For individuals looking to advance in IT, Cisco certifications have become the gold standard for all IT domains, like networking, enterprise infrastructure, data center, design, security, and many more.
As of now, Cisco has over 50+ certifications and badges, including core, concentration, expert, and specialist levels. In this article, we will guide you through the top Cisco certifications, their levels, and details, to help you choose a certification you want to pursue.
As the name suggests, Cisco Certification is an industry-recognized credential that validates an individual's skills in a particular IT field. Cisco has been actively working on bringing new technologies and certificates to validate your skill in that technology.
Cisco certifications are great regarded in the IT industry, as achieving a Cisco certificate not only implies your knowledge on the subject, but also practical expertise in problem-solving. All Cisco certifications are globally recognized, and any company using Cisco solutions will prefer hiring a Cisco Certified Professional.
Cisco is a global leader in the IT networking and cyber security industry. Earning Cisco credentials and badges provides global recognition and opens the path to multiple career opportunities.
Cisco is a market leader. Just look at these statistics:
● 139,679+ companies use Cisco for networking hardware and software.
● 98% of Fortune 500 companies rely on Cisco technologies.
These numbers highlight Cisco’s dominant presence in the global market. Organizations that use Cisco solutions often prefer hiring Cisco-certified professionals, as it ensures they have the skills to manage and optimize these systems effectively.
So, whether you're starting your career or looking to specialize in areas like cybersecurity, automation, or enterprise networking, Cisco certifications provide a structured path to grow your skills and credibility. With multiple certification levels and domains, you can tailor your learning journey to match your goals.
The Cisco Certification roadmap is divided into 5 levels:
1. Entry Level
2. Associate Level
3. Professional
4. Specialist
5. Expert
Here is a list of Cisco Certifications in different IT Domains:
● Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
● Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) – Networking
● Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Enterprise
● Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) Enterprise Infrastructure
● Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) Enterprise Wireless
● Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate (renamed to CCNA Cybersecurity)
● Cisco Certified CyberOps Professional (renamed to CCNP Cybersecurity)
● Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) Security
● Cisco Certified DevNet Associate (renamed to CCNA Automation)
● Cisco Certified DevNet Professional (renamed to CCNP Automation)
● Cisco Certified DevNet Expert (renamed to CCIE Automation)
● Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Data Center
● Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) Data Center
● Cisco Certified Specialist – Automating and Programming Cisco Data Center Solutions
● Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Collaboration
● Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) Collaboration
● Cisco Collaboration Cloud Customer Experience (new specialist)
● Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Service Provider
● Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) Service Provider
● Cisco Certified Design Expert (CCDE)
● CCDE Specialist Badges (e.g., AI Infrastructure Design)
● Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) – Networking & Cybersecurity
● Cisco Certified Technician (CCT)
Here are some changes that Cisco recently made in its certification tracks, which will be effective from February 2026:
1. DevNet Track is Changed to Automation Track
● DevNet certifications rebranded to Automation (CCNA, CCNP, CCIE Automation)
● Several older DevNet exams (CLAUTO, SAUTO, DEVOPS) will be retired.
2. CyberOps Certifications rebranded to Cybersecurity. They will be renamed to CCNA Cybersecurity and CCNP Cybersecurity.
3. A new specialist certification has been added with the name Collaboration Cloud Customer Experience.
4. Cisco now emphasizes a three-tier structure: CCNA → CCNP → CCIE. Specialist badges will be awarded for passing concentration exams.
Let's look at the highest-paying Cisco Certifications for each level.
Cisco's entry-level certifications are designed for individuals who are just starting their careers in IT. Here are some popular entry-level certifications:
The Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) certification is an entry-level credential. The syllabus includes basic networking concepts, routing and switching fundamentals, network security, and IT support skills. It is ideal for entry-level IT roles such as customer support technician, help desk support, IT support analyst, etc.
