IT Exams – Your Quick Guide to Acing the Toughest Tests

Thinking about a new IT certification? You’re not alone. Hundreds of people chase IT exams every year to level up their skills and earn higher salaries. The right exam can open doors, but the wrong choice can waste time and money. This page pulls together the most useful info from our blog so you can pick the best exam, avoid common pitfalls, and study smarter.

Most Popular IT Exams

Here are the exams that show up on most job ads and salary surveys:

• CompTIA A+ – great for beginners who need a solid foundation in hardware, networking, and troubleshooting.
• CompTIA Network+ – builds on A+ and focuses on networking concepts, cable types, and security basics.
• Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) – perfect if you want a foot in the cloud market without deep technical details.
• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) – the go‑to for anyone who wants to work with routers, switches, and network design.
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) – often called the toughest, it covers security management, architecture, and risk.
• Google Professional Cloud Architect – high‑paying and in demand for cloud‑focused roles.

Our post "What is the Hardest IT Certification to Earn?" explains why CISSP and Cisco CCIE rank at the top for difficulty. Knowing the challenge level helps you set realistic goals.

Study Strategies That Actually Work

Many learners jump straight into video courses and then hit a wall. Try these proven steps instead:

1. Map the exam objectives. Download the official outline, highlight topics you’re weak on, and turn them into a weekly checklist.
2. Mix passive and active learning. Watch a short video, then write a one‑page summary or explain the concept to a friend. Teaching reinforces memory.
3. Use practice exams early. Take a full test after the first study pass. Your score tells you exactly where to focus next.
4. Schedule short, frequent sessions. 30‑minute blocks with 5‑minute breaks keep your brain fresh better than a 3‑hour marathon.
5. Join a study group. Our community forums let you ask questions, share notes, and stay accountable.

If money is tight, check our guide "Do Employers Really Value Google Certificates for Hiring in 2025?" for free resources that still impress recruiters.

Finally, consider the "Highest Paying IT Certification Without a Degree" article. It breaks down which exams give the biggest salary boost even if you don’t have a college degree. Certifications like CompTIA Security+, AWS Certified Solutions Architect, and Microsoft 365 Certified: Modern Desktop Administrator can land you a six‑figure job.

Pick an exam that matches your career goal, follow a focused study plan, and use practice tests to measure progress. With the right preparation, you’ll walk into the testing center confident and ready to pass.

Ready to start? Browse our detailed posts, grab the free study checklists, and schedule your first practice test today. Your next IT certification is just a few weeks away.