CCNA salary deep dive: What to expect in 2025

Networks are the backbone of how the world communicates, and Cisco is the long-standing leader of networking equipment. Cisco accounts for 41% of the entire enterprise network infrastructure market, four times more than the next competitor. The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) proves you have the foundation of networking skills to help organizations manage the complex world of Cisco network administration, and understanding the CCNA salary potential is crucial for anyone considering this career path.

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The certification also provides an open door to the world of cybersecurity. Cybersecurity professionals protect organizations' data, systems and networks from cyberattacks, which are becoming more frequent and sophisticated. The CCNA demonstrates your ability to secure and administer network infrastructures, the backbone of any organization's cybersecurity posture, making it a valuable investment in your networking earnings potential.

Cisco is one of the largest digital communications technology companies in the world. Over 4 million people are Cisco-certified. 

The CCNA certification: A snapshot 

CCNA certifications were introduced in 1998 by Cisco and have continuously adapted to the ever-changing digital landscape. From its beginnings, focusing on core networking principles, the CCNA has kept up with the times, including technologies like: 

Wireless security, password policies, access control and other elements of cybersecurity have changed significantly in the past 25 years, and the CCNA has kept pace with these changes. This constant evolution ensures that CCNA holders remain relevant and valuable assets in the rapidly changing tech landscape, directly impacting their certification salary benefits and career trajectory.

For a comprehensive understanding of what this certification entails, check out our detailed CCNA certification overview to learn more about the career paths available.

Average CCNA salary in 2025

The CCNA is more than just another piece of paper to frame and hang on the wall — it's a ticket to impressive networking market value and compensation.

Cisco Certified Network Associate salaries range from $58,000 to $85,000 annually. But you can get much more in the U.S., where the demand for skilled network professionals is booming. According to CyberSeek, there are 240,971 job openings for networking professionals, and the CCNA is the most requested certification. In the U.S., the average CCNA salary falls between $75,319 and $87,000, with a rough average of around $81,828. Sources like Payscale, Glassdoor, Talent.com and Salary.com all paint a similar picture. 

However, pay can vary for several reasons. Here are some factors that can impact your salary: 

CCNA salary ranges from $64,432 to $90,566 annually, with a rough average CCNA salary of around $78,175. According to CyberSeek, there are 197,399 job openings for networking professionals, and the CCNA is the most requested certification. Sources like Payscale, Glassdoor, Talent.com and Salary.com all paint a similar picture of strong CCNA pay scale potential.

However, network engineer compensation can vary for several reasons. Here are some factors that can impact your CCNA salary by experience and location:

But regardless of these variables, the CCNA remains a powerful route to attractive salaries and demonstrates excellent Cisco certification ROI.

CCNA demand and career opportunities 

In today's hyperconnected world, robust and secure networks are the lifeblood of every organization, from tech giants to local businesses. This demand for reliable connectivity translates into a constant need for talented network professionals who can design, implement and manage these complex systems. CCNA holders are at the top of the hiring list, and the CCNA job outlook remains exceptionally strong.

With a CCNA, you're not confined to a single career track. The possibilities are as diverse as the networks themselves. You can:

The CCNA is a stepping stone to a fulfilling and lucrative career. It validates your foundational skills, opens doors to entry-level positions and provides a strong foundation for further specialization and advancement. As you gain experience and expertise, you can acquire additional certifications, climb the ranks and land leadership roles with increased network leadership pay.

CCNA in the context of cybersecurity 

In the modern digital world, where cyber threats lurk around every corner, a strong defense is your most valuable asset. When it comes to cybersecurity career paths, the CCNA will help you take the first step toward competitive network security compensation.

The fundamental networking knowledge you gain with the CCNA certification forms the bedrock of any successful cybersecurity professional using Cisco systems. Understanding routing, switching, firewalls and network security principles empowers you to:

As the cybersecurity landscape continues to evolve, the CCNA remains an essential asset in navigating these changes and standing out in the growing cybersecurity job market. The skills and knowledge you demonstrate to pass the exam are the same skills you need to stay current on emergent threats, challenges and solutions, including:

Regional variations in CCNA salaries 

While the CCNA unlocks many career opportunities globally, the financial map can vary significantly depending on location. Here's how CCNA salary by location breaks down across the U.S. and globally.

CCNA salaries in the U.S. 

Across the United States, the average CCNA salary for certification holders hovers between $75,319 and $87,000. Even within this impressive range, regional variations can be vast. Some states stand out as lucrative markets for Cisco network engineer salary professionals:

Global CCNA salaries 

While the U.S. ranks high for top CCNA salaries, it is not the top-ranking country for CCNA pay. Here's how some other countries stack up for CCNA career earnings:

Preparing for CCNA in 2025

If you've set your sights on the CCNA, the key that unlocks doors to a career in the networking world, you need to know where to begin. Here are some tools and tactics to help you navigate becoming certified:

Beyond CCNA: advanced certifications and career growth 

Gaining your CCNA is a significant achievement, but it should be your first step in your career path. Advanced certifications unlock doors to specialized expertise, higher salaries and fulfilling careers. 

Here are some next steps to consider:

CCNA salary  

The CCNA validates your networking skills, serves as a launchpad for further specialization and acts as a powerful magnet for attractive salaries. In a world increasingly reliant on robust and secure networks, CCNA holders are the architects and guardians of this digital infrastructure.

The numbers speak for themselves:

• High salaries: Globally, CCNA professionals can expect an average CCNA salary range of $64,432 to $90,566 annually, with an average salary in the U.S. being close to $78,175. Specific locations can demand even higher salaries, like $98,602 in San Jose or $107,489 in Switzerland. Learn more about potential salaries in cybersecurity with our salary guide.
• Fulfilling career paths: A CCNA holder is not confined to a single track. Whether you choose network administration, cybersecurity or cloud networking as your specialty, you have an adventure ahead. And on your journey, you can pick up more certifications, leading to promotion.

In 2025 and beyond, this valuable certification remains a key to opportunity, financial security and the satisfaction of shaping the future of our interconnected world.

For more CCNA certification information, visit the Infosec Cisco CCNA certification hub.