CCNA vs CCNP: Which Certification Should You Choose in 2025?

Cisco certifications are highly recognized in the IT industry and serve as key milestones on the path to a successful networking career. Among these, CCNA and CCNP stand out as two of the most popular certification choices. Understanding the differences between CCNA and CCNP can help you decide which certification aligns best with your career goals. In this blog, you will learn about CCNA and CCNP certifications, and comparisons of the certifications based on topics, difficulty, job opportunities, and more.

Table of Contents:

• Introduction to Cisco Certifications
• Cisco Certification Levels
• What is the CCNA Certification?
• What is the CCNP Certification?
• CCNA and CCNP Exam Requirements
• Difference Between CCNA and CCNP?
• Salary Difference Between CCNA and CCNP
• Common Myths About CCNA and CCNP
• Real-World Use Cases of CCNA and CCNP
• What Makes Intellipaat Stand Out for Networking Certifications
• Cisco Certification Roadmap: From CCNA to CCNP
• Conclusion

Introduction to Cisco Certifications

Networking has undergone significant evolution over the last few decades. What was once known as a hub model has now transformed into a complicated multi-domain cloud identity structure. One thing has not changed – the control of Cisco in enterprise networking. Their equipment is everywhere, and their certifications are highly respected. Cisco certifications are often viewed as a solid benchmark for many looking to start or continue their careers in networking/security, collaboration, or through the lens of network automation with DevNet.

Cisco Certification Levels

Cisco certifications are divided into four main levels — Entry, Associate, Professional, and Expert, which are designed to match your skill and experience in networking, from beginner to advanced.

1.  Entry Level (CCT – Cisco Certified Technician)

This is the entry-level certification, especially for beginners who want to start their career in networking and want to learn about how to use and support Cisco devices in the field of networking.

2. Associate Level (CCNA- Cisco Certified Network Associate)

This level is perfect for those who want to build a strong foundation in networking, as it covers basics like routing, switching, security, and more.

3. Professional Level (CCNP-Cisco Certified Network Professional)

This level is perfect for those who already have a clear understanding of the basics of networking and want to learn deeper concepts. You can be specialised in areas like enterprise networks, security, or data centres.

4. Expert Level (CCIE – Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert)

This level is the most respected certification in the industry, which is for advanced working professionals and demonstrates top-tier networking skills.

5. Architect Level ( CCAr – Cisco Certified Architect)

This level is the highest of all certification levels and is mainly for senior network designers who can create complex network solutions for big organisations.

Note: Since 2020, Cisco simplified its certification paths by removing mandatory prerequisites, allowing candidates to pursue CCNP certifications without first earning CCNA. This change aims to make learning more flexible and focus on skills rather than certification hierarchy

What is the CCNA Certification?

The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is an associate-level credential marketed as an “all-in-one networking starter.” It validates the applicant’s knowledge of the basic networking concepts in the wired, wireless, and security areas.

Key Topics Covered in CCNA

1. Network Basics: OSI/TCP‑IP models, IPv4/IPv6 addressing, cabling, and physical connections.
2. Network Access: VLANs, trunking (802.1Q), EtherChannel, and variations of the spanning‑tree protocol.
3. IP Connectivity: Static, default, and dynamic routing (RIP, OSPFv2/v3, and basic EIGRP), and first‑hop redundancy protocols.
4. IP Services:  DHCP, NAT/PAT, NTP, and quality‑of‑service (QoS) markings.
5. Security Basics:  Hardening devices, AAA, ACLs, and basics of VPNs.
6. Automation & Programmability: JSON, REST APIs.

Benefits of CCNA Certification

1. Credibility: Even non-Cisco organisations acknowledge that CCNA is a minimum of networking ability.
2. Career Entry Point: Help desk or NOC analysts with CCNA typically move into network engineer positions more quickly.
3. Fundamental Knowledge: CCNA provides you with the fundamental knowledge so that you can troubleshoot issues at Layer 1-4 confidently.
4. Recertification Flexibility: Continuing Education (CE) credits can be earned through webinars or instructor-led training, avoiding the need to retake the exam every 36 months.
5. Vendor Ecosystem Access: Access to Cisco Learning Network discussions, labs, and beta programs opens up to CCNA holders.

CCNA Exam Details

What is the CCNP Certification?

CCNP means Cisco Certified Network Professional. It is a certification for networking professionals who understand the fundamentals of networking. In 2020, Cisco revised the certification and added paths to CCNP that include Enterprise, Security, Collaboration, Data Centre, Service Provider, and DevNet.

CCNP gives you advanced skills such as determining how to design larger networks, solving problems before they occur, and making networks operate more securely and autonomously. This is a useful certification if you have basic knowledge of routing and switching fundamentals and want to advance in your career.

