A SOC-focused alternative to Security+
Commenters call it Cisco's entry security exam, closer in content to CySA+ than Security+. Several say the Cisco tools and terms make it feel harder than Security+ without a Cisco background.
CCNA Cybersecurity (200-201 CCNACBR)
Validates knowledge of security operations work, including security concepts, monitoring, host-based analysis, network intrusion analysis and security procedures.
Summary
CCNA Cybersecurity is Cisco's associate-level certification for security operations center work, aimed at people starting in SOC analyst roles. A single exam covers security concepts, monitoring, host-based analysis, network intrusion analysis and security procedures, and it is recognized in some DoD cyber defense roles.
Good fit if
- You want an entry-level credential for SOC analyst roles
- You work with Cisco networks and want to add security
- Your target DoD cyber defense analyst role lists it
Salary & jobs
Prerequisites
Cost
What holders say
Valued mainly for SOC analyst roles
The clearest theme in candidate discussion is that it helps when you target SOC or security monitoring work. For general security hiring, commenters say Security+ carries more name recognition.
Renewal
CCNA Cybersecurity is valid for 3 years.
- Validity
- 3 years
- Continuing education route
- 30 CE credits
- Retake the exam
- $300 USD
Renew before expiry by earning 30 CE credits, passing 200-201 again or passing a qualifying higher-level Cisco exam such as the CCNP Cybersecurity core exam.
Cisco recertification policy ↗Alternatives
CompTIA Security+$439 required · Entry
The better-known entry-level security certification, vendor-neutral.
CySA+$439 required · Intermediate
The closest content match at an intermediate level, for people with SOC experience.
CCNA$300 required · Intermediate
Cisco's core networking certification, useful first if networking is new to you.
SSCP$384 required · Intermediate
ISC2's operational security credential for hands-on practitioners.
FAQ
Is CyberOps Associate the same as CCNA Cybersecurity?
Yes. Cisco renamed CyberOps Associate to Cybersecurity Associate in 2025 and to CCNA Cybersecurity on February 3, 2026. The exam is still 200-201, and existing holders kept their certification.
Do I need CCNA before this exam?
No. There is no prerequisite. Networking knowledge makes the material much easier.
Is it harder than Security+?
It depends on your background. It leans more on SOC scenarios, packet and log analysis and Cisco terms, so it feels harder without networking experience.
How much does the exam cost?
$300 in the US. If you fail, you can retake it after 5 calendar days.
Does CCNA Cybersecurity expire?
Yes, after 3 years. Renew with 30 CE credits, by passing the exam again or by passing a higher-level Cisco exam.
Last updated October 2026