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The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is for professionals who are interested in networking, and who want to grow in the fields of Cisco routers and switches. Cisco systems awards these certifications and it signifies that you are competent in installing, configuring and operating various services for small networks, but does a CCNA certification equate to an increase in salary?  

Back in 2000 the CCNA Certified individual was making about $70,000 a year, but according to a survey on About.com 57 respondents said that they were making an average of $42,848.57.  Another survey I read reported that $43,376.67 was the average, however I could not find a date.  I found plenty of other sources that claimed higher salaries for the CCNA certified, however; those sources are slanted towards selling training programs and Cisco study programs.  

So what is a CCNA worth these days?  When I am hiring to fill help desk positions, I take CCNA certifications into consideration.  There are plenty of help desk applicants who have CCNA certifications.  From my perspective it certainly shows a broad understanding and interest in networking.  CCNA's do get a higher salary than entry level, but I take years of experience into consideration as well.  If you think a CCNA is your ticket to a big salary, you have something else coming.  I would not turn down an applicant simply because they did not have a CCNA.

In summary, CCNA’s are likely making more money in Network Operation positions, but years of experience are usually necessary.  Taking the next step (or perhaps it is more accurate to say flying leap) to CCNP shows not only dedication, but proves that you have years of experience, knowledge, and skill.


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For more about Help Desk Salaries and tips for resumes and interview, see my article entitled How Will Help Desk Salaries Be Affected by the Minimum Wage Increase? and  Help Desk Jobs and the Importance of People Skills.