Is it worth it?
An honest look at the certifications people ask about most: what each one costs, what the jobs it leads to pay according to US government figures, who it suits and who should skip it.
Last updated
Certifications
Pick a certification
Pay figures come from O*NET OnLine, the US Department of Labor’s occupation database. They describe a whole occupation, not what a certificate holder earns.
Is Security+ worth it?
Yes, if you want to work in security and don’t yet have a security certification or years of experience to show.
Information security analysts: median pay $129,180 a year (2025)
Is A+ worth it?
Yes, if you’re after your first IT job and have no experience or degree to point to.
Computer user support specialists: median pay $61,860 a year (2025)
Is Network+ worth it?
It depends where you’re heading.
Computer network support specialists: median pay $76,220 a year (2025)
Is CCNA worth it?
Yes, if you want to work on networks.
Network and computer systems administrators: median pay $99,130 a year (2025)
Is CISSP worth it?
Yes, once you have the experience.
Information security analysts: median pay $129,180 a year (2025)
Is PMP worth it?
Yes, if you already lead projects and want that recognized.
Project management specialists: median pay $102,320 a year (2025)
Is CAPM worth it?
Sometimes.
Project management specialists: median pay $102,320 a year (2025)
Is AWS Cloud Practitioner worth it?
It depends on your role.
Is AWS Solutions Architect worth it?
Yes, for anyone who builds on AWS or wants to.
Computer network architects: median pay $134,050 a year (2025)
Is AZ-900 worth it?
It depends on your role.
Choosing between two?Compare certificationsExam costs
