CCNA Certification: The Complete Guide for 2023
By Alex • Updated Jan 15, 2023
Are you considering a career in networking? The CCNA certification is a valuable asset to have in today's job market.
In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about the CCNA certification, including what it is, the types of jobs you can get with it, salary expectations, requirements, cost, and recertification.
About: What is the CCNA certification?
The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification is a globally recognized, vendor-neutral certification that validates an individual's knowledge and skills in network administration and support.
The CCNA certification is the first step in Cisco's hierarchy of certifications and is considered an entry-level certification for those interested in a career in networking.
Jobs: Which jobs can you get with a CCNA certification?
According to Credly, there are 1,577 job openings related to the AWS Cloud Practitioner Certification in the US alone. The 5 job titles with the most openings are:
- Data Engineer: X job postings
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- Cloud Systems Architect Engineer: X job postings
Salary: Which salary can you expect with a CCNA certification?
The salary you can expect with a CCNA certification will vary depending on your location, experience, and the specific job you apply for.
However, on average, CCNA certified individuals can expect to earn a higher salary than those without the certification.
According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a Network Administrator is around $70,000 per year, while the average salary for a Network Engineer is around $80,000 per year.
Requirements: What are the requirements for the CCNA certification?
To become CCNA certified, there are no formal prerequisites required, but it is recommended to have a good understanding of the basics of networking concepts, such as TCP/IP, routing, switching, and subnetting.
Additionally, it is also recommended to have some hands-on experience with Cisco routers and switches.
To pass the Cisco CCNA exam, which is the requirement for the certification, you will need to have a good understanding of the topics covered in the exam.
These include routing and switching, network security, and network services.
The CCNA exam is divided into two parts: the ICND1 exam, which covers basic networking concepts, and the ICND2 exam, which covers more advanced concepts.
You can choose to take the two exams separately or combine them into one CCNA exam.
Cost: How much does the CCNA certification cost?
The cost of the CCNA certification will vary depending on the testing center and the specific exam you take.
The ICND1 exam costs around $165, while the ICND2 exam costs around $165.
If you choose to take the combined CCNA exam, it will cost around $325.
Additionally, you may need to purchase study materials or take a training course, which can add to the overall cost of the certification.
Recertification: How can you maintain your CCNA certification?
To maintain your CCNA certification, you'll need to recertify every three years.
You can do this by passing the current CCNA exam or by passing a Cisco professional-level exam or Cisco specialist exam.
Additionally, you can recertify by earning a certain number of continuing education units (CEUs) through Cisco-approved training and events.
FAQs
Who is the CCNA certification for?
The CCNA certification is for individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in networking.
It is an entry-level certification that validates an individual's knowledge and skills in network administration and support.
Is the CCNA certification worth it?
Yes, the CCNA certification is worth it. It is a globally recognized, vendor-neutral certification that can help you advance your career in networking.
Additionally, CCNA certified individuals can expect to earn a higher salary than those without the certification.
How can you get the CCNA certification?
To get the CCNA certification, you need to pass the Cisco CCNA exam.
The exam covers a range of topics, including routing and switching, network security, and network services.
You can choose to take the exam in two parts or combine them into one.
What are the benefits of obtaining the CCNA certification?
Obtaining the CCNA certification offers several benefits, such as:
- Validates your knowledge and skills in networking
- Opens up a wide range of job opportunities
- Higher salary expectations
- Ability to advance your career with more advanced Cisco certifications
How difficult is it to obtain the CCNA certification?
The difficulty level of obtaining the CCNA certification can vary depending on your level of experience and familiarity with the exam's material.
However, it is considered an entry-level certification, and many find it manageable with proper study and preparation.
How long does it take to get the CCNA certification?
The time it takes to get the CCNA certification depends on how much time you dedicate to studying and preparing for the exam.
Some individuals may be able to pass the exam within a few weeks of studying, while others may take several months.
What are the best CCNA certification alternatives?
Some alternatives to the CCNA certification include:
- CompTIA Network+ certification
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate
- AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate
- Google Cloud Certified - Professional Network Engineer
- Juniper Networks Certified Internet Associate (JNCIA)
It is important to research and compare different certification options to determine which one aligns best with your career goals and interests.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the CCNA certification is an important step for anyone looking to enter the field of networking.
The certification validates your knowledge and skills and opens up a wide range of job opportunities.
With a CCNA certification, you can expect a higher salary and the ability to advance your career. While there is cost associated with the certification, it is an investment in your professional development that can pay off in the long run.