● Exam Fee: $125 USD
● Average Salary: ₹5.2 LPA in India, $65,000 in the US
Get CCST Certification Training.
The Cisco Security Ethical Hacking certification is designed for cybersecurity professionals and covers key topics like ethical hacking fundamentals, network security concepts, vulnerability assessment, penetration testing techniques, and incident response. Ideal for roles such as penetration testers, security analysts, and network engineers, etc.
● Exam Fee: $249 USD
● Average Salary: ₹7–18 LPA in India, $91,894–$125,032 in the US
Below are three key Associate certifications offered by Cisco, each designed to enhance your expertise in specific areas of networking and IT operations.
The CCNA (exam code: 200-301 CCNA) is a foundational certification focused on networking fundamentals, security, automation, and programmability. It teaches key concepts like routing, switching, network management, and security, which are essential for supporting and maintaining modern network infrastructures. It is ideal for roles such as Network Engineer, IT Support Specialist, etc.
● Exam Fee: $300 USD
● Average Salary: ₹6.8 LPA in India, $87,219 in the US
Get CCNA Certification Training
The Cisco Certified DevNet Associate (exam code: 200-901 DEVASC) is designed for professionals interested in software development and network automation. It covers programming skills, APIs, cloud computing, and the use of Cisco products for automation and application development. This certification is suitable for DevOps Engineers, Software Developers, etc.
● Exam Fee: $300 USD
● Average Salary: ₹9.2 LPA in India, $121,926 in the US
Get Cisco DevNet Certification Training
The Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate (exam code: 200-201 CBROPS) provides foundational knowledge in cybersecurity operations. It covers topics like security architecture, attack strategies, and how to respond to and mitigate security incidents in a Security Operations Center (SOC). This certification is ideal for Security Analysts, SOC Analysts, and Incident Responders.
● Exam Fee: $300 USD
● Average Salary: ₹6.2 LPA in India, $67,000 in the US
Get CyberOps Associate Certification Training
The following are the professional certifications that will help one grow in the Cisco career path:
The CCNP Enterprise certification (350-401 ENCOR + concentration exam) validates expertise in enterprise networking, including dual-stack architectures, SD-WAN, and network automation. Professionals can specialize in areas like advanced routing (300-410 ENARSI) or wireless (300-430 ENWLSI).
● Exam Fee: $700 USD
● Average Salary: ₹12.3 LPA in India, $101,804 in the US
Get CCNP Enterprise Certification Training
Cisco's DevNet Professional (350-901 DEVCOR) focuses on network automation, API integration, and infrastructure-as-code using Python and DevOps tools. With concentration exams like 300-435 ENAUTO (Automation), it leads to careers as DevOps Engineers or Cloud Automation Specialists earning $100K-$140K. The curriculum covers CI/CD pipelines and cloud-native development.
● Exam Fee: $700 USD (Core: $400, Concentration: $300)
● Average Salary: ₹13.5 LPA in India, $132,000 in the US
The CyberOps Professional certification (350-201 CBRCOR + 300-215 CBRFIR) develops advanced skills in threat hunting, digital forensics, and cloud security. It prepares security professionals for high-level SOC roles, Incident Response positions, and Threat Hunter careers.
● Exam Fee: $700 USD
● Average Salary: ₹14.2 LPA in India, $122,108 in the US
This certification (350-801 CLCOR + 300-810 CLICA) focuses on Cisco's collaboration technologies, including Webex, call control systems, and unified communications. IT professionals can become Collaboration Engineers or UC Architects by mastering enterprise collaboration deployments and security.
● Exam Fee: $700 USD
● Average Salary: ₹11.8 LPA in India, $134,694 in the US
Get CCNP Collaboration Certification Training
Covering service provider technologies (350-501 SPCOR + 300-510 SPRI), this certification validates skills in MPLS, 5G networks, and service provider security. Network professionals can advance to roles like ISP Network Architect or Telecom Solutions Expert with salaries ranging $100K-$135K in the service provider sector.
