Good for learning, weak as a credential
Holders call it good for learning but useless as a credential, and rarely see it in job descriptions. One commenter landed a first IT job with it, alongside a rewritten resume.
Google IT Support Professional Certificate
Validates practical skills in IT support, including troubleshooting, networking, operating systems, system administration and security.
Summary
The Google IT Support Professional Certificate is a self-paced beginner program on Coursera covering troubleshooting, networking, operating systems and security for help desk jobs. Its 5 courses use quizzes and labs, not an exam, and passing CompTIA A+ earns a Google and CompTIA dual credential.
Good fit if
- You have no IT background and want a path into help desk
- You want Windows, Linux and networking practice before paying for an exam
- You plan to take CompTIA A+ afterwards
Look elsewhere if
- You already have hands-on IT experience: CompTIA A+
- You want a broader proctored IT fundamentals exam: CompTIA Tech+
- You want to move straight into security: Google Cybersecurity
Prerequisites
Cost
What holders say
Basic if you already have IT experience
A 2025 reviewer with an IT background called it a solid foundation but surface-level for anyone with existing experience. Reported finishing times range from a few days to a few months.
Certification path
Google says this certificate prepares you for the CompTIA A+ exams. Pass both and you earn a Google and CompTIA dual credential.
Renewal
Alternatives
A+$548 required · Entry
The proctored exam employers list most often for help desk roles. Earning both gives you the dual credential.
Tech+$129 required · Entry
Choose this for a single, lower-cost proctored IT fundamentals exam.
Google Cybersecurity$294 required · Entry
Choose this if you want to start with security rather than general IT support.
FAQ
Does the Google IT Support Certificate have an exam?
No. You complete 5 courses with graded quizzes and labs on Coursera. If you want a proctored credential, CompTIA A+ is the usual next step.
Is it worth it compared with CompTIA A+?
The Google certificate is a cheaper, guided way to learn the basics. A+ is the credential employers screen for. Many people take the Google course first and then A+.
How much does the Google IT Support Certificate cost?
Coursera charges $49 a month in the US and Canada after a 7-day free trial. At Coursera's suggested 3 months that is $147, and less if you finish sooner. Financial aid is available.
How long does it take?
Coursera estimates 116 hours for the 5 required courses and suggests 3 months at 10 hours a week. Google's own range is 3 to 6 months.
Does it count toward CompTIA A+?
It does not replace the A+ exams, but completing both earns a Google and CompTIA dual credential. Plan to add A+ study material before the exams.
Does it expire?
No. The certificate has no renewal requirement.
Last updated October 2026