The main factor to be aware of when you're considering any sort of IT training is what you are looking to achieve out of it. Do you have a job planned that calls for specific PC literacy skills, or is it that you simply want to know how to surf the web more thoroughly? And then again, you might be hoping to switch your job entirely and get into the I.T. sector itself.

Understanding your end goal can be vital for identifying the training that will get you there. If you're sure about why you need training, you can take an informed evaluation on which will be the right sort to suit your needs. This valuable technique will also save you time and expense, and means you are not wasting effort on the wrong thing.

You'll be able to learn more about the different I.T. careers and training routes from dedicated web-pages on this web site. On the other hand, you could request our free information pack and then ask to talk to one of our industry advisors.

Should you wish to go for the first levels of professional IT certification, then User & Systems-Support could be a reasonable move. Typically, if you're going to deliver software support to others in the business environment, the 'MCDST' ('Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician') may be appropriate. A program of this level usually requires roughly one hundred hours of study time.

Next, we get into the realms of full professional I.T. accreditation. To obtain a position working in hardware support or network-support you should look at doing your 'A+' & 'Network+' qualifications from CompTIA. In addition to covering the basics of hard-ware and networks, you'll be taught about trouble-shooting, support, administration and security. A course that covers both of them should take about 200-250 hours to complete. This suggests a person learning part time alongside another job could be at the exam stage in 6 month's time.

Those people at the very start of their PC user learning-curve should elect to complete the European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL). Almost all personal computer systems operate on a system known as "Windows", and the ECDL addresses the way to operate its basic components. In addition , it goes through how to get onto the web, so that you can use email to receive & send messages, & search the world wide web. A small amount is additionally covered on how to use spreadsheets and do a little word processing.

The next level is to get a bit more formalised instruction to enhance your Curriculum Vitae or prepare you for other functions at the office. Probably the most common of these is more in-depth training in Microsoft 'Office'. The key accreditations are the 'Microsoft Office Specialist' (MOS) or the 'Microsoft Certified Application Specialist' (MCAS.) The 'MOS' emphasises the Microsoft Office 2003 environment under 'Windows XP' (still essentially the most popular commercially), whereas the MCAS emphasises Windows Vista and 'Office' 2007, and so could be better suited for the future. You'll find different exams for both that go into 'Word', Excel, PowerPoint & "Access" - for 'word processing', spread-sheets, 'presentations' and databases. These certifications will show an employer that you're properly skilled to use these packages to their fullest level.

Careers in I.T. can be broken down into a few main categories: The first is Networking and Support (including Security), the second is Programming and Software Development, the third is Databases and fourth is Web-Design. Every I.T. classification has it's own set of skill requirements, with corresponding certifications at a number of different competency levels. The choice could appear a little over-whelming to anyone who is new to IT. Some areas suit some individuals better than others, and distinct instruction styles can benefit particular individuals as well. Each of these items can be clarified by an advisor.

A lot of people come in to IT from very different careers. This may indicate different starting points, subject to previous experience & software-skill expertise. Moving on from this point usually needs a conversation with a specialist advisor. Indeed any kind of complete career change plans really should be talked over prior to getting started - its a sensible step to make sure the training you decide on is right for the job. Insufficient preparation can lead to much frustration down the road, and cost you a lot more money than it should have!

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