- Apple Certified Desktop Technician and Apple Certified Portable Technician
- AppleCare Technician Training Package
- Apple Certified Help Desk Specialist
- Apple Certified Technical Coordinator
- Apple Certified Systems Administrator
- Apple Certified Trainer
- Apple Consultants Network and Certification Alliance
- Apple Pro Application Certifications
- Non-Apple Certifications of Interest to Mac Technology Professionals
Apple Certified Help Desk Specialist
Editor's Note: Apple has changed its support programs since the publication of this article. The Certified Help Desk Specialist program no longer exists. Instead, use the link below to learn more about the Apple Certified Support Professional program.
The Apple Certified Help Desk Specialist certification demonstrates that you have a solid understanding of how to troubleshoot and support Mac OS X. It is an excellent choice for candidates looking to work either as a help desk or desktop support technician. Unlike Apple’s hardware certification programs, this certification focuses on troubleshooting Mac OS X and some application problems. It is not designed as a hardware troubleshooting program.
The ACHDS certification is an excellent starting point for Mac IT professionals. It demonstrates a solid understanding of how to work with and troubleshoot Mac OS X. The training materials available also provide very solid coverage of every area of how Mac OS X functions—in addition to troubleshooting strategies. This makes the program particularly attractive to individuals new to Mac OS X as well as experienced Mac OS X users looking to move into the IT field.
Attaining the ACHDS certification requires passing only one exam: the Mac OS X Support Essentials exam. This exam is also required or available as part of the Apple Certified Technical Coordinator and Apple Certified Desktop and Portable Technician certifications, making it an ideal choice for all Mac professionals.
Training for the Mac OS X Support Essentials exam is available from Apple training centers. Much of the material covered in Apple’s training program is also covered in the Apple Training Series: Mac OS X Support Essentials book by Owen Linzmayer, including the reference material used in the class and instructions for completing the related exercises.