Top IT Certifications to Pursue in 2025

The IT industry evolves rapidly and staying relevant requires continuous learning and skill enhancement. For both IT professionals and newcomers aiming to break into the industry, certifications provide a structured path to acquiring in-demand skills and showcasing expertise to employers. As businesses continue to prioritize IT in 2025, certain certifications can help differentiate yourself from other candidates.  

Below is a snapshot of the top 18 IT certifications candidates should pursue in 2025, broken up into six main focus areas. 

IT Certifications in 2025

Cloud Computing Certifications

Cloud computing continues to dominate the IT landscape as firms increasingly shift their operations to the cloud. Certifications in this domain validate skills in managing, deploying, and securing cloud infrastructure.  

The first of three key certifications in cloud computing we would like to call out is the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Professional certification. This professional certification is for advanced individuals learning to design scalable systems on Amazon Web Services (AWS). It remains a gold standard for cloud architects who are already familiar with AWS products. 

The second certification is Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert, which focuses on building cloud solutions using Microsoft’s Azure platform. IT professionals with an intermediate background can utilize this certification to demonstrate proficiency in managing a network or storage platform, as well as security. 

Finally, the Google Cloud Professional Cloud Architect certification demonstrates an individual’s expertise in designing and managing robust solutions in Google Cloud. Like the prior two, this certification focuses on mastering a particular firm’s cloud offerings. With Google Cloud’s prominence, it may be particularly appealing for candidates looking to be hired or promoted. 

Cybersecurity Certifications

Cybersecurity is becoming more critical as threats evolve with AI and machine learning. Certifications in this field validate a professional’s ability to protect networks, systems, and data.  

The first noteworthy option is the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification. This advanced certification covers a wide range of topics, including risk management and security operations, and is ideal for already experienced IT professionals.  

Next is the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification, which is targeted at intermediate professionals specializing in penetration testing, or the exercise of finding a system’s vulnerabilities. A CEH certification effectively equips candidates with skills to find and fix vulnerabilities in IT systems.  

Finally, the CompTIA Security+ certification is perfect for entry-level IT professionals beginning their career in cybersecurity. By covering foundational skills such as threat analysis and incident response, this certification offers a digestible foundation to build upon. 

Data and AI Certifications

Data science and AI are reshaping the IT world. Thus, certifications in these areas can help professionals remain appealing to current and prospective employers.  

The first leading certification for 2025 is the Google Professional Machine Learning Engineer certification, which validates expertise in designing and implementing machine learning models on Google Cloud. Machine learning engineers are crucial for processing large datasets and this certification provides an excellent continuation of education.  

Next is Microsoft Certified: Azure AI Engineer Associate certification. With a focus on AI solutions using Microsoft Azure, this certification is tailored for intermediate professionals working on cognitive services and machine learning. Engineers looking to gain this certification should already be familiar with Python and C#. 

Finally, the Certified Analytics Professional (CAP) certification demonstrates proficiency in analytics, data mining, and machine learning techniques. Perfect for beginner to intermediate engineers, this certificate introduces skills that are necessary for the future of machine learning. 

Networking and Infrastructure Certifications

Even with the rise of cloud computing, networking remains essential for IT infrastructure. Certifications in this area ensure professionals can design, deploy, and manage efficient networks. 

The Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) certification builds on other foundational Cisco certifications. CCNP also offers specialization options, including enterprise networking and security, which can be perfect for an advanced engineer looking to dive deeper into a particular skillset. 

At an intermediate level, the Juniper Networks Certified Specialist (JNCS) certification specializes in Juniper networks and teaches advanced routing and switching technologies. This certificate is tailored for engineers with a solid foundation looking to improve skill efficiency. 

Finally, the CompTIA Network+ certification is ideal for entry-level individuals looking to demonstrate their networking fundamentals knowledge. The certificate provides core skills like establishing, maintaining, and troubleshooting networks. 

DevOps and Agile Certifications

As firms increasingly prioritize agility and soft skills in their IT departments, certifications in DevOps and Agile methodologies are also in high demand. These certifications highlight expertise in automation, software development, and project management.  

A top choice for 2025 includes the AWS Certified DevOps Engineer – Professional certification. Tailored for DevOps professionals working with AWS, this emphasizes mastery of automation and continuous delivery. Engineers who expect to work with AWS can utilize this as a skill validation for DevOps. 

Next is the Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) certification which is for professionals focusing on Agile methodologies and Scrum principles. ScrumMasters are people-oriented IT leaders in the workplace. 

Finally, Microsoft Certified: DevOps Engineer Expert certification validates an IT professional’s skills in combining development and operations to deliver services more efficiently. Intermediate level engineers who already have a basis for DevOps but want to move into the Microsoft platform should seek this out. 

Emerging Technologies Certifications

The IT industry is continually shaped by emerging technologies, and certifications in blockchain, the IoT, and edge computing are gaining traction. 

The NVIDIA Deep Learning Institute Certifications are focused on AI and deep learning. IT professionals of all backgrounds can utilize NVIDIA’s learning platform to explore or deepen new skills across IT and advanced computing. 

Next, the IoT Practitioner Certification spotlights skills in implementing IoT solutions across industries. Designed to apply to a broad range of fields, this certification can be perfect for IT professionals with varying levels of prior experience. 

Finally, the Certified Blockchain Professional (CBP) certification provides professionals with a pathway to explore blockchain technology including the design, implementation, and management of blockchain networks. This certification is designed for entry-level blockchain professionals looking to begin their learning. 

Next Steps

The IT certification landscape in 2025 offers a wealth of opportunities for professionals at all levels. Whether you’re aiming to break into the field, advance your career, or specialize in a niche domain, pursuing a relevant certification can be a strategic move. By aligning your certifications with industry trends, you can future-proof your skills and unlock new opportunities in the constantly evolving world of IT. 

Contributions from Jake Park-Walters