Should I take CCNA or CCNP first?

You should almost always take the CCNA first to build foundational networking knowledge, as the CCNP covers advanced, specialized topics built upon those basics, making it overwhelming and less effective for beginners; only skip the CCNA if you have significant real-world networking experience and can confidently pass the more difficult CCNP exams. Start with the CCNA for entry-level roles like Network Technician and build practical skills before tackling the two-exam CCNP for advanced roles like Network Engineer.

Is CCNP harder than CCNA?

Yes, CCNP (Cisco Certified Network Professional) is significantly harder and more advanced than CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) because it requires deeper technical knowledge, focuses on specialization, and involves passing multiple exams (a core and a concentration exam) compared to CCNA's single exam, making it a professional-level certification for experienced engineers, not entry-level ones. 

Is CCNA still worth in 2025?

Yes, the CCNA is still worth it in 2025 as it provides crucial foundational networking skills, validates expertise for employers, and remains highly requested in the job market, with updated exams covering modern topics like automation, though combining it with Linux, security, or cloud skills offers the best career progression. It opens doors to entry-level roles and serves as a strong base for advanced certifications (like CCNP), with strong ROI despite the initial investment. 

Which Cisco certification should I get first?

No matter which track you choose, I still recommend achieving the CCNA R&S (minimum) or CCNP R&S (recommended) before you move onto any other track. CCNA R&S gives you a brief look at networking technologies and, once you have completed it, you will know which path is best for you.

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.

5 Boring CERTIFICATIONS But They're Career Gold

What is the CCNA salary?

A CCNA salary varies significantly but averages around $80,000 - $90,000 annually in the US, with top earners exceeding $120,000, depending heavily on location (e.g., California pays more), experience, and specific roles like Network Engineer or Systems Administrator. Entry-level positions might start lower, while senior roles or high-demand areas command higher pay, showing strong earning potential for certified professionals.
 

Is CCNA higher than Security+?

Neither CCNA nor Security+ is universally "better"; they serve different paths: Security+ is vendor-neutral, focusing broadly on core cybersecurity concepts (threats, compliance, access control), ideal for general security roles, especially in government/DoD. CCNA is Cisco-focused and deeper, covering networking fundamentals (routing, switching, configuration) with integrated security, best for networking roles, often leading to higher-paying, specialized network security jobs. Choose Security+ for a broad security entry, or CCNA for deep networking with security, depending on your career goals. 

What is the average salary for a Ccnp?

How much does a Ccnp make? As of Jan 10, 2026, the average annual pay for a Ccnp in the United States is $109,336 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $52.57 an hour. This is the equivalent of $2,102/week or $9,111/month.

Which certification is most in demand?

There isn't one single "most demanding" certification, but top contenders involve significant experience and rigorous exams, like the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), requiring deep finance knowledge, or the Project Management Professional (PMP), demanding extensive project leadership. CISSP (Cybersecurity) and advanced AWS/Cloud certifications also rank high for difficulty and value, requiring years of IT experience and complex technical exams to master skills in high demand like cloud architecture and data security. 

Is CCNA or Network+ better?

The choice between CCNA vs CompTIA Network+ depends on your goals. CompTIA Network+ offers versatility and a flexible starting point for networking careers. CCNA provides technical depth for those focused on Cisco-based networking roles.

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

Yes, earning $200,000 a year in cybersecurity is absolutely achievable, especially in senior, specialized, or high-demand roles like CISO, Security Architect, Lead Security Engineer, Cloud Security Engineer, Sales Engineer, or penetration testers in large companies or high-cost-of-living areas, often requiring significant experience, advanced skills (coding, cloud, leadership), and sometimes certifications, with top earners exceeding this significantly. 

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 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.

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.

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.

What is the hardest Cisco exam?

The Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) is widely regarded as Cisco's most challenging certification. Earning the CCIE requires passing both a rigorous written exam and an extensive eight-hour, hands-on lab exam.

What certifications make 100k a year?

Comments Section

• Certified ScrumMaster (CSM)[1]
• Google Professional Cloud Architect [1]
• AWS Certified Solutions Architect [1]
• Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)[1]
• Financial Planning certifications (e.g., CFP-related path)[1]
• Project Management Professional (PMP)[1]

Which 3 month course is best?

The best 3-month courses focus on high-demand tech, healthcare, and business skills, with top options including IT Support (Microsoft/Google), Data Analytics (Google/IBM), Project Management (Google), Medical Billing & Coding, and UX Design, often leading to quick entry into well-paying roles like IT Specialist, Bookkeeper, or Analyst with average salaries from $60k-$90k+. Other strong choices are Digital Marketing, Cybersecurity fundamentals, and specialized areas like Front-End Web Development (Meta), providing practical skills for fast career growth. 

What is the hardest certification to get?

Top 10 Toughest Exams in the United States

• USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination) ...
• Uniform Bar Examination/ California Bar. ...
• CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) Exam. ...
• CPA (Certified Public Accountant) Exam. ...
• NCLEX (National Council Licensure Examination) ...
• GRE (Graduate Record Examination)

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Engineers making $500k/year are typically highly specialized, experienced professionals, most commonly in Software Engineering, especially in AI, distributed systems, or finance/trading, working at top tech firms or successful startups where total compensation (base + significant stock/bonus) reaches this level. Other potential fields include Electrical Engineering in specialized areas like power/utilities or high-level Project Management roles. 

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Engineers earning $300k/year are typically in senior, specialized, or leadership roles, especially in Software/Tech (AI, DevOps, Embedded Systems, MLOps), Hardware, and niche fields like Autonomous Driving or Defense, often at top companies or high-growth startups, combining base pay with significant bonuses and equity, and requiring strong system design/algorithm skills. Roles like VP of Engineering, Tech Fellow, or Director level are also common paths to this income bracket. 

Is CCNP security worth IT in 2025?

Yes, a CCNP is more relevant than ever for a career in cybersecurity. While it is a networking credential, its modern curriculum includes a heavy focus on network security fundamentals, making it a critical foundation for advanced security roles.

Is CCNA 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.

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.