How To Start a Career in IT in 10 Steps (Plus Career Paths)

It is one of the fastest-growing fields right now. From small businesses to tech giants, everyone needs IT professionals. The work is diverse, with roles ranging from tech support to system administration, software development to cybersecurity, and many others in between. And what makes this field stand out is how it offers room for anyone to get in—whether you’re starting from scratch or switching from another field. Plus, it’s not just about the paycheck (although that’s nice). There’s also a sense of satisfaction in solving problems, helping people, and pushing the boundaries of what tech can do. If you’re curious, someone who loves a challenge, or just likes the idea of tech, IT is probably the right place for you.

Getting Started: What’s the First Thing to Do?

The thing is, you don’t need a college degree in computer science to start an IT career. Sure, some folks take that route, but it’s not a requirement. You don’t even have to have a ton of experience in tech right now. If you’re here, it means you’re ready to learn. The first thing you need is curiosity. No one can teach you everything, but you’ll figure it out if you are genuinely interested in how computers and networks work. The basics you need to know are simple: how to use a computer, what an operating system is, and how networks are connected. Once you’ve got that down, you can start to explore more technical areas. And trust me, it’s easier than it sounds.

Step 1: Understand the Basics—Don’t Skip This!

Understanding the foundational stuff is the first step to getting your foot in the door. This doesn’t mean you need to know how to build a server or code a website from scratch just yet. But you should be able to get familiar with terms like operating systems (Windows, Linux, macOS), file systems, databases, and networks. Start with the operating system you’re most comfortable with, whether that’s Windows or macOS. Learn how it works under the hood, where files go, and how programs run. This will help you down the line when you need to troubleshoot systems or set up a network.

Step 2: Pick a Path—Find Your Niche in IT

It is a huge field. Seriously huge. You’ll drown in the details if you try to learn everything simultaneously. That’s why picking an area to focus on early is so important. Do you like building things? Maybe software development or web development is your jam. Or maybe you’re more into the back-end stuff, like databases, servers, and networks? Cybersecurity is a booming field right now—businesses need someone to keep their systems safe. And, if you’re more of a people person, you might enjoy IT support, where you get to help others troubleshoot their tech issues. The point here is that you don’t have to know exactly what you’ll do 10 years from now, but pick something to start with. Once you pick that, you can dig deeper into it and specialize. And don’t worry—if you change your mind later on, that’s fine. It is one of those industries where people often pivot to different roles.

Step 3: Learn to Use Key Tools—Software and Hardware

Okay, so you’ve got the basics down and chosen an area to focus on. Next, it’s time to get your hands on some tools. This isn’t just about knowing the theoretical stuff—it’s about getting practical experience. For example, if you’re going into networking, you need to get comfortable with routers, switches, and firewalls. If you’re going into software development, you’ll need to learn how to use text editors like Sublime or Visual Studio Code and, of course, how to code. Don’t rush it—take your time. It’s much better to spend a little longer understanding the tools than rushing through them and missing the details.

Step 4: Certifications—Do They Matter?

Yeah, they matter. If you want to break into IT quickly, Certs are your best friend. You don’t need a degree to land a solid IT job, but you need skills—and certs prove you have them. CompTIA A+ is one of the best certs to start with if you want to work in IT support or hardware-related roles. If networking piques your interest, go for CompTIA Network+ or Cisco’s CCNA. If cybersecurity is your thing, then something like CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) will give you credibility. Certs don’t guarantee a job, but they help. Employers see them as proof that you know your stuff. Plus, they often open the door for better roles and higher salaries. And the best part? Certs are often cheaper and quicker to get than a degree.

Step 5: Get Some Hands-On Practice—Build, Break, Fix

You can read all the textbooks in the world, but there’s nothing like real-world practice. Start building stuff. Hands-on practice is the key to cementing your knowledge, whether that’s a small website, setting up a home network, or installing Linux on an old laptop. If you’re going for an IT support role, try troubleshooting friend’s or family’s computer problems (they’ll love you for it!). Work on personal projects or contribute to open-source software if software development is your goal. Build a portfolio, something that you can show off in interviews. Employers love seeing that you can take what you’ve learned and apply it.

