Cisco CCNA

CCNA salary deep dive: What to expect in 2024

Networks are the backbone of how the world communicates, and Cisco is the long-standing leader of networking equipment. Cisco accounts for 41% of the entire enterprise network infrastructure market. This is four times more than the next competitor. And the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) proves you have the foundation of networking skills to help organizations manage the complex world of Cisco network administration.

Earn your CCNA, guaranteed!

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

Get Pricing

It also provides an open door to the world of cybersecurity. Cybersecurity professionals protect organizations' data, systems and networks from cyberattacks, which are becoming more frequent and sophisticated. The CCNA demonstrates your ability to secure and administer network infrastructures, the backbone of any organization's cybersecurity posture.

Cisco networking technology

Cisco is one of the largest digital communications technology companies in the world. Over 4 million people are Cisco-certified.

The CCNA certification: A snapshot

CCNA certifications were introduced in 1998 by Cisco and have continuously adapted to the ever-changing digital landscape. From its beginnings, focusing on core networking principles, the CCNA has kept up with the times, including technologies like:

Cloud computing: In the virtualized world of cloud networks, resources like servers and storage are delivered on demand.
Automation tools: Scripting and automation allow network administrators to free themselves from repetitive tasks and focus on strategic network management.
Cybersecurity fundamentals: Equipped with the skills to identify and mitigate network security threats, CCNA holders become gatekeepers of the digital world. Wireless security, password policies, access control and other elements of cybersecurity have changed significantly in the past 25 years, and the CCNA has kept pace with these changes.

This constant evolution ensures that CCNA holders remain relevant and valuable assets in the rapidly changing tech landscape. It's not just a badge of honor; it's a ticket to a rewarding future.

Average CCNA salary in 2024

As we move into 2024, the CCNA is more than just another piece of paper to frame and hang on the wall. It's a ticket to a world with impressive salaries.

Cisco Certified Network Associate salaries range from $58,000 to $85,000 annually. But you can get much more in the U.S., where the demand for skilled network professionals is booming. According to CyberSeek, there are 240,971 job openings for networking professionals, and the CCNA is the most requested certification. In the U.S., the average CCNA salary falls between $75,319 and $87,000, with a rough average of around $81,828. Sources like Payscale, Glassdoor, Talent.com and Salary.com all paint a similar picture.

However, pay can vary for several reasons. Here are some factors that can impact your salary:

Location: Proximity to major tech hubs like San Francisco or New York can significantly boost your earning potential.
Experience: Seasoned veterans with years of experience naturally command a higher price tag than new CCNA graduates.
Specialization: Deep dives into specific areas like cybersecurity or cloud computing can unlock even more lucrative opportunities.
Company size and industry: Large tech giants and high-growth sectors often offer more competitive salaries than smaller companies or traditional industries.

But regardless of these variables, the CCNA remains a powerful route to attractive salaries.

CCNA demand and career opportunities

In today's hyperconnected world, robust and secure networks are the lifeblood of every organization, from tech giants to local businesses. This demand for reliable connectivity translates into a constant need for talented network professionals who can design, implement and manage these complex systems. And CCNA holders are at the top of the hiring list.

With a CCNA, you're not confined to a single career track. The possibilities are as diverse as the networks themselves. You can:

Become a network administrator: Dive into the hands-on world of managing and troubleshooting networks, ensuring smooth operations and data flow.
Start on a cloud networking journey: Master of the art of secure cloud environments, designing and managing virtual networks that power the digital age.
Embrace the cybersecurity frontier: Defend your organization as a security analyst, identifying and mitigating threats to keep networks safe.
Climb the ladder to network engineer: Hone your expertise and take on strategic network design and implementation projects, shaping the future of connectivity.

The CCNA is a stepping stone to a fulfilling and lucrative career. It validates your foundational skills, opens doors to entry-level positions and provides a strong foundation for further specialization and advancement. As you gain experience and expertise, you can acquire additional certifications, climb the ranks and land leadership roles.

CCNA in the context of cybersecurity

In the modern digital world, where cyber threats lurk around every corner, a strong defense is your most valuable asset. And when it comes to cybersecurity career paths, the CCNA will help you take the first step.

The fundamental networking knowledge you gain with the CCNA certification forms the bedrock of any successful cybersecurity professional using Cisco systems. Understanding routing, switching, firewalls and network security principles empowers you to:

Identify vulnerabilities: Analyze network traffic and configurations to pinpoint potential security weaknesses before they can be exploited.
Deploy security solutions: Configure and manage firewalls, intrusion detection systems and other tools to create a layered defense against cyberattacks.
Respond to incidents: Quickly diagnose and mitigate network security breaches, minimizing damage and ensuring business continuity.

As the cybersecurity landscape continues to evolve, the CCNA remains an essential asset in navigating these changes and standing out in the growing cybersecurity job market. The skills and knowledge you demonstrate to pass the exam are the same skills you need to stay current on emergent threats, challenges and solutions, including:

IoT and decentralized data
AI and ML
Zero-trust security models
Remote work
Threat intelligence automation

Earn your CCNA, guaranteed!

