How to Start a Career in IT With No Experience (Step-by-Step Roadmap for 2026)

Ascend Education on March 27, 2026

Quick Summary

  • The fastest way to understand how to start a career in IT with no experience is to begin with beginner-friendly certifications.
  • The most recommended starting point is from the entry level IT certifications list like CompTIA A+ and Network+.
  • The best IT certifications for beginners focus on practical, job-ready skills rather than theory.
  • Hands-on labs and real-world scenarios matter more than just watching videos.

    A clear roadmap helps move from beginner → IT support → specialised roles.

If you’re wondering how to start a career in IT with no experience, you’re not alone. Many beginners assume they need a technical degree or prior experience to enter the industry but that’s no longer true.

Today, employers care more about skills and practical knowledge than formal education.

The most effective way to build those skills is by following an entry level IT certifications list and focusing on hands-on learning. This guide will show you exactly how to start a career in IT with no experience, step by step.


Entry Level IT Certifications List for Beginners

Choosing the right starting point is critical when learning how to start a career in IT with no experience.


Here’s a proven entry level IT certifications list:

These certifications are widely recognised and specifically designed for beginners exploring how to start a career in IT with no experience.

They require no prior knowledge and help you build foundational skills needed for entry-level IT roles.


Best IT Certifications for Beginners

Selecting the best IT certifications for beginners depends on your career goals, but for most people starting from zero, this progression works best:


1. CompTIA A+ (Foundation)

  • Covers hardware, troubleshooting, operating systems
  • Ideal for IT support roles
  • First step in understanding how to start a career in IT with no experience

2. CompTIA Network+

  • Introduces networking concepts
  • Helps you understand system communication
  • Essential for scaling beyond basic roles

3. CompTIA Security+

  • Covers cybersecurity fundamentals
  • High-demand skill across industries
  • Opens pathways into security roles

These are considered the best IT certifications for beginners because they focus on real-world job scenarios, not just theory.


IT Certification Online Options for Beginners

A major advantage today is that you can learn how to start a career in IT with no experience entirely online.


When choosing anIT certification online program, look for:

  • Hands-on labs (not just video lessons)
  • Real-world simulations
  • Structured learning paths
  • Practice exams

Many beginners fail because they only consume content passively. If you’re serious about how to start a career in IT with no experience, you must actively practice.

This is where high-quality online platforms bridge the gap between learning and real-world application.


Step-by-Step Roadmap: How to Start a Career in IT With No Experience

Here’s a clear roadmap to follow:


Step 1: Learn IT Fundamentals

Start with:

  • Computer basics
  • Operating systems
  • Networking fundamentals

This builds your base for understanding how to start a career in IT with no experience.


Step 2: Choose Your First Certification

Start with:

This is the most recommended starting point from any entry level IT certifications list.


Step 3: Build Networking Knowledge

Next step:

This expands your technical understanding and improves job readiness.


Step 4: Develop Practical Skills

Focus on:

  • Troubleshooting systems
  • Setting up environments
  • Practicing real IT scenarios

This is the most important step in mastering how to start a career in IT with no experience.


Step 5: Apply for Entry-Level Roles

Target roles such as:

  • IT Support
  • Help Desk Technician
  • Technical Support

These roles align with the best IT certifications for beginners and help you gain real experience.


Step 6: Specialise in a Domain

Once you gain experience, move into:

  • Cybersecurity
  • Cloud Computing
  • Networking

This step transforms your entry-level job into a long-term career.


Certifications for IT Support Roles

Most beginners exploring how to start a career in IT with no experience begin with IT support roles.


Recommended certifications include:

  • CompTIA A+
  • Google IT Support Certificate
  • Microsoft Fundamentals

These certifications are part of both the entry level IT certifications list and the best IT certifications for beginners.

They help you:

  • Understand system behaviour
  • Troubleshoot common issues
  • Build real-world technical skills

Conclusion

Understanding how to start a career in IT with no experience is about following the right path  not having prior knowledge.


If you:

  • Start with an entry level IT certifications list
  • Choose the best IT certifications for beginners
  • Focus on hands-on learning

You can move from beginner to your first IT job faster than expected.

The next step is simple:
Start learning, start practicing, and take your first certification.


FAQs

1. How to start a career in IT with no experience?

Start with beginner certifications like CompTIA A+, gain hands-on skills, and apply for entry-level roles. Following a structured roadmap makes learning faster and more effective.


2. What are the best IT certifications for beginners?

The best IT certifications for beginners include CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+. These certifications cover essential skills required for entry-level jobs.


3. What is an entry level IT certifications list?

An entry level IT certifications list includes CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, Microsoft Fundamentals, and Google IT Support. These are ideal for beginners.


4. How long does it take to start a career in IT?

It typically takes 3–6 months to complete beginner certifications and become job-ready.