What is information technology? What do information technology professionals do?

According to Cisco, the field of information technology (IT) is typically associated with computer systems, hardware, software, and networks used to process and distribute data—including networking hardware such as servers and routers and applications that facilitate communication across various networks and the internet. Over the years, IT technicians' primary focus has been designing, installing, managing, and troubleshooting computers and network components.

However, in recent times, IT encompasses a diverse collection of connected user devices and IoT devices, such as LED lighting, cameras, door locks, thermostats, machine monitoring controls, TVs, and even air conditioners. Cybersecurity specialists play a crucial role in securing information systems. They work towards protecting the integrity of organizations' networks and data.

What is the average salary for information technology professionals?

Computer and information technology (IT) professionals in the U.S. made a median salary of $97,430 in May 2021, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). That is significantly more than the $45,760 average salary for all occupations. Many factors can influence your salary, including your experience level, skill set, the cost of living in your location, your education level, and your certifications.

What kinds of jobs does the CompTIA ITF+ certification prepare for?

Common jobs for CompTIA ITF+ holders include Service and User Help Desk Support Specialists, Technical Support Specialists, and Associate Network Engineers.

What kinds of jobs are there in cybersecurity?

There are a variety of jobs in cybersecurity available. Possible positions include junior penetration tester, systems administrator, network administrator, security administrator, and cybersecurity specialist. The average salaries for these roles range from entry-level roles at $70,000 to more experienced professionals at $111,052, according to top reporting sites like PayScale, Salary.com, and ZipRecruiter.

What kind of salary can I expect with a CompTIA A+ certification?

Based on the 2023 Salary Survey conducted by Certification Magazine, the average salary for CompTIA A+ certification holders is $108,170 in the U.S. and $99,980 worldwide. However, the actual pay may vary depending on factors such as years of experience and the location of the job. The roles and responsibilities of those with CompTIA A+ certification can differ significantly, so looking at the average salaries of specific job titles may be more helpful. According to Glassdoor's November 2023 report, the average salaries for some of these job titles are as follows: IT support specialist ($56,564), network engineer ($100,385), IT specialist ($77,439), network administrator ($85,628), and field service technician ($55,214).

What is the CompTIA A+ Certification?

The CompTIA A+ certification is an entry-level qualification created for individuals interested in the field of information technology (IT). CompTIA states that the A+ certification is the only industry-recognized credential that involves performance testing to verify that professionals can quickly solve critical IT support tasks. Employers worldwide need these trained professionals for endpoint management and technical support roles. Obtaining this highly sought-after certification demonstrates the fundamental technical and soft skills that a field service technician must possess, making it an excellent starting point for acquiring entry-level to intermediate IT positions.

What kinds of jobs can I get with the CompTIA A+ Certification?

While there is never a guarantee of a specific position, you will qualify for several jobs once you earn your CompTIA A+ certification. Some of the roles you will be prepared for with an A+ certification include an IT support specialist, help desk technician, desktop support analyst, field service technician, and more.

What kind of salary can I expect with CompTIA Network+ Certification?

The average CompTIA Network+ salary is $73,938 annually as of November 2024, according to ZipRecruiter, which equates to approximately $36.00 an hour.

Based on data from Infosec, data from three of the top job demand sites (Payscale, Salary.com, and Glassdoor) indicate that the average salary for Network+ holders ranges from $75,000 to $79,234, with a rough estimate of around $77,078. This annual salary represents a positive trend compared to the previous average of $72,430, indicating a strong demand for network professionals with this certification.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also gives percentiles that show the highest and lowest salaries for that job title, according to CompTIA:

• Network administrator - $95,360 
• Network support specialist - $ 71,530
• Network system analyst - $103,800 

How much does the CompTIA Network+ exam cost?

The CompTIA Network+ exam voucher price is $358.00. With your enrollment in this course, you will receive an exam voucher for the CompTIA Network+ certification exam.

What kinds of jobs can I get with a CompTIA Network+ Certification?

