Jon Baleva Jan 25, 2024
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Entrance Tips

Is Starting A Career With The CCNA The Right Choice in 2024

The Cisco Certified Networking Associate (CCNA) Certification has grown to become the most popular IT certification in the world. The CCNA certification is an associate-level Cisco certification. Its primary focus lies in developing relevant skills to match the rapid deployment of technologies in today’s sophisticated networking environment. 

Cisco offers Entry, Associate, Professional, Expert and Architect certifications. Each certification level builds upon the knowledge and skills acquired at the previous levels, providing a structured pathway for individuals to advance their careers in networking and information technology.

 

CCNA Structured Career Pathway

The future of CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) certification remains promising and relevant in the ever-evolving field of networking. As technology continues to advance rapidly, the demand for skilled networking professionals is on the rise. Networking technologies are continuously evolving, with trends like cloud computing, network security, and automation shaping the industry. CCNA certification adapts to these trends by incorporating relevant topics, ensuring that certified professionals stay up-to-date with the latest industry standards and practices

Here’s a quick rundown of key facts on CCNA Certification:

CCNA exam code One Exam (200-301) - Implementing and Administering Cisco Solutions
Prerequisite None
Professional paths Helpdesk Engineer
Network Technician
Network Support Engineer
First and Second Line Support
Service Desk Engineer
Exam fees $300
Average Salary 480,085 AED per year
Recertification Three years
 

Why Get CCNA Certification?

The CCNA certification, offered by Cisco Systems, has been a cornerstone in the tech industry for over two decades, certifying over 600,000 individuals. The reason behind its enduring popularity lies in Cisco's reputation for reliability and excellence in certified professionals. Cisco has maintained its position as the leading technical vendor in certifying individuals, making CCNA a symbol of trust and quality in the industry. CCNA not only promises a robust and seamless career but also ensures that individuals are well-prepared for the future of networking and IT.

Top 6 Reasons To Get CCNA Certification

Here are the top six reasons why you should consider getting a CCNA Certification;

  • Industry Standard for 2 Decades 
  • A Globally-Accepted Certification
  • Open up a Plethora of Career Opportunities
  • Enhanced Skills and Knowledge
  • Higher Salary Potential
  • Doorway to Multiple Domains

 

Industry Standard for 2 Decades 

The Cisco certification has been the tech industry standard for 24 years, demonstrating its enduring relevance and value in the IT field. The CCNA certification is also a gold standard certification in the IT domain. Obtaining a CCNA certification can help you start a career anywhere around the world. 

The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification validates your foundational knowledge of computer networking. To earn the CCNA certification, you'll need to pass the 200-301 exam - Implementing and Administering Cisco Solutions. The exam costs USD 300 and tests your skills through multiple-choice, drag-and-drop questions, and even lab simulations. 

The entire exam takes 120 minutes to complete and covers topics like; 

  • Routing and Switching 
  • Subnetting 
  • IP Addressing 
  • Configuring networks 
  • OSI Model 
  • Network device security

All these topics are really important for anyone who wants to become a technical professional, a Network Engineer, a Cloud Engineer or even a Cybersecurity Specialist. 

A Globally-Accepted Certification

Cisco certifications are highly regarded globally, with over 4 million individuals certified by Cisco. These certifications are recognised by employers, with 91% associating IT certification holders with increased quality and value of work contribution

The CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) certification is a foundational certification that plays a crucial role in boosting one's career. It is a stepping stone towards more advanced certifications and job opportunities. The CCNA certification is valuable, as it equips individuals with the essential skills needed to excel in networking roles.

The CCNA 200-301 certification is the most in-demand Cisco certification today. The certification covers fundamental networking skills like IP connectivity, network access, security fundamentals, and automation, reflecting the demands of modern networking jobs.

Open up a Plethora of Career Opportunities

CCNA opens up a wide range of job opportunities in the IT and Networking field. It serves as a starting point for CCNA engineers, providing support in WAN and LAN connectivity, basic technical support, and troubleshooting for organisations. Some of the Job roles that you can start after completing the CCNA Course include:

  • Network Engineer
  • Network Administrator
  • Junior Network Engineer
  • L1/ L2 Network Engineer etc.
  • Network Operations Center (NOC) Analyst
  • Network Help Desk Technician
  • Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst - Network

 

 Enhanced Skills and Knowledge

CCNA training covers networking fundamentals, routing and switching technologies, IP addressing, security fundamentals, and more. It equips individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to manage and optimise advanced networks. Some of the skills that you can acquire after obtaining a CCNA Certification Training include;

  • Network engineering
  • Routing protocols: EIGRP, OSPF, BGP
  • Operational support
  • SAN networking knowledge
  • Unified Communication
  • OSI model
  • Multicasting knowledge: IPv4 and IPv6
  • Cisco ASA Firewalls
  • Virtual networking

 

Higher Salary Potential

CCNA certification can lead to higher salary prospects compared to non-certified professionals. The certification validates your skills and expertise, making you a valuable asset to employers.

Earning potential with a CCNA certification in the UAE can vary depending on experience level, specific job role, company size industry and location. The average salary for freshers ranges between AED 3,500 - AED 5,000 per month (approx. USD 950 - USD 1,360) and experienced professionals (2+ years experience) range between AED 5,500 - AED 8,000 per month (approx. USD 1,500 - USD 2,200).

As a person who is merely starting in the industry, a CCNA job is a really attractive and handsome-paying job.

Doorway to Multiple Domains

CCNA is not just limited to networking. If you immerse yourself in CCNA for once, you open multiple doors to various career paths. These include:

  • Cloud computing 
  • Cybersecurity 
  • Defence 
  • Space 
  • Linux Administrator 
  • Virtualisation 

 This list could go on. Therefore, CCNA is the key to unlocking plenty of career options Browsing through all these job roles is evidence that a lot of tech organisations and businesses are interested in CCNA-certified candidates. Tech companies are on a constant hunt for candidates with top-notch skills in networking.  

 To Conclude

The CCNA certification remains highly relevant in 2024 and beyond. It provides a strong foundation in networking fundamentals, preparing you for the ever-growing demand for skilled professionals.  As our reliance on data and connectivity continues to surge with technological advancements, the networking industry is poised for significant growth.  The CCNA serves as a valuable stepping stone to a secure and rewarding career path, equipping you with the skills to navigate this ever-evolving landscape and capitalise on the exciting opportunities it presents. Don't miss out –  invest in your future with the CCNA certification today!  

 

 

SENIOR TRAINER: NETWORKING AND PROGRAMMING

Jon Baleva is an IT professional with 20 years of experience in programming and networking. He is an expert in Python & IT Security domains as well as in Operating Systems (OS). He has trained professionals and students in IT Programming courses, Microsoft Azure, Linux   & MAC OS. He is also a writer who writes on tech-related topics for various tech magazines in Philippine. He is now an IT Trainer with Edoxi Training Institute, Dubai.

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