Key Topics Covered in CCNP Certification

The CCNP certification is designed for a “core + concentration” series of assessments. This means you will have to complete one main (core) exam and one specialized (concentration) exam based on your interests.

1. Core Exam (ENCOR 350-401):

1. Your core exam covers many relevant topics:
2. Routing in both IPv4 and IPv6 (dual-stack)
3. SD-WAN (software-defined wide area network)
4. Network automation
5. Network virtualization
6. Network security fundamentals

2. Concentration Exams (select one):

1. ENARSI – Advanced Routing and Services
2. ENSLD – Designing Enterprise Networks
3. ENAUTO – Automating Enterprise Networks
4. ENWLSI – Implementing and Troubleshooting Wireless Networks
5. ENWLSD – Designing Wireless Networks

Regardless of the route you pick, you will also get exposure and hands-on experiences that have limited access in the past few years, including:

• From advanced networking setups and protocols like BGP to policy-based routing, Python automation, and tools like NETCONF, RESTCONF, and telemetry.
• These modern tools will also elevate you as a CCNP-certified professional even above others (who only use basic commands), and add a layer of skills and development in your profession when you join the workforce.

Benefits of CCNP Certification

1. More Respected in the Field: Most companies looking for senior network engineers prefer to hire someone who has a CCNP (Cisco Certified Network Professional) certification or higher.
2. Better Salary: CCNPs typically earn 15-20% more than those with just a CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate), according to research surveys.
3. Pick a Speciality: The concentration exams allow you to have more focus on what you like: Wireless networks, automation, or design, while still holding the strong CCNP title.
4. A Step Closer to a CCIE Certification: Completing CCNP provides you with the solid foundation you need if you want to pursue your expert-level CCIE certification at some point.
5. Participate in Cisco Community: With CCNP, you will be able to attend exclusive Cisco events, have access to the beta exams before everyone else, and get some inside information on Cisco’s roadmap and future products.

CCNP Exam Details

CCNA and CCNP Exam Requirements

While Cisco has made things easier by eliminating the hard prerequisites, that does not mean you should jump in unprepared.

1. CCNA Prerequisites

• Formal Prerequisites: None
• Recommended Experience: 6-12 months of networking knowledge and experience.
• Knowledge Level: A basic understanding of networking fundamentals, IP addressing, and basic command-line interface skills.
• Recommended Audience: Beginners, recent graduates, help desk technicians, and anyone new to networking.

2. CCNP Prerequisites

• Formal Prerequisites: None
• Recommended Experience: 3-5 years of networking experience.
• Knowledge Level: A good understanding of the topics covered in CCNA, as well as advanced routing and switching, security configurations, etc.
• Recommended Audience: Network engineers, network administrators, and professionals looking to specialize or progress in their careers.

Difference Between CCNA and CCNP?

Let us look at the major differences between the CCNA certification and the CCNP certification

CCNA vs CCNP Career Opportunities

1. CCNA Career Paths:

• Network Technician
• Help Desk Engineer
• IT Support Associate
• Junior Network Engineer

2. CCNP Career Paths:

• Network Administrator
• Senior Network Engineer
• IT Infrastructure Manager
• Systems Engineer
• Security or Collaboration Specialist (based on track)

CCNA vs CCNP: Difficulty Level

When you think about CCNA and CCNP, the biggest difference is going to be the level of depth and complexity. Here, let’s keep it simple:

1. CCNA: Entry level

• CCNA is an entry-level certification, ideal for those very new to networking.
• CCNA covers basics such as IP addressing, routing, switching, and basic security.
• Most people can study and be prepared to take the CCNA in about 2-3 months of consistent studying.
• While CCNA covers a fair amount of content, the content is not overly in-depth.
• Good for freshers, students, and anyone looking to get their first networking job.

2. CCNP: Professional level

• CCNP is a professional-level certification and is targeted toward people with experience.
• When you get to CCNP, you are getting into deeper networking concepts such as BGP, advanced routing, network design, SD-WAN, automation, etc.
• CCNP is a real-world, practical certification, and you need more hands-on experience to understand and apply.
• The overall difficulty is harder, and studying for CCNP usually takes about 3-6 months, depending on the background.
• Good for network engineers, network admins, and professionals targeting Senior roles.

Which is Harder?

• CCNP is harder than CCNA.
• CCNP will require a more in-depth technical knowledge, lab practice, and real-world experience.

Similarities Between CCNA and CCNP

1. Both are valid for 3 years.
2. Both provide access to exclusive Cisco tools, portals, and webinars.
3. Both need a solid understanding of CLI and networking principles.
4. Both support Continuing Education (CE) for recertification.
5. Both are recognized and respected by employers worldwide.

Salary Difference Between CCNA and CCNP

A common question that many individuals ask is: “Is CCNP going to pay me more than CCNA?” The short answer is yes, and the CCNP will generally pay you more than the CCNA because the CCNP is a more advanced certification and leads to better-paying jobs.

