Careers Slideshow: Hot IT Certifications Every Team Needs

PMP

Project Management Professionals shepherd tasks on time and on budget, while making effective use of available resources.

MCSE

Microsoft Certified Systems Engineers design, implement and administer technology infrastructures using Microsoft 2000 Windows Server and other Windows server platforms.

MCP

Microsoft Certified Professionals include developers, trainers, systems architects and other tech pros with enhanced expertise in an array of Microsoft technologies.

MCSA

Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator certification is valued for systems administration and network troubleshooting. It's a must-have for your systems admins, network admins and IS admins, among others.

A+

Vendor-neutral certification from trade group CompTIA is a standard for tech-support workers. It means they can install networks, conduct preventive maintenance, secure and troubleshoot.

Network+

Another CompTIA certification, it proves a technician's competency in managing, maintaining, troubleshooting, installing and configuring basic network infrastructures. It's included in certification programs of Microsoft, Novell, Cisco and HP, among others.

Security+

This CompTIA certification demonstrates knowledge of system security, network infrastructure, access control and organizational security.

CCNA

Cisco Certified Network Associates can install, configure, run and troubleshoot medium-sized routed and switched networks. They've also proven themselves with security and wireless basics, and an ability to work with a number of protocols.

CISSP

Certified Information Systems Security Professionals are globally recognized for their expertise. Five years of experience in information security is required before a professional can earn this certification, which is administered by the International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium -- (ISC)2.

ITIL

The three-tier Information Technology Infrastructure Library certification demonstrates expertise in tech management. Public and private organizations use ITIL as compendium of IT operational best practices.

Epic-certified implementation specialists

In healthcare, the dominant electronic health records (EHR) vendor is Epic Systems. There are significant federal incentive dollars at stake for EHR implementation to meet needed criteria.

Sun Certification for Java

These well-rounded developers can hit the ground running with application-development projects. Top Sun certified developers provide budget benefits and deliver projects on a tight deadline.

ERP

Enterprise Resource Planning keeps HR, finance and other mission-critical enterprise applications running smoothly. ERP-certified individuals ensure proper implementation, administration and training for these solutions.