What Is ITIL?
ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) is the world’s most widely accepted framework for IT Service Management (ITSM).
It provides a structured approach to delivering, managing, and continuously improving IT services within an organization.
In short, ITIL is the international language of structured IT service delivery.
If you’re new to ITIL, start here:
ITIL 4 Foundation IT Service Management Certification Training
What Does ITIL Actually Do?
ITIL aligns IT services with business goals, ensuring that every IT process creates measurable value.
With ITIL, organizations can:
Reduce unnecessary costs
Increase service quality
Improve customer satisfaction
Build stronger collaboration between IT and business
In other words, ITIL transforms IT from a “support department” into a “strategic business partner.”
ITIL Versions Explained
Over time, ITIL has evolved through multiple versions to reflect the changing IT landscape:
ITIL v3 / 2011: Process-driven and operational
ITIL 4 (current): Integrates Agile, DevOps, and digital transformation
ITIL 5 (new generation): Expands to strategic leadership, sustainability, and value creation
For those planning ahead, start your journey here:
ITIL 5 Foundation Certificate Training
ITIL Certification Levels
The ITIL 4 certification scheme consists of four major levels:
| Level | Description | Recommended Training |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation | Core principles and terminology of ITIL | ITIL 4 Foundation IT Service Management Training |
| Specialist (CDS) | Creating, delivering, and supporting IT services | ITIL 4 Specialist: Create, Deliver and Support Training |
| Leader (DITS) | Strategic leadership and digital transformation | ITIL 4 Leader: Digital and IT Strategy Training |
| ITIL 5 Foundation | The next-generation, value-driven version | ITIL 5 Foundation Certificate Training |
Why Is ITIL Foundation Important?
The ITIL Foundation level is the essential starting point of the ITIL journey.
It teaches you:
The IT service lifecycle
Core processes (Incident, Problem, Change Management)
The concept of service value
Continuous improvement culture
ITIL 4 Foundation is the launchpad for any professional career in IT service management.
ITIL Exam Format
ITIL 4 Foundation: 40 multiple-choice questions
Duration: 60 minutes
Passing Score: 65% (26 correct answers)
Delivery: Online, proctored exam
Advanced exams include case studies and scenario-based questions.
Is the ITIL Exam Difficult?
Difficulty increases as you move to higher levels:
| Level | Difficulty | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation | ⭐ | Understanding key concepts |
| Specialist | ⭐⭐ | Process implementation |
| Leader | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Strategy & transformation |
ITIL Certification Costs
Training and certification fees vary by level and provider.
Foundation: Entry-level, most affordable
Specialist / Leader: Intermediate level
Strategist / Master: Executive-level programs
Bilginc IT Academy is an AXELOS-authorised ATO, offering official ITIL courses with exam vouchers included.
Why Choose ITIL Over Other Frameworks?
There are several IT governance and service frameworks — COBIT, ISO 20000, DevOps, Agile, and Scrum — each valuable in its own way.
However, ITIL uniquely integrates and elevates them into a single, balanced, and globally recognized ecosystem.
| Framework | Focus Area | Strength | Limitation Compared to ITIL |
|---|---|---|---|
| COBIT | IT governance & control | Aligns IT with corporate governance | Does not define practical service processes |
| ISO 20000 | IT service quality standard | Provides measurable compliance | Lacks actionable process guidance |
| DevOps | Collaboration & delivery speed | Merges development and operations | Doesn’t address service management |
| Agile / Scrum | Software development agility | Enables fast iterations | Limited to project teams — not organization-wide |
| ITIL | IT service management & value creation | Combines all the above with a strategic lens | Most comprehensive framework available |
In short:
ITIL is the only framework that unifies governance, agility, quality, and continuous improvement — all under one adaptable structure.
7 Reasons to Choose ITIL Over Other Frameworks
Universal Language: Recognized across all industries and countries.
Integrated Methodology: Compatible with DevOps, Agile, Lean and ISO 20000.
Strategic Depth: Applicable from operations to executive leadership.
Continuous Improvement: Built on a culture of sustainability and growth.
Global Recognition: Used in 150+ countries by leading enterprises.
Career Advantage: ITIL-certified professionals earn ≈ 18% higher salaries.
Transformation Power: Turns IT from a cost center into a strategic partner.
Real-World ITIL Applications
Practical use cases include:
Incident Management: Quick resolution of user issues
Problem Management: Identifying and preventing recurring problems
Change Management: Ensuring smooth and safe updates
Service Desk: Standardizing communication and support
Together, these processes enhance customer experience, improve service reliability, and drive business value.
Career Benefits of ITIL Certification
Recognized globally (150+ countries)
Average salary increase of ≈ 18%
Facilitates career mobility across IT and business roles
Integrates with modern frameworks like Agile and DevOps
Already know PMP, Agile, or DevOps? ITIL ties them all together in one cohesive framework.
Career Paths with ITIL Certification
| Role | Description |
|---|---|
| Service Desk Manager | Oversees SLA and customer support operations |
| IT Service Manager | Manages processes, quality, and performance |
| IT Operations Manager | Optimizes day-to-day infrastructure delivery |
| IT Director / CIO | Leads strategic digital transformation initiatives |
Recommended ITIL Learning Path
ITIL 4 Foundation IT Service Management Training
ITIL 4 Specialist: Create, Deliver and Support Training
ITIL 4 Leader: Digital and IT Strategy Training
ITIL 5 Foundation Certificate Training
Final Thought: Why ITIL Matters More Than Ever
ITIL is not just another IT methodology — it’s a comprehensive management philosophy that connects technology, people, and business value.
While COBIT, ISO 20000, Agile, and DevOps each serve specific needs, ITIL remains the only framework that seamlessly integrates them all.
Ready to build a globally recognized career in IT Service Management?
Start with ITIL 4 Foundation Training