The CCNA jobs outlook for 2024: Navigating your career in networking and cybersecurity

Earning your CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) unlocks a gateway to a dynamic and rewarding career. Whether you're a tech enthusiast with a hunger for knowledge or an IT professional looking to advance your Cisco Systems knowledge, the CCNA equips you with the foundational skills and understanding to navigate the world of networking and cybersecurity. 

Earn your CCNA, guaranteed!

Get live, expert CCNA training from anywhere. Enroll now to claim your Exam Pass Guarantee!

Get Pricing

How relevant is the CCNA in 2024? More than it has ever been. The need for skilled network engineers and cybersecurity specialists is booming, and the CCNA remains a sought-after credential in the eyes of employers. According to Cisco, networked devices are estimated to grow to 50 billion, and technical certifications can help you stand out in a networked world, with 87% of IT professionals holding a certification. 

In this article, we'll explore how the CCNA fits into the broader cybersecurity job market, analyze job market trends, and offer practical tips for navigating the path to a successful career in networking. 

The current state of CCNA certification 

The CCNA you knew before 2020 has gone through significant changes. In February of that year, Cisco streamlined its offerings, consolidating many specializations into one powerful exam: the 200-301 CCNA. This updated version reflects the modern networking landscape, focusing on fundamental skills like: 

This broader scope reflects the reality of modern networking jobs. Gone are the days of siloed specializations. Today's networking professionals need a well-rounded skillset to handle the diverse demands of dynamic IT environments. The CCNA proves you have essential networking skills and can be your entry point into professional networking. 

And while the CCNA is not a cybersecurity certification per se, it does lay the critical foundation for success in this growing field. Networking knowledge is fundamental to understanding and securing IT systems. You have to know the ins and outs of computer networking before cybersecurity. It's a cart and horse thing. So whether you're considering building secure networks or hunting down cyber threats, a CCNA is a valuable first step. 

Understanding networks is essential for configuring firewalls and employing intrusion detection systems. 

Job market trends for CCNA professionals in 2024 

The future for CCNA professionals looks bright, fueled by the unending surge in demand for network professionals and dynamic market trends. Here are some of the of the trends causing this: 

The numbers show that cybersecurity is the hottest job market in IT right now and will be for a while. The CCNA is your ticket to this market when you understand how a network functions, you become a valuable asset in identifying and stopping threats. 

CCNA without experience: Breaking into the field 

The job market might seem daunting if you've conquered the CCNA but lack experience. Don't worry about all the job postings that tell you "experience required." Employers value the CCNA, even without real-world experience. It demonstrates your dedication, technical aptitude, and understanding of networking fundamentals. 

You can bridge this experience gap with CCNA certification training, as well as: 

Skeptical? Read these success stories: 

Network technicians, help desk specialists, and junior network administrators are common entry points for CCNA holders. To land these roles, highlight your CCNA, showcase your lab work and projects, and emphasize your eagerness to learn and grow. Network with professionals, attend industry events and showcase your enthusiasm for the field. Confidence and a proactive attitude can compensate for a limited experience. 

Salary and career progression for CCNA professionals 

The CCNA can be your launchpad to a diverse and financially rewarding journey in networking and cybersecurity. 

Globally, a CCNA certification can bring you anywhere from $58,000 to $85,000 annually. But let's zoom in on the United States, where the demand for skilled network professionals is robust. Here, the average CCNA salary falls between $75,319 and $87,000, with a comfortable average of around $81,828. 

Of course, there are outliers. With more experience, your salary will be higher. If you land a job at a big tech firm, you most likely will get higher pay than a small business. The location also factors in. For example, in Switzerland, the average salary for CCNA jobs is $104,000. And here are the averages for some U.S. states: 

With a CCNA, you don't have to stick to a single career track. The network of possibilities is as diverse as the networks themselves. Here are just a few paths you can explore: 

Although the lines between IT and cybersecurity can be blurry, you can generally choose between a long-term focus on the infrastructure side, with roles like network architect or network manager, or roles on the cybersecurity side, like security architect or security manager. 

Earn your CCNA, guaranteed!

Get live, expert CCNA training from anywhere. Enroll now to claim your Exam Pass Guarantee!

Get Pricing

CCNA in the context of cybersecurity 

In the IT and cybersecurity landscape, the CCNA plays a crucial role in the cybersecurity landscape. It's the foundation upon which robust security measures are built. According to Cyberseek.org, a resource backed by the Department of Homeland Security, 42% of cybersecurity professionals transitioned from networking positions, and the CCNA and CCNP are the top certifications in the networking role. 

The CCNA shows you have a working knowledge of computer networks, which can naturally lead to cybersecurity certifications like: 

Firewalls and intrusion detection systems are essential for defending an organization, but understanding the underlying network allows them to function effectively. A cybersecurity professional needs to know the network inside and out to spot vulnerabilities, deploy defenses, and respond to threats. 

With a CCNA, you'll grasp: 

For more on what you'll learn as a CCNA, read our CCNA exam and topics. The CCNA equips you to understand the language of networks, enabling you to build a more robust, more resilient network defense. 

Preparing for the future: Enhancing your CCNA skills 

Getting your CCNA is a monumental achievement, but remember, in IT, your learning never ends. The pace of technological advancement demands continuous learning and skill enhancement. So, how can you ensure your CCNA knowledge remains sharp and prepares you for the future of networking and cybersecurity? 

Here are some ways you can stay ahead of the curve: 

Here is how you can build your skills: 

In the IT field, new technologies emerge and evolve constantly. The key to success is embracing a growth mindset. 

Earn your CCNA, guaranteed!

Get live, expert CCNA training from anywhere. Enroll now to claim your Exam Pass Guarantee!

Get Pricing

CCNA jobs outlook conclusion 

As we begin 2024, the outlook for CCNA professionals is brighter than ever. The world is becoming more connected, demanding skilled individuals who can navigate the networks that provide the infrastructure for our work and life. The CCNA is your passport to this exciting landscape. 

Embrace the challenge, conquer the CCNA exam, and enjoy the ranks of those who build, manage and secure the digital infrastructure of our world. And if you're a current CCNA professional, never stop learning. Explore new technologies, pursue advanced certifications, and develop the growth mindset that will propel you to the forefront of your profession. 

Additional CCNA resources 

Earning your CCNA is an incredible accomplishment, but it's just the beginning of your journey in networking. To help you navigate this field and reach your full potential, here's a list of additional resources: 

CCNA training: 

CCNA forums, communities, and websites: 

CCNA study materials and industry resources: