Should I do CCNA or Security+?

Choose CCNA for deep technical networking (routers, switches) leading to Network Engineer roles, or Security+ for a vendor-neutral, broad cybersecurity foundation, great for entry-level security analysts and DoD jobs. CCNA builds strong infrastructure skills, while Security+ covers core security principles (threats, access control, cryptography). Many aim for CCNA first for core networking, then Security+ to add security breadth, or vice-versa depending on their target role.

Is CCNA harder than Security+?

CCNA is generally considered more technically challenging than Security+ due to its hands-on networking focus and lab-based exam format. CCNA requires deep understanding of routing, switching, and network protocols, plus practical configuration skills on Cisco equipment.

Which is better, CCNA or cyber security?

If you're focused on cybersecurity roles, Security+ remains the most widely recognized credential, it is invaluable for advancing in the dynamic field of cybersecurity. For broader IT infrastructure roles with security components, CCNA provides comprehensive foundational knowledge.

Is CCNA still worth in 2025?

Yes, the CCNA is still very much worth it in 2025 for a networking career, offering essential foundational skills, strong job prospects in network administration and security, and a great ROI as a gateway to advanced certifications, despite the evolving landscape with cloud and automation. While some manual tasks are changing, the core understanding of network fundamentals provided by the CCNA remains critical for supporting modern, complex IT environments and cybersecurity roles, making it a valuable entry-point and foundational credential. 

What is better, networking or cybersecurity?

Cybersecurity focuses on system protection, while network security emphasizes securing data transmission. Your choice between the two depends on your career aspirations and the specific skills you wish to cultivate.

stop wasting your time in cybersecurity

Can I make $200,000 a year in cyber security?

Yes, making $200,000 a year in cybersecurity is achievable, especially in senior roles like CISO, Security Architect, or Lead Software Security Engineer, or with specialized skills in high-demand areas, though it's less common and typically requires significant experience, certifications, and potentially strategic career moves like moving into sales engineering or management. Entry-level to mid-level roles usually start lower, but a clear career path with continuous learning can lead to six-figure incomes and beyond, with some tech giants even offering $200k+ for early-career security engineers. 

What pays more, networking or cybersecurity?

Cyber security typically pays more than general IT positions because of the required specialized knowledge and skills. However, salaries can vary depending on experience, location, and specific roles within each field.

Can I complete CCNA in 3 months?

Yes, you can complete your CCNA studies in 3 months with a focused and structured study plan. Dedicate consistent daily hours to cover all exam topics and engage in hands-on practice.

Is CCNA changing in 2026?

Very helpful. In this regard, I came across the news that beginning Feb. 3, 2026, Cybersecurity certifications will get new names: CCNA Cybersecurity and CCNP Cybersecurity. Exam topics will remain the same.

Which is better, AWS or Cisco?

Cisco: Exploring Aruba's Growing Momentum. Quick Answer: Aruba offers simpler, more user-centric networking options, while Cisco offers more holistic, complex solutions. The winner will depend heavily upon your networking needs.

Do I need CCNA for cybersecurity?

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.

What is the most respected cybersecurity certification?

The CISSP certification from the cybersecurity professional organization (ISC)² ranks among the most sought-after credentials in the industry. Earning your CISSP demonstrates that you're experienced in IT security and capable of designing, implementing, and monitoring a cybersecurity program.

Can I pass CCNA in a week?

According to most, it is indeed possible to study for and pass the CCNA exam in a week, albeit gruelling.

Is CompTIA still relevant in 2025?

Yes, CompTIA certifications, especially CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+, remain highly relevant and valuable in 2025 for launching and advancing IT careers, serving as globally recognized credentials for foundational skills, opening doors to entry-level jobs (like help desk, support), meeting employer requirements (including for the DoD), and providing building blocks for advanced specializations, with new, more targeted certifications also being introduced to keep pace with tech evolution. 

Which is the hardest CompTIA exam?

There's no single "hardest" CompTIA exam, as it depends on your background, but Security+ (breadth of cybersecurity concepts) and Network+ (memorization, technical depth) are often cited as tough entry-to-mid-level exams, while the advanced CASP+ (Cybersecurity Analyst Professional) is considered one of the most challenging overall for experienced pros, covering enterprise security architecture and risk management. The difficulty is subjective, with A+ being tough for beginners due to sheer volume but easier for experienced techs, whereas Security+ tests deeper understanding.
 

What is the fail rate for CCNA?

The exam is challenging, and according to Certstaffix, 95 percent of test takers fail on their first attempt. However, that shouldn't put you off because the overall pass rate is still around 85 percent, according to different sources.

Is $50,000 a good entry-level salary?

Yes, $50k is generally a decent starting salary, often considered middle-class and comfortable for a single person in lower to medium cost-of-living areas, but its value heavily depends on your location, field of work, and expenses, potentially requiring budgeting in expensive cities or certain industries. It's a solid baseline for recent graduates, especially in high-demand fields, and provides a good foundation for career growth, but managing it requires awareness of your local market. 

Is CCNA higher than Security+?

Neither CCNA nor Security+ is universally "better"; they serve different career paths, with Security+ being a vendor-neutral cybersecurity baseline for general security roles (especially government/DoD), while CCNA is a deeper, vendor-specific networking certification for building network infrastructure on Cisco systems, though both offer strong foundations and entry points into IT, with CCNA often considered harder due to its technical depth. Choose Security+ for broad security principles and CCNA for hands-on network engineering.
 

Is CCNA or CCNP higher?

CCNA is an associate-level certification that evaluates a professional's understanding of switching and routing fundamentals. In contrast, CCNP is an advanced certification that demands a more in-depth knowledge of WANs, LANs, and their integration.

How many hours a day should I study for CCNA?

CBT Nuggets coaches say you should be CCNA ready in about 26 weeks by studying 30 to 60 minutes per day. Pair the 200-301 CCNA training videos with the free CBT Nuggets CCNA 200-301 study plan so you can stay on-track ahead of test day.

Can I get CCNA for free?

Yes, this CCNA course is 100% free. You will receive unrestricted access to the full 5 hours of content, free and clear.

What tech jobs pay $400,000 a year?

Tech jobs paying $400k+ are typically senior, specialized roles in high-demand fields like AI/Machine Learning, Cloud Computing, Cybersecurity, and Data Science, often at major companies or successful startups, including Principal/Staff Engineers, Engineering Directors, CTOs, AI/ML Scientists, Cloud Architects, Product Managers, and Security Leads, with compensation including base, bonuses, and stock. Roles at companies like OpenAI, Netflix, Google, Netflix, Google, and. 

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Engineers making $500k/year are typically highly specialized, experienced professionals in tech (Software, AI, Cloud), Petroleum, Electrical, or Chemical fields, working at top tech firms (FAANG, startups), hedge funds, or in senior management/architect roles, often with significant stock/bonus components, not just base salary. Key roles include Principal/Distinguished Engineers, AI/ML Specialists, Data Scientists, and Directors, requiring advanced degrees and deep expertise in high-demand areas like distributed systems or high-frequency trading. 

Why do people quit cybersecurity?

Many cybersecurity professionals are quitting due to a combination of high-pressure work environments, chronic understaffing, and a lack of organizational support and recognition—not primarily because of salary or a lack of opportunities.