The 10 must-have IT certifications for 2025: the ultimate guide to boosting your IT career
In 2025, the IT certifications continue to play a decisive role in career development and access to lucrative professional opportunities. In an environment where technologies are evolving at a breathtaking pace, they offer a formal validation of technical skillsThis guarantees greater employability and a competitive edge in the job market.
This article explores the 10 most sought-after IT certifications in 2025We take into account the expectations of recruiters, current trends, associated salaries and sectors that are recruiting.
Why are IT Certifications Crucial in 2025?
The IT sector faces a strategic turning point in 2025. With the rise of cyberthreats, the massive expansion of cloud solutions and the integration of technologies such as AI, companies are looking to certified experts capable of meeting these challenges. Certifications play a key role in this context, offering several advantages:
1. Strengthening professional credibility
Certifications, issued by recognized organizations such as (ISC)², AWS, Microsoft or ISACA, attest to your expertise in specific fields, strengthening your profile in the eyes of recruiters.
2. Accelerated career progression
Certifications give access to strategic and often better-paid positions. For example, CISSP or AWS Solutions Architect graduates earn on average 20 % more than their non-certified counterparts.
3. Adaptability to technological trends
Certifications guarantee mastery of the latest technological advances, whether in cybersecurity, cloud architecture or data management.
4. Compliance with Standards
With regulations like RGPD and CCPA, companies are looking for certified professionals who can ensure compliance.
The most sought-after IT certifications in 2025
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
Visit CISSPissued by (ISC)², is the the most prestigious certification in cybersecurity. It certifies in-depth expertise in eight security areas, including risk management, cryptography and asset security.
Current trends :
- Demand for cybersecurity experts has exploded, with an increase of 35 % in 2024.
- Recruiters prefer CISSP-certified professionals for strategic positions, such as security managers.
Certification process :
- Conditions: Minimum 5 years' professional experience in IT security, or 4 years with a relevant diploma or certification.
- Review: Includes 250 questions covering areas such as network security, identity management and software security.
Associated wages :
- Average salary: 135,000 $/year.
- Salaries for CISSP-certified CISOs: up to 200,000 $/year.
Accessible jobs :
- Information Systems Security Manager (ISSM).
- Cybersecurity architect.
- IT security consultant.
2. AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate
This AWS certification validates the skills needed to design, deploy and manage cloud infrastructures on Amazon Web Services, the world's most widely used cloud platform.
Current trends :
- AWS holds 33 % of the global cloud market, consolidating the value of this certification.
- Cloud migration projects boost demand for AWS architects.
Certification process :
- Conditions: At least 2 years' practical experience with AWS.
- Review: Focuses on the design of scalable cloud architectures, security and cost optimization.
Associated wages :
- Average salary: 130,000 $/year.
- Salaries for senior AWS experts: 150,000 $/year or more.
Accessible jobs :
- AWS Cloud Architect.
- Cloud consultant.
- Cloud engineer.
3. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
CEH trains professionals to identify and correct vulnerabilities in IT systems through ethical hacking.
Current trends :
- Recruiters are actively seeking ethical hackers to bolster their defenses against cyber threats.
- The banking and defense sectors are the main employers.
Certification process :
- Conditions: 2 years' experience in cybersecurity or participation in an accredited training course.
- Review: 125 questions covering ethical hacking, recognition and securing systems.
Associated wages :
- Average salary: 125,000 $/year.
- Senior offensive analysts: Up to 140,000 $/year.
Accessible jobs :
- Ethical hacker.
- Offensive security analyst.
- Cybersecurity consultant.
4. Google Professional Cloud Architect
This certification attests to advanced skills in designing and managing solutions on the Google Cloud Platform.
Current trends :
- Google Cloud is growing by 45 % in 2024, increasing demand for certified experts.
- Companies are embracing Google Cloud for its artificial intelligence solutions.
Certification process :
- Conditions: Minimum 3 years' experience, including 1 year with Google Cloud.
- Review: Case studies and practical questions on cloud architecture.
Associated wages :
- Average salary: 135,000 $/year.
- Experienced Google Cloud Consultants: 150,000 $/year.
Accessible jobs :
- Google Cloud Architect.
- Cloud consultant.
- DevOps engineer.
5. Project Management Professional (PMP)
PMP certification, issued by PMI, is a global standard in project management, particularly popular in the technology sector.
Current trends :
- Agile methodology is gaining in popularity, reinforcing the value of PMP certification.
- Complex digital projects require certified project managers.
Certification process :
- Conditions: Significant project management experience and specific training.
- Review: Questions focusing on project planning, execution and control.
