When starting a career in IT, it’s worth considering obtaining a certificate that confirms your foundational skills. The right certifications can help a beginner stand out in the job market and validate their competencies to employers. In the industry, international certifications are especially valued — globally recognized and highly regarded in the Polish market. Below is an overview of certificates for various IT specializations (programming, data analytics, networking, cybersecurity, cloud, DevOps, helpdesk) that in 2026 may help beginners land their first job in IT.
Programming (Software Development)
In programming, practical skills and a portfolio of projects are the most important, but having a certificate can reinforce a junior developer’s credibility. There are several respected language- and technology-focused certifications that validate knowledge of specific programming languages or platforms. For aspiring programmers in 2026, the following are worth considering:
Oracle Certified Associate, Java SE Programmer (OCAJP) – a certification from Oracle confirming knowledge of Java programming fundamentals. It is considered the best option for beginner Java developers, as it covers the core concepts of the language and serves as a solid starting point for a Java career. The Oracle certificate requires passing an exam that tests Java syntax, object-oriented programming, and basic APIs. For a beginner Java programmer, obtaining OCAJP is an official confirmation of skills, helping them stand out among candidates with similar competencies. On the Polish market, Oracle certifications are well recognized, and employers appreciate candidates with solid, exam-backed knowledge.
Python Institute – PCEP / PCAP (Python Programming Certificates) – certifications from the Python Institute for Python developers. PCEP (Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer) is ideal for beginners, confirming basic knowledge of Python and general programming concepts. PCAP (Certified Associate in Python Programming) is intended for those who have already mastered the basics — it verifies intermediate-level Python programming skills and the ability to apply the language in various contexts (e.g., scripts, applications). The PCEP/PCAP exams test syntax, data types, working with functions and objects in Python. These certificates are increasingly recognized on the job market, including in Poland — PCAP is globally seen as solid proof of intermediate Python proficiency. For a beginner Python developer, having PCEP or PCAP is an advantage during recruitment, indicating that the candidate has completed structured material and can program in this popular language.
Note: In programming, certificates will not replace practical skills, so they should be treated as a complement to a project portfolio. In some programming areas, certification is less common — for example, many Web Developers rely on open-source projects rather than formal certificates. However, in corporate languages (Java, C#) or enterprise technologies, certifications (Oracle, Microsoft) can increase a junior’s credibility. For example, Microsoft offers certification paths for developers (e.g., Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate for those creating apps in Azure cloud) — these are globally recognized and signal practical skills in the .NET/Azure ecosystem.
Data Analytics / BI
Data analytics and Business Intelligence are rapidly growing fields — the ability to interpret data is now crucial in business. A beginner data analyst can validate their skills through certifications focused on analytical tools, data visualization, and basic data science. The most recognized certificates for juniors (also in Poland) include:
Microsoft Certified: Data Analyst Associate – a certification from Microsoft focused on Power BI and data analysis tools in Azure. It tests the ability to prepare data, model it, create visualizations, and build dashboards. This certificate is highly practical and valued for BI Analyst / Business Analyst roles in organizations using Microsoft’s ecosystem (common in Poland — e.g., in finance or large enterprises). For a beginner analyst, Power BI knowledge confirmed by this certification signals to employers that the candidate can transform raw data into readable reports. In many companies, the Data Analyst Associate is appreciated and even required for BI roles.
Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate – a Google certification from the Google Career Certificates program on Coursera. This is a comprehensive course consisting of 8 modules covering Excel basics, SQL, R, data visualization, and presenting analytical findings. The program was designed for beginners, teaching practical analytics skills step by step and ending with a capstone project. The Google certificate is valued by employers as proof of practical learning — completing numerous tasks and case studies shows that the candidate has gained hands-on experience solving analytical problems. In Poland, this certificate is becoming popular, especially among people switching careers, and is often considered a substitute for initial work experience in data analytics.
IBM Data Analyst Professional Certificate – an online certification offered by IBM (also on Coursera), similar in scope to Google’s path. The IBM course focuses on practical tools: Python (pandas, NumPy), SQL, statistics, and data visualization (including IBM Cognos). For an aspiring junior data analyst, completing this course series and earning the certificate confirms thorough training — a valuable asset during recruitment. On the Polish market, the IBM certificate is recognized mainly in corporate and consulting environments, where IBM has long offered BI solutions — holders signal familiarity with tools widely used in large organizations.
Tableau Desktop Specialist – a certification from Tableau (Salesforce) confirming the ability to create dashboards and data visualizations in Tableau. The Desktop Specialist level is an entry-level certification requiring no commercial experience — the candidate must demonstrate basic Tableau operation and visualization principles. For beginners focusing on data visualization, this certificate is valuable — it shows the candidate can effectively build interactive reports in one of the most popular BI tools. In sectors like marketing, sales, or finance, where Tableau is widely used, this certification can increase job opportunities.
Note: For those planning a career more toward data science/machine learning, there are certifications at the intersection of analytics and AI — e.g., TensorFlow Developer Certificate or Azure AI Fundamentals/Associate. These are somewhat more advanced. At the start of a data analytics career, it is better to focus on the fundamentals (Excel, SQL, BI) and validate them with the certifications above. After gaining experience, one may consider specialist certifications (e.g., Certified Analytics Professional – CAP by INFORMS is prestigious but requires several years of practice).
Computer Networking (Network Administration)
Computer networks are the foundation of IT infrastructure — every company needs specialists to connect devices and maintain communication. For beginners aiming for roles such as network administrators or network support engineers, there are well-known certifications that validate knowledge of protocols, networking hardware, and network security. The most important include:
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) – the flagship networking certificate from Cisco. CCNA confirms skills in designing, building, configuring, and maintaining networks based on Cisco devices. The CCNA certification program includes routing and switching basics, network protocols (IPv4/IPv6), network security, and network services. It is an associate-level certificate recognized globally as the entry point for a networking career. In Poland, CCNA is highly valued by employers and often appears as a requirement for junior network administrator or network support roles. Passing the CCNA exam demonstrates solid theoretical and practical networking foundations, opening the door to first jobs in IT departments (e.g., systems integration, telecommunications, or large corporations using Cisco hardware).
CompTIA Network+ – a vendor-neutral certification from CompTIA, covering a wide range of networking fundamentals: from network topologies, protocols, and IP addressing to security and network troubleshooting. Network+ is considered an entry-level certification in the networking field, suitable for those taking their first steps as network technicians or administrators. In contrast to CCNA (Cisco-focused), Network+ covers general networking technologies, which can be valued by employers seeking broad fundamentals. In the Polish market, Network+ is less common than CCNA, but international corporations and IT companies recognize and appreciate CompTIA certifications. For beginners, obtaining Network+ can help demonstrate an understanding of computer networks regardless of vendor.
CompTIA A+ – although this certificate covers a broader scope (IT fundamentals, hardware, operating systems), it is relevant in the networking context as well. A+ is a beginner-level IT technician certification confirming skills in computer hardware maintenance, software installation, and networking basics. The A+ program includes modules on configuring network connections, SOHO devices (routers/switches), and troubleshooting common networking issues. Although more often associated with helpdesk roles (discussed later), A+ can be a first step for networking aspirants — especially in smaller companies where IT specialists need to know both PC hardware and basic networking. In Poland, CompTIA A+ is seen as a “proof of fundamental IT knowledge”, recognized by many employers as confirmation that the candidate understands the basics of IT infrastructure.
Cybersecurity (Security)
Cybersecurity is currently one of the most in-demand fields in IT — companies place enormous importance on protecting data and systems, which drives the growing need for IT security specialists. For beginners who want to enter this domain, there are entry-level certifications that confirm an understanding of the fundamentals of information, network, and system security. Key certifications include:
CompTIA Security+ – widely considered the best starting certification in the IT security industry. Issued by CompTIA, the Security+ exam covers foundational topics: network and host security, access control, cryptography, incident response, and basic business continuity concepts. Security+ does not require prior professional experience, which makes it ideal for juniors — it is achievable through self-study or training (the exam consists of ~90 multiple-choice questions). This certificate is recognized globally and respected by employers; for example, many U.S. government institutions require Security+ as the minimum qualification for security-related roles. In Poland, Security+ is also growing in popularity — for employers it signals that the candidate understands cybersecurity fundamentals and is prepared to work in SOC teams or application security. Holders of Security+ can expect numerous offers at junior level, as this certification is often a gateway to entry-level security positions (e.g., Junior Security Analyst).
