When it comes to building secure IT solutions, who can you trust? CompTIA (the Computing Technology Industry Association) is striving to define the answer. The IT association (best known for its A+ and Network+ certifications) appears to be gaining traction with its Security Trustmark accreditation. Here’s the scoop.

First, a little background: While certifications serve individuals, an accreditation covers an entire organization. According to CompTIA:

Reality Check

Hmmm. Sounds promising. But are VARs and managed service providers embracing CompTIA’s Security Trustmark accreditation? Anecdotal evidence suggests the answer is yes.

True believers include:

Still, The VAR Guy has to offer some full disclosure. No, he didn’t take steroids while playing for the Texas Rangers from 2001 to 2003. But our resident blogger has done consulting work for CompTIA off and on since 2006. Also of note: Jenaly and TeamLogic IT are long-time CompTIA members and CompTIA advocates. The VAR Guy knows both companies well — and respects their efforts.

Bottom line: If you think The VAR Guy is biased toward CompTIA, you’re free to flame or debate him in the comments section below.

Bigger Key to Success

Meanwhile, CompTIA is positioning the Security Trustmark accreditation for three audiences:

Somewhat similar to the VeriSign Secured seal, CompTIA hopes the Security Trustmark emerges as a brand that even end-customers recognize and demand. But while VeriSign’s seal is a single-vendor brand, CompTIA hopes dozens of technology vendors and scores of VARs line up for the vendor-neutral Security Trustmark.

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