Are you considering getting CCNA certified and wondering about the potential salary? Or maybe you’re already certified and looking to negotiate a higher salary? Either way, understanding the CCNA average salary is crucial. In this article, IT Exams will cover everything you need to know about CCNA salaries, including factors that affect them and ways to maximize your earning potential.
What Is CCNA?
Before we dive into CCNA salaries, let’s briefly review what CCNA is.
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is a credential issued by Cisco Systems, a renowned technology corporation that specializes in networking equipment and solutions. The CCNA certification is one of the most well-known and generally accepted qualifications in the IT sector, notably in networking.
The CCNA credential certifies the skills and knowledge needed to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot small to medium-sized networks. It covers subjects such as routing and switching, WAN technology, network security, and network automation. The certification program includes one or more tests that assess skill in these areas.
The CCNA certification is an entry-level Cisco certification that is required for higher-level Cisco certifications such as the CCNP (Cisco Certified Network Professional) and the CCIE (Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert). It is also a beneficial qualification for people who want to work in networking or information technology.
The CCNA certification shows potential employers that a person has a good foundation in networking ideas and is capable of working with Cisco products and technology. It can lead to rewarding careers in fields such as telecommunications, technology, finance, healthcare, and education.
An individual must pass one or more examinations to achieve CCNA certification. Network basics, network access, IP connection, IP services, security fundamentals, and automation and programmability are among the subjects covered by the exam(s). It is critical to have a full comprehension of these areas as well as to properly study and prepare for the exam(s).
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CCNA Average Salary Overview
The CCNA average salary varies depending on several factors, such as location, experience, and industry. According to Payscale, the average salary for CCNA certification is $79,000 per year in the United States. However, Glassdoor reports a slightly higher average salary of $84,000 per year.
Factors Affecting CCNA Salary
Several factors affect CCNA salaries, including:
Location
The location is a significant factor in determining CCNA salary. In general, salaries in metropolitan areas are higher than in rural areas. For example, CCNA professionals working in San Francisco, New York, or Washington D.C., can expect higher salaries than those working in smaller cities.
Experience
Experience plays a crucial role in determining CCNA salaries. As with most professions, the more experience you have, the higher your salary will be. According to Payscale, CCNA professionals with less than one year of experience earn an average of $51,000 per year, while those with 1-4 years of experience earn $60,000 per year on average. CCNA professionals with 5-9 years of experience earn an average of $75,000 per year, and those with ten or more years of experience earn an average of $93,000 per year.
Industry
Your CCNA pay is also affected by the industry in which you work. Some industries provide more compensation than others. For example, CCNA professionals in the telecommunications, technology, and finance industries earn significantly more than those in education or healthcare.
Job roles
Another aspect that might influence CCNA pay is job function. CCNA professionals can work as network administrators, network engineers, and IT managers, among other positions. IT managers who have earned the CCNA certification, for example, should expect to earn more than network administrators.
Certifications
Other qualifications, in addition to the CCNA, can boost your earning potential. For example, CCNP (Cisco Certified Network Professional) certification, which displays more advanced abilities than CCNA, can dramatically improve your compensation. CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+, and Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) are some more qualifications that might boost your earning potential.
Specialization
Finally, specialization can affect CCNA average salary. CCNA Routing and Switching is the most popular specialization, but other specializations such as CCNA Security, CCNA Cloud, and CCNA Wireless may offer different salary ranges. It’s essential to research the market and understand the demand for your particular specialization.
CCNA Job Titles and Salary
The CCNA certification can lead to a wide range of networking positions on the CCNA career path. Some common job titles for CCNA specialists are network administrator, network engineer, and IT manager.
CCNA expert salaries vary depending on job title, geography, and experience. The average yearly salary for a CCNA professional in the United States is around $78,000, according to Payscale. Entry-level network administrator salaries can range from $50,000 to more than $120,000 per year for a senior network engineer or IT manager.