Associated wages :
- Average salary: 130,000 $/year.
- PMP-certified program managers: Up to 150,000 $/year.
Accessible jobs :
- IT project manager.
- Program Director.
- Project management consultant.
6. Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
Certification CISMThe ISACA certification is designed for security management professionals. It focuses on governance, risk management and compliance.
Current trends :
- With regulations like RGPD and CCPA, companies are looking for CISM-certified experts who can guarantee security while complying with legal obligations.
- Strong demand for security managers able to link IT security and strategic objectives.
Requirements:
- Minimum 5 years' experience in information security management.
Review:
- 150 questions covering four key areas:
- Safety governance.
- Risk management.
- Security incident management.
Salaries :
- Average salary : 145,000 $/year.
- Up to 180,000 $/year for safety manager positions.
Accessible jobs :
- Information security manager.
- Governance, risk and compliance (GRC) consultant.
- IT Risk Manager.
7. CompTIA Security+
Visit CompTIA Security+ is ideal for cybersecurity beginners. It validates fundamental knowledge of network and system security.
Current trends :
- Recruiters are actively seeking this certification for junior cybersecurity positions.
- Highly sought-after in SMEs and the public sector for entry-level roles.
Requirements:
- No previous experience required, but basic IT knowledge is a plus.
Review:
- Covers topics such as:
- Network security.
- Threat detection and response.
Salaries :
- Average salary : 85,000 $/year.
- Junior security analysts : Up to 100,000 $/year.
Accessible jobs :
- Junior cybersecurity analyst.
- Network administrator.
- IT support technician.
8. Certified Data Professional (CDP)
Visit CDP is a recognized certification for data management and analysis professionals. It certifies advanced skills in data collection, processing and exploitation.
Current trends :
- With an increase of 40 % demand for data analystsCDP has become a strategic asset.
- Companies rely on predictive analysis to optimize their decision-making processes.
Requirements:
- Experience in data management or decision analysis.
Review:
- Two levels:
- Professional level for the basics.
- Advanced level for complex concepts such as predictive analysis.
Salaries :
- Average salary : 120,000 $/year.
- Up to 140,000 $/year for certified data scientists.
Accessible jobs :
- Data analyst.
- Data scientist.
- Data administrator.
9. Linux Professional Institute Certification (LPIC-1 & LPIC-2)
Certifications LPIC-1 and LPIC-2issued by the Linux Professional Institute, validate Linux administration skills, which are essential in open source environments.
Current trends :
- Demand for Linux administrators has exploded with the growing adoption of Linux systems in critical infrastructures.
Requirements:
- No experience of the LPIC-1.
- Valid LPIC-1 certification is required to pass the LPIC-2.
Review:
- LPIC-1: Systems maintenance, basic network configuration.
- LPIC-2: Advanced administration, management of mixed networks.
Salaries :
- Average salary : 115,000 $/year.
- Up to 130,000 $/year for experienced Linux engineers.
Accessible jobs :
- Linux administrator.
- Open source network engineer.
- Linux support specialist.
10. Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert
This certification attests to the skills needed to design hybrid cloud solutions on the Microsoft Azure platform.
Current trends :
- Azure holds 22 % of the global cloud marketThis makes it a strategic skill.
- Companies are adopting hybrid architectures for greater flexibility.
Requirements:
- In-depth knowledge of IT systems and practical experience.
Review:
- Includes questions on :
- Designing cloud solutions.
- Integrating safety and compliance.
Salaries :
- Average salary : 135,000 $/year.
- Up to 150,000 $/year for experienced profiles.
Accessible jobs :
- Azure Architect.
- Cloud administrator.
- Hybrid solutions consultant.
FAQ
1. Which certification is ideal for getting started in IT?
CompTIA A+ is an excellent option for beginners.
2. What is the most sought-after cybersecurity certification?
CISSP and CEH are among the most sought-after.
3. How much does certification cost?
Costs range from 300 $ to 1,000 $, depending on certification and level.
4. Can these certifications be taken online?
Yes, many certifications such as AWS, CISM, Comptia and PMP offer remote exams.
5. Do these certifications require renewal?
Yes, most require updating every 2 to 3 years.
6. Which certification should you choose for a career in cloud computing?
AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate is ideal, followed by Google Professional Cloud Architect or Microsoft Azure Solutions Architect.
How Axis Intelligence Supports You
Axis Intelligence offers training and preparation solutions for all these certifications. With a team of experts, we offer :
- Customized training adapted to your needs.
- Realistic examination simulations to maximize your chances of success.
- Individual coaching for optimal follow-up.
Contact us today to make your ambitions a reality
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