Choosing between the CCNA and Network+certifications is a big decision. The CCNA is from Cisco, while Network+ is from CompTIA. Each has its own focus and needs. It’s key to pick the right one for your career and skills.
Key Takeaways:
The CCNA and Network+certifications have different difficulty levels and areas of focus.
The CCNA certification is offered by Cisco Systems and requires passing a single exam, the 200-301 CCNA, consisting of 60-70 questions with a duration of 120 minutes1.
The Network+ certification is provided by CompTIA and requires passing a single exam, the N10-008, consisting of 90 questions with a duration of 90 minutes and a passing score of 720 out of 9001.
The cost of the CCNA exam is $300, while the Network+ exam costs $3381.
The CCNA certification is recommended for individuals with at least one year of networking experience, while the Network+ certification is suited for those with at least nine months of networking experience1.
Both the CCNA and Network+ certifications are valid for three years. The CCNA certification needs recertification by passing the same exam or a higher-level Cisco exam, while the Network+ certification can be recertified through Continuing Education Units (CEUs)1.
The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is a networking certificate from Cisco, a top name in IT and networking. It’s a vendor-specific certification, meaning it focuses on Cisco’s tools and products. This shows you know how to manage and run IT networks.
Getting a CCNA certification proves you have the skills and knowledge in IT networking. The exam tests you on key topics like network basics, getting into networks, IP connections, IP services, security basics, and making networks work better with automation and programmability.
“The CCNA, short for Cisco Certified Network Associate, is a networking certificate provided by Cisco.”
“This certification is specific to Cisco tools and products, making it a vendor-specific certification.”
“It demonstrates your ability to run an IT network and showcases your knowledge of IT networking.”
“The CCNA exam covers core fundamentals in the IT area, including network fundamentals, network access, IP connectivity, IP services, security fundamentals, and automation and programmability.”
CCNA Certification
Attributes
Certifying Body
Cisco
Areas Covered
Network Fundamentals, Network Access, IP Connectivity, IP Services, Security Fundamentals, Automation and Programmability
Vendor-Specific
Yes
Recognition
Globally recognized
Difficulty Level
Comparatively complex
Career Paths
Network Engineers, Network Architects, Specialization in Cloud, Wireless, or Security Technologies
Getting a CCNA certification shows you’re skilled in networking and boosts your career in IT. With a certification like CCNA, you open doors in network engineering, architecture, and special areas like cloud, wireless, or security.
“The CCNA certification validates an individual’s ability to connect, operate, and troubleshoot medium-sized enterprise networks.”2
“CCNA is globally recognized and holds immense value for demonstrating technical expertise in networking.”2
What is Network+?
Network+ is an IT certification from CompTIA, a top name in IT training. It proves you know how to set up and keep basic networks running. This certification covers many networking topics, making it a great first step for IT newcomers.
The exam has up to 90 questions and you need 720 points out of 1000 to pass3. It tests your grasp of networking basics like the OSI model and how to use routers and switches. You’ll also learn about troubleshooting, ports, and security4. Getting Network+ shows you can handle basic network tasks like installing and fixing networks5.
Network+ is not tied to any one brand, making it useful in many IT settings4. This makes it a flexible choice for IT pros working in different networks. You can use your Network+ skills with any network gear, making it a smart pick for IT careers.
Network+ is known worldwide as a solid IT certification5. It can make your resume and LinkedIn profile stand out. Employers look for Network+ certified people because they know they have broad IT skills. Having Network+ can open doors to more job options and help you move up in your career.
Jobs that require Network+ pay well, like systems engineer ($90,920) and network engineer ($83,510)3. The need for networking experts is always there, and companies want people with Network+ skills on their teams.
Job Role
Median Annual Salary
Systems Engineer
$90,920
Network Administrator
$84,810
Network Engineer
$83,510
IT Consultant
$79,377
Network Analyst
$72,785
Network Support Specialist
$65,450
With Network+ becoming more in demand, it’s a great way for IT newcomers to get started4. It gives you the basics you need for networking jobs and lets you dive deeper into specialized areas. Whether you’re new to IT or want to grow your skills, Network+ is a great first step4.
The Difference Between CCNA and Network+
CCNA and Network+ have key differences. CCNA focuses on Cisco equipment and technologies, making it more specialized. Network+, on the other hand, covers general networking concepts, giving flexibility in working with different vendors6.
