IT Fundamentals Roadmap 2026
Start from zero and build solid IT foundations
If you’re new to IT, your fastest win is a strong foundation. This roadmap helps you build practical skills (devices, OS, files, security basics) before you specialize in networking, cloud, or cybersecurity.
🟢 Level 0 — Absolute beginner
Start with digital basics: files/folders, devices, simple troubleshooting, and everyday IT vocabulary.
- ICDL / EIPASS (digital literacy)
- PEKIT (practical modules)
Goal: Feel comfortable with basic computer tasks and terminology.
🟡 Level 1 — IT foundations (systems + basic networking)
Learn operating system basics, basic security habits, and simple networking concepts. This is where you become “IT-capable”.
- CompTIA ITF+
- CompTIA A+ (entry modules)
Goal: Understand OS concepts and basic troubleshooting patterns.
🟠 Level 2 — First job-ready skills
Move from theory to practice: common issues, user support, device setup, updates, backups, and safe habits.
- CompTIA A+ (next step)
- Real practice with a mini-lab
Goal: Handle common support tasks with confidence.
🔴 Level 3 — Choose your direction
After fundamentals, pick a path: networking, cybersecurity, cloud, databases, or programming. Foundations make everything easier.
- Networking
- Security
- Cloud
- Databases
- Programming
Goal: Specialize with less confusion and faster progress.
💰 Salary outlook (2026)
Entry-level IT roles vary a lot by country (helpdesk, junior support, technician).
Entry-level
$30k–$50k
Mid-level
$50k–$75k
Specialized
$80k+
Fundamentals don’t pay “by themselves” — they unlock the paths that do.
🔍 ITF+ vs A+ — what first?
ITF+ is lighter and great for true beginners. A+ is more job-oriented and broader.
| CompTIA ITF+ | CompTIA A+ | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Starting from zero | Getting job-ready faster |
| Difficulty | Easier | More content and depth |
| Recommendation | If you’re new | After you have basics |
Recommendation
If you’re unsure: do ITF+ first. If you already have basic confidence, go straight to A+ and practice a lot.
FAQ
I’m a total beginner — where do I start?
Start with ICDL/EIPASS + basic practice. Then move to ITF+.
Do I need ITF+ if I’m doing A+?
Not mandatory. ITF+ is useful only if you feel lost on basics.
How can I learn faster?
Small daily practice beats long weekly sessions. Do quizzes + a mini-lab.
What’s the best next step after basics?
Pick one direction (networking/security/cloud) and commit for 4–6 weeks.
🚀 Start now (simple plan)
Do fundamentals first, then specialize. Start with ITF+ (or ICDL if you’re brand new) and practice daily.