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• Cisco Certified Network Associate certification boosts job prospects with higher salaries and career advancement opportunities​.

• Master networking fundamentals like IP addressing, routing, and security protocols essential for today’s IT roles​.

• Gain hands-on experience in network troubleshooting to handle real-world challenges efficiently from day one​.

• CCNA certification opens doors to specialized fields like security and cloud networking, supporting long-term career growth

The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification is widely regarded as a stepping stone for anyone entering the IT and networking world. In a field that’s constantly evolving, certifications like the CCNA help professionals stay current, validate their expertise, and position themselves for career advancement​. As networks become more complex, businesses rely on certified experts who can manage, troubleshoot, and secure their infrastructure with confidence. The CCNA certification offers a solid foundation by covering topics like networking fundamentals, security fundamentals, and network troubleshooting—skills essential for today’s IT jobs.

Beyond building a knowledge base, the CCNA ensures you have hands-on experience, which is crucial in practical IT roles. Through real-world scenarios, labs, and exercises, candidates gain exposure to Cisco’s widely used technologies and equipment. This hands-on training prepares them to hit the ground running, reducing onboarding time and making them immediately valuable to employers​.

CCNA certification also aligns with the growing demand for networking professionals. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 3% growth in network-related jobs from 2022 to 2032, driven by the increased need for secure and efficient networks. With more than 240,000 job openings expected each year across networking roles, CCNA-certified professionals have access to stable and well-paying career paths. Many companies also offer salary premiums, with CCNA holders earning significantly higher wages compared to non-certified peers​.

The blend of marketable skills, competitive salaries, and career advancement options makes CCNA a highly valuable certification in today’s IT landscape. As technology continues to evolve, staying certified ensures you remain relevant and adaptable, giving you the flexibility to explore various career paths in the ever-growing networking field.

In the following sections, we’ll explore how the CCNA equips you with the skills needed to excel, expands your career options, and paves the way for specialization in areas such as network security, cloud computing, and beyond.

Why Pursue the Cisco Certified Network Associate Certification?

With a strong reputation among employers, the Cisco Certified Network Associate certification serves as both a career accelerator and a reliable credential. Whether you’re aiming to secure an entry-level role or pursue specialized positions down the line, the CCNA equips you with versatile skills that set you apart in today’s competitive job market. Here’s how earning the CCNA can unlock growth opportunities, boost your earning potential, and prepare you for long-term success in IT.

Career Growth and Increased Earning Potential

CCNA-certified professionals often see higher starting salaries compared to their non-certified peers. According to industry reports, starting salaries for CCNA holders range from $58,000 to $85,000 per year, with average annual earnings around $81,828. This certification also enables professionals to negotiate better pay and access more lucrative roles as they gain experience in the field. Additionally, Cisco-certified individuals often receive bonuses and incentives from employers, making the credential a smart investment in long-term career growth.

In-Demand Skills for Today’s IT Market

The CCNA certification covers core topics like networking fundamentals, such as IP addressing and routing, as well as security fundamentals to safeguard network infrastructure. This ensures professionals have the technical skills necessary to address modern networking challenges, including troubleshooting issues quickly and maintaining secure connections. With over 240,000 job openings in networking roles and a growing demand for skilled professionals, holding a CCNA gives candidates a distinct competitive edge.

Hands-On Experience Through Network Troubleshooting

CCNA training is not just about theory—it involves real-world lab exercises where candidates practice network troubleshooting on Cisco equipment. This hands-on experience assures you are job-ready from day one, making you an appealing hire for organizations that need immediate solutions to network issues without lengthy onboarding processes.

Opportunities for Specialization and Career Progression

CCNA serves as a gateway to advanced Cisco certifications, such as the Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) or specialized tracks in security, wireless networking, or data center operations. Many CCNA holders eventually transition to higher-level roles, including network engineers, consultants, and IT managers, with some specializing in cloud networking or cybersecurity.

Take the Next Step in Your IT Journey

By taking Lackawanna’s Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Exam Preparation Program, you’ll be on the path to earning a CCNA certification, which not only validates your expertise but also aligns you with one of the most respected names in the networking industry. With organizations worldwide relying on Cisco technologies, your certification opens doors to career opportunities across industries and borders.

Explore our Admissions and Enrollment page to learn about the diverse career pathways offered through our Information Technology programs and embark on your path to a successful future at Lackawanna College.