What CISCO CERTIFICATION SHOULD YOU GET?
A Cisco certification is a great way to jump into computer networking technology. You will likely work with networking technology in some form or another.
Cisco offers many certifications that apply to professionals at all levels. Cisco also provides certificates in Wireless and Security, Voice, Service Provider, Data Center, and Voice. Let's look at this list of Cisco certifications and discuss who should be looking for them based on their career level.
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Cisco Certification Paths
Cisco offers certifications that allow IT professionals to progress their careers through the entry, associate, and professional levels. Network Design and Network Operations are the most popular certification paths. Both require different levels of Cisco certifications. You can get a job as a network engineer, IT infrastructure leader, or IT director by pursuing one of the Cisco certification paths.
CTT (Cisco Certified Technician)
CTT-certified technicians are qualified to repair and replace critical Cisco networking devices at customer sites. The CCT certification is now the only entry-level Cisco certification lower than the CCNA, following the retirement of CCENT. Although not required to obtain the CCNA certification, this certification provides a great introduction to field support for Cisco products.
CCNA (Cisco Certified Networking Associate)
The CCNA certification is an associate-level Cisco certification. It is the most sought-after Cisco certification. The Cisco Certified Network Associate certification is highly respected by influential organizations and can open doors to various IT careers. The CCNA certification is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to get into IT.
CCNP (Cisco Certified Networking Professional)
The CCNP is a professional-level certificate. You will need to have more experience and be able to operate at a higher level of expertise to obtain this certification. You can also break this certification into other specialties, such as the CCNA. You must already have a CCNA to be eligible for the CCNP certification. To obtain the CCNP certification, you will need to pass three exams: 300-101 (Routing), 300-112 (Switching), and 300-135(Troubleshooting).
CCIE (Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert)
This certification is recognized worldwide as the highest standard in networking certifications. It is a highly prestigious achievement in networking. The certification requires you to pass a rigorous exam and includes a performance-based laboratory section. To keep up-to-date with current networking technology, the material is continuously updated.
Your employer has an interest in helping you keep your certification. A CCIE certification is ongoing. You will need to recertify at specific intervals to maintain your expert status. Your employer will also enjoy certain benefits as a Cisco Certified Expert. These benefits can only be revoked if you keep your certification.
CCAr (Cisco Certified Architect)
CCAr is Cisco's highest achievement level. This certification recognizes network designers who can design, build, and maintain global networks. This certification recognizes the ability to translate business strategies into real-world applications.
CCAr certification is difficult. The applicant must present their network solution to a panel of members appointed by Cisco. This is similar to defending your thesis while pursuing higher education degrees. This certification is difficult to get, as you may have guessed.
Retired CCENT (Cisco-Certified Entry Networking Technician)
CCENT was the first certification entry-level professionals could obtain as part of their Cisco certification journey. This certification allowed professionals to set up, maintain and fix small networks that provided basic security. This certification has been retired by Cisco as of February 24, 2020.
Obtaining Your Next Cisco Certification
If you're interested in a career as a network engineer, consider getting a Cisco certification. This certification will make you stand out and improve your expertise in your chosen field. It is always a good idea to list technical certifications under your achievements section.
Are you looking to earn your next Cisco certification? Or are you curious about Cisco networking technology in general? Contact SPOTO. We have the technical resources you need, whether you are just starting or looking to upgrade your certifications.