Network+ gives a broad view of networking, letting professionals work with various vendors. This flexibility helps them adapt to changes in the industry6.
CCNA covers both theory and practical skills in networking. It prepares professionals to work with Cisco devices, a common need in many networks6.
Network+ focuses on networking principles and protocols. It doesn’t focus much on practical skills but prepares professionals to solve networking problems6.
CCNA has added automation and cloud technologies to its curriculum. This shows the industry’s changing needs and the importance of staying updated with new technologies6.
CCNA can lead to both entry-level and advanced jobs in networking. Jobs include Technical Support Engineer and IT Manager, offering good salaries and career growth7.
Network+ also opens doors to various IT jobs. Jobs include Service Desk Analyst and Network Engineer Associate, showing its versatility in the IT world7.
CCNA is seen as a top certification, more valuable than Network+ on a resume. Cisco’s leading position in networking makes CCNA-certified professionals more credible in the job market6.
In summary, CCNA and Network+ are both important in networking. CCNA is more specialized in Cisco technology, while Network+ offers a broader networking knowledge. The choice depends on your career goals and the networking roles you want to pursue.
Job Roles of CCNA and Network+-Certified IT Professionals
Getting a CCNA or Network+ certification can really open up new career paths for IT pros. These certifications give you the skills needed for various roles in the IT world. Let’s look at some common jobs CCNA and Network+-certified pros can do:
CCNA-Certified Professionals
Network and Computer Systems Administrator: CCNA pros are great at managing and keeping computer networks running smoothly. They keep networks safe, fix problems, and make them work better. They earn about $80,600 a year8.
Computer Support Specialist: CCNA pros help users with tech issues, fixing both hardware and software problems. They make sure computers work well. They make about $57,910 a year8.
Information Security Analyst: CCNA pros can work in info security, finding and fixing security risks to protect data. They earn about $102,600 a year8.
Computer and Information Systems Manager: In this job, CCNA pros manage IT tasks in a company. They make sure tech systems work well and run smoothly. They earn about $159,010 a year8.
Computer Systems Analyst: CCNA pros can also be computer systems analysts. They check how computer systems work and suggest ways to make them better. They earn about $99,270 a year8.
Network+-Certified Professionals
Network and Computer Systems Administrator: Network+ pros manage and keep computer networks running. They make sure networks are connected, fix problems, and update them. They earn about $80,600 a year8.
Computer Support Specialist: With Network+, IT pros help users with tech issues, fixing hardware and software problems. They set up systems, upgrade them, and solve problems. They earn about $57,910 a year8.
Network Security Analyst: Network+ pros can focus on network security, finding and fixing security risks. They watch network activity and make security plans.
Network Technician: Network+ pros can be network technicians, helping with network setup, setting up devices, and fixing connection issues.
Network Administrator: With Network+, pros are great at network administration, making sure networks work well and stay stable.
CCNA and Network+ certifications are valuable for many jobs in the IT field. Whether you go for CCNA or Network+, these certifications can really help your career. They open doors to exciting jobs in networking.
Why IT Professionals Choose Network+
IT pros often pick Network+ for its broad knowledge in computer networking. It’s a key certification for those new to networking. It gives them the skills they need to start their career.
Unlike CCNA, which focuses on Cisco tools, Network+ covers a wide range of networking skills. This makes IT pros with Network+ more versatile, fitting into different jobs and tech settings9. They can work with various vendors, giving them a broad understanding of networking.
Network+ doesn’t just teach tech skills. It also covers business skills that employers look for. This mix of tech and business knowledge makes Network+ certified pros valuable in many jobs9.
This certification is great for those aiming for roles like network engineer or administrator. It thoroughly covers network tech, setup, management, and security. This prepares them for the complex world of computer networks9.
Another plus of Network+ is its focus on being vendor-neutral. This means Network+ certified workers are more efficient and make fewer errors. This saves money for companies9.
For new IT workers, Network+ is a great first step. It lays a solid base before diving into more specific areas9. Choosing Network+ helps ensure a strong start in a tech career9.
Key Reasons Why IT Professionals Choose Network+
1. Network+ provides a vendor-neutral certification that offers a broad foundational knowledge of networking concepts.
2. The certification allows professionals to work with various vendors and gain a comprehensive understanding of networking capabilities.
3. Network+ equips candidates with essential business skills in addition to technical networking knowledge, enhancing their value in the job market.
