5 Must-Have IT Certifications You Can Earn Through Accredited Online Courses

Introduction

IT certifications can open doors to better jobs and promotions. In fact, certified IT professionals often report big career gains – 63% see new promotions and 32% earn higher salaries after getting certified. Certifications provide a structured learning path, validate your skills, and signal to employers that you’re serious about your IT career. With Course Plus’s UK-based accredited online courses, you can earn globally recognized IT credentials from home. For example, our Network+ Course helps you master networking fundamentals and prepares you for the CompTIA Network+ exam. Course Plus awards CPD‑accredited certificates that are recognized by top institutions worldwide, so your certificate boosts your resume both in the UK and internationally.

1. CompTIA Network+ (Networking Fundamentals)

Network skills are in constant demand as businesses rely on robust IT infrastructure. The CompTIA Network+ certification is a foundational credential for network administrators and support specialists. You can prepare for it with courses like Network+ Course on Course Plus, which “covers all essential topics, including network types, the OSI model, IPv4/IPv6, routing, wireless, and security”. This online, self-paced training features hands-on labs and expert instruction so you build practical skills while studying for the Network+ exam. By earning Network+, you prove you can configure and manage networks – a valuable skill for employers worldwide.

2. Cisco CCNA (Networking & Routing)

For advanced networking careers, the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is a highly regarded qualification. The CCNA (200-301) covers routing, switching, security, and more. Course Plus hosts a “CCNA (200-301) Volume 2” course tailored to this exam. It “covers essential topics such as security, device management protocols, network address translation, and WAN architecture,and prepares learners to “ace the CCNA (200-301) certification exam”. By studying this expert-led course, you gain hands-on knowledge of modern networks and cloud architectures. Earning CCNA shows employers you can design and manage enterprise networks, giving you a competitive edge in global tech markets.

3. CompTIA Security+ or Certified Ethical Hacker (Cybersecurity)

Cybersecurity skills are more crucial than ever. A good entry cert is CompTIA Security+, which covers threat management, encryption, and security policies. Course Plus doesn’t have a Security+ course listed, but our Learn Ethical Hacking From A-Z course provides similar knowledge and a practical skill set. It takes you “from basics to advanced techniques” in cybersecurity. You learn ethical hacking methods, penetration testing, Wi-Fi hacking, and cryptography, all while following ethical standards. This hands-on program helps you secure systems and think like a defender, preparing you for roles like security analyst or pentester. Cybersecurity certifications like CEH or Security+ prove you can protect networks from threats – a must-have in any IT resume today.

4. Cloud Computing (AWS/Azure Fundamentals)

Cloud expertise is a top priority for employers. Certifications like AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner or Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals demonstrate cloud fluency. While Course Plus doesn’t offer official AWS/Azure prep, our IT courses build relevant skills. For example, the Microsoft Windows Server 2019 – Hands-on Training course teaches server management, Active Directory, DNS, and PowerShell. These skills underlie cloud architectures and are often tested on cloud cert exams. Learning Windows Server and virtualization concepts helps you grasp how cloud servers are configured. In short, this accredited course “equips you with the skills to manage and optimize server environments” – a strong foundation for cloud certifications.

5. Programming/Data Analysis (Optional Specialization)

In an era of data-driven IT, having programming or data skills can set you apart. Certifications like a Microsoft Power BI or Google Data Analytics cert may not be “IT infrastructure” per se, but they enhance your portfolio. Course Plus offers courses like “Master Power BI in 90 minutes” and SQL Database Queries in Just 90 Mins to build these skills. Gaining data analysis expertise can lead to roles in business intelligence or support AI initiatives. You might even pair these with Python or machine learning certifications. The important point is: an accredited IT-related certification from an online course shows employers you are proactive and up-to-date, boosting your career growth.

How Course Plus Helps You Succeed

All the above courses are CPD‑accredited, meaning your certificates carry global recognition and rigor. Course Plus’s online platform lets you learn at your own pace, fitting study around work or family. You’ll study with industry experts through video lessons, quizzes, and labs. And because our courses are accredited by bodies like CPD QC, your certificate has weight with employers and universities. Upon completion, you’ll earn a documented certificate and transcript, giving you tangible proof of your new IT skills.