Breaking into the IT industry can feel overwhelming, especially when many job descriptions appear to ask for years of experience before you have even had the chance to start your career.
The good news is that certifications and practical, hands-on experience can help bridge that gap. The right qualifications demonstrate to employers that you have the technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and commitment needed to succeed in an IT role – even if you are just starting out.
So, which certifications are worth your time and can genuinely help you secure your first IT role? Here is our guide to the essential certifications for junior IT professionals.
Why Certifications Matter More Than Ever
When hiring for entry-level IT roles, employers are not just looking for a list of qualifications. They want evidence that candidates understand modern technology environments and can apply their knowledge in real-world situations.
Industry-recognised certifications from organisations such as CompTIA and Microsoft are valued because they are designed around the skills businesses need today. They provide a clear way for candidates to demonstrate their knowledge across areas such as networking, security, cloud computing, and IT support.
For someone starting a career in technology, certifications provide a strong foundation and can help you stand out in a competitive job market.
The Essential Certifications for Junior IT Roles
1. CompTIA A+
Best for: IT Support, Helpdesk, Field Technician roles
CompTIA A+ is widely recognised as one of the leading entry-level IT certifications. It covers the core skills needed for IT support roles, including hardware, operating systems, networking basics, troubleshooting, and security fundamentals.
If you are starting your IT career from scratch, CompTIA A+ is an excellent first step towards building confidence and developing practical technical skills.
2. CompTIA Network+
Best for: Network Support, IT Infrastructure, Junior Network Administrator roles
Once you have built a foundation in IT, CompTIA Network+ helps you develop a deeper understanding of networking concepts, including TCP/IP, routing, switching, network security, and troubleshooting.
Networking knowledge is essential across many IT roles, making this certification a valuable addition for anyone looking to progress within the industry.
3. CompTIA Security+
Best for: Cyber Security Analyst, SOC Analyst, IT Security Support roles
Cyber security continues to be one of the fastest-growing areas within technology, and CompTIA Security+ is one of the most recognised entry-level certifications for those looking to enter the field.
The certification covers important security concepts including threat management, cryptography, identity and access management, and risk mitigation. It provides the foundation needed to begin building a career in cyber security.
4. Microsoft AZ-900 – Azure Fundamentals
Best for: Cloud Support, IT Administrator, Junior DevOps roles
Cloud technology has become a key part of modern IT environments, and understanding cloud platforms is increasingly important for technology professionals.
Microsoft AZ-900 provides an introduction to Microsoft Azure, covering cloud concepts, core services, security, compliance, and pricing models. It is a great starting point for anyone interested in cloud infrastructure or support roles.
5. Microsoft MS-900 – Microsoft 365 Fundamentals
Best for: IT Support, Helpdesk, Systems Administrator roles
Microsoft 365 is widely used by organisations across the UK, making knowledge of the platform highly valuable for junior IT professionals.
MS-900 covers the Microsoft 365 ecosystem, including tools such as Teams, SharePoint, Exchange, and key security and compliance features. It helps candidates understand how businesses use Microsoft technology every day.
6. Microsoft SC-900 – Security, Compliance and Identity Fundamentals
Best for: Cyber Security, Compliance roles, IT Support with a security focus
As businesses continue to prioritise data protection and cyber security, knowledge of identity, compliance, and security principles has become increasingly important.
Microsoft SC-900 introduces key concepts around security, compliance, and identity management, making it a useful addition for anyone interested in cyber security or security-focused IT roles.
What Combination of Certifications Should You Aim For?
While a single certification can help you get started, combining multiple qualifications can give you a stronger foundation and demonstrate a broader range of skills to employers.
A strong starting combination could include:
- CompTIA A+ – building essential IT support knowledge
- CompTIA Network+ or Security+ – developing networking or cyber security skills
- Microsoft AZ-900 or MS-900 – gaining knowledge of cloud and modern workplace technologies
This combination shows employers that you understand the fundamentals of IT environments and have developed skills across the areas businesses rely on every day.
What About Experience?
Certifications are an important first step, but employers also want to see that you can apply what you have learned.
Practical experience helps you develop confidence, understand real workplace scenarios, and demonstrate that you are ready to contribute from day one.
At Newto Training, our learners do not just prepare for exams. They gain hands-on experience through practical training designed around real IT and cyber security environments. By the time they progress into employment, they have developed industry-recognised certifications alongside the practical skills employers are looking for.
For employers, this means access to trained, certified, and work-ready candidates who are prepared to make an impact.
Start Your IT Career with Newto Training Career Programmes
Choosing which certifications to study can be challenging, especially when you are trying to understand which skills employers are looking for and how to build a clear pathway into technology.
Our Career Programmes are designed to help you develop the knowledge, certifications, and practical experience needed to start a career in a specific technology field.
Each programme combines multiple industry-recognised certifications with structured training to help you build the skills required for roles such as:
- Cyber Security Professional – developing skills in security operations, threat detection, risk management, and cyber defence
- Data Analytics Professional – learning how to analyse data, create insights, and support data-driven decision-making
- Networking Engineer – building expertise in networking concepts, infrastructure, connectivity, and the technologies that keep modern businesses connected
- AI Professional – building knowledge of artificial intelligence concepts, tools, and practical applications
- IT Helpdesk Technician – gaining the technical foundations needed for IT support and service desk roles
- Ethical Hacker – developing skills in penetration testing, vulnerability assessment, and security testing
Whether you are starting from scratch, changing careers, or looking to build specialist technology skills, our Career Programmes provide a structured route towards gaining recognised certifications and preparing for your next career opportunity.
Ready to Start Your IT Career?
Whether you are looking to gain your first IT certification or take the next step towards a career in technology, Newto Training can help you build the skills, experience, and confidence needed to succeed.
Get in touch with Newto Training today and start your journey into the technology industry.
