Is CCNA Still Worth It in 2026? Complete Career Scope, Salary Insights & Job Opportunities for Students

If you're planning to build a career in networking, cybersecurity, or IT infrastructure, one major question comes up:

Is CCNA still worth it in 2026?

With the rise of cloud computing, AI, DevOps, and automation, many students wonder whether CCNA is outdated or still valuable.

Let's answer this in detail and clear all your doubts.

What is CCNA & Why It Still Matters in 2026?

The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is a globally recognized networking certification offered by Cisco Systems.

It validates your skills in:

• Networking fundamentals
• IP addressing & subnetting
• Routing and switching
• VLAN configuration
• Security fundamentals
• Wireless networking
• Automation & programmability

No matter how advanced technology becomes, everything runs on networks - cloud servers, cybersecurity tools, enterprise systems, and even AI models depend on networking.

That's why CCNA continues to stay relevant.

Why CCNA is Still in High Demand in 2026

Networking is the Backbone of IT Infrastructure

Cloud platforms like AWS and Azure still depend on networking concepts such as:

• IP routing
• Firewalls
• Load balancing
• Network segmentation

Without networking knowledge, understanding cloud and cybersecurity becomes difficult. CCNA builds that essential foundation.

Cybersecurity Careers Start with Networking

Many students aim to become:

• Ethical Hackers
• SOC Analysts
• Security Engineers

But before securing a system, you must understand how it works. CCNA teaches:

• How data travels across networks
• How routers and switches function
• How access control works
• How network threats can be identified

That's why CCNA is often the first step toward cybersecurity careers.

Modern CCNA Includes Automation & Security

The updated CCNA syllabus is not outdated. It includes:

• Software-Defined Networking (SDN)
• Network automation basics
• APIs
• Security fundamentals
• Wireless and enterprise networking

This makes it aligned with modern IT industry requirements.

Career Scope After CCNA in 2026

After completing CCNA training, students can apply for:

Entry-Level Roles

• Network Support Engineer
• NOC Engineer
• IT Helpdesk Engineer
• Network Administrator
• System Support Engineer

Mid-Level Roles (With Experience)

• Network Engineer
• Infrastructure Engineer
• Network Security Associate
• Cloud Support Engineer

Advanced Growth Path

• Senior Network Engineer
• Cybersecurity Analyst
• Cloud Network Engineer
• Network Architect

CCNA opens the door - your skills determine how far you go.

CCNA Salary Insights in 2026

Salary in India

• Freshers: ₹2.5 – ₹4.5 LPA
• 2–3 Years Experience: ₹5 – ₹8 LPA
• Experienced Professionals: ₹10+ LPA

Salary depends on:

• Practical skills
• Interview preparation
• Location
• Additional certifications

Global Salary

• Entry-Level: $55,000 – $75,000 annually
• Experienced: $90,000+ annually

Networking remains a stable and long-term career field.

Is CCNA Good for Freshers?

Yes - especially for:

• B.Tech / BE students
• BCA / B.Sc IT students
• Diploma holders
• Career switchers
• Non-IT graduates interested in IT

CCNA gives you:

✓ Structured learning path
✓ Industry recognition
✓ Strong technical fundamentals
✓ Better interview confidence
✓ Entry into high-demand IT roles

Common Doubts Students Have

Is CCNA difficult?
It requires practice but is manageable with proper guidance and lab training.

Can I get a job with only CCNA?
Yes, for entry-level networking roles. But practical knowledge matters more than just the certificate.

Should I learn cloud first?
Without networking basics, cloud becomes confusing. CCNA makes advanced technologies easier.

Why Practical Training Matters More Than Just Certification

Companies don't hire based only on certificates. They test:

• Router configuration
• Switch setup
• Subnetting skills
• Troubleshooting ability
• Real-time scenario handling

Hands-on lab training and real device practice are extremely important.

Final Verdict: Is CCNA Worth It in 2026?

✓ Yes - Networking is still the backbone of IT
✓ Yes - Cybersecurity needs networking fundamentals
✓ Yes - Cloud depends on networking
✓ Yes - Career growth opportunities are strong

CCNA remains one of the best starting points for a stable and scalable IT career.

Start Your CCNA Journey with ISOEH

If you are serious about building a career in networking or cybersecurity, choosing the right training institute is crucial. At ISOEH, students receive:

✓ Industry-oriented CCNA training
✓ Live lab practice & real-time configuration
✓ Updated syllabus as per industry standards
✓ Mock interviews & placement assistance
✓ Career guidance from experienced trainers

ISOEH focuses not just on helping you clear the CCNA exam - but on making you job-ready.

If you are looking for the best CCNA training institute in Kolkata with practical exposure and career support, ISOEH can be your strong foundation toward a successful IT career in 2026 and beyond.

Your networking journey starts with the right fundamentals. Build it strong. Build it smart. Build it with ISOEH.