How to become a certified IT specialist – Online IT certification

14 de July de 2025 Luiz

Want to work with technology and earn more? Online IT certification helps you start from scratch and build a solid tech career for free or low cost.

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You Don’t Need a Degree to Work in Tech

You’ve probably heard that IT jobs pay well, offer flexibility, and are full of opportunities.

But maybe you’ve also thought: “I didn’t finish school…” or “I don’t have a computer science degree…”

Here’s the truth: You don’t need a diploma or years of college to enter the world of technology.

Today, with a good internet connection and a mobile phone or a basic computer, you can take your first step.

How? With an online IT certification — a simple, practical, and sometimes free way to start a new professional life.

Let’s walk through everything you need to know.

What Is an Online IT Certification and Why It Matters

Online IT certification is a short, focused course that teaches you a specific tech skill and gives you a certificate at the end.

That certificate shows employers that you know how to do the job.

But more than just a piece of paper, it gives you confidence.

You’ll go from thinking “I’m not good with tech” to “I can solve problems, fix systems, and build solutions.”

You can study:

From your phone
In your free time
Without needing prior knowledge
And often without paying anything up front

It’s a smart path for those who want to change careers quickly or improve their income without leaving their current job.

Why Choose Online IT Certification? The Real Benefits

Let’s break down what makes online IT certification such a smart move for people from all backgrounds — especially those looking for affordable, practical solutions.

1. It’s Accessible and Inclusive

You don’t need to be a math genius or speak perfect English to begin.

Many platforms offer content in simple language or in your native language.

They start from the basics and guide you step by step.

2. You Can Learn Anywhere, Anytime

Don’t have time during the day? No problem.

You can study at night, during your lunch break, or on weekends.

This flexibility is perfect for parents, workers, and busy people.

3. No Big Investment Needed

Most courses are free to access, and you only pay if you want the final certificate — and even that is usually cheap.

Some platforms even offer financial help.

4. You Learn Skills That Lead to Real Jobs

We’re talking about jobs like:

Tech support
Help desk assistant
Junior network technician
Website support
Computer maintenance

And many of these jobs are remote — so you don’t even need to leave home.

5. You Can Grow Fast

Start with a basic certification.

Then, as you learn and gain confidence, move to more advanced ones.

This way, your knowledge — and salary — grows quickly.

Who Should Get an Online IT Certification?

If you’re wondering if this is for you, check below.

This is a great path for:

People who didn’t finish school but want to work with computers
Single parents who want remote income
Anyone tired of low-wage jobs and looking for better opportunities
Students who want to start early in tech
Workers who want to switch careers without quitting their current job

Even if you’ve never touched a network cable or written a line of code — that’s okay.

You’ll start from the beginning.

Top Areas of IT You Can Study with Online Certification

There are many paths you can follow depending on your interests.

Let’s explore some of the most popular online IT certification options:

1. IT Support and Help Desk

Learn how to install software, solve technical problems, and help users.

This is one of the easiest entry points into tech.

2. Cybersecurity Basics

Learn how to protect information and systems from attacks.

Companies need more professionals in this area every year.

3. Networking

Understand how computers and systems connect to each other.

You’ll learn how to set up routers, connections, and more.

4. Cloud Computing

The future is in the cloud.

Learn how to manage online systems, storage, and services like Amazon AWS or Microsoft Azure.

5. Programming and Web Development

If you like logic, puzzles, or creating things, programming may be for you.

You can learn to build websites, apps, or automations.

Best Platforms That Offer Online IT Certification

Now let’s talk about where to study.

These are real and trusted places where you can begin your journey without getting scammed or lost.

1. Google Career Certificates (via Coursera)

Google offers certificates in IT Support, Data Analytics, UX Design, and more.

Courses are practical and respected by employers.

You can start free and pay only if you want the certificate.

Many learners complete the IT Support certificate in under 6 months.

2. Cisco Networking Academy

Cisco is a global leader in networking.

Their platform offers free courses on:

Networking
Internet of Things
Cybersecurity

No experience needed to begin.

3. IBM SkillsBuild

Great for beginners.

Offers free content and badges in:

Cloud Computing
Cybersecurity
Data Science

Content is easy to follow and designed for career starters.

4. Microsoft Learn

Offers quick learning paths and free training in Microsoft technologies.

You’ll find certifications on:

Windows
Office
Azure
Power Platform

5. FreeCodeCamp

Totally free.

Interactive courses in:

Web development
Python
JavaScript
Responsive design

Perfect if you want to learn by doing.

How to Start Your Online IT Certification Step-by-Step

Step 1: Choose Your Area of Interest

Do you prefer fixing problems?

Creating websites?

Protecting data?

Your interest will guide your path.

Step 2: Pick a Trusted Platform

Select one of the platforms above based on your goal.

Check reviews, course duration, and cost.

Step 3: Create an Account

It takes just a minute.

Step 4: Start the Course

Begin your first module.

Take your time and don’t rush.

Repeat lessons if needed.

Many platforms offer quizzes and exercises.

Step 5: Finish and Get Your Certificate

Once you complete the course, download your certificate.

Some let you show it on LinkedIn or your CV automatically.

How to Use Your Certification to Find Jobs

Once you finish your online IT certification, it’s time to look for work.

Here’s how:

1. Update Your Resume

Add your certification and the skills you learned.

Include any projects you completed or simulations.

2. Create a LinkedIn Profile

Many tech recruiters look there first.

Add your certification badge.

Follow companies and apply for internships or junior roles.

3. Apply on Job Boards

Look on:

LinkedIn
Indeed
Glassdoor
Catho

Search for terms like “IT support,” “Help desk,” or “Junior developer.”

4. Keep Learning

Even after your first job, keep adding skills.

More certifications = better jobs = better pay.

Can You Really Get Hired with Just Online IT Certification?

Absolutely — and here’s why.

Today, companies care more about skills than formal education.

They want people who can solve problems and adapt.

If you can show that you’ve learned, practiced, and completed a reputable online IT certification, you already stand out.

Many people land their first tech job through a certificate alone.

And from there, the doors open wide.

Tips to Make the Most of Your Online IT Certification

Be consistent: Even 30 minutes a day builds progress.
Practice: Try fixing real problems or building simple projects.
Ask questions: Join online forums like Reddit or Discord to learn faster.
Don’t give up: Some lessons are tough. Repeat them. You’ll get it.
Celebrate: When you finish a course, show it off! You earned it.

Frequently Asked Questions About Online IT Certification

Do I need to speak English fluently?

No, many courses offer subtitles or translations.

But learning basic tech terms in English helps over time.

What’s the best certification for beginners?

Google IT Support, Cisco IT Essentials, and IBM SkillsBuild are great starters.

Do I need a powerful computer?

No. A basic laptop or even a smartphone can be enough for many courses.

Some programming and support tasks can be done in the cloud.

Are free certifications valid?

Yes — especially if they come from trusted names.

It’s the knowledge that matters most.

How long does it take to finish a course?

Most courses take between 2 to 6 months if you study 3–5 hours per week.

Start Now, Your Future Is Waiting

If you’ve been waiting for a sign to start a new path, this is it.

You don’t need money, a degree, or fancy equipment.

You just need to decide.

Online IT certification is a powerful tool to escape low-paying jobs, explore new talents, and build a better life — even if you start from zero.

Your smartphone can become your classroom.

Your effort becomes your ticket to stability.

And your certificate becomes your key to new opportunities.

The world of tech is wide open.

Are you ready to walk through the door?