Key Takeaways:
- Align Certifications with Career Goals: Creating a clear IT certification roadmap allows you to strategically choose credentials that align with your desired career path and long-term objectives.
- Follow the CompTIA Roadmap for IT Success: The CompTIA certification pathway offers a structured, proven progression for those starting out in IT or looking to advance into more specialized roles.
- Boost Learning with Dion Training Resources: Dion Training provides reliable, expert-designed CompTIA courses and labs that enhance understanding and prepare you thoroughly for certification exams.
What’s the fastest way to break into tech—or level up in your current IT job? One word: certifications. With countless paths to choose from, knowing where to start (and where to go next) can feel overwhelming. That’s where an IT certification roadmap comes in.
At Dion Training, we specialize in helping aspiring and experienced IT pros build rewarding, sustainable tech careers. Whether you're just starting out or looking to specialize in cybersecurity, networking, or project management, our CompTIA courses and expert guidance provide everything you need to succeed.
In this piece, we’ll walk through the 2025 IT certifications roadmap, highlight key paths like the CompTIA cert roadmap, and show you how to align each step with your long-term career goals.
Why You Need An It Certification Roadmap
An IT certification roadmap helps you:
- Choose the right starting point based on your current experience.
- Follow a logical progression of skills.
- Avoid wasting time or money on irrelevant certifications.
- Plan for long-term specialization.
Unlike college degrees, certifications are stackable and often job-specific. A roadmap gives you a bird’s-eye view of how they connect—and how to use them to get ahead.
Get started with expert-led CompTIA courses and hands-on CompTIA labs from Dion Training today.
Starting Out: The Foundational Certifications
If you’re new to IT, foundational certs like the CompTIA A+ are your best bet. These certifications help you land entry-level roles in support, help desk, or junior technician positions.
CompTIA A+: Your IT Launchpad
The CompTIA A+ is the industry’s baseline credential for IT support. It covers:
- Hardware
- Operating systems
- Networking basics
- Troubleshooting and security fundamentals
It’s perfect for beginners and often a hiring requirement for help desk roles. Need help preparing? Check out our CompTIA A+ tips.
Recommended Entry-Level Path
- CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) – Optional for absolute beginners.
- CompTIA A+ – The core starting point.
Next Step: Build Core Knowledge In Networking And Security
After A+, most professionals move on to networking and security. These skills are foundational for almost every IT career.
CompTIA Network+: Your Gateway To Infrastructure
The CompTIA Network+ teaches you to design, manage, and troubleshoot networks. It’s a must-have for:
- Network technicians
- IT support specialists
- System administrators
CompTIA Security+: Launch Your Cybersecurity Journey
The Security+ certifies baseline cybersecurity skills. You’ll learn:
- Threat analysis
- Risk management
- Cryptography basics
- Secure network architecture
Security+ is required by many government jobs and is a staple for any cybersecurity-focused roadmap. The suggested core path includes CompTIA Network+ and CompTIA Security+.
Specialize Based On Your Career Goals
Once you’ve built a core foundation, you can tailor your IT certification roadmap toward your desired specialty.
Cybersecurity Path
- CompTIA CySA+ (Cybersecurity Analyst): Threat detection, SIEM, and behavioral analytics.
- CompTIA PenTest+: Penetration testing and vulnerability assessment.
- CompTIA CASP+: For advanced enterprise security professionals.
Systems Administration & Cloud
- CompTIA Linux+: Master Linux system management.
- CompTIA Server+: Dive deep into on-prem and virtual server environments.
- CompTIA Cloud+: Learn to deploy and secure cloud infrastructure.
Project Management And Governance
- CompTIA Project+: Covers project lifecycle, budgeting, and communication.
- ITIL 4 Foundation: Best practices for IT service management.
Visual IT Certification Roadmap For 2025
Here’s a visual outline of the CompTIA career roadmap:
- Entry-Level: ITF+ → A+
- Core: Network+ → Security+
- Cybersecurity: CySA+ → PenTest+ → CASP+
- Infrastructure: Linux+ → Server+ → Cloud+
- Project Management: Project+ → ITIL 4 Foundation
Each cert builds on the last and opens doors to more advanced roles and higher pay.