● Exam Fee: $700 USD
● Average Salary: ₹10.6 LPA in India, $108,000 in the US
Get CCNP Service Provider Certification Training
The CCNP Security (350-701 SCOR + 300-710 SNCF) certifies expertise in zero trust architecture, next-gen firewalls, and cloud security. It opens the path to job roles like Security engineers, Security Consultants, and Penetration Testers.
● Exam Fee: $826 USD (Core: $354, Concentration: $472)
● Average Salary: ₹13.8 LPA in India, $108,000 in the US
Get CCNP Security Certification Training
Focusing on data center technologies (350-601 DCCOR + 300-610 DCID), this certification covers Cisco UCS, ACI, and HyperFlex solutions. Data Center Engineers and Cloud Infrastructure Specialists with this certification work with virtualization and software-defined data center architectures.
● Exam Fee: $700 USD (Core: $400, Concentration: $300)
● Average Salary: ₹13.2 LPA in India, $126,000 in the US
Cisco's expert-level certifications represent the highest achievement in networking, validating mastery of complex infrastructure design, deployment, and optimization. They are :
The CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure certification validates expert-level skills in designing and managing complex enterprise networks. Candidates must pass a rigorous written exam (400-101) and an 8-hour hands-on lab covering SD-WAN, automation, and multi-domain solutions.
● Exam Fee: $2,242 USD
● Average Salary: ₹20 LPA in India, $130,000 in the US
This certification demonstrates mastery in wireless network design, deployment, and optimization. After passing the written exam (400-351) and practical lab, professionals qualify for senior wireless roles, including Wireless Network Architect ($130K+). The program covers the full wireless lifecycle from planning to troubleshooting.
● Exam Fee: $1,888 USD
● Average Salary: ₹21 LPA in India, $135,000 in the US
Get CCIE Enterprise Wireless Certification Training
Earning the CCIE Data Center certification proves expertise in Cisco UCS, ACI, and modern data center technologies. The challenging exam process (400-601 written + lab) prepares candidates for high-level positions like Data Center Architect. The curriculum focuses on automation, virtualization, and cloud integration.
● Exam Fee: $2,242 USD
● Average Salary: ₹18.4 LPA in India, $86,580 in the US
Get CCIE Data Center Certification Training
This premier security certification validates skills in designing and managing comprehensive security solutions. Professionals must pass the 400-251 written exam and hands-on lab to earn this credential. It leads to senior roles like Security Architect with a focus on zero trust, cloud security, and threat defense.
● Exam Fee: $2,000 USD
● Average Salary: ₹25 LPA in India, $130,000 in the US
Get CCIE Security Certification Training
The CCIE Service Provider certification demonstrates mastery of carrier-grade networking technologies. After completing the 400-501 exam and practical lab, professionals qualify for roles like Service Provider Architect. The program covers MPLS, 5G, and service provider security.
● Exam Fee: $2,000 USD
● Average Salary: ₹22 LPA in India, $125,000 in the US
This certification proves expertise in enterprise collaboration solutions, including Webex and calling platforms. Candidates must pass the 400-051 written exam and hands-on lab. It prepares professionals for senior roles like Collaboration Architect with a focus on automation and security.
● Exam Fee: $2,300 USD (approx. $400 for written + $1,900 for lab, excluding taxes)
● Average Salary: ₹22 LPA in India, $125,000–$150,000 in the US
Get CCIE Collaboration Certification Training
The Cisco Certified Design Expert certification validates strategic network design skills for complex business environments. The unique exam format assesses both technical and business acumen. CCDE holders typically work as Principal Network Designers ($160K+), creating large-scale infrastructure solutions.
● Exam Fee: $2,050 USD (Written: $450 + Practical: $1,600)
● Average Salary: ₹28–30 LPA in India, $160,000 in the US
This elite certification demonstrates mastery in network automation and programmability. The exam (350-901 + lab) focuses on API-driven infrastructure and DevOps. DevNet Experts qualify for top roles like Automation Architect ($155K+) in cloud and software-defined environments.
