Cisco NetAcad Partner

IT Support
Career Pathway

Cisco-Aligned Beginner Training for IT Support Careers

Start with the We Are One required hardware, operating systems, and Packet Tracer foundation, then complete Cisco Networking Academy’s official IT Support Specialist pathway and prepare for the separate CCST IT Support certification exam.

4
Learning Phases
7
Cisco Courses
30
Official Path Hours
$0
Cost to You
Program Structure

Your Cisco-Aligned IT Support Path

Begin with the We Are One required foundation, then complete Cisco Networking Academy’s official 30-hour beginner IT Support Specialist pathway and pathway exam. The CCST IT Support certification exam is a separate Cisco exam. Tap any course to see what you’ll learn.

1
Phase 1 · We Are One Required Foundation

Computer, OS & Packet Tracer Fundamentals

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
Getting Started with Cisco Packet Tracer +
Packet Tracer interface Build simple networks Connect devices Practice in a virtual lab
2
Phase 2 · Customer & Operating System Support

Support Users and Operating Systems

Beginner
IT Customer Support Basics +
Customer communication Support workflows Troubleshooting methodology Ticketing & documentation
Operating Systems Support +
Operating system administration User and file support Configuration OS troubleshooting
3
Phase 3 · Security & Connectivity Support

Secure and Connect User Systems

Beginner
Security and Connectivity Support +
Security awareness User access Network connectivity Connectivity troubleshooting Safe support practices
4
Phase 4 · Hardware, Upgrades & Pathway Assessment

Complete the Official Cisco Pathway

Beginner
Hardware and Upgrade Support +
Hardware troubleshooting Components & peripherals Upgrades Preventive maintenance User support
IT Support Specialist Pathway Exam +
Cisco pathway assessment Knowledge validation Career-path completion milestone Separate from the CCST IT Support certification exam
Recommended Add-On Courses
IT Support Essentials (Instructor-Led Alternative) Introduction to Cybersecurity Linux Essentials
💻

CCST IT Support — Exam 100-140

After completing the official IT Support Specialist courses and pathway exam, students are prepared for the separate Cisco Certified Support Technician IT Support certification exam. NetAcad pathway completion does not itself award the certification. We Are One Foundation covers the cost for eligible students.

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Estimated Timeline

Built Around Your Schedule

Whether you’re studying full-time or balancing work and family, this pathway works for you. Both schedules estimate training completion. CCST IT Support certification requires passing the separate Cisco exam.

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