2025-07-02
IT certifications are industry-recognised credentials that validate your skills and knowledge in specific areas of information technology. As such, in today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, launching a successful entry-level IT career demands more than just passion; it requires a strategic blend of skills, knowledge, and recognized credentials to truly stand out. This is where IT Certifications can help.
To boot, technology is evolving at lightning speed, and employers are looking for candidates who not only understand the fundamentals but can also adapt quickly to new tools and trends.
As mentioned, this is where IT certifications play a crucial role.
They serve as powerful proof of your skills and dedication, giving you a real edge in such a crowded job market. Namely, whether you’re aiming to specialize in networking, cloud computing, or IT support, the right certifications will open doors and set you up for long-term success.
Let’s explore the 7 best IT certifications that can help you launch your IT career with confidence and clarity in 2025.
Among all the IT certifications, CompTIA A+ remains the gold standard for entry-level IT professionals. Significantly, it covers foundational skills in hardware, software, networking, troubleshooting, and security. The certification validates your ability to manage and support devices like PCs, laptops, printers, and mobile phones.
Number of exams: 2
Core 1 (220-1201): Mobile devices, networking (including Wi-Fi 6E and SDN), hardware, virtualization, cloud computing, and troubleshooting
Core 2 (220-1202): Operating systems (Windows, Linux, macOS), software troubleshooting, cybersecurity (including Active Directory, malware removal), scripting basics (PowerShell, Python)
Format: Combination of multiple-choice and performance-based questions
Number of questions: Up to 90 per exam
Duration: 90 minutes
Passing scores: 675/900 for Core 1; 700/900 for Core 2
Price: $300 – $400 AUD per exam attempt
With the latest update, the CompTIA A+ IT certificate ensures your skills stay relevant amid evolving technological trends. Furthermore, it covers both hardware and software troubleshooting, making you versatile for various IT roles.
The CCNA IT certificate is a highly respected IT certification focusing on networking fundamentals, routing and switching, and network security. It is ideal for those aiming to become network administrators or engineers.
Number of exams: One comprehensive exam (200-301 CCNA)
Format: Multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, simulation-based questions
Number of questions: Approximately 100-120
Duration: 120 minutes
Passing score: Varies
Focus areas: Network fundamentals, IP connectivity, security fundamentals, automation and programmability, routing and switching
Price: $484 AUD per exam
The CCNA IT certification is often a prerequisite for junior network roles in Australia, providing a strong foundation for career progression in networking and infrastructure.
The Microsoft 365 Fundamentals IT certification introduces cloud concepts and Microsoft 365 services, including collaboration tools, security, and compliance, which are increasingly critical in hybrid and remote work environments.
Number of exams: One (MS-900)
Format: Multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, case studies
Number of questions: 40-60
Duration: 60 minutes
Passing score: 700/1000
Focus areas: Cloud concepts, Microsoft 365 services (Teams, SharePoint, Exchange), security, compliance, privacy
Price: approximately $150 AUD per exam
MS-900 is suitable for beginners interested in cloud-based productivity and collaboration platforms, and it helps prepare for advanced Microsoft certifications.
The Network+ IT Certification is a vendor-neutral certification that deepens your understanding of networking concepts beyond the basics. It covers network design, implementation, security, and troubleshooting, making it valuable for roles managing diverse network environments.
Number of course: One (N10-009)
Format: Multiple-choice and performance-based questions
Number of questions: Maximum 90
Duration: 90 minutes
Passing score: 720/900
Focus areas: Network architecture, operations, security, troubleshooting, emerging technologies (IoT, cloud networking)
Prerequisites: Recommended CompTIA A+ or equivalent experience
Price: approximately $420 AUD per exam
The CompTIA Network+ IT certification is recognized as a stepping stone for network administrators, especially in companies with mixed vendor environments. It is updated regularly to keep pace with industry changes.
Cloud adoption in Australia is surging, with Microsoft Azure being a leading platform. The AZ-104 IT certificate certifies your ability to manage Azure resources, including virtual machines, storage, networking, and security, addressing the growing demand for cloud administrators.
Number of exams: One (AZ-104)
Format: Multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, case studies, labs
Number of questions: Generally, 40-60
Duration: 120 minutes
Passing score: 700/1000
Focus areas: Managing Azure identities, governance, storage, virtual machines, virtual networking, monitoring, and security
Price: Around $180 AUD
The Microsoft Azure Administrator (AZ-104) IT certification prepares candidates for roles in managing cloud infrastructure, implementing, managing, and monitoring Azure environments. It is highly sought after as organizations transition to or expand their cloud infrastructure.
The AZ-900 IT Certification is an entry-level certification that introduces cloud computing concepts and Azure services. It is ideal for beginners or professionals from non-IT backgrounds looking to understand cloud fundamentals.
