Are you considering enquiring? Please note: All courses listed are paid courses, though many providers offer flexible payment plans. Speak to a course advisor to find out more by making an enquiry today.
Course overview
The CompTIA IT Operations Specialist (CIOS) certification is designed for people who are just starting their IT careers, especially those with up to two years of experience. It’s a key part of the CompTIA Infrastructure Career Pathway and is really important for those new to IT. This certification is all about laying a strong foundation for a career in IT infrastructure management. It starts with the basic skills in IT operations and then gradually moves to more advanced topics.
Getting the CIOS certification is more than just earning a certificate; it’s about progressively learning and growing in the field of IT operations. It covers everything from managing IT infrastructure to solving network problems. When someone earns this certification, it shows they’re dedicated to building a wide range of skills in IT operations, which is a very important area in today’s world full of technology.
Alternatively, our IT Technician Career Programme is the preferred route for students looking to kickstart their careers and thrive as IT Professionals.
What you'll learn
The CompTIA IT Operations Specialist (CIOS) certification focuses on equipping individuals with foundational skills and knowledge required for effective IT operations management.
Study method
- Online
- Blended
- In-class

coursesonline.co.uk customers are now eligible to apply for an XO Student Discount Card.
Enrol in a course today to unlock exclusive deals.
Duration study load
The time it takes to achieve the CIOS certification can vary greatly depending on your prior knowledge, experience, and study commitment. Each of the two required certifications (CompTIA A+ and Network+) usually requires a study time of about 10-12 weeks for individuals new to the field, when studying part-time. Therefore, you might expect to spend around 5-6 months to complete both certifications if you’re new to IT and studying part-time. This timeline could be shorter for those with some existing IT knowledge or experience, or for those able to commit to full-time study.
Course features
- Consultation with a Career Consultant to corroborate your course choice
- Unlimited, 12-month access to the official CompTIA IT Operations Specialist Course
- Official CompTIA A+ Core 1 Exam, CompTIA A+ Core 2 Exam and CompTIA Network+ Exam
- Certified Tutor to provide assistance with course queries
- Access to a full Support Team for assistance with examination, notes, and study queries
- Official CompTIA learning portal with access to videos, flash cards, and performance-based questions (PBQs) to maximise your chance of success
- A professional, industry-oriented CV rewrite*
- A LinkedIn profile overhaul to maximise your new networking opportunities*
*Value-added service that can be added at an additional cost
Assessment
- Official CompTIA A+ Core 1 Exam, CompTIA A+ Core 2 Exam and CompTIA Network+ Exam
FAQs
Who is the CIOS certification for?
The CIOS certification is ideal for individuals at the beginning of their IT career, typically those with 0-2 years of experience. It’s suited for those who aspire to work in IT infrastructure and operations, such as IT support specialists, network technicians, or help desk technicians. It’s a great choice for those looking to demonstrate a foundational understanding of IT operations, including hardware, software, and network support.
How long is the certification valid for?
The CIOS certification is dependent on the validity of the CompTIA A+ and Network+ certifications, each of which is typically valid for three years from the passing date of their respective exams. To maintain the CIOS status, you’ll need to renew these individual certifications either by retaking the exams or by participating in CompTIA’s Continuing Education (CE) program.
Subjects
The CompTIA A+ certification is a foundational IT certification that covers a broad range of topics essential for entry-level IT professionals. It emphasizes the understanding and troubleshooting of a variety of hardware and software, along with customer support skills. Additionally, it includes an understanding of basic networking, security fundamentals, and operational procedures, preparing individuals for roles in IT support and technical assistance.
The CompTIA Network+ certification is focused on networking concepts and practices, aimed at preparing IT professionals for managing, configuring, and troubleshooting networks. It covers key areas such as network design, security, routing and switching, and network operations. This certification is ideal for those looking to specialize in network infrastructure and ensure efficient and secure data communication within an organisation.
About ITonlinelearning
Located in Sittingbourne, Kent in the United Kingdom, ITonlinelearning was founded by Jeremy Dargie in 2007. Our aim is to help both aspiring and seasoned professionals gain internationally recognised, accredited certifications that enable them to begin and develop their careers and develop into sought-after and well-versed professionals.
We are able to tailor your courses to your specific needs, giving you the opportunity to study courses on offer from world-leading companies such as PeopleCert, CompTIA, Axelos, APM, APMG, BCS, DMI and CMI, to name but a few. These certifications will help you, like thousands of others, reach your certification goals and beyond, ensuring that you develop your chosen career into a lucrative and rewarding profession.