It’s official: tech is booming and everybody wants in. Two of the most recognized names in tech certifications are Cisco and CompTIA, both helping people learn tech skills, validate their knowledge through a certification and enhance their earning potential as quickly and affordably as possible. While both organizations offer highly valued credentials, they serve different purposes and career pathways.
This blog provides an in-depth comparison of Cisco and CompTIA certifications, covering differences in cost, salary potential, target sectors, learning pathways, vendor neutrality, and more. We’ll also explore how these certifications can complement each other and how they compare to a traditional degree pathway.
Understanding Cisco and CompTIA Certifications: What you Need to Know
What is Cisco?
Cisco is a global leader in networking technology, providing IT infrastructure solutions worldwide. Its certification program is structured in tiers, catering to different levels of expertise:
- Entry Level: Cisco Certified Technician (CCT)
- Associate Level: Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
- Professional Level: Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)
- Expert Level: Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE)
- Architect Level: Cisco Certified Architect (CCAr)
Cisco certifications primarily focus on networking, security, and IT infrastructure, making them ideal for those looking to specialise in these areas. However, because they are vendor-specific, they are most valuable for professionals working with Cisco equipment.
What is CompTIA?
CompTIA (Computing Technology Industry Association) is a non-profit organisation offering vendor-neutral IT certifications. These certifications cover a wide range of topics, making them applicable across various technology environments. Some of the most well-known CompTIA certifications include:
- CompTIA A+: Foundational certification covering hardware, software, and troubleshooting.
- CompTIA Network+: Focuses on networking concepts, protocols, and infrastructure.
- CompTIA Security+: Covers cybersecurity principles and practices.
- CompTIA CySA+: Designed for cybersecurity analysts.
CompTIA certifications are widely accepted across industries, including government, education, healthcare, and small to mid-sized businesses.
Cisco vs. CompTIA: Which provider is more affordable?
Course Cost Comparison
The cost of obtaining certifications varies significantly between Cisco and CompTIA:
- Cisco: The CCNA exam costs approximately £220, while more advanced certifications such as CCNP require passing multiple exams, with each exam priced around £320. CCIE certifications can cost well over £1,200, depending on the exam and lab requirements.
- CompTIA: The CompTIA A+ certification requires two exams, each costing £190. The Network+ and Security+ exams are priced at £280 each. Advanced certifications such as CySA+ and PenTest+ cost around £315 per exam.
In general, Cisco certifications tend to be more expensive, especially at the higher levels.
How will a CompTIA or Cisco certification increase your potential salary?
It is worth weighing up the return on investment from your choice of certifications, rather than just opting for the cheapest course. The right certification can have a significant impact on salary potential. Here’s how Cisco and CompTIA certifications compare:
- Cisco Certifications:
- CCNA: Average salary of £65,000
- CCNP: Average salary of £78,000
- CCIE Security: Can command salaries upwards of £120,000 (source)
- CompTIA Certifications:
- CompTIA A+: Average salary of £56,000
- CompTIA Security+: Average salary around £68,000 (source)
While Cisco certifications run at a slightly higher cost, they generally offer a higher earning potential to match. However, CompTIA certifications provide a strong starting point for IT careers, especially in cybersecurity roles.
Should I do a CompTIA or Cisco certification instead of a Tech Degree?
Tech degrees are undoubtedly of high value, providing a detailed theoretical understanding of computer science. They will always be a great choice for people looking to work in developing tech specialisms, from AI and robotics to cyber security, but they aren’t the best choice for everyone.
The constant development of new tech solutions for businesses worldwide means more and more traditional job roles are falling into obsolescence – and fast. The working population at large are seeking vocational educational opportunities to keep up with new technologies and save themselves from corporate redundancy. Cisco and CompTIA offer affordable routes that benefit full-time employees who do not want nor need to commit to a 3-to-6 year-long degree.
Additionally, many degree-awarding institutions have begun to offer Cisco and CompTIA courses and optional modules for computer science degrees, such as the Open University. Cisco and CompTIA are also popular with degree-holders who want to update their skills, or specialise in a particular area of tech that their degree pathway didn’t allow for. The developing reputation of Cisco and CompTIA certifications as ‘microcredentials’ open up the possibility for working individuals to build advanced skills in a flexible manner, that suits their schedule and budget.
Who are Cisco and CompTIA certifications for?
Sectors and Types of Job Roles
The ideal certification pathway depends on the industry and career goals:
- Cisco Certifications are best suited for network engineers, system administrators, and IT infrastructure specialists working in enterprises that use Cisco equipment. Major UK employers such as BT Group, Vodafone, and Capgemini have publicly acknowledged the importance of Cisco certifications in hiring decisions.
- CompTIA Certifications are more versatile, covering help desk roles, cybersecurity, and IT generalist positions across industries such as finance, education, healthcare, and government. UK government departments, including the Ministry of Defence and HM Revenue & Customs, recognise CompTIA Security+ for cybersecurity roles.
Job Market Demand for Cisco and CompTIA Certifications
The UK job market has a high demand for IT professionals with Cisco and CompTIA certifications.
- Networking and Infrastructure: Telecom companies like BT and Openreach prioritise Cisco-certified network engineers.
- Cybersecurity: The financial sector, including firms like Barclays and HSBC, actively seek CompTIA Security+ certified professionals due to rising cyber threats.
- Government and Defence: Agencies such as GCHQ and the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) recognise both Cisco and CompTIA certifications for security roles.
Tech job vacancies in the UK have increased by 3.4% in 2024, with certifications playing a crucial role in employability.
Typical Learning Pathways for Cisco and CompTIA
Cisco’s certification structure is highly hierarchical, requiring professionals to follow a step-by-step path from associate to expert levels. CompTIA, on the other hand, offers a modular approach where professionals can earn specific certifications without prerequisites.
Example pathways:
- Cisco: CCNA → CCNP (Enterprise) → CCIE (Security)
- CompTIA: Tech+ → A+ → Network+ → Security+ → CySA+
Can you do both? How Cisco and CompTIA Certifications Complement Each Other
Of course! As a rule of thumb, many IT professionals start with CompTIA certifications before moving on to Cisco certifications. This approach provides a strong foundation in IT concepts before diving into vendor-specific networking expertise, should that be the career path you choose.
Final Thoughts: Which One is Right for You?
Still unsure of what to do. Let’s look at three example scenarios:
- Alex is an aspiring Network Engineer. He recently completed a computing degree and wants to work with enterprise networking → A single course in Cisco CCNA.
- Jamie wants to change career. He is looking for a fast way to enter general IT support or cybersecurity → CompTIA A+ followed by Security+.
- Samantha is a mid-level IT Professional. She wants to specialise in network security and work for a telecom firm at a senior level → CCNP and Security+.
Whether you’re an Alex, a Jamie, or a Samantha, by understanding these certifications and their applications, you can make an informed decision that best suits your career goals and industry aspirations.