How To Choose The Right Path For You
Choosing the best path on the CompTIA certifications roadmap depends on your:
- Experience level – New to IT vs. career changer vs. upskilling.
- Career goal – Support, networking, cybersecurity, or management.
- Timeline – How quickly you want to get certified and working.
Not sure? Dion Training’s team can help you map it out.
Cost Considerations And Budgeting
Certifications are an investment, and planning your budget helps. For example, the CompTIA cost of an A+ exam is typically around $246 per exam (there are two parts), and bundles often save you money.
Budgeting tips:
- Use bundles that include CompTIA labs
- Choose training that includes exam vouchers
- Study smart to avoid retakes
Tips For Passing Your Exams The First Time
You don’t have to go it alone. Dion Training students enjoy industry-best pass rates thanks to our:
- Exam-focused video lessons
- Hands-on labs
- Practice exams that mimic real test conditions
For extra help, check out our CompTIA A+ tips and guides for Network+, Security+, and beyond.
How Dion Training Supports Your IT Career Journey
At Dion Training, we’re more than a training provider—we’re your long-term career partner. Our offerings include:
- Instructor-led and on-demand CompTIA courses
- Interactive CompTIA labs
- Detailed study guides and free resources
- Courses for CompTIA, ITIL, CISSP, and beyond
Whether you want to start strong or take your current job to the next level, we’re here to help.
The Value Of Certification For Career Switchers
Are you transitioning from a non-technical field into IT? You’re not alone. Thousands of professionals make the switch every year—and certifications are a big part of how they do it.
Certifications provide a clear, fast-tracked alternative to traditional education. For career changers with transferable skills (like customer service, operations, or project management), an IT certification roadmap helps bridge the gap.
Start with A+ or ITF+ to get a feel for the field, then move into Network+ or Security+. These certifications validate your tech skills and help employers see you as a serious candidate.
Government And DoD 8570 Compliance
If you’re aiming for a role with the U.S. government or a defense contractor, certain certifications are required under DoD Directive 8570. CompTIA certs like A+, Network+, Security+, and CASP+ all map to specific 8570 job roles.
That makes the CompTIA certifications roadmap ideal for government and defense careers. Dion Training’s courses are built with 8570 compliance in mind, helping you meet requirements and land cleared positions.
Certifications And Remote Work Opportunities
The rise of remote work has made IT even more accessible. Many certified professionals now work from home in roles like:
- Help Desk Technician
- Network Analyst
- Cybersecurity Specialist
- Cloud Administrator
Certifications prove your expertise even when you’re not in the office. Employers trust credentials from providers like CompTIA, especially when backed by real-world CompTIA labs.
How Certifications Align With Real IT Job Roles
Let’s match common IT roles with relevant certifications:
- Help Desk Tech – A+
- Network Administrator – Network+, Security+
- Security Analyst – CySA+, Security+
- Cloud Engineer – Cloud+, Server+
- IT Project Manager – Project+, ITIL 4
Understanding this alignment ensures you pursue certs that qualify you for your desired position, not just popular ones.
Certifications vs. College Degrees
While college degrees remain valuable, certifications offer more flexibility and faster returns. Here’s why many choose certs:
- Lower cost
- Faster completion (weeks vs. years)
- Focused, job-ready skills
- Industry relevance
You can also combine both—a degree plus a cert (like Security+ or Network+) can set you apart in a competitive field.
Building A Long-Term Plan With Continuing Education
Certifications aren’t a one-and-done deal. The best IT professionals keep learning throughout their careers.
Consider:
- Renewing certifications every 3 years
- Earning CEUs through Dion Training’s continuing ed modules
- Branching into new specialties like cloud, AI, or governance
A strong IT certification roadmap isn’t just about today—it’s about building a flexible, future-proof career.
Certifications For IT Support And Help Desk Roles
IT support roles are often the first step into a tech career. These jobs provide exposure to real-world IT problems and build foundational troubleshooting skills. Certifications like the CompTIA A+ and Network+ are specifically tailored to these environments.