Number of exams: One (AZ-900)
Format: Multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, case studies
Number of questions: 40 to 60
Duration: 60 minutes
Passing score: 700/1000
Focus areas: Cloud concepts, Azure core services, security, privacy, compliance, pricing, and support
Price: Approximately $165 AUD
The AZ-900 IT certification provides a foundational understanding of cloud concepts, pricing, and security, which makes it ideal for business professionals and IT beginners planning to pursue advanced cloud certifications. This certification course requires no prerequisites, making it accessible to all beginners.
The ITIL V4 Foundation IT certification focuses on IT service management best practices. It teaches how to align IT services with business needs, focusing on delivering value and continual improvement.
Exam Details:
Number of exams: One
Format: Multiple-choice
Number of questions: 40
Duration: 60 minutes
Passing score: 65% (26/40)
Focus areas: ITIL service management principles, service lifecycle, continual improvement, roles and responsibilities
Price: $600 to $900 AUD for the exam only
The ITIL V4 Foundation IT Certification is recognized globally as a framework for IT service excellence. Employers highly value ITIL certification for roles involving IT support and service management, which makes it a key credential for career advancement.
As you embark on your IT career journey in 2025, it is important to recognize that certifications are more than just pieces of paper. They are strategic investments in your professional future. Thus, the seven IT certifications outlined here, ranging from foundational credentials like CompTIA A+ and Microsoft Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) to more specialised ones such as CCNA and Microsoft Azure Administrator (AZ-104), form a comprehensive pathway that equips you with the technical skills and industry knowledge employers actively seek. These certifications validate your ability to handle real-world IT challenges, whether it’s troubleshooting hardware, managing complex networks, or administering cloud infrastructure.
However, certifications alone won’t guarantee success. Pairing them with hands-on experience, through internships, volunteering, or entry-level roles, will deepen your understanding and build confidence. Additionally, soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving remain highly valued by Australian employers and will complement your technical qualifications.
Ultimately, by carefully selecting and earning these certifications, you position yourself as a capable, adaptable, and motivated IT professional ready to contribute meaningfully to the world of IT. Take the time to plan your certification journey thoughtfully, invest in practical experience, and cultivate the soft skills that set you apart. With this approach, you will not only enter the IT field but thrive in it, building a rewarding and sustainable career in 2025 and beyond.
Yes - and it’s designed to do exactly that.
Extratech’s 12-week Cloud, Network and System Support Training isn’t just another basic course. It’s your launchpad to industry-recognised IT certifications that employers trust.
We’ve reverse-engineered the curriculum from the actual exam blueprints of certifications like:
This means you’re not just learning theory, you’re training to pass real exams with confidence. From structured lessons and hands-on labs to simulated test environments, we make sure you’re ready.
But it doesn’t stop at content. Our instructors break down complex topics into easy-to-follow, beginner-friendly segments, and support you with mock exams, revision guides, and one-on-one mentoring. You won’t just learn what’s on the test, you’ll understand why it matters in the real world.
And the best part? These certifications are globally recognised and instantly boost your credibility, even if you're brand new to IT. They open doors to high-paying, stable tech jobs in Australia and around the world.
So yes, Extratech’s Cloud, Network and System Support training is more than just helpful. It’s your shortcut to getting certified, getting hired, and getting ahead.
Yes, it does, and not in a superficial way. Extratech’s Cloud, Network and System Support program offers a comprehensive career development component, designed not only to educate but to position students for real success in the workforce.
You will receive tailored guidance in:
Our goal is not merely to train you, but to ensure you are employable and competitive in a growing industry.
No previous IT knowledge, academic or professional, is required to join. Extratech's Cloud, Network and System Support Training program was designed specifically for beginners who may be entering the field for the first time.
The curriculum begins with the fundamentals and progresses gradually. Every topic is taught in a structured, supportive manner, making complex technical concepts approachable. By the end of the course, you will have acquired the practical knowledge and skills necessary to begin applying for real jobs with confidence.
Upon completion, you will be prepared to undertake a number of globally recognised certification exams. These include:
These certifications are not only respected across the IT industry but also serve as formal validation of your capabilities to employers.
Yes. The program offers flexible scheduling to accommodate those with existing jobs or responsibilities.
Both options are available. You may choose to study virtually, attend in person, or combine the two through hybrid learning.
That is perfectly fine. This course is built for people with no technical experience. Every topic is broken down with clarity and supported by real-life examples.
Many students feel ready to apply as early as week eight, especially after gaining hands-on experience with real support scenarios.
Yes. We encourage you to contact us directly so we can walk you through all available scholarship options, payment plans, and assistance packages.
Reach Out to Us to Get the Full Cloud, Network and System Support Training Curriculum.
Extratech is an all-around Managed Service Provider (MSP), and purveyor of ICT Education, offering customized & personalized IT and digital performance, management, and education services. We provide the best Accounting & IT Training Courses and Certifications in Australia, Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide.