We all like to have something to prove that we know something – in other words a certification!
The Information Technology world is full of certifications to choose from – they are aimed at technical knowledge.
Not something that you or I are interested in.
The good news – there are three options to prove your skills and knowledge with applications.
European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL)

The first one to consider is the ECDL (now being called ICDL (Internal Computer Driving License)).
It focuses on computer skills and doesn’t refer to a specific suite.
Modules:

- IT user fundamentals
- Internet and email
- Word processing
- Spreadsheet software
- Presentation software
- Database software
- Online collaboration
- Improving productivity
- Project planning
- IT security for users
For more information have a look at the office ICDL Europe site.
Internet Core Computing Certification (IC3)

Similar to the ECDL, IC3 also focuses on computer skills rather than a specific suite.
The key difference between them is that the IC3 requires just 3 exams to complete.
Modules:
- Fundamental concepts and essential components.
- Working knowledge of each of the seven skill groups.
- Advanced understanding of digital literacy.
Check the details Certiport website (direct link) for information on IC3.
Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS)

As the name suggests, this one is specific for Microsoft and the programs in their Office Suite.
You select the specific software, the version and the level you want to prove.
Exams:
- Word Core
- Word Expert
- Excel Core
- Excel Expert
- PowerPoint
- Outlook
- Access Expert
The Certiport website (direct link) also has details on MOS.
In some of the future blogs, I’ll be looking into each of these in more detail and looking at the pros and cons of them.
Sharing information and offering suggestions for those who want a certificate and if so, which one could work best for you.
Latest Posts
- Access Hidden Options in the Windows 11 Right Click MenuIf you’ve been using Windows 11, you’ve probably noticed something different when right-clicking on files and folders – the context menu looks sleeker but seems to be missing many familiar options. Don’t worry; I’ll show you exactly how to find all those “missing” commands under the Windows 11 Right Click. The New Windows 11 Right-Click… Read more: Access Hidden Options in the Windows 11 Right Click Menu
- How to Move Windows 11 Taskbar to the Left: A Simple GuideIf you’re using Windows 11, one of the first differences you’ll notice is that the taskbar options (Start Menu, Search and App icons) are all centred. It’s definitely a bit different from decades of everything being on the left. If this has been bugging you, then I have good news for you! In this guide,… Read more: How to Move Windows 11 Taskbar to the Left: A Simple Guide
- Quick Tips to Identify Windows 10 vs Windows 11One of the questions I’m asked quite frequently is: “Am I running Windows 10 or Windows 11?” If you’re unsure which version of Windows you’re using, I’ll show you several simple tips to help you double-check if you’ve got Windows 10 vs Windows 11. Why This Matters Before we dive in, I should mention that… Read more: Quick Tips to Identify Windows 10 vs Windows 11
- Upgrade or New Computer for Windows 11?I’m often asked whether upgrading to Win 11 is worthwhile. You may have checked that your computer meets the minimum requirements, but that doesn’t automatically mean upgrading is the best decision. In this blog, I’ll share my insights on making the right choice for your particular situation before you upgrade to Windows 11. Consider Your… Read more: Upgrade or New Computer for Windows 11?
- Windows 10 End of Support: Your Options Explained (Security, Costs and Consequences)One of the most common questions I’m hearing these days is straightforward but critical: what happens if I choose to stay on Windows 10 rather than upgrading to Windows 11? With Microsoft’s support for Win 10 ending in October 2025, it’s a decision many users and businesses are facing. Let me break down the facts… Read more: Windows 10 End of Support: Your Options Explained (Security, Costs and Consequences)