Is CCNA still relevant in 2025?

Is CCNA Still Relevant in 2025?

The world of technology is always changing, and staying relevant means keeping up with both practical skills and professional certifications. Among the most enduring credentials in networking is the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA). Launched in 1998, it has remained a trusted certification for decades. In 2025, the question arises: is it still worth pursuing? The answer is a strong yes. Below, we’ll break down what keeps the CCNA valuable and why it remains a solid choice for those looking to grow their careers in IT.

Why the CCNA Continues to Hold Value

What sets the CCNA apart is its ability to stay current with the needs of the industry. Cisco regularly updates the content of the certification exam to reflect emerging technologies and modern requirements. This has allowed the CCNA to maintain its relevance even as advancements like AI, cloud computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT) reshape the technology space. Employers know that anyone with this credential has been tested on the latest industry practices, making it a consistent benchmark for networking expertise.

The global recognition of the CCNA is another major factor that contributes to its importance. Unlike some certifications that focus on one region or a specific job market, the CCNA is respected worldwide. This makes it a good choice for professionals aiming to work with multinational companies or in various parts of the globe. Its focus on networking essentials like IP addressing, routing protocols, and security ensures that holders of this certification start with a strong foundation, regardless of which direction their careers may take.

What the CCNA Exam Teaches You

The CCNA exam covers an impressive array of networking topics that go beyond beginner-level knowledge. Candidates are introduced to concepts like IP addressing and subnetting, but also work through more advanced material like network automation, wireless network basics, and the fundamentals of securing infrastructure. These additions are directly aligned with current industry needs and reflect the challenges professionals face in the field today. For example, automation tools are becoming an important part of network management, and the CCNA prepares you to handle them at a basic level.

The exam’s design also emphasizes practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge. Portions of the test feature simulated troubleshooting scenarios, where candidates must apply their expertise to solve real-world problems. This mix of learning ensures that CCNA-certified professionals are ready to tackle both planning and operational tasks. Many employers appreciate this well-rounded approach, as it mirrors the day-to-day demands of many IT roles.

The material you’ll study for the CCNA is carefully shaped by input from network managers and hiring teams. Cisco regularly reviews what companies need to hire for and adjusts the syllabus to cover both current and future requirements. It’s a demanding exam, but its content makes it highly relevant in today’s IT landscape.

How a CCNA Helps Your Career

A CCNA certification can open doors that might otherwise be missed, especially for those just starting in the IT industry. For many entry-level positions, CCNA certification is a preferred qualification noted in job descriptions. Without it, your application may not even make it through initial screening. Even professionals already in IT roles use the CCNA to transition into networking positions or to position themselves for promotions.

This certification is also an excellent way to signal your dedication to learning and pushing your technical skills further. Employers routinely look for people who show initiative, and earning the CCNA tells them you’ve put in the effort to understand complex networking concepts. It also gives you confidence when speaking about your skills during interviews, helping you set yourself apart in competitive hiring situations.

Salaries for CCNA-certified professionals reflect the demand for this skill set. In the United States, network engineers with CCNA certification make about $75,000 annually, while those in the United Kingdom earn an average of roughly £35,000 per year. These figures represent a solid baseline for career growth, and experienced professionals often earn much more by specializing further.

The Role of CCNA in Emerging Tech

Even as new technologies like AI and cloud computing continue to change how companies operate, networking remains a core discipline. Networking professionals are needed to maintain secure, reliable, and scalable infrastructures that can support innovations like IoT. A CCNA certification provides the essential skills needed to handle these challenges, from securing data to managing communication systems between connected devices.

The addition of automation topics to the exam reflects how IT jobs are changing. Employers increasingly seek individuals who can oversee tools that simplify routine tasks. With foundational knowledge of automation principles, CCNA holders gain a competitive edge in the job market. These skills have become especially valuable as businesses adopt hybrid systems, which combine traditional on-premises hardware with cloud-hosted services.

Though a certification alone won’t guarantee success, it does make starting in IT much easier. The CCNA not only prepares you for a career in networking but also gives you a clear path to explore specialized roles later. Many professionals use it as a stepping stone to advance into areas like network security or wireless infrastructure, where employers are eager to find candidates with well-rounded expertise.

Wrapping It All Up

As we look at the value of the CCNA in 2025, it’s clear that this certification is here to stay. Its focus on both classic and cutting-edge networking concepts makes it a dependable credential for anyone seeking a networking career. Whether you’re just getting started in IT or looking to take on more complex responsibilities, the CCNA equips you with essential tools and knowledge.

The demand for CCNA-certified professionals remains high, particularly as companies face increasing complexity in their infrastructures. By mastering networking basics and exploring advanced areas like automation, you position yourself as someone companies can trust to manage key systems. This makes the CCNA a career asset that holds weight in any field that relies on technical expertise.

If you’re considering stepping into IT or climbing the career ladder, investing in a CCNA certification continues to be one of the smartest moves you can make. It signals your readiness to take on modern networking challenges and gives you the confidence to succeed in a rapidly advancing industry.