CCNA Salary Guide: What Network Engineers Earn in 2026

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification remains a strong entry point into the networking field in 2026. As businesses depend more on secure and reliable networks, skilled professionals with Cisco networking knowledge continue to be in demand. This guide explains CCNA salary trends, job roles, regional pay differences, and long-term career potential in a clear, practical way.

What Is the CCNA Certification?

CCNA certification is a foundational networking credential offered by Cisco. It validates a candidate’s ability to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot modern networks. The certification focuses on real-world networking concepts used in enterprise environments.

Key topics covered in CCNA include:

• IP addressing and subnetting
  

  
  

• Routing and switching fundamentals
  

• Network security basics
  

• WAN and wireless technologies
  

• Network automation and programmability

CCNA is often the first step for professionals planning to move into advanced Cisco certifications such as CCNP or CCIE.

Average CCNA Salary in 2026

CCNA salary in 2026 varies based on experience level, job role, and geographic location. On average, professionals with CCNA certification earn competitive salaries across global markets.

CCNA Salary by Experience Level

• Entry-Level (0–2 years): USD 55,000 to USD 70,000
  

• Mid-Level (3–5 years): USD 75,000 to USD 95,000
  

• Senior-Level (6+ years): USD 100,000 to USD 130,000
  

Entry-level networking jobs often include support and junior engineering roles, while senior professionals handle network design, security, and optimization.

CCNA Salary by Country and Region

Location plays a major role in determining network engineer salary. Below is an overview of average annual earnings for CCNA-certified professionals in different regions:

• United States: USD 85,000
  

• United Kingdom: USD 65,000
  

• Canada: USD 70,000
  

• India: ₹6 to ₹12 LPA
  

• Australia: USD 80,000
  

• Middle East: USD 50,000

Tech hubs such as San Francisco, New York, London, Bangalore, and Dubai often offer higher compensation due to demand and cost of living.

Job Roles Available After CCNA Certification

CCNA certification qualifies candidates for several networking and IT infrastructure roles. These positions focus on network maintenance, troubleshooting, and support.

Common CCNA job roles include:

• Network Engineer
  

• Network Administrator
  

• Systems Engineer
  

• Network Analyst
  

• Technical Support Engineer
  

• IT Support Specialist
  

These roles often lead to higher-level positions such as network architect, cloud network engineer, or cybersecurity specialist with experience and further certification.

Factors That Affect CCNA Salary

Several factors influence how much a CCNA-certified professional earns:

• Experience Level

Hands-on experience with enterprise networks significantly impacts salary growth.

• Location

Urban technology centers generally offer better pay opportunities.

• Industry

Sectors such as finance, healthcare, telecom, and cloud services tend to pay more.

• Additional Certifications

Combining CCNA with certifications like CCNP, CompTIA Network+, AWS, or security credentials increases earning potential.

• Skill Specialization

Skills in network security, cloud networking, automation, and troubleshooting are highly valued.

Is CCNA Worth It in 2026?

CCNA continues to be relevant in 2026 for professionals entering the networking field. It provides strong foundational knowledge and industry recognition from Cisco, a global networking leader.

Key reasons CCNA remains valuable:

• Recognized by employers worldwide
  

• Suitable for entry-level networking jobs
  

• Builds a clear networking career path
  

• Acts as a prerequisite for advanced Cisco certifications
  

• Offers strong salary potential relative to training cost

How to Increase CCNA Salary Potential

Professionals can improve their earning potential after CCNA by focusing on skill development and career planning.

Helpful strategies include:

• Gaining hands-on experience through labs and real projects
  

• Staying updated with new networking technologies
  

• Moving toward advanced certifications like CCNP or Cisco DevNet
  

• Developing communication and problem-solving skills
  

• Networking with industry professionals through forums and events

CCNA Career Outlook in 2026

The demand for skilled networking professionals continues to grow as organizations expand cloud services, cybersecurity infrastructure, and remote networks. CCNA-certified professionals are well positioned to enter and grow within this expanding IT job market.

Conclusion

CCNA certification in 2026 remains a strong choice for anyone pursuing a networking career. With competitive salaries, global job opportunities, and a clear progression path, it offers both stability and growth. Whether you are starting in IT or transitioning into networking, CCNA provides the technical foundation employers continue to value.

Start your CCNA certification training today and build the networking skills employers look for in 2026.

CCNA Certification FAQs

1. What does the CCNA certification validate?
   It validates foundational knowledge of networking concepts, IP connectivity, security basics, and network automation.
   
   

2. Who should pursue the CCNA certification?
   CCNA is suitable for students and professionals starting a career in networking or IT infrastructure.
   
   

3. Is CCNA considered an entry-level certification?
   Yes, CCNA is widely recognized as an entry-level networking certification.
   
   

4. What networking skills are tested in the CCNA exam?
   The exam tests routing, switching, IP addressing, security fundamentals, and basic automation concepts.
   
   

5. Is CCNA certification globally recognized?
   Yes, CCNA is accepted by employers worldwide as a standard networking credential.
   
   

6. Does CCNA require prior work experience?
   No prior professional experience is required, though basic networking knowledge is helpful.
   
   

7. How long is the CCNA certification valid?
   The CCNA certification is valid for three years from the date of certification.
   
   

8. Can CCNA lead to advanced Cisco certifications?
   Yes, CCNA serves as a foundation for certifications such as CCNP and CCIE.
   
   

9. What job roles commonly require CCNA certification?
   Roles such as network engineer, network administrator, and IT support specialist often list CCNA as a requirement.
   
   

10. Does CCNA cover modern networking technologies?
    Yes, CCNA includes topics like network security, wireless networking, and basic network automation.