● Exam Fee: $2,000 USD (Written: $400 + Lab: $1,600)
● Average Salary: ₹50 LPA in India, $130,000 in the US
Cisco has several other types of certifications as well. These include:
The CCT certification validates hands-on skills for troubleshooting and repairing Cisco hardware. Available in Data Center, Routing & Switching, and Collaboration tracks, it prepares technicians for field support roles ($50K-$70K), maintaining network infrastructure.
This certification (500-220 exam) focuses on deploying and managing cloud-based Meraki networks. Professionals learn SD-WAN, wireless, and security solutions through the Meraki dashboard, qualifying for cloud networking roles ($80K-$110K).
The DTCSM certification (820-605 exam) teaches strategies for driving customer adoption and value realization. It's ideal for customer-facing professionals ($90K-$130K) managing technical accounts and business outcomes.
This certification (820-425 exam) covers subscription management and customer retention for Cisco solutions. Renewals specialists ($70K-$100K) use these skills to optimize contract lifecycles and customer experience.
Cisco certifications are valid for three years, and to keep your skills up to date, you can recertify through continuing education or by retaking exams. Cisco’s continuous learning programs allow you to stay current with the latest innovations, ensuring your knowledge stays relevant and competitive.
Certified Cisco professionals consistently earn higher salaries compared to their non-certified peers. Here’s a look at the average salaries for Cisco-certified roles in India and the US
Certification Level | India Avg. Salary (INR) | US Avg. Salary (USD) |
---|---|---|
Entry-Level (CCST) | 3-6 LPA | $45,000−$60,000 |
Associate (CCNA) | 5-12 LPA | $60,000−$85,000 |
Professional (CCNP) | 10-25 LPA | $80,000−$120,000 |
Expert (CCIE) | 20-40 LPA+ | $110,000−$180,000+ |
If you’re looking to advance in a tech career that involves networking, IT infrastructure, or cybersecurity, Cisco certification is the key to standing out. Cisco is widely used by global enterprises, and a certification tells employers that you have the practical skills needed to manage their network infrastructure.
Professionals who would benefit from Cisco certification include:
1. Network Administrators
2. System Engineers
3. Security Analysts
4. IT Support Technicians
5. Cloud Engineers
Did You Know?
CCNA certification ranks as one of the top 20 highest-paying certifications for IT professionals. By getting certified, you increase your earning potential while also gaining access to some of the most sought-after positions in the tech industry.
The path to Cisco certification is relatively easy and quick if one is focused and clear about their goals. The following are various steps involved in certification:
1. Reviewing: Familiarize yourself with exam topics to identify key areas for focus.
2. Studying & Training: Choose the study method that suits your learning style (self-paced, instructor-led, etc.).
3. Practice with Hands-on Approach: Use practice tests, labs, simulation tools, and sandboxes for real-world experience.
4. Scheduling the Test: Schedule your exam online or at a Pearson VUE center to set a clear goal.
5. Certifying: After passing, claim your digital certification kit and celebrate your achievement.
6. Recertifying: Stay updated through the Continuing Education program to maintain your certification.
Whether you're aiming to become a network architect, a collaboration expert, or a DevNet specialist, Cisco certifications offer a clear path to mastering cutting-edge technologies and advancing your career.
With globally recognized credentials, competitive salaries, and hands-on learning, there's never been a better time to invest in your future. Choose your track, prepare with purpose, and take the first step toward becoming a certified Cisco professional. Your journey starts now!!!
He is a senior solution network architect and currently working with one of the largest financial company. He has an impressive academic and training background. He has completed his B.Tech and MBA, which makes him both technically and managerial proficient. He has also completed more than 450 online and offline training courses, both in India and ...
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