4. The certification provides deep knowledge of computer networking, preparing individuals for specific job roles.
5. Network+ certified professionals are likely to be more efficient and make fewer mistakes, leading to cost savings for enterprises.
6. It is recommended for entry-level IT professionals to prioritize vendor-neutral certifications like Network+ to build a strong foundation for their career.
Why IT Professionals Choose CCNA
Many IT professionals choose the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification. But why is it so popular?
IT pros pick CCNA for its focus on Cisco-specific knowledge and skills. It gives deep technical skills in networking and infrastructure, all on the Cisco platform10. This knowledge is highly sought after and can boost your career11.
Employers look for candidates with CCNA certification for jobs needing Cisco network expertise. Showing you have CCNA on your resume proves your skill in Cisco tech, making you stand out11.
CCNA teaches more than just networking basics. It builds a solid foundation in networking and gives hands-on experience with Cisco gear and software. This prep work prepares you for even more Cisco certifications, like CCNP and CCIE11.
CCNA is recognized worldwide for its tough standards and relevance to the industry. Getting CCNA certified boosts your appeal and trustworthiness as an IT pro11.
IT pros aiming to work with Cisco and improve their skills often pick CCNA. Its focused course, practical exercises, and Cisco-specific knowledge give you the skills to shine in networking jobs1011.
If you’re looking at a career in networking or want to grow your tech skills, CCNA is a wise choice. Its thorough curriculum, industry respect, and Cisco focus make it a top certification for IT pros10.
Keep reading to learn about the costs and requirements of CCNA and Network+ certifications next.
CCNA and Network+ Certifications Costs and Requirements
Looking into IT certifications is key to boosting your career in networking and IT. The CCNA and Network+ certifications are great for this. They can really help your career grow. Let’s look at what you’ll need to pay and do for each certification.
The Cost of CCNA and Network+ Certifications
The CCNA and Network+ certifications have similar prices. The CCNA costs about $300, and Network+ is around $32912. These prices might change, but it’s good to plan your budget for them.
Requirements for CCNA and Network+ Certifications
There are no strict rules for getting the CCNA or Network+ certifications. They’re open to many IT workers. But, having some basic networking experience helps you understand the exam topics better.
To pass the CCNA, you’ll need about 6 months of focused study. You’ll also need Cisco gear for practice12. This certification shows you know a lot about networking basics, Cisco products, and more7. It’s a big deal in the networking world.
The Network+ certification is quicker to get through. With 2-3 weeks of study, you’re ready for the exam12. It covers important networking stuff, like protocols and hardware. It’s a good first step for new IT pros12.
Recertification and Validity Period
Both certifications last three years. You’ll need to renew them to keep them valid. Renewal programs let you show you’re still up to date with IT changes. It’s important to keep learning about new networking trends.
Both the CCNA and Network+ certifications are valuable for IT pros. The choice depends on what you want to do in your career. The CCNA is great for those into Cisco tech, offering jobs from network admin to IT manager7. The Network+ is good for beginners, preparing you for roles like tech support specialist7.
Think about what you want to achieve in your career when picking a certification. Remember, getting certified is a step towards a brighter future in networking and IT.
CCNA vs Network+: Should I Do Both?
Many IT professionals wonder if they should get both CCNA and Network+ certifications. The answer depends on your career goals. Let’s look at what to think about when deciding.
Building a Strong Foundation
Network+ is a good starting point for beginners. It teaches basic networking concepts. It’s easy to get into and helps you learn skills useful in many networking jobs13.
CCNA, however, is tougher. It requires a deep understanding of networking and Cisco technology. It’s great for those who want to specialize in Cisco systems139.
Consider the Time Factor
Think about how much time each certification takes. Network+ can be finished in weeks to a few months, depending on how much you study13. CCNA, though, needs more time because it covers a lot of networking topics13.
Long-Term Career Goals
Think about your career goals when choosing certifications. Network+ is good for a wide range of IT jobs. It gives you skills useful in any networking job139.
CCNA, on the other hand, prepares you for advanced jobs like network engineer or security specialist. It gives you deep knowledge of Cisco systems13.
Enterprises’ Recognition and Job Opportunities
Both certifications are recognized by employers worldwide. They show you have the skills needed for network jobs. But, job opportunities can vary1314.
In the U.S., there are many jobs looking for CCNA certified people. This shows there’s a big demand for CCNA skills14. Check the job market in your area to see what’s needed.
