Cisco CCNA

What it is

The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is the standard entry certificate for a career in networking: the behind-the-scenes systems that connect computers, offices and the internet. Cisco is one of the biggest makers of networking equipment, so its certificate is well recognised by employers looking for network technicians and junior network engineers. CCNA is a single associate-level exam that covers the foundations of how networks are built and kept running.

Who it suits

This route suits people with a technical turn of mind who are happy to learn how networks work in detail. You do not need a UK degree or formal qualifications, although some basic familiarity with computers and networking helps. It is a good fit for self-study learners and career-changers who want office-based or sometimes remote technical work. If you are completely new to IT, be honest with yourself: CCNA goes deeper than a first certificate usually does, and CompTIA A+ or an entry cloud certificate may be an easier starting point before you tackle networking.

How you qualify

1. Study the networking foundations using Cisco's own materials or one of the many courses and practice labs available.
2. Practise with network simulations so you understand the ideas, not just the theory.
3. Book and sit the single associate-level exam.
4. Pass to earn the CCNA certificate.

Cost and how long it takes

The exam costs around $300. Most people prepare over a few months of steady study, longer if networking is new to you. Exam fees and contents change over time, so check the official Cisco site for the current price and exam details before you budget, rather than relying on this figure alone.

The English you need

The English bar is medium. The exam and the study materials are in English, and networking comes with a lot of its own technical vocabulary that you will need to read and understand. It is manageable with reasonable English, but if your English is still building, consider starting with an easier IT certificate first, or take a short ESOL course alongside your study so the language does not get in the way of the technical content.

The honest reality

A certificate is not a job. CCNA shows employers you understand networking basics, but you will usually start as a network technician or in a support role and build up from there. Networking is a smaller doorway into IT than general support or cloud, so be ready to job-hunt patiently. The upside is that it leads to skilled, well-regarded roles for people who genuinely enjoy the subject. As with other IT certificates, you do not need an expensive bootcamp: self-study with good materials and plenty of hands-on practice is the normal route to passing.

What you can earn

Network technician and junior engineer roles pay according to experience, and the better money comes as you move into more senior networking work over time. Treat any salary numbers you see online as rough estimates rather than promises: your pay depends on the employer, the role and how much hands-on experience you build.

Your next step

If you already have some IT grounding, choose CCNA and pick a well-reviewed study course with practice labs so you can learn by doing. If you are brand new to IT, start with CompTIA A+ or a cloud certificate first, then come back to CCNA. You can confirm the current exam details and fee on the official Cisco site linked below.