Separating Myths from Reality: The Worth of IT Certifications

Are IT Certifications Still Worth It?

In recent years, platforms like LinkedIn have been rife with debates about the value of IT certifications. Many senior professionals dismiss certifications as worthless. But how accurate is this claim? Let’s take a closer look at both sides of the argument and unpack why IT certifications can still hold significant value—if approached correctly.

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Why the Critics Are Wrong

To illustrate the value of IT certifications, let me share a personal experience from my career.

In 2021, I transitioned from being a network engineer to a DevOps professional. At the time, my Linux knowledge was minimal—essentially limited to using the ls command. Realizing the importance of Linux in my new role, I decided to approach my learning journey methodically. Instead of relying on random YouTube videos or scattered online tutorials, I opted to pursue the CompTIA Linux+ certification. This decision added structure and focus to my learning process.

A Strategic Approach to Learning

The first step was selecting the right learning materials. After some research, I found ITProTV, where Don Pezet’s teaching style resonated perfectly with me. His lessons provided clarity, making complex topics approachable.

While studying, I built my own lab environment using VMware Workstation and multiple Linux distributions. This hands-on approach allowed me to experiment, break systems, and troubleshoot issues—creating a dynamic “playground” for learning. Over the course of three months, I developed a deep understanding of Linux concepts by repeatedly applying what I learned.

Reinforcing Knowledge Through Practice

Once I completed the study material, I began preparing for the Linux+ exam with practice tests. For the questions I didn’t fully understand, I recreated the scenarios in my lab environment to grasp the underlying problems and solutions. This targeted approach not only prepared me for the exam but also reinforced my practical skills.

By the time I passed the Linux+ exam on my first attempt, I had built a solid foundation of Linux knowledge—one that would later prove invaluable in real-world scenarios.

Career Impact

Shortly after earning my Linux+ certification, I landed a job as a 2nd Level IT Support Engineer (DevOps Engineer). My manager explicitly stated that my Linux+ certification was a key factor in their hiring decision, as it demonstrated both my technical competence and my commitment to self-improvement.

While the challenges I faced at work often extended beyond what I had learned, the strong foundation I built enabled me to research and resolve complex issues effectively. This underscores the value of certifications when pursued correctly.

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When the Critics Are Right

Unfortunately, not everyone approaches certifications with the same dedication. I’ve encountered individuals who, despite having no prior cloud experience, quickly amassed multiple AWS and Azure certifications by relying solely on exam dumps. By memorizing answers without gaining practical knowledge, they managed to pass exams but lacked the skills required to perform in real-world environments.

The result? They often fail interviews and disappoint hiring managers, who then take to platforms like LinkedIn to denounce the value of IT certifications. These instances reflect a misuse of the certification process rather than an inherent flaw in certifications themselves.

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The Bottom Line

IT certifications are only as valuable as the effort and approach you put into earning them. If you:

• Select comprehensive learning resources,

• Dedicate time to hands-on practice and experimentation,

• Use practice exams to bridge gaps in your knowledge,

then your certification can become a powerful asset. It can open doors to new career opportunities and provide a strong foundation for mastering advanced technologies.

However, if you shortcut the process by relying solely on exam dumps and neglecting practical experience, your certification will hold little to no value.

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Final Thoughts

When pursued with integrity and dedication, IT certifications remain a worthy investment. They not only validate your skills but also facilitate continued learning and career growth. For those willing to put in the effort, certifications can still be a game-changer.