Are Computer Networking Certifications Worth It?

What Is a Computer Networking Certification?

If you’re wondering, “Are computer networking certifications worth it?” We’ll discuss their costs and benefits, as well as tips to save money on them. You’ll also know if a certification is better than a college degree, a crucial choice in your career.

Let’s define computer networking certifications for starters. Computer networking certifications are formal credentials that:

• Validate your skills in the design and management of computer networks
• Confirm your understanding of their security principles and practices
• Highlight your skills in working with industry-standard technologies and tools

You’ll find many organizations that offer these certifications, including:

• Professional organizations (e.g., CompTIA)
• Technology companies (e.g., Cisco and Juniper Networks)
• Universities (e.g., Western Governors University)
• Specialized vendors (e.g., CWNP)
• Industry associations (e.g., NPA and CNP)

There are over 100 computer networking certifications available. But these 10 certifications are among the most popular.

• CompTIA Network+
• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
• Juniper JNCIA-Junos
• Microsoft Azure Network Engineer Associate
• Aruba Certified Networking Associate (ACNA)
• CompTIA Security+
• Certified Network Professional (CNP)

If you want to become a competitive player, you must earn these certifications. In the computer and IT industry, certifications aren’t a competitive edge – they are a necessity.

Why Do People Get Certified in Networking?

Every person has their reasons for earning computer networking certifications. Here are the most common reasons we’ve encountered among professionals.

Job Readiness

Earning networking certifications isn’t easy, even for entry-level ones. You’ll encounter many challenges that make them among the most difficult, including:

• Complex topics that encompass theory and practice
• Steep learning curve that makes it a challenge for those without don’t have foundational knowledge
• Hands-on practice demands time and cost investment
• High-stakes, high-cost exams that increase pressure to pass on your first try
• Regular updates on content that demands continuing education

But once you overcome these challenges, you’re job-ready. You’ll also find that high-paying jobs demand these certifications. Think network administrators, solutions analysts, and DevOps engineers, among others.

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Career Advancement

“Is a computer networking certification worth it?” is a common question among professionals who want to move up the ladder. The short answer, “Yes!”

If you’re applying for leadership roles, you’ll be asked for relevant certifications. Network security managers must have advanced certifications (e.g., CCNP Security). Network operations managers usually must have CompTIA Network+ certification.

Employers value certifications for leadership roles, too. Certifications showcase hard skills in specialized areas and strategic thinking. Of course, your professional experience, work ethic, and results are considered, too.

Industry-Recognized Skills

The computer and IT industry is in constant flux. New technologies are always being introduced, and existing ones are continuously being improved. Proof: On Product Hunt and BetaList alone, between 20 and 40 new software products are showcased every day.

As such, you must continually learn, unlearn, and relearn your computer networking skills. Earning networking certifications and renewing them is the best way to do so. This attracts employers because it means your skills align with current technologies.

Leveraging the best networking certifications can lead to higher earning potential, too. Rule of thumb: The higher the leadership position, the higher the income.

But being in computer and IT occupations in itself brings good money. The median wage for these occupations was $105,990/year (BLS, May 2024). Many of these jobs demand networking certifications, too, particularly for leadership roles.

Earning networking certifications contributes to personal growth, too. You’ll develop your problem-solving skills, build discipline, and boost your confidence. Doing so also encourages continuous self-improvement to stay on top of your game.

So, don’t be discouraged by the cost and challenges. Keep your eyes on the benefits that come with earning networking certifications.

How Much Do Networking Certifications Cost?

Your actual networking certification cost will vary depending on factors like:

• Type of certification. In general, entry-level certifications are more affordable than specialized and advanced certifications.
• Training method. Instructor-led programs are more expensive than self-study courses.
• Training materials. Online subscriptions, books, and practice exams add to the cost.
• Certification exam fees. Prepare to pay between $165 and $1,000 or more. If you retake an exam, it’s an added cost, too.
• Location. Prices vary depending on your location.
• Continuing education and other renewal requirements. Earning CE credits to renew certification and the renewal fees add to the cost, too.
• Availability of vouchers and discounts

You must then carefully consider the cost of earning certifications. Saving for it is a sensible idea, so is asking your employer for help. Finding vouchers and discounts is also a great idea.

Here are the exam certification costs for popular networking certifications.

Certification	Cost
CompTIA Network+	$369
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)	$300 (Use Cisco Learning Credits to reduce cost)
Juniper JNCIA-Junos	Between $100 and $300
Microsoft Azure Network Engineer Associate	$165
Aruba Certified Networking Associate (ACNA)	$260
CompTIA Security+	$404
Certified Network Professional (CNP)	Between $300 and $400

Be sure to add the cost for preparation, transportation to the testing center, and other incidentals. You can spend as little as $1,000 to as high as $10,000 total.

Yes, the upfront costs are steep, even for entry-level certifications. But remember that the return on investment can be significant. Salary increase varies, but some certifications can result in a 15%-30% increase.

Of course, being a networking certification holder doesn’t offer a 100% guarantee. It’s still your job to choose the best ones based on your interests and goals.

Plus, it pays to leverage your credentials so you can milk it for all it’s worth.

• Emphasize your certifications on your resume and LinkedIn profile.
• Showcase the problems that you’ve solved and projects that you’ve completed using your skills.
• Be updated on the latest related to your certifications.
• Upskill instead of staying in an entry-level certification, too.