If you’re pursuing a role in desktop support, IT support, or as a service desk technician, your roadmap should begin with A+ and then expand into Network+ and Security+ for career advancement. These credentials prove you can handle system errors, end-user issues, and maintain internal networks confidently.
Certifications For Aspiring Cybersecurity Professionals
Cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing sectors in IT. According to Cybersecurity Ventures, there will be 3.5 million unfilled cybersecurity jobs globally in 2025. Certifications are essential to enter and advance in this field.
Your roadmap might include:
- Security+ (baseline security knowledge)
- CySA+ (cybersecurity analytics)
- PenTest+ (ethical hacking)
- CASP+ (advanced security management)
Pair your certifications with hands-on training in CompTIA labs to stand out in job applications.
The Role Of Vendor-Neutral Certifications
While many tech companies offer their own certifications (e.g., Cisco, AWS, Microsoft), vendor-neutral certifications like those from CompTIA provide broad, foundational knowledge.
Why vendor-neutral certs matter:
- They apply to a wide range of technologies.
- They're not limited to one platform or product.
- Employers often seek versatile skills for cross-platform environments.
Starting your career with a vendor-neutral base ensures you can pivot easily to vendor-specific training later, depending on employer needs.
Leveraging IT Certifications For Promotions And Raises
Certifications don’t just help you land a job—they help you grow within it. Many IT professionals earn raises, bonuses, or promotions after completing industry-recognized certifications.
According to Global Knowledge’s IT Skills and Salary Report, certified professionals earn an average of 12% more than their non-certified peers.
Use the CompTIA cert roadmap to plan your certifications and justify your value to your employer. It’s an investment that pays off long after the exam.
Final Thoughts
Building your tech career doesn’t have to be a guessing game. With the right IT certification roadmap and support from Dion Training, you can make smarter decisions, accelerate your learning, and land the job you want faster.
Whether you're starting from scratch or pivoting into a new tech specialty, a clear path forward starts here.
Read also:
- How to Study for CompTIA A+
- What You Need to Know About the CompTIA Network+
- How Much Does A+ Certification Really Cost?
Frequently Asked Questions About The IT Certification Roadmap
What is the best certification to start with in it?
Most beginners start with the CompTIA A+ certification because it covers foundational IT skills like troubleshooting, hardware, networking, and security. It’s widely recognized by employers and serves as a solid entry point into the IT industry.
Is Network+ harder than A+?
Yes, Network+ is generally considered more difficult than A+ because it goes deeper into networking protocols, infrastructure, and troubleshooting. It also assumes a basic understanding of IT concepts, so it’s ideal to take it after or alongside some hands-on experience.
How long does it take to complete the CompTIA roadmap?
The time it takes depends on your background and how much time you can commit to studying. Entry-level certifications like A+ may take 6–10 weeks, while progressing to advanced certifications like CASP+ or PenTest+ could take 6–12 months or more.
Can I skip A+ and go to Network+?
Yes, you can skip A+ and go straight to Network+ if you already have IT experience or feel comfortable with basic hardware and software concepts. However, A+ offers a strong foundation that can make more advanced topics easier to understand.
Are CompTIA certifications worth it?
Absolutely. CompTIA certifications are globally respected, vendor-neutral, and often required or preferred by employers in IT support, government, education, and corporate environments.
What's the cost of getting certified?
Each CompTIA exam typically costs between $246 and $392 depending on the certification. You can often save money by purchasing exam bundles that include training, labs, and retake options.
Should I follow the exact order of the roadmap?
Not necessarily—while the roadmap provides a helpful progression, your path should reflect your specific goals and background. For example, someone entering cybersecurity might start with Security+ before Network+.
How do I prepare for exams?
A combination of video lessons, hands-on labs, practice exams, and official study guides is ideal for thorough preparation. Dion Training offers all of these resources in one place to streamline your learning experience.
Is online training enough to pass?
Yes, as long as the training is high-quality and comprehensive. Dion Training’s online courses are built to reflect the structure and content of the actual CompTIA exams, giving you the tools you need to pass.
Does Dion Training offer support?
Yes, Dion Training provides access to instructor Q&A, student forums, and email support to help guide you through the material and answer any questions that come up along the way.