Step 6: Get Comfortable With Job Hunting

The job hunt is not always smooth, but don’t get discouraged. You’ll probably start with entry-level roles like IT Support or Help Desk Technician. And that’s fine. Everyone starts somewhere, and these positions are great for learning the ropes. Customize your resume and LinkedIn profile to highlight your skills—don’t just focus on your formal education. Make sure your projects, certifications, and hands-on experience take center stage. Be sure to network as well—reach out to people in the industry, attend online or in-person tech meetups, and let your passion for IT shine through in interviews.

Step 7: Keep Your Skills Fresh—The Learning Doesn’t End

It is constantly changing. You can’t expect to learn something once and have it stick forever. To stay ahead, you have to keep learning. Subscribe to blogs, watch YouTube tutorials, and keep up with industry news. Regularly take courses to refine your skills, whether that’s getting a new cert or learning a new programming language. The more you stay updated, the more valuable you become in the job market. Also, look into advanced certifications as you gain experience. These will open the door to more specialized, higher-paying roles.

Step 8: Level Up—What’s Next?

You’ve been in the game for a while now. You’ve got experience, certs, and maybe even some management skills under your belt. What’s next? Moving into more senior roles is the natural next step. You might aim for roles like Systems Administrator, Software Engineer, or Cybersecurity Analyst. These positions tend to require more experience and specialized knowledge, but they come with better pay and more responsibility. Also, leadership roles like IT Manager or Chief Information Officer (CIO) could be on your horizon if you’re interested in managing teams or projects.

Step 9: Networking—It’s Not Just for LinkedIn

Networking is often overlooked, but it’s a huge part of building a career in IT. Whether it’s through tech events, online communities, or even social media, connecting with others in the field can help you discover new opportunities. More than just job opportunities, networking helps you stay informed about trends in the industry. You can learn new things, exchange ideas, and even find mentors to guide you. It’s important to find your community—whether it’s a local meetup group or an online forum like Reddit’s r/sysadmin.

Step 10: Keep Pushing Forward—Don’t Settle

The key to a successful IT career is growth. The industry will never stop evolving, and neither should you. So, whether you’re deepening your expertise in your chosen field or exploring new areas like AI or machine learning, stay curious and always be ready to learn. Don’t settle for being good enough—strive to be excellent at your work. Keep challenging yourself and looking for ways to expand your knowledge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a degree to start in IT?
Nope! A degree isn’t mandatory. Certifications and hands-on experience can be just as valuable (if not more) than a degree. Many people break into IT through self-study and certs.

How long does it take to start working in IT?
It depends on how much time you can dedicate to learning. Doing it full-time could land an entry-level job in as little as six months to a year. If you’re doing it part-time while working another job, it might take a little longer.

What’s the best IT certification for beginners?
CompTIA A+ is a great starting point. It’s recognized by many employers and gives you a solid foundation in IT basics.

Can I change IT career paths later?
Yes! It is flexible. Many people change paths in IT after a few years. Whether you start in IT support and move to cybersecurity or go from software development to cloud computing, the skills you build are often transferable.

What’s the salary outlook in IT?
Salaries vary based on location, experience, and specialization. However, IT roles typically pay well, with entry-level positions offering $40,000 to $60,000 annually. More specialized roles (like network engineers or cybersecurity specialists) can earn significantly more.

A Look at the Future of IT Careers

The future of IT is exciting, with advancements in fields like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and blockchain rapidly changing the landscape. Many of the technologies we rely on today will continue evolving and shaping how businesses operate. That means new job opportunities and roles will keep appearing, making it essential to stay ahead. One of the best ways to future-proof your IT career is by earning the best IT certifications in 2025. These certifications will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in emerging fields.

Even better, as automation and AI take over routine tasks, IT professionals will get the chance to focus on more complex and rewarding problems. This makes IT not just a good career choice for today but a great one for the future. You can thrive in this dynamic, fast-moving industry with the right mindset, skills, and persistence.

Wrapping Up: What’s Your Next Step?

Breaking into IT might seem like a big challenge, but it’s achievable with the right strategy and mindset. Remember, it’s all about learning the fundamentals, picking an exciting path, and being persistent as you grow your skills. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, seek mentorship, and continuously challenge yourself to be better.

The field of IT offers limitless potential. Whether you’re aiming for a stable job in tech support or shooting for the stars as a cybersecurity expert or software engineer, there’s a spot for you in this ever-expanding industry.

So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to get started—start learning, start building, and start growing. You’ve got this.