(ISC)² Certified in Cybersecurity (CC) – a new certification introduced by (ISC)² (known for the prestigious CISSP) specifically designed for beginners in cybersecurity. The CC (Certified in Cybersecurity) certificate was created as confirmation of fundamental knowledge in information security: it covers topics such as basics of network security, access control, risk assessment, and incident response. It does not require work experience — it is intended to help newcomers enter the industry. In 2023, (ISC)² even launched a program enabling free access to CC training and the exam for the first million applicants, emphasizing its mission to popularize security education. On the job market, the CC certificate is still relatively new, but it is rapidly gaining recognition as an official confirmation of junior-level competence from a reputable institution (the same one that grants CISSP and CCSP). In Poland, awareness of this certification is increasing — for global employers (corporations, service centers), seeing "(ISC)² Certified in Cybersecurity" on a CV signals a candidate who takes their security career seriously and understands basic terminology and best practices.
EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) – a popular certification from EC-Council, focused on ethical hacking and penetration testing. CEH confirms the ability to think like an attacker (“hacker”) and perform controlled attacks to identify system vulnerabilities. The certification program is extensive — it covers tools and techniques for hacking networks, web applications, systems, social engineering, and more. For beginners it can be challenging, but many ambitious juniors pursue CEH after gaining foundational knowledge (e.g., after Security+). In Poland, CEH is highly valued — alongside CISSP and Security+, it is among the most frequently mentioned certifications in job postings for security roles. Employers (especially large companies and the financial sector) treat CEH as proof of practical penetration testing skills. A candidate with CEH on their CV is immediately associated with pentesting or offensive security roles, which can significantly help in securing the first job in this field.
Beyond the certifications listed above, the security industry also offers advanced certifications for more experienced professionals (e.g., CISSP, CISM, OSCP). However, at the beginning of your journey it is best to focus on the fundamentals. It is worth noting that security certifications can be not only an advantage but sometimes even a formal requirement — for example, in Polish public tenders it is often required that personnel hold specific certifications such as CISSP or CEH. Therefore, building your certification portfolio in security from the junior level (Security+, CC, CEH) upward can translate into very attractive long-term career prospects and compensation (security specialists with top certificates are among the highest-paid professionals in IT globally).
Cloud Computing
Cloud computing has become the foundation of modern IT infrastructure — virtually every company uses services from providers like AWS, Microsoft Azure, or Google Cloud. For beginners interested in cloud-related roles (e.g., Cloud Engineer, Cloud Administrator, Cloud Application Developer), certifications provide valuable confirmation that the candidate understands basic concepts and can work with cloud services. Especially worth considering at the start are the cloud fundamental certifications:
AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner – the foundational certificate from Amazon Web Services (AWS). It confirms understanding of basic cloud concepts (IaaS/PaaS/SaaS, AWS global infrastructure), knowledge of key AWS services at a general level (compute, storage, networking, databases), and best practices in security and architecture. Cloud Practitioner is an ideal starting point for those new to cloud — the exam lasts about 90 minutes and consists of multiple-choice questions. On the job market, this certificate often appears as a prerequisite for junior roles (e.g., Junior Cloud Engineer) or cloud-focused internship programs. Employers treat it as proof that the candidate has mastered the fundamentals of cloud services and terminology, which significantly shortens the learning curve on the job. In Poland, the number of AWS CCP holders is growing, and integration companies and software houses highly value this certification, especially because many of them aim for AWS partner statuses and require certified staff.
Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900) – Microsoft’s equivalent foundational certification for the Azure platform. It covers core cloud concepts, Azure architecture, key services (VMs, databases, functions, etc.), as well as security, compliance, and Azure pricing. AZ-900 is widely recommended for those beginning with Azure — both future administrators and developers building solutions on this cloud. Like AWS Practitioner, the Azure Fundamentals exam is relatively approachable (around 40–60 test questions). In the Polish market, where many enterprises use Microsoft technologies (banking, public sector, corporations), this certification is highly valued — it boosts the credibility of candidates applying for Azure-based projects. For employers, it is a strong signal that a newcomer has a solid grasp of Microsoft’s cloud and can effectively participate in related tasks.
Google Cloud – Associate Cloud Engineer (ACE) – an associate-level certification from Google Cloud Platform (GCP). It verifies practical skills in deploying applications and maintaining infrastructure in Google Cloud: running VM instances, networking services, monitoring resources, deploying containerized applications, and more. The ACE exam is slightly more technical than the fundamental AWS/Azure certifications, but still accessible to those with limited experience who prepare thoroughly both theoretically and practically. In companies using GCP (e.g., certain startups, gaming companies, retail sector), this certificate is required or preferred for junior positions, as it confirms that the candidate has “worked with Google Cloud” and understands how to manage resources there. In Poland, GCP is still gaining traction, but global corporations (with offices in Poland) increasingly look for GCP specialists — holding the ACE certificate can therefore be a competitive advantage for young cloud engineers.
AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate (SAA-C03) – a higher (associate-level) AWS certification worth mentioning because it remains one of the most recognizable cloud certifications worldwide. It confirms the ability to design and deploy scalable systems on AWS. Although AWS does not formally require Cloud Practitioner before attempting SAA, for beginners it is an ambitious goal requiring solid preparation. In Poland, AWS Solutions Architect Associate is often listed in requirements for junior cloud architect or cloud engineer positions and can significantly strengthen a candidate’s position in salary negotiations. According to global data, this certification ranks among the highest-paid in IT, reflecting the strong demand for cloud architects. For a junior, obtaining SAA after mastering the basics can be a springboard to a faster career advancement in cloud.
Remember: The cloud ecosystem is vast. At the beginning, it is worth choosing one platform (AWS, Azure, or GCP) and earning a foundational certification to grasp the general principles. With experience, you can move to higher-level certifications (e.g.,** Azure Administrator, AWS Solutions Architect Professional) or specialized ones (e.g., AWS Certified Security – Specialty** if you’re interested in cloud security, or Google Professional Data Engineer if you are drawn to cloud-based data analytics). In the Polish job market, employers value all three major clouds — and certified specialists are especially sought after in companies aiming for partner status with cloud providers.
**DevOps and Automation ** The DevOps approach (integrating development and operations) has become essential in modern IT, emphasizing automation, continuous integration (CI), and continuous delivery (CD) of software. For those starting their careers in roles like DevOps Engineer, Site Reliability Engineer (SRE), or SysOps Administrator, confirming skills in automation and containerization tools is extremely valuable. DevOps certifications demonstrate that the candidate not only knows the tools but also understands the philosophy of rapid, iterative change delivery in infrastructure. Some noteworthy certifications for beginners (and intermediate engineers) include:
Docker Certified Associate (DCA) – a certification by Docker, Inc. confirming practical skills in using Docker and containerizing applications. Docker has become a core tool for creating lightweight, portable application environments (containers), so a certified Docker Associate proves they can build images, manage containers, and use basic orchestration features. It is a strong starting point for DevOps engineers, since containers are the foundation of modern application architectures. The DCA exam covers Docker Engine configuration and maintenance, Docker networking, volumes, and best practices in working with images. For employers (including in Poland), this certification increases the credibility of junior DevOps candidates, showing hands-on familiarity with a widely adopted technology.
Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA) – one of the most recognized certifications in the Cloud Native/DevOps world, issued by the CNCF (Cloud Native Computing Foundation) in cooperation with the Linux Foundation. Kubernetes (K8s) is a widely adopted container orchestration platform used in mid-sized and large organizations. The CKA certification is unique because the exam is entirely hands-on — candidates perform real tasks in a live Kubernetes environment (e.g., creating resources, fixing issues in a cluster). It is considered challenging, but highly valued in Poland, where it is among the top certifications sought after in DevOps roles. For a beginner platform engineer (with some Docker and Linux knowledge), achieving CKA is a strong signal to employers that the candidate has solid, practical knowledge of container orchestration and can administer Kubernetes clusters. In many DevOps job postings in Poland, Kubernetes is a strict requirement — holding a CKA helps satisfy that criterion.
HashiCorp Certified: Terraform Associate – a certification from HashiCorp in Infrastructure as Code (IaC). Terraform is a tool used to automatically manage infrastructure (in the cloud or on-premises) using declarative configuration files. A Terraform Associate must demonstrate the ability to build and maintain Terraform modules, manage infrastructure state, use module registries, and understand best practices in IaC. With the growing adoption of the “Everything as Code” approach, Terraform skills have become highly desirable. For companies migrating to IaC, a specialist with this certification is extremely valuable — they can automate entire environment deployments without clicking in the console, saving time and eliminating errors. In the Polish job market, the Terraform Associate certification is still gaining popularity, but in DevOps/Cloud environments it is well recognized. For a beginner DevOps engineer, it can be a distinguishing advantage, demonstrating proactive learning and structured understanding of automation.
Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) – a certification from Red Hat in Linux system administration. Although not branded specifically as “DevOps,” proficiency in Linux administration is a fundamental requirement for any DevOps/SRE role. RHCSA confirms practical competencies in managing Red Hat Enterprise Linux (and derivatives such as CentOS): from user and permission management to network service configuration and shell automation. For beginners in cloud or DevOps, obtaining RHCSA is strong evidence of mastering the foundations of operating systems, on which containers, cloud platforms, and CI/CD tools are built. In Poland, Red Hat certifications are well recognized among system administrators; holding RHCSA (or the higher RHCE) signals that a candidate has solid “sysops” fundamentals — invaluable for DevOps roles. Many DevOps careers begin with system administration, so RHCSA can be a logical first certificate on this path.
For a complete picture: There are also cloud-specific DevOps certifications, such as AWS Certified DevOps Engineer – Professional or Microsoft Certified: DevOps Engineer Expert (AZ-400). However, these are advanced certifications, usually pursued after gaining experience and earlier associate-level certificates. At the beginning of your career, focus on the essential tools and techniques: containers (Docker, Kubernetes), IaC (Terraform, Ansible), and continuous integration (CI/CD tools such as Jenkins or GitHub Actions). Certifications like DCA, CKA, Terraform Associate, or RHCSA will give you strong fundamentals. In Poland, demand for DevOps engineers continues to grow (DevOps salaries rank among the highest in infrastructure roles, averaging PLN 17–26k gross per month), and employers willingly invest in the development of their specialists. Having several certifications early on can accelerate your advancement — proving that you take continuous improvement seriously, which is part of the DevOps culture itself.
Helpdesk and IT Support
Helpdesk / service desk / IT support positions are a common choice for people starting their careers in IT. This role involves first-line user support and maintaining hardware and software within an organization. Certifications dedicated to this path focus on general IT knowledge, troubleshooting common issues, and customer service best practices. The most well-known certifications that help launch a career in IT support include:
CompTIA A+ – the industry standard for entry-level IT technicians. The A+ certification (issued by the independent organization CompTIA) comprehensively covers topics essential for helpdesk work: PC hardware building and maintenance, installation and configuration of operating systems (Windows, Linux), networking fundamentals, security basics, and diagnostic procedures. It is considered a “must-have” for first-line support – many companies (especially corporations with large IT departments) expect their support technicians to hold A+ or have equivalent knowledge. As mentioned earlier, this certificate confirms skills such as repairing and maintaining computers, software installation, and basic network troubleshooting. Earning it requires passing two exams (Core 1 and Core 2), but it is fully achievable even for those without commercial experience if they study the materials thoroughly. CompTIA A+ is valued worldwide as a neutral confirmation of fundamental IT competencies – it is often described as the industry standard for careers in technical support. In Poland, many junior helpdesk job postings list A+ as an advantage. For employers, it signals that the candidate can “open a computer case,” diagnose why “the computer doesn’t see the network,” or why “the printer isn’t printing” — in other words, they can handle typical user issues.
Google IT Support Professional Certificate – a certification developed by Google, available on Coursera, aimed at people who want to gain IT support qualifications from scratch. The program consists of several courses covering topics similar to CompTIA A+ (computer networking, Windows/Linux operating systems, database management, IT security, customer service, and troubleshooting). The course ends with a hands-on project simulating real support tasks (e.g., configuring user accounts, fixing network issues). The Google certificate has the advantage of emphasizing practical scenarios and soft skills related to user support in addition to technical knowledge. Increasing numbers of people in Poland choose this path as an alternative to traditional training — the certificate is recognized by technology companies (Google promotes it together with partners, so recruiters are aware of its scope). For a beginner in helpdesk, holding the Google IT Support Certificate shows that the candidate has completed a structured training program aligned with real support department workflows and is ready for first-line tasks even without commercial experience.
ITIL 4 Foundation – a certification in IT Service Management (ITSM). Unlike A+ or Google IT Support, it does not focus on specific technologies but on the processes involved in delivering IT services and organizational best practices. The ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) standard is a globally recognized collection of guidelines on how to effectively deliver and support IT services within an organization. The ITIL 4 Foundation certification is the first step in an IT service management career path. For a beginner in helpdesk, understanding ITIL principles leads to a better grasp of why organizations use ticketing systems, escalation procedures, knowledge bases, or service-level monitoring (SLAs). Holding ITIL Foundation makes a junior a more aware team member — they can use the correct terminology (incident/problem/change, etc.) and understand the relationship between IT and the business. Employers — especially larger companies and public institutions — appreciate candidates with ITIL because they understand IT operational standards and are oriented toward continuous service improvement. In Poland, ITIL certification is quite popular among support staff and IT managers, often seen as a natural complement to technical skills. For beginners, ITIL is not always required, but having it from the start will certainly pay off in the long run (e.g., making it easier to advance to team lead or IT process analyst roles).
