CCNA VS CCNP – Difference, Career Paths, Job Opportunities, and Salary

We are all familiar with IT fields and networking. We also know how networking has positioned itself in the market. Over the last decade, networking certifications have gained more popularity. This is the best time for many freshers, to begin their career after they have completed their 12th or graduated. Let’s talk about Associate level certification and entry level certification to help them get started in their careers.
CCNA and CCNP are two of the most sought-after certifications in the IT field. Most candidates seek Cisco certification today to be able to find good jobs in the IT industry. There are many options for Cisco certification, including CCNP (CCNA), CCIE (CCIE), and CCNP (CCNP). We will discuss CCNP, CCNA in this article.
Perhaps you are unsure which certification you should take. Let’s get to the bottom of your problem.
CCNA (CISCO Certified Network Associate).
CCNA, which stands for Cisco Certified Network Associate, is an entry-level certification. This article will focus on the scopes once you have completed your CCNA certification. There is a strong demand for networking professionals in the IT sector. Companies are looking for IT professionals who can manage their computer networks.
It will enhance candidates’ knowledge and understanding of core networking concepts. Training is also beneficial for those who work in the IT industry.
Cisco CCNA certified professionals can expect a raise in their salaries. Many industries are now looking for CCNA professionals to manage complex networking projects. You will be promoted easily if you are a CCNA-certified professional.
CCNA Career Path
Whether you are new to the IT field, or have some experience in the field, the associate level Cisco Certified Network Associate certification (CCNA), is the best choice. There were previously 11 certifications, but they have all been combined into one certification. You will now be an all-rounder if you only pursue one CCNA.
CCNA Certified candidates are eligible for job roles
Below are some popular job roles for a CCNA Certified Professional:
Network Engineer
Administrator
Network Technician
Network Associate
System Engineer
Network Support Engineer
Prerequisites
Although there are no specific requirements, candidates are advised to be familiar with the exam topics before taking it.
You should have at least 1+ years experience in the implementation and administration of Cisco solutions
Basic IP addressing knowledge
Understanding the fundamentals of network operations is essential

CCNP – CISCO Certified Network Professional
CCNP stands to Cisco certified network professional and is a professional level certification from Cisco. Each track requires you to pass two exams:
Technology core exam – Covers common and foundational concepts
A concentration exam – deeper dive into technology
CCNP Career Path
You can personalize your professional-level certification by choosing a core track or a concentration exam. Only Core and one concentration certification exam are required to receive the CCNP certification. CCNP examination offers 5 domains that you can choose from. These are listed below:
CCNP Enterprise
CCNP Collaboration
CCNP Data Center
CCNP Security
CCNP Service Provider
CCNP Certified candidates are eligible for job roles
Below are some popular job roles for a CCNP Certified Professional:
Senior Network Engineer
Network Specialist
Network manager

Prerequisites
Although there are no requirements for CCNP Enterprise certification, candidates are advised to have a solid understanding of the exam topics prior to taking the exam.
Candidates for CCNP often have three to five years experience in implementing enterprise network solutions.
Difference between CCNA & CCNP
Key FeaturesCCNACCNPAbbreviationCISCO Certified Network AssociateCISCO Certified Network Profe