In the world of IT, real-world experience is part of what employers look for when they are trying to fill the more coveted positions in their companies. However, the other part of the equation is certifications. There are several noteworthy certifications related to IT that you can get through diligent study, and the more of them you have, the better it demonstrates to a possible employer that you are competent in a wide range of applicable skills. Here are four certifications that you should consider seeking as you attempt to beef up your resume.

Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer

First up is the Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer certification, otherwise known as the MCSE. The MCSE validates a person’s abilities to build innovative solutions to various problems and challenges across multiple technologies. It is considered to be a mid-level certification, but it is definitely one for which employers will be looking. There are IT courses you can take online that will prepare you to pass it, and it is offered in many different specializations. SharePoint, communication, messaging, data platform, business intelligence, and private cloud are just some of the possibilities.

Certified Information Systems Security Professional

The Certified Information Systems Security Professional certification is also a great one to have. The CISSP is a credential recognized the world over, and it verifies your IT security competency. Simply stated, those with this certification should be able to protect organizations from cyber attacks. With so many high-profile hacks of various companies taking place recently, this certification is one that employers value highly. If you have it, it means that you have extensive managerial and technical abilities.

Network+

The Network+ certification means you can troubleshoot, manage, and design both wireless and wired networks. If you’re looking for a position like an information technology technician, an information technology specialist, or a helpdesk technician, an employer will undoubtedly be looking for you to have this. The Network+ means that you’re able to problem-solve on the fly, and to have someone like you in an IT department is always going to be advisable for larger companies.

CompTIA A+ Technician

Similar to a Network+ certification, the CompTIA A+ certification can be thought of as the starting point of many IT careers. If you have it, it means that you can handle and maintain laptops, mobile devices, operating systems, PCs, and printers. There are two different tests that you must pass in order to get it, and it is not considered as difficult as some of the others out there. If you’re getting started in IT, though, you’re going to need it on your resume.

With so many specialized positions available in the IT profession, it is going to be incumbent upon you to stack up as many of these certifications as possible if you want to get the best spots. If you don’t intend on getting a position beyond desktop support technician or an in-home support specialist, then you’re only going to need the basics. However, if you want higher paying jobs at more cutting-edge companies, you’ll need to have that “wow” factor on your resume that only several mid and higher-level certifications will provide.