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

Get Pricing

Regional variations in CCNA salaries

While the CCNA unlocks many career opportunities globally, the financial map can vary depending on location. Here, we'll look at how the average CCNA holder's salary breaks down across the U.S. and the globe.

CCNA salaries in the U.S.

Across the United States, the average salary for a CCNA holder hovers between $75,319 and $87,000. Even with this impressive range, regional variations can be vast. Some states stand out as lucrative markets for CCNA professionals:

California: In this significant tech hub, the average salary for a CCNA holder in the state is $83,077, with cities like San Jose claiming an average of $94,526.
New York: With major tech companies and a high cost of living, CCNA holders in New York can expect an average salary of $80,373.
New Jersey: While it doesn't beat the average in New York City, the average salary of a CCNA in New Jersey is $82,919, higher than the average in New York.
Alaska: If you don't mind working far away from the rest of the country in the cold, you can expect an average salary of $82,174.
Washington, DC: While not exactly a state, working as a CCNA in the nation's capital pays around $83,077 on average.

Global CCNA salaries

While the U.S. ranks high for top CCNA salaries, it is not the top-ranking country for CCNA pay. Here is how some other countries stack up:

Switzerland: With its strong technology sector, Switzerland also pays CCNA holders well, with an average of 91,000 Fr. or $104,000.
Germany: The average German CCNA is €54,000 or $59,000, making it a lucrative certification to have in central Europe.
Canada: Our neighbors to the north enjoy an average CCNA salary of CAD $73,000 or $55,000, showing a strong demand for network expertise north of the border.
Australia: Down under, the CCNA unlocks an average salary of AUD $84,000 or $56,000, solidifying its position as a sought-after certification in Australia.

United Kingdom: Across the Atlantic, CCNA holders can expect to earn an average of £37,000 or $47,000 annually, making it a valuable certification in the UK.

Preparing for CCNA in 2024

If you've set your sights on the CCNA, the key that unlocks doors to a career in the networking world, you need to know where to begin. Here are some tools and tactics to help you navigate becoming certified.

Take advantage of the wealth of learning resources: For busy candidates, self-paced study could be the best choice. Infosec's Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Learning Path will give you 24 hours of training you can take at any time. If you would rather get your training done quickly, the Cisco CCNA Associate Training Boot Camp will teach you what you need to know in five days of live training. And if you want to prep for the CCNA and the CyberOps Associate exams, you'll want to check out the Cisco CCNA Associate and CyberOps Associate Training Boot Camp.
Learn actively: Don't just passively read the learning resources. Engage with the materials. Set up virtual labs, practice configuration tasks and join online communities to discuss and test your knowledge.
Seek guidance: Reach out to experienced network professionals and students preparing for the CCNA by joining forums like TechExams.
Make learning a habit: Dedicate regular time to study and practice, even if only for short periods each day. Consistency builds momentum.

Beyond CCNA: advanced certifications and career growth

Gaining your CCNA is a significant achievement, but it should be your first step in your career path. Advanced certifications unlock doors to specialized expertise, higher salaries and fulfilling careers.

Here are some next steps to consider:

Improve your security expertise: The cybersecurity landscape is a dynamic battleground, and certifications like Cisco CyberOps Associate will equip you with advanced defensive skills.
Master ethical hacking: If you're interested in offensive security, explore certifications like CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker). As you learn the tricks of the trade, you'll be able to proactively identify and patch vulnerabilities. Here are the ethical hacking certification details.
Broaden your horizons: Certifications like CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) offer a holistic view of information security and can make you a well-rounded cybersecurity professional and lead to leadership roles like Chief Information Security Officer.

Earn your CCNA, guaranteed!

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

Get Pricing

CCNA salary

The CCNA validates your networking skills, is a launchpad for further specialization, and is a powerful magnet for attractive salaries. In a world increasingly reliant on robust and secure networks, CCNA holders are the architects and guardians of this digital infrastructure.

The numbers speak for themselves:

High salaries: Globally, CCNA professionals can expect an average salary range of $58,000 to $85,000, with an average salary in the U.S. being close to $82,000. Specific locations can demand even higher salaries, like $94,526 in San Jose or $104,000 in Switzerland.
Fulfilling career paths: A CCNA holder is not confined to a single track. Whether you choose network administration, cybersecurity, or cloud networking as your specialty, you have an adventure ahead. And on your journey, you can pick up more certifications, leading to promotion.

In 2024 and beyond, this valuable certification remains a key to opportunity, financial security and the satisfaction of shaping the future of our interconnected world. For more CCNA certification information, visit the Infosec Cisco CCNA certification hub.

Posted: January 29, 2024

Ellen Pincus

View Profile

Ellen Pincus is a communication and marketing professional with over a decade of creative experience helping innovative organizations differentiate their voice. As the content marketing specialist for Infosec, she enjoys empowering cyber professionals and students with skills and knowledge to advance their careers and outsmart cybercrime.

Website Linkedin