More importantly, look beyond the cost. Yes, affordability is desirable, but return on investment is the ultimate goal.

Then, there’s the question of how to get a networking certification.

• Choose a certification based on your interests and goals.
• Review the eligibility requirements, outcomes, and certification exam requirements.
• Gather the required or recommended learning materials.
• Start studying and gain hands-on practice.
• Register for the certification exam and pass.

The steps are straightforward, although the process itself demands discipline and time management.

Do Networking Certifications Help You Get a Job?

Yes, they can. Networking certifications are useful as a screening tool. Employers use them to identify qualified applicants, whether for new hires or promotions.

If you’re a college student or a recent graduate, go for entry-level networking certifications. Then, you can work your way up to the intermediate and advanced certifications.

Professional work experience isn’t a strict requirement for many intermediate and advanced certifications. But it’s highly recommended because of its practical perspective.

With that said, here are 10 jobs that you can apply for with entry-level certifications. (Figures are average salary per year as of May 2025. Sourced from Glassdoor):

Desktop Support Technician	$55,349
Help Desk Technician	$55,562
Field Service Technician	$58,534
IT Support Specialist	$58,568
Network Operations Center Technician	$65,780

How fast can you get a job? Based on surveys, it’s 3-6 months after earning a certification. But it can vary depending on your education and experience, too. Again, leveraging your credentials is key to your success.

Here are the possible jobs with computer networking certification at the intermediate level.

Network Administrator	$83,802
Systems Administrator	$92,902
Security Analyst	$98,697
Network Engineer	$102,809
IT Infrastructure Engineer	$109,308

Indeed, the money and career growth opportunities make networking certifications worth it. The real-world outcomes are enough proof of it.

Certifications vs College Degrees: Which One Should You Choose?

There’s no clear winner in the certification in computer networking vs degree debate. Both are viable choices because of their benefits, monetary and otherwise.

But we must also say that a certification differs from a degree in many ways.

	Scope	Cost	Time Investment	Focus	Outcome
Certification	Limited training	$1,000 – $10,000 total	1-6 months	Specific technologies and skills	Quick preparation for targeted or specialized roles
Degree	Broad education	$38,270 per student per year (cost of attendance, on average)	2-4 years, but can be as long as 6 years	Theoretical foundations and broad concepts	Well-rounded education for diverse roles

Choose a certification when you:

• Want quick entry into the industry
• Switch careers or transition between IT roles
• Want to validate your skills
• Can’t commit time or money toward a college degree

Choose a degree when you:

• Want a comprehensive education in computer science or other related fields
• Are planning on long-term career trajectory including management roles
• Want to apply to companies that value college degrees

But why choose one when you choose both a certification and a degree? In fact, they complement each other.

If you’re a college student, you can earn a certification while you’re studying. You’ll have a credible credential and job-ready skills. If you’re a certified technician, you can earn a degree for leadership roles.

Are Computer Networking Certifications Worth It Overall?

Again, yes. But it also depends on your interests and preferred career pathway. Remember that a credential is only worth it when you put it to use for your advantage. Otherwise, it’s only printed words on paper, so to speak.

Here’s a closer look at the pros and cons of networking certifications.

Pros:

• More affordable cost than a college degree
• Shorter time-to-completion
• Can lead to specific technical skills
• Useful as a career launchpad, especially for beginners and career switchers
• Valuable for promotions and leadership positions
• Recognized by the computer and IT industry
• Higher earning potential

Cons:

• Narrower focus and scope than a college degree
• Aren’t always enough for leadership roles (i.e., a college degree may be required)
• Significant upfront costs
• Ongoing continuing education and renewal costs

So, are they worth it overall? Yes, especially if you pair certifications with a college degree.

Tips to Save Money on Your Networking Certification

Yes, you can find affordable networking certifications, especially entry-level ones. You can also reduce costs on more expensive certifications.

• Explore exam bundles. You’ll likely get the total package, including study guides, practice tests, and an exam voucher. CompTIA bundles can result in 10%-30% savings.
• Take advantage of free resources and online courses. You’ll save on out-of-pocket costs and enjoy convenient access. Explore these free and affordable resources at LinkedIn Learning, Udemy, and Coursera. Try Reddit, YouTube, and official vendor blogs, too.
• Apply for financial aid. Local workforce development programs are an excellent source. Ask the certification provider for financial aid, too. CompTIA’s Creating IT Futures Foundation offers. Cisco Networking Academy scholarships are also available.
• Use student discounts. High school and college students use their student status for discounts. Microsoft, CompTIA, and Cisco Systems are known for their discounts. Ask your school, too, if they can hook you up for discounts.
• Be on the lookout for promotions, sales, and beta exams. Black Friday/Cyber Monday and back-to-school sales are common.

It takes careful planning – and perhaps a little bit of luck – to make your certification affordable. But it’s possible.

Final Thoughts: Are Computer Networking Certifications Worth It?

Absolutely! But you must make it work in your favor so you can enjoy high returns. Start with choosing the right entry-level certification based on your interests and goals. Then, put your credentials to work in challenging jobs.

Learn as you go, too, in your jobs. Earning a networking certification means formal education and training in specific areas. Let work experience strengthen what you’ve learned. Theory is only as good as its applications in the computer and IT industry.

In conclusion, computer networking certifications can be your ticket to success. But you must do the hard work, too, because thousands of others also earned them. Hard work and results will make you stand out from the rest of your certified peers.