Back to Technology Programs

    Become a Cisco CCNA Networking Specialist

    Learn networking fundamentals, routing, switching, and security through Cisco's industry-leading certification.

    Duration
    4–9 months
    Certifications
    Cisco CCNA Certification
    Key Skills
    Troubleshooting, analytical thinking, configuration skills, communication, attention to detail
    Work Settings
    IT departments, networking teams, telecom companies, managed service providers, data centers
    Job Outlook
    +12% (Faster than average)
    Salary Range
    $70K–$105K+

    What Is Cisco Certified Expert: CCNA?

    The CCNA certification validates essential network engineering knowledge, including IP routing, LAN/WAN technologies, network security, and troubleshooting. This program is ideal for learners entering IT or advancing into networking roles. CCNA remains one of the most widely recognized entry-level credentials in the industry.

    IT departments, networking teams, telecom companies, managed service providers, data centers

    What You'll Learn in Cisco Certified Expert: CCNA Training

    Core Skills

    • Network fundamentals
    • Routing and switching
    • IP addressing
    • Network security basics
    • Troubleshooting
    • Cisco device configuration

    Safety & Compliance

    • Data privacy basics
    • Security best practices
    • Compliance awareness
    • Professional ethics
    • Responsible AI use (as applicable)

    Tools & Technology

    • Cisco CCNA Certification

    Admissions Requirements for Cisco Certified Expert: CCNA Training

    Most Cisco Certified Expert: CCNA programs have accessible entry requirements designed to help motivated students start their career.

    Basic computer skills
    Reliable internet (if online)
    Willingness to learn and practice

    Requirements vary by program and training provider. Career-Bond partners will confirm specific requirements during enrollment.

    Certifications for Cisco Certified Expert: CCNA

    This program prepares you for nationally recognized certifications that employers value.

    Cisco CCNA Certification

    Cisco

    Exam Focus: Role-based competencies; Tools and workflows; Best practices

    Certification requirements vary by state and employer. Career-Bond partners will help you understand the requirements in your area.

    Cisco Certified Expert: CCNA Salary & Job Outlook

    $70K–$105K+
    National Salary Range
    ~$88,000
    Median Salary
    +12% (Faster than average)
    Job Growth Rate
    High Demand
    Market Outlook

    Growing demand driven by expansion of networked systems, cloud infrastructure growth, and cybersecurity needs, increasing reliance on skilled networking professionals to design, configure, and maintain networks

    Career Outlook for Cisco Certified Expert: CCNA

    Work Settings

    Corporate IT teams, telecom companies, MSPs, data centers, network operations centers

    Advancement Path

    Build specialization skills; earn role-relevant certifications; progress to analyst, engineer, or lead roles with experience.

    What Is the Difference Between Cisco Certified Expert: CCNA and Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)?

    TL;DR: CCNA focuses on hands-on networking and infrastructure configuration, while CISA focuses on auditing, risk, and compliance of information systems.

    Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) programs prepare students for technical networking roles by teaching how to configure, manage, and troubleshoot network infrastructure such as routers, switches, IP addressing, and network security fundamentals. The work is highly hands-on and operational, supporting uptime, performance, and connectivity across organizations. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) programs, by contrast, focus on evaluating and auditing information systems to ensure they meet governance, risk, and compliance standards. CISA professionals assess controls, review processes, and ensure systems align with regulatory and business requirements rather than configuring technology directly. Choose CCNA if you want a technical networking career working directly with infrastructure; choose CISA if you want to evaluate, audit, and assure the effectiveness of information systems.

    Comparing Programs
    Cisco Certified Expert: CCNA
    Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
    Primary Focus
    Cisco Certified Expert: CCNA

    Hands-on configuration and troubleshooting of network infrastructure

    Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

    Auditing, risk assessment, and compliance evaluation of information systems

    Typical Training Length
    Cisco Certified Expert: CCNA

    Short-term certification prep with lab-based networking practice

    Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

    Advanced certification prep focused on audit and governance concepts

    Core Skills
    Cisco Certified Expert: CCNA

    Routing and switching, IP addressing, network security basics, troubleshooting

    Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

    IT controls assessment, risk evaluation, audit methodologies, compliance review

    Certifications
    Cisco Certified Expert: CCNA

    Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

    Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

    Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

    Work Settings
    Cisco Certified Expert: CCNA

    IT departments, network operations centers, infrastructure teams

    Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

    Audit teams, compliance groups, consulting and assurance functions

    Technology Used
    Cisco Certified Expert: CCNA

    Routers, switches, network monitoring and configuration tools

    Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

    Audit frameworks, compliance documentation systems, risk tools

    Career Progression
    Cisco Certified Expert: CCNA

    Network technician, network administrator, network engineer

    Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

    IT auditor, compliance manager, assurance lead

    Cisco Certified Expert: CCNA

    Students who want a technical networking career working directly with infrastructure

    Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

    Students who want to evaluate and assure the effectiveness of information systems

    Benefits of Cisco Certified Expert: CCNA Training

    Start a high-demand networking career
    Earn a globally recognized certification
    Qualify for entry-level networking roles
    Build a strong IT foundation
    Access long-term career advancement

    Cisco Certified Expert: CCNA Student Reviews

    "CCNA training helped me get promoted within months — highly recommend."

    Leo S.
    Network Technician

    "The hands-on labs made learning networking much easier than expected."

    Emily R.
    IT Support Specialist

    "Cisco certification opened doors to jobs I couldn't get before."

    Kevin J.
    Junior Network Engineer

    Cisco Certified Expert: CCNA FAQs

    Related Programs

    Explore similar career paths that match your interests

    Microsoft Certified Expert

    Related Field
    Salary: $90K–$140K+Duration: 6–12 months
    Learn More

    IT Network Technician

    Related Field
    Salary: $50K–$80K+Duration: 6–12 months
    Learn More

    Linux Administrator

    Related Field
    Salary: $70K–$110K+Duration: 6–12 months
    Learn More

    Information Technology (IT)

    Related Field
    Salary: $60K–$100K+Duration: 6–24 months
    Learn More

    Ready to Start Your CCNA Career?

    Find CCNA programs that fit your goals and schedule.