The followings are some common CCNA job titles and their accompanying national average salary ranges:
1. Technical support engineer – $69,003 per year
A technical support engineer is in charge of aiding consumers and corporate employees with computer device technical difficulties. They answer phones, engage in live conversations with consumers, filter emails, and sit with staff to demonstrate how to use their gadgets. Technical support engineers may also charge consumers, fix problems and recommend feasible solutions, and produce basic documentation for technical procedures.
2. Network administrator – $69,941 per year
A network administrator is in charge of a company’s networks. They analyze current problems, optimize the network, handle upgrades, and do routine maintenance, as well as instruct personnel on how to maintain the network clean and operational. Network administrators also ensure the security of an organization’s networks, issue access to staff members, and recommend tools and software that can assist the network run.
3. Data center technician – $70,666 per year
A data center technician is in charge of an organization’s servers. They install and upgrade these servers, as well as troubleshoot any ongoing difficulties, run diagnostics to discover problems, and may need to repair parts. Datacenter technicians must also record their work and keep event logs in order to reference prior work.
4. IT security specialist – $78,783 per year
An IT security professional ensures that a company’s computer systems are secure. They investigate and select protection measures, such as those that detect malware or guard against cybersecurity risks, and they may decide to encrypt emails and other communications between employees and external customers, and clients. IT security professionals upgrade systems, create firewalls, and limit access to private data held on computers, networks, and servers.
5. VoIP engineer – $84,125 per year
A VoIP, or voice-over-internet protocol, engineer installs and manages a company’s VoIP infrastructure. They set up in-house phone systems, secure gear and accessories, and install software to meet the organization’s demands. Additionally, VoIP experts link the company’s phone systems to the network, debug any problems, suggest data services, monitor user rights, and train users.
6. Information security analyst – $89,934 per year
An information security analyst improves the security of a company’s networks. They monitor, generate reports, install software to secure intellectual information and private client data, and test the firm to discover how vulnerable it is to security breaches. Information security analysts also develop firm rules and processes to ensure that employees support the organization’s security and avoid performing actions that might jeopardize the company’s network.
7. Telecom engineer – $91,807 per year
A telecom engineer is in charge of connecting a company’s communication infrastructure. They operate with video, data, and voice systems, among other things, and carry out activities such as installing equipment, transmitting communication data, reconfiguring networks and systems, and installing equipment. Telecom engineers may also acquire new equipment or upgrade existing equipment as needed.
8. Wireless engineer – $99,932 per year
A wireless engineer works to ensure that an area’s or a business’s internet connection stays ideal. They configure, maintain, and upgrade wireless equipment, administer networks, troubleshoot internet problems, manage firewalls and permissions, test networks and routers, and design router protocols.
9. Network security engineer – $112,785 per year
A network security engineer is someone who creates security mechanisms. These systems are also optimized, users are trained on them, network protocols are audited, system upgrades are designed to increase efficiency, and documentation is created for all users. Network security engineers also foresee security concerns, such as natural catastrophes and their consequences, and develop ways to combat them in order to keep networks safe. They may also be in charge of a team of network security experts.
10. Director of information technology – $118,572 per year
A director of information technology is in charge of an organization’s information technology department. They manage IT projects, develop personnel schedules, monitor business operations, collaborate with other corporate specialists to solve current problems, secure IT vendors for the organization, and investigate new technologies that may benefit the corporation. IT directors frequently oversee their department’s budget and offer updates to top executives on how the department is performing.
Top Locations For CCNA Jobs
Average CCNA wages vary by geography. So, where are the finest locations to work as a one?
The cities with the greatest incomes for the primary CCNA job positions are as follows:
- Network engineers earn the most in Washington, DC (21% more than the norm).
- Network administrators in New York City earn the highest salaries in the country (14% more than the national average).
- System administrators are likewise paid the most in NYC, with a basic income that is 16% more than the national average.
While the expense of living in New York explains the salary disparity, Washington isn’t far behind. CCNA salaries in Washington, DC are consistently higher than the national average:
- Network engineers in Washington earn 21% more than the national average.
Systems administrators earn 13% more than the typical American. - Texas is another high-paying state for these jobs. CCNA jobs in Dallas pay 8% more for network administrators and 6% more for network engineers.
- Of course, California is one of the highest-paying states. With so much of the computer sector centered there, it’s no wonder that network administrators in Los Angeles earn 6% more than the national average. After New York City, this is the finest destination for these experts.
What’s more shocking is that California isn’t a top-paying state for any of the other CCNA jobs (network engineer or systems administrator). Don’t be too eager to get on the Silicon Valley bandwagon, given that it’s also one of the more costly places to live in, with high taxes.
Furthermore, occupations that are not reliant on geography are always an alternative.
CCNA job roles are so diverse and worth leaning in, aren’t they? But if you still want to discover more opportunities which are probably more suitable for you, you can also search the comparison between CCT vs CCNA and find out which certification offers better career opportunities.
Maximizing Your CCNA Earning Potential
You may optimize your earning potential now that you understand the elements that influence CCNA earnings. Here are some pointers:
Get Additional Certifications
As previously said, extra certificates can considerably boost your earning potential. Consider acquiring other certifications to go along with your CCNA, such as CCNP or CCIE, to open up even more high-paying career options.
Pursue Higher Education
A bachelor’s or master’s degree in a similar discipline can also help you advance in your career. Some businesses may even provide tuition reimbursement to assist you in furthering your education.
Gain Experience
Obtaining CCNA certification is only the first step toward a career in networking. It is critical to get as much experience as possible in order to optimize your earning potential. Internships, entry-level work, and on-the-job training are examples of this. The greater your experience, the more desirable you will be to future employers.
Specialize
While the CCNA certification covers a wide variety of networking subjects, there are several sub-specialties within the sector. You may become an expert in a certain field, such as network security or wireless networking, by specializing in that field.
Negotiate Your Salary
When you’re given a job, don’t be hesitant to bargain for a higher wage. Do your homework ahead of time to identify the typical wage for the position in your region, and arrive at the negotiation table knowing exactly what you want. Remember that your potential employer wants to recruit you and may be prepared to compromise in order to do so.
Network
Networking is a crucial professional tool as well as technical competence. Attending industry events, joining professional organizations, and networking with other networking professionals can help you develop valuable contacts and find new career prospects.
Continue Learning
Because the networking business is always evolving, it is vital to stay up to date on the latest technologies and trends. Earning additional certifications or attending industry conferences, for example, may demonstrate your commitment to lifelong learning and make you more appealing to potential employers.
Consider Relocation
The job market for networking experts varies greatly based on your location. If you are unable to discover high-paying career possibilities in your present region, consider migrating to a place where networking professionals are in more demand.
FAQ
What is the CCNA average salary in other countries besides the US?
CCNA salaries vary widely by country and region. In the UK, for example, the average salary for CCNA certification is around £35,000 per year, while in India, it’s around ₹390,000 per year.
Is CCNA certification worth it?
Yes, CCNA certification is worth it if you’re interested in pursuing a career in networking or IT. It can lead to exciting job opportunities and competitive salaries.
How long does it take to get CCNA certified?
The time it takes to get CCNA certified depends on several factors, such as your prior experience and the amount of time you can dedicate to studying. Typically, it requires 6 to 12 months of study.
Can CCNA certification lead to other certifications?
Yes, absolutely! If you have already earned CCNA certification then you are qualified for a variety of additional Cisco certifications, for example, CCNA Security, CCNA Voice, CCNA Wireless, and other expert-level credentials like CCNP. With CCNA certification, you could never be a plateau!
Conclusion
In conclusion, the CCNA average salary can be different depending on various factors such as region, experience, industry, and certifications. But there is one thing that you can totally increase your earnings and advance in your CCNA career by keeping these factors in mind and taking proactive measures. It’d be better if you understand profoundly that wages might change even amongst CCNA specialties, as well as the demands of the market and the particular requirements of your field of expertise. In general, having a CCNA certification gives you useful abilities that might lead to exciting employment prospects and possibly competitive pay. Continuous learning and skill improvement are essential if you want to keep ahead in the ever-changing IT business.
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