Other Useful Certifications (Soft Skills and Management)
Although technical skills are key at the beginning of an IT career, it is worth mentioning a few certifications not strictly technical that may prove useful for young specialists. They relate mainly to work methodologies or soft skills often valued in IT environments:
Certified Scrum Master (CSM) / Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I) – certifications confirming knowledge of the Scrum methodology and competencies related to the Scrum Master role. Scrum (part of the Agile framework) is widely used in development teams, so understanding its principles is helpful not only for future Scrum Masters but also for developers or testers working in scrum-based teams. For beginners, the most accessible is PSM I (an online exam by Scrum.org) — it requires mastering the Scrum Guide and core Agile concepts. Holding a PSM I certification shows that you understand the Scrum process described in the guide and know how to apply it in practice. For beginners, PSM I is more cost-effective (cheaper and valid for life). Note: The Scrum Master role also requires experience in facilitation and soft skills — a certificate alone does not make someone a Scrum Master, but it is a good proof of foundational knowledge and commitment to development in that direction.
PRINCE2® Foundation / PMI CAPM – entry-level project management certifications. For people who already consider managerial paths early in their careers — or simply want to understand how IT projects are run — these certifications can be valuable additions. PRINCE2 Foundation (developed for UK government needs and popular in Europe) provides knowledge on the processes and components of the PRINCE2 methodology — teaching a structured approach to planning, risk management, role assignment, etc. CAPM (Certified Associate in Project Management) from PMI is targeted at those with limited experience and serves as an introduction to the globally recognized PMBOK standard. Both certifications are entry-level and do not require being a project manager to take the exam — therefore, they are achievable for beginners. Their usefulness depends on your chosen career direction: in purely technical roles, they are not required, but they can positively surprise a recruiter. In the Polish market, PRINCE2 is well known (used, for example, in the public sector and corporations), while CAPM is often treated as the first step toward earning PMP (Project Management Professional) later on. For a young IT specialist, the knowledge gained from these trainings (time management, project communication, stakeholder identification) can be practical even in daily teamwork.
Language Certifications (English) – these are not IT certifications, but worth mentioning because the IT industry is highly globalized and English-driven. For beginners, it is important to be able to use English comfortably in documentation, correspondence, and conversations. Certifications such as IELTS, TOEFL, FCE/CAE can be an additional asset on a CV — especially when applying to international companies. On their own, they do not guarantee employment (employers often verify language skills during interviews), but they show that the candidate has invested in developing this competence. In Polish IT job postings, English at the B2/C1 level is a common requirement — a language certificate helps validate such a claim. Of course, practical language use matters more than a formal certificate, but for someone without international work experience, a certificate like CAE (Cambridge Advanced English) or a high-scoring IELTS can serve as an extra argument during recruitment.
Summary
Growing in the IT industry requires continuous learning, and certifications are one way to structure and validate that learning. For beginners, well-chosen certifications can serve several important functions: they motivate you to master new material, give recruiters an objective reference point (valuable especially when your CV lacks experience), and help you stand out among other junior candidates.
In 2026, the rule remains unchanged: a certification alone does not guarantee a job — but it is proof of initiative and commitment. Employers appreciate candidates who can demonstrate concrete skills backed by an exam, especially when the certification comes from a reputable institution or global technology leader. In the context of the Polish market, international certifications (such as Cisco, Microsoft, CompTIA, (ISC)², AWS, Scrum.org, etc.) are well understood and recognized on par with academic diplomas — they open doors not only to recruitment in Poland but also abroad (e.g., remote work for foreign clients).
When planning your certification path, choose wisely — pick an area aligned with your aspirations. It is better to focus on a few key certifications than to collect dozens of random “papers.” As experts advise, a certification should go hand-in-hand with practical understanding — treat the exam as an intermediate goal that motivates learning, not as a goal in itself. After earning a certificate, do not stop there — use your knowledge in projects (even personal ones) and build further competencies on top of it.
At the beginning of an IT career, the certifications presented in this article can significantly accelerate your professional development. Whether you choose the path of developer, data analyst, network engineer, security specialist, cloud administrator, DevOps engineer, or support technician — there is a set of certifications tailored to each of these roles, recognized by employers and the industry community. Investing in such a certification is an investment in yourself — in the competitive IT environment, it may well be the factor that helps you secure your dream job.