Top 7 Cisco Certifications Every Network Engineer Should Consider in 2025

TL;DR:

Cisco offers a range of certs from CCNA to CCIE for every stage of a networking career. Pick the one that matches your goals, mix hands-on practice with real-world study guides, and you’ll boost your chances of passing—and getting noticed.

Figuring Out Which Cisco Cert is Actually Worth It

If you hang around network folks long enough, you’ll hear the same debate over and over: “Which Cisco cert should I start with?” or “Is CCNP still worth it?” Honestly, the landscape keeps shifting. Ten years ago, people were obsessed over CCNA. Now, with all the new tracks and specializations, picking the right one can feel like ordering off a menu you’ve never seen before. Don’t sweat it—almost everyone in networking has felt lost at some point.

Here’s what I wish someone had told me: Don’t chase certs just for the letters. Each Cisco exam tests something real, so try to match your choice with the job you want. If you’re already working, ask your coworkers or your boss which certs you noticed. If you’re just getting started, read on—I’ll break down the big ones and what they’re actually useful for.

1. CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate)

Let’s be real: CCNA is the most recognized starting point in networking. Most people treat it as the “driver’s license” for IT infrastructure. It covers switching, routing, wireless, and basic security. If you’ve never touched Cisco gear before, CCNA is the easiest way to get your foot in the door. Don’t worry if it feels intimidating at first—most folks fail the first practice exam. The point is to learn how Cisco thinks, not to ace everything on day one.

2. CCNP Enterprise

After CCNA, a lot of people ask, “Now what?” That’s where CCNP Enterprise comes in. It digs deeper into things like advanced routing, SD-WAN, and wireless. Companies looking for mid-level network engineers often want to see CCNP on your résumé. I found that the jump from CCNA to CCNP is big, but doable—if you build up hands-on experience along the way.

3. CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure

Not gonna lie, this is the “boss level” for Cisco networking. CCIE is legendary for its difficulty and for good reason—it’s part theory, part lab, and all stress. But if you want to be seen as a senior engineer or architect, this is the badge that opens doors. I know engineers who’ve doubled their salary after earning CCIE. It’s not for everyone, but if you’re in deep, it might be worth the grind.

4. Cisco Certified DevNet Associate

A few years back, no one would have thought Cisco would offer a cert for programmers. But here we are. If you’re interested in automation, APIs, or want to bridge the gap between networking and software, DevNet Associate is where to start. The networking landscape is evolving—automation has become a core aspect of the profession, not just a trendy term.

5. CCNP Security

Security is in every headline, and every company’s worried about getting hacked. CCNP Security is perfect if you want to work on firewalls, VPNs, or anything that keeps the bad guys out. I’ve seen folks with just a couple of years’ experience land great jobs after knocking out this cert.

6. Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate

Not everyone wants to set up routers forever—maybe you’re more into monitoring, response, or working in a security operations center (SOC). CyberOps Associate is aimed at that world. Even if you’re just curious about security, this cert gives a solid foundation.

7. CCNP Collaboration

Since COVID, remote work and video calls exploded, and so did demand for people who understand unified communications. CCNP Collaboration is for engineers who want to support big conference systems, VoIP, and collaboration tools. It’s a bit niche, but if your company relies on Cisco phones or WebEx, you’ll stand out with this cert.

Cisco Certification Ladder

How to Actually Pass Cisco Exams (and Not Go Crazy)

Let’s be honest: Cisco doesn’t hand out these certifications for free. Their exams are known for being tough, and the questions don’t always read like plain English. Here’s what’s worked for me and people I know:

• Get hands-on: Set up a home lab or use simulation tools. Reading is good, but nothing replaces making (and fixing) your own mistakes.

• Practice exams are your friend: They show you where you’re weak and get you used to the question style.

• Mix resources: Official guides, YouTube, forums, whatever works. Don’t lock yourself into one study method.

• Join study groups: If you can, find others prepping for the same exam. Even just having someone to vent to helps.

• Don’t memorize, understand: Cisco loves to ask the same thing in different ways. Understanding beats memorization every time.

If you’re aiming to advance your networking career, it’s worth checking out the Cisco exam dumps collection at Cert Empire. Their up-to-date Cisco certification practice questions and real exam scenarios can help you prepare confidently for any Cisco test on your path.

Study Resources for Cisco Exams

Final Thoughts: It’s About More Than Just Letters

I know people with stacks of certifications who still struggle with real-world problems. And I’ve worked with folks who have only one cert (or none!) but can troubleshoot anything. So here’s my honest advice: pick your certs based on what you want to do, not what’s trendy. Use them as a map, not the destination.

Certs can open doors, but your curiosity and willingness to learn will get you even further.

Good luck—whichever Cisco path you choose, you’re setting yourself up for some seriously rewarding work.