Should I do CompTIA or Cisco?

Cisco vs. CompTIA boils down to vendor-neutral fundamentals (CompTIA) for broad IT roles (help desk, support) versus vendor-specific specialization (Cisco) for deep networking (engineering, security), with CompTIA often being an entry point and Cisco providing advanced, hands-on skills for specific equipment like Cisco routers/switches, leading to higher specialization and potential salaries. Choose CompTIA for general IT foundations and Cisco for focused network infrastructure roles.

What's better, CompTIA or Cisco?

While CompTIA certifications are ideal for developing broad, vendor-neutral knowledge across support, networking and security, CCNA training equips your team with deeper technical skills for Cisco environments and more complex infrastructure needs.

Is Cisco still relevant in 2025?

If your goal is to build a serious career in enterprise networking, infrastructure security, or even cloud networking, then yes, Cisco certifications are still worth it in 2025. However, it's smart to think long-term. Don't stop with just a Cisco cert.

Is CompTIA harder than CCNA?

Yes, CCNA is considerably harder than CompTIA A+. While A+ focuses on basic computer hardware and troubleshooting, CCNA delves into complex networking concepts and specific Cisco configurations. The jump from A+ to CCNA is significant, which is why many people use Network+ as an intermediate step.

Is IT worth IT to get a Cisco certification?

Yes, CCNA is well worth it. It teaches you excellent networking basics, increases your job prospects, and is one of the top certifications for new IT professionals.

5 Boring CERTIFICATIONS But They're Career Gold

Is CCNA still worth IT 2025 reddit?

If you're looking to get into networking or network security it definitely is. The CCNA, despite being tied to a vendor, still gives a really good foundation of technical knowledge around access networking and practical hands on experience. It's also cheaper than the Network+ these days.

Is A+ better than CCNA?

The best option depends on your career goals, current skill level, and job market requirements. Consider starting with CompTIA A+ if you're new to IT, that's my personal recommendation, or go directly to CCNA if you're certain about pursuing a networking career.

Can I get a job with just network+?

Yes, the CompTIA Network+ certification absolutely helps you get an IT job, validating foundational skills for roles like Network Technician, Help Desk Specialist, IT Support, and Network Administrator, serving as a strong starting point or complement to hands-on experience, and proving competency to employers for various entry-level to advanced positions in networking and telecommunications. 

Is A+ or network harder?

Is A+ or net+ harder? Network+ is more difficult since it requires understanding the relationships and distinctions between various operating systems, including Windows, Mac OS, and Unix.

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. 

Why is Cisco falling?

Cisco isn't universally "down"; rather, its stock has faced pressure from tough market conditions, intense AI competition (especially from Nvidia), and analyst downgrades after earnings, with some analysts questioning if AI growth will offset core networking decline. Specific services like Webex might experience localized outages, so checking Downdetector for Webex or Cisco's official status page for specific products (like Secure Access) is crucial for real-time issues.
 

Is CCNA worth IT with AI?

The Cisco CCNA certification remains incredibly valuable in a world increasingly influenced by AI. It provides the essential knowledge and practical skills that form the bedrock of any successful networking career. Without this foundation, attempts to leverage AI in networking will be superficial and ineffective.

Is CompTIA still worth IT?

Yes, CompTIA certifications (like A+, Network+, Security+) are still highly relevant and valuable, especially for breaking into IT and validating foundational skills, though their specific worth depends on your career stage and goals, offering a strong starting point for entry-level roles and a recognized baseline for more advanced paths, but some experienced pros might focus on vendor-specific or higher-level certs for niche roles. 

Which CompTIA makes the most money?

CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+) is the highest-paid CompTIA certification. It targets senior cybersecurity professionals and validates advanced skills in enterprise security, risk management, and threat analysis, leading to higher salary potential than other CompTIA credentials.

Is CCNA enough for cyber security?

Is CCNA useful for a career in cybersecurity? Yes, CCNA builds strong networking knowledge, which is the base for cybersecurity roles.

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 jobs in the US pay $300,000 a year?

Jobs paying $300,000 or more in the U.S. are concentrated in medicine, finance, law, and high-level tech/executive roles, including specialist doctors (surgeons, anesthesiologists), C-suite executives, investment bankers, partners in big law firms, senior tech leaders (VPs/Directors of Engineering), management consultants (Partners), private equity executives, and top-tier sales directors, often involving significant bonuses, commissions, or profit-sharing. Some roles, like senior airline pilots or successful entrepreneurs/tradespeople, can also reach this level without traditional degrees. 

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. 

Is Cisco or CompTIA better?

CompTIA provides vendor-neutral IT fundamentals (like Network+ for broad knowledge), focusing on theory and universal concepts, making it a great starting point; while Cisco certifications (like CCNA) are vendor-specific, diving deep into practical, hands-on configuration and management of Cisco hardware, ideal for specializing in enterprise networking, often requiring foundational CompTIA knowledge first. Think of CompTIA as the "what" and "why" of IT, and Cisco as the "how" with a specific, industry-leading brand.
 

What are the 5 levels of Cisco certification?

Cisco has five main certification levels that build upon each other: Entry (e.g., CCST), Associate (e.g., CCNA, DevNet Associate), Professional (e.g., CCNP Enterprise, CCNP Security), Expert (e.g., CCIE, CCDE), and the highest level, Architect (CCAr). This structure allows IT professionals to progress from foundational knowledge to specialized, expert-level skills in various technology tracks like Security, Data Center, Collaboration, and Wireless.
 

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.

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.

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.