CCNA certification jobs: Roles and salaries
The CCNA opens the door to well-paying IT careers such as network administrator, network support specialist, network engineer, systems engineer, and cybersecurity analyst, roles with median U.S. salaries from about $63,000 to $134,000. Passing the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) exam is a widely recognized first step onto this rewarding path. Because every industry depends on technology, IT professionals are highly valued for their skills in network configuration and security. Knowing which jobs the CCNA unlocks helps you enter the field with a clear sense of your options.
Computer and information technology (IT) occupations are growing and lucrative, with a median annual wage of $109,000 in May 2025.
What is the CCNA?
The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification prepares candidates for a career in IT. Earning it involves passing one exam, Implementing and Administering Cisco Solutions (200-301 CCNA), which covers foundational topics in IT and Cisco systems administration, including the latest networking technologies, security, and automation.
The CCNA exam is constantly evolving, with Cisco updating the content to reflect rapidly changing technologies and industry standards. The current version (v1.1), offered through February 2, 2027, is organized into six domains: network fundamentals, network access, IP connectivity, IP services, security fundamentals, and automation and programmability, the last of which includes AI and machine learning in network operations. As of February 3, 2027, version 2.0 groups the exam into five domains: network infrastructure and connectivity; switching and network access; IP routing; network services and security; and AI and network operations and management.
What jobs can you get with a CCNA?
The CCNA can be a great way to enter the IT and networking field. The certification demonstrates knowledge of networking fundamentals, routing, switching, IP addressing, and network security. Here are five career paths a CCNA can help you pursue, with median U.S. salaries from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
| Role | Median salary (May 2025) |
|---|---|
| Network administrator | $99,000 |
| Network support specialist | $63,000 |
| Network engineer | $134,000 |
| Systems engineer | $106,000 |
| Cybersecurity analyst | $129,000 |
Network administrator: $99,000/year
Network administrators manage and maintain an organization’s network infrastructure. Their responsibilities can include configuring routers and switches, monitoring network performance, troubleshooting connectivity problems, and maintaining network security.
Network support specialist: $63,000/year
Network support specialists help organizations keep their networks running smoothly. They troubleshoot internet and connectivity problems, assist users with network-related issues, and maintain networking equipment. This can be an excellent first networking job after earning the CCNA.
Network engineer: $134,000/year
Network engineers design, implement, and troubleshoot computer networks. They may work with routers, switches, firewalls, VPNs, and wireless infrastructure. A CCNA can provide the foundation for this career, while experience and advanced certifications such as the CCNP can help you move into higher-level positions.
Systems engineer: $106,000/year
Systems engineers work with an organization’s broader IT infrastructure. Depending on the position, this can involve networking, servers, cloud services, and other technology systems. A strong understanding of networking from the CCNA can be valuable in this role.
Cybersecurity analyst: $129,000/year
Cybersecurity analysts protect organizations from cyberattacks and unauthorized access. Networking knowledge is extremely important because security professionals need to understand how devices communicate and how attacks can move through a network. The CCNA can provide a useful foundation in networking, although additional cybersecurity skills and experience are usually needed.
Why hands-on practice matters for the CCNA
Networking is a skill-based field. Employers and the certification exam both expect candidates to work with actual network configurations: gaining practical experience through schoolwork, training programs, or even personal projects is vital before applying for roles in the field. Though the CCNA is open to anyone regardless of background, some networking experience is a must to succeed on the exam and show that you are prepared to administer and implement IT solutions. Along with the CCNA, Cisco offers a variety of shorter exams, lab-based practicals, and software that can help you refine your networking and IT skills before your test. Combining recognized certifications with projects that demonstrate your abilities will make your resume stronger and better prepare you for your future profession.
Final thoughts
Computer and information technology is a growing, dynamic field that lets you apply technical skills, problem-solving, and critical thinking across many settings. The CCNA has no prerequisites and is designed for people with little to no networking knowledge, so with some IT training and focused study, it’s well within reach. Earning this widely recognized, forward-thinking certification is the first step toward entering the field: it proves that you have up-to-date technical know-how to take on roles in network administration, cybersecurity, and various engineering capacities.