1. CCNA Salary: Since the CCNA is an entry-level certification, the salary ranges are also entry-level. You are likely to find job positions with titles such as network technician, help desk support, or junior network engineer.

• Average Salary (Global): $50,000 and $70,000 per year
• In India: ₹3 LPA – ₹6 LPA (but can vary considerably depending on the following factors: city, company, length of experience)

2. CCNP Salary: The CCNP is designed for a more competent and intermediate-level technician who can troubleshoot complex problems. They can typically hold positions with titles such as network engineer, network analyst, or even senior network administrator.

• Average Salary (Global): $75,000 – $110,000 / Year
• In India: ₹6 LPA – ₹12 LPA (but can vary depending on the title and location)

Why is the salary so much higher for CCNP?

• More technical skills = more responsibility =  higher pay
• CCNP is trained on and able to directly perform on the company’s significant projects, advanced problem resolution, and advanced analysis or supervision.

Common Myths About CCNA and CCNP

1. Myth: CCNA is a prerequisite for CCNP.

Truth: While CCNA gives a solid set of knowledge to help with CCNP, Cisco no longer requires CCNA for CCNP certifications.

2. Myth: CCNA is only for entry-level techs.

Truth: CCNA provides a wide range of fundamental knowledge that produces the skillset for multiple IT roles. Therefore, it is not bound to entry-level technicians.

3. Myth: CCNP is for someone who wants to be a network engineer.

Truth: CCNP certifications provide a certification path for advanced knowledge for professionals focused on security, collaboration, or data center technologies. Therefore, it is not exclusively based on network engineering.

4. Myth: Cisco certifications are losing their relevance because of cloud technologies.

Truth: Cisco has incorporated cloud-related and automation topics into its certification tracks, maintaining their relevance for today´s IT environments.

Real-World Use Cases of CCNA and CCNP

Knowing how these certifications play out in real life can help you determine their real use case value:

1. CCNA: 

A technician with a CCNA Certification may perform basic tasks like configuring routers and switches, managing and troubleshooting small or medium-sized networks. For instance, a CCNA technician might be involved with building out a brand-new branch office’s networking infrastructure while maintaining connectivity and security throughout the process.

2. CCNP: 

A technician with CCNP Certification may be assigned a more complex project, like building a competency for designing an enterprise-level network, developing advanced security and/or compliance policies, or monitoring network performance. For example, A CCNP technician might be in charge of a project to connect their company’s on-site network to other systems. and cloud services while maintaining internally compliant security vernacular and oversight.

What Makes Intellipaat Stand Out for Networking Certifications

Intellipaat provides complete training for both CCNA and CCNP. Learn more about why you should learn from Intellipaat.

• Interactive Learning: Hands-on labs and projects to reinforce theoretical knowledge.
• Flexible Schedule: Self-paced and instructor-led options to suit individual learning preferences.
• Career Support: Resume building, mock interviews, and job assistance services.
• 24/7 Support: Support services are dedicated to addressing questions and providing guidance as the student makes their way through the learning experience.

Cisco Certification Roadmap: From CCNA to CCNP

Step 1: Get started with CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate)

• Who is it for: Beginners or new networking people.
• What does it cover: Networking basics, IP addressing, routing, switching, security, and basic automation.
• Why does it matter: It provides a solid foundation and makes it easier to get your first job in networking.

Step 2: Move to CCNP (Cisco Certified Network Professional)

• Who is it for: Experienced professionals or those who have passed the CCNA.
• What does it cover: Advanced topics like routing protocols (BGP, OSPF), network design, wireless, and automation.
• How does it work: You must pass one core exam (e.g., ENCOR 350-401) and one concentration exam (your area of interest, say automation or wireless).

Step 3: Push yourself with CCIE (Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert)

• Who is it for: Experts with very deep hands-on.
• What does it include: Passing a written exam (like ENCOR) and an incredibly hard 8-hour lab exam.
• Why do it: It is one of the most respected IT certifications in the world, and it pushes you to high-paying jobs and opportunities.

Conclusion

Both CCNA and CCNP certifications hold significant value in the IT industry. CCNA serves as an entry-level certification that provides new professionals with a strong foundation and essential knowledge of networking concepts, preparing them for more advanced roles. CCNP is better suited for professionals wanting to specialize or enter advanced areas of various networking disciplines. Your choice should depend on your current experience, goals, and the networking areas of interest that you want to go into. No matter which option you get, getting a Cisco certification will add professionalism and credibility to your specialization and expand your opportunities in the vast and continuous world of networking.

Take your skills to the next level by enrolling in the Networking Course today and gaining hands-on experience. Also, prepare for job interviews with Computer Network Interview Questions prepared by industry experts.

CCNA vs CCNP: Which Certification Should You Choose in 2025? -FAQs