After obtaining your CompTIA Network+ certification, you are qualified for jobs such as a network administrator, IT consultant, network field engineer, computer technician, help desk technician, system engineer, network support specialist, and network analyst.

What is the CompTIA Network+ Certification?

CompTIA Network+ is a vendor-neutral, entry-level certification widely recognized by the information technology (IT) industry. Achieving this certification prepares technicians to work in IT infrastructure by providing key networking knowledge and skills.

According to CompTIA, those who earn the Network+ certification demonstrate they possess network troubleshooting, network cabling, configuration, subnetting, and network operation skills. Furthermore, they understand emerging technologies, such as those related to virtualization and the cloud.

Is CompTIA Network+ worth it?

CompTIA Network+ is vendor-neutral, which means that it prepares IT pros to work with various networks, not just one vendor solution. The Network+ credential is also the only IT certification on the market that encompasses both wired and wireless networks.

The skills obtained from studying for and passing the exam will help you understand networking concepts like network protocols, passive optical networks, network attenuation, network address translation, and ad hoc networks—which will appeal to hiring managers, prepare you for an entry-level IT position with a competitive wage, and boost your resume by earning this certification.

What is the average salary with CompTIA Security+?

Most of the jobs that IT professionals with a CompTIA Security+ certification would hold fall under the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) category of network and computer systems administrators. The BLS reports that jobs in this category earn a median annual salary of $80,600.

What is the CompTIA Security+ certification?

CompTIA Security+ is a global certification that proves you have the basic skills needed to perform the core security functions an organization needs. The CompTIA Security+ certification exam focuses on up-to-date best practices in risk management and mitigation, including an emphasis on your ability to effectively identify and address security threats, attacks, and vulnerabilities.

Is it worth taking the CompTIA Security+ exam?

CompTIA Security+ is typically the first certification that an IT professional should earn and will provide you with a career boost into intermediate-level cybersecurity roles. It is a certification that is required by many organizations as evidence of your core knowledge and skills in the field of cybersecurity.

Does this course prepare you for a certification?

Yes. Upon completing this course, you will be prepared to sit for the CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+, and CompTIA Security+ exams. The course includes vouchers that cover the fee/cost to sit for the certifying exams upon eligibility.

When can I start this course?

This course is open enrollment, so you can register and start the course whenever you are ready. Access to your course can take 24-48 business hours.

Can I register for courses if I am an international student?

Yes, ed2go courses are completely online. However, keep in mind that not all certifying bodies or industry-specific certifications are recognized internationally. Please review your country's regulations prior to enrolling in courses that prepare for certification.

How long does it take to complete this course?

After you register, you will receive 12 months to complete the course. The time allotted for completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours.

What if I don't have enough time to complete the course within the time frame provided?

The time allotted for course completion has been calculated based on the number of course hours. However, if you are unable to complete the course, contact the student advising team to see what options you may have available to work out a suitable completion date. Please note that an extension fee may be charged.

What kind of support will I receive?

The course instructor will be available by email to answer any questions and provide feedback on your performance. You will also receive support from the student advising team.(The CompTIA ITF+ course is self-paced and does not include a specific instructor.)

What happens when I complete the course?

Upon successfully passing the final exam, you will be awarded a certificate of completion from the school or organization that you registered through.

Am I guaranteed a job?

ed2go courses will help you gain the skills you need to obtain an entry-level position in most cases. However, you should always research the job market in your area before enrolling.

Can I get financial assistance?

ed2go courses are non-credit, so they do not qualify for federal aid, FAFSA, and Pell Grant. In some states, vocational rehab or workforce development boards may provide funding to take our courses. Additionally, you may qualify for financial assistance if you meet certain requirements. Learn more about financial assistance.

How can I get more information about this course?

If you have questions that are not answered on our website, representatives are available via LIVE chat. You can also call us at 1-877-221-5151 during regular business hours to have your questions promptly answered. If you are visiting us during non-business hours, please send us a question using the "Contact Us."