Striking a Balance
It’s possible to get both certifications, but think about your career goals and what it takes. If you want a broad networking skill set, start with Network+. It’s a good base for further learning with CCNA139.
Deciding on both certifications should match your career dreams, the job you want, and the job market. Find a balance between learning new things and working towards your career goals.
Think about your long-term career goals, the knowledge you want, the time you can give, and job chances. This will help you decide if getting both CCNA and Network+ certifications is right for you.
Conclusion
CCNA and Network+ certifications are great for IT pros in networking. CCNA focuses on Cisco products and is in high demand because Cisco is a big name in the industry15. Network+, on the other hand, doesn’t focus on one brand. It shows you know a lot about networking in general15.
The CCNA exam tests your skills in many networking areas, like making connections and keeping networks safe15. The Network+ exam checks your knowledge on networking basics, how networks work, and fixing problems15.
The CCNA exam takes 120 minutes to finish15. The Network+ exam is shorter, lasting 90 minutes16. Network+ is valid for three years and requires at least nine months of experience in IT16. People find Network+ easier to pass than CCNA17.
Choosing between CCNA and Network+ depends on your career goals and what you want to do. CCNA is good for working with Cisco products, while Network+ is for any brand15. Both can open up new job chances in IT and show you’re serious about growing in your career.
In short, pick CCNA or Network+ based on what you want to specialize in, your networking skills, and what employers look for1517.
Sources:
1. [What is the Difference Between Cisco CCNA and CompTIA Network+ Certification?](https://www.mycomputercareer.edu/what-is-the-difference-between-cisco-ccna-and-comptia-network-certification/) 2. [CompTIA Network+ vs Security+ Certification](https://www.newhorizons.com/resources/blog/comptia-network-vs-security) 3. [Which Is Best for My Career, CCNA or Network+ Certification?](https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/which-i-best-my-career-ccna-network-certification-alexander-sam)
FAQ
What is the CCNA certification?
The CCNA stands for Cisco Certified Network Associate. It’s a certification from Cisco. It shows you know about IT networking and can manage an IT network.
What is the Network+ certification?
Network+ is a certification from CompTIA. It’s not tied to any one company. It teaches you about networking in a way that works with any brand’s gear.
What is the difference between CCNA and Network+?
CCNA is all about Cisco gear and tech. Network+ teaches you networking basics that work with any brand.
What job roles can CCNA-certified professionals pursue?
With CCNA, you can be a network or computer systems admin, a computer support specialist, or an info security analyst. You could also manage computer and info systems or be a computer systems analyst.
What job roles can Network+-certified professionals pursue?
Network+ holders can be network or computer systems admins, computer support specialists, or network security analysts. They can also work as network technicians or administrators.
Why do many IT professionals choose Network+?
Many pick Network+ because it doesn’t lock you into one brand. It gives you a wide base of networking knowledge. This is useful for working with different companies and has skills that many employers want.
Why do many IT professionals choose CCNA?
CCNA is great if you’re sure you’ll work with Cisco gear. It gives you deep skills in Cisco tech. This can lead to more advanced Cisco certifications.
How much do CCNA and Network+ certifications cost?
CCNA and Network+ certifications cost about the same. CCNA is around 0, and Network+ is about 9.
Do CCNA and Network+ certifications have any prerequisites?
There are no strict rules for these certifications. But, having some experience in basic networking can help.
Should I pursue both CCNA and Network+ certifications?
It depends on what you want to do in your career. Network+ gives you a broad base that’s useful for any networking job. CCNA focuses on Cisco tech. Think about your career goals and the jobs you want to get to decide if you need both.
A wireless router is key in today’s digital homes. Many routers now support dual band, working on both 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies. This lets you enjoy better performance and more…
The Outdoor Channel on Dish Network brings exciting outdoor shows for nature lovers. It covers hunting, fishing, adventure, and exploration. Viewers get to see the beauty and thrill of the…
Longhorn Network (LHN) is a partnership between ESPN and The University of Texas. It offers exclusive coverage of Texas sports events and more. You can access LHN without cable through…
In today’s connected world, two cables are key: Local Area Networks (LANs) and Premise Cables. This article dives deep into these important parts. It covers everything you need to know…
Millimeter wave backscatter networks are changing wireless communication. They offer many uses and benefits. These networks let devices talk back and forth and pinpoint locations using special technology in the…
The CompTIA Network+ certification is a top choice for IT professionals. It gives them the skills needed to do well in networking jobs. But is it worth getting? Let’s look…
