration: Endpoint Administrator Associate. Microsoft's MD-102 certification for managing company devices with Microsoft Intune: enrollment, compliance and security policies, apps and updates across Windows, macOS, iOS and Android.

What to know before choosing

  • Vendor-neutral or vendor-specific. A+ and Network+ build broad foundations; CCNA, RHCSA and Endpoint Administrator focus on one vendor's systems. Choose based on the systems used in the jobs you want.
  • No certification is required first. You can book any of these exams directly. CompTIA recommends A+ knowledge before Network+.
  • Practice in a lab. Configure a network, administer a Linux machine or work through support cases. RHCSA is entirely hands-on, so lab time matters most there.