Cisco NetAcad Partner

IT Support
Career Pathway

From Zero to CCST IT Support — No Experience Required — Free

A step-by-step program designed for complete beginners. Start with computer hardware basics, build networking skills, then complete the full IT support curriculum — all leading to the Cisco CCST IT Support certification and a real tech career.

4
Learning Phases
6
Courses Included
3–5
Months to Cert
$0
Cost to You
Program Structure

Your Path to CCST IT Support Certification

No prior tech experience needed. Every student starts at Phase 1 — the very basics. Each phase builds the skills you need for the next, leading directly to the CCST IT Support certification exam. Tap any course to see what you’ll learn.

1
Phase 1 · Start Here — Zero Experience Required

Computer & IT Fundamentals

3–4 weeks · Absolute Beginner
Computer Hardware Basics +
PC components Mobile devices Storage devices Peripheral devices Basic troubleshooting IT safety
Operating Systems Basics +
Windows fundamentals Linux basics File management User accounts & permissions OS installation OS troubleshooting
2
Phase 2 · Networking Fundamentals

Connect & Troubleshoot Networks

3–4 weeks · Beginner
Networking Basics +
How networks operate Network devices & media IP addressing Network protocols Wireless networking Basic troubleshooting
3
Phase 3 · Network Devices & Addressing

Configure Devices & Solve Problems

4–6 weeks · Beginner–Intermediate
Networking Devices and Initial Configuration +
Router & switch setup IP addressing schemes DHCP configuration Cloud & virtualization basics Connectivity testing
Network Addressing and Basic Troubleshooting +
IPv4 & IPv6 addressing Subnetting fundamentals DHCP & DNS Troubleshooting methodology Connectivity diagnostics
4
Phase 4 · Help Desk & Security — Exam Prep

Support Users & Secure Systems

4–6 weeks · Intermediate
Network Support and Security +
Help desk methodology Queue & time management User access control Common security threats Ticketing & documentation Customer communication
Recommended Add-On Courses
Introduction to Cybersecurity Getting Started with Cisco Packet Tracer Linux Essentials
💻

CCST IT Support — Exam 100-140

The goal of this entire pathway. After completing all four phases, students are prepared to sit for the Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) IT Support exam — validating skills in troubleshooting, end-user support, hardware management, operating system administration, and security awareness. This certification is also a direct stepping stone toward CCNA. We Are One Foundation covers the cost for eligible students.

Apply Now →
Estimated Timeline

Built Around Your Schedule

Whether you’re studying full-time or balancing work and family, this pathway works for you. Both tracks lead to the same destination — CCST IT Support certification.

Full-Time Student
3–5 Months
12–15 hours per week
Part-Time Student
5–7 Months
6–8 hours per week
Career Outcomes

Jobs You Can Land

IT Support is the entry point to every tech career. Many students qualify for entry-level roles while still completing the program. The CCST IT Support certification is also a direct stepping stone toward CCNA and higher-level Cisco certifications.

During Program

Tier 1 Help Desk Technician
Desktop Support Technician
IT Assistant
Computer Lab Technician
Customer Support Agent

After CCST IT Support

IT Support Specialist
Help Desk Analyst
Computer Support Specialist
IT End-User Support
Technical Support Engineer

Ready to Earn Your
IT Support Certification?

Training and certification are free for eligible veterans and underserved community members nationwide. No experience required — we start from the very beginning.

Apply Now — It’s Free Check Eligibility