Is CCST Higher Than CCNA? A Complete Comparison Guide

 

Navigating the landscape of IT certifications can be confusing, especially when acronyms like CCST and CCNA start flying around. If you are starting your journey in networking or cybersecurity, you might be asking yourself: "Is CCST higher than CCNA?"

The short answer is no. The Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) is an entry-level certification, whereas the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is an associate-level certification. Think of the CCST as the foundation upon which the CCNA is built.

However, understanding the hierarchy is just the first step. To make the best career decision, you need to know what each certification covers, who it is for, and where it can take you. This guide breaks down the differences between CCST and CCNA to help you choose the right path.

Understanding the Hierarchy: Entry vs. Associate

Cisco certifications are structured in levels to guide professionals through different stages of their careers.

Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST)

The CCST is classified as Entry-Level. It is designed for absolute beginners—students, interns, or anyone transitioning into IT from a completely different field. It validates that you have the "support" skills necessary to assist in day-to-day operations. It proves you understand the terminology, can perform basic troubleshooting, and know how to operate within a networked environment.

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

The CCNA is classified as Associate-Level. It assumes you have moved past the basics and are ready for more responsibility. While there are no formal prerequisites, the CCNA covers a much broader and deeper range of topics. It validates that you can configure, operate, and troubleshoot medium-sized routed and switched networks. It is the gold standard for networking professionals and is often the first major milestone in a network engineering career.

Skills and Knowledge: What Do You Actually Learn?

The biggest difference lies in the depth of technical knowledge required.

What CCST Covers

The CCST is split into two tracks: Networking and Cybersecurity.

• Networking Track: Focuses on how networks operate, basic IP addressing, connecting devices, and simple troubleshooting. It’s about knowing what a router is and how to plug it in, rather than how to build a complex routing protocol.
• Cybersecurity Track: Covers security principles, common threats like phishing and malware, and basic endpoint security.
• Focus: Practical, hands-on support tasks.

What CCNA Covers

The CCNA is a comprehensive exam (200-301) that covers a vast array of networking fundamentals.

• Network Fundamentals: Deep dives into routers, switches, cabling, and TCP/IP.
• Network Access: VLANs, spanning tree protocol, and wireless architecture.
• IP Connectivity: OSPF routing, IP routing tables, and gateway redundancy.
• IP Services: DHCP, DNS, SNMP, and NTP.
• Security Fundamentals: VPNs, ACLs, and Layer 2 security features.
• Automation and Programmability: Understanding REST APIs, SDN, and configuration management tools.
• Focus: Configuration, implementation, and complex problem-solving.

Career Paths and Opportunities

Because the certifications target different experience levels, they unlock different job roles.

Jobs for CCST Holders

The CCST gets your foot in the door. It is ideal for roles where you are learning under the supervision of senior staff.

• Target Roles:
• • Help Desk Technician
  • IT Support Specialist
  • Junior Network Technician
  • Technical Support Representative
• Salary Expectations: Entry-level salaries, typically ranging from $40,000 to $55,000 depending on location.

Jobs for CCNA Holders

The CCNA opens doors to roles with more autonomy and higher technical responsibility. It is often a mandatory requirement for network engineering jobs.

• Target Roles:
• • Network Administrator
  • Network Engineer
  • Systems Administrator
  • Network Analyst
• Salary Expectations: Associate-level salaries, often ranging from $60,000 to $90,000+ depending on experience and location.

Which Certification Should You Pursue?

Choosing between CCST and CCNA depends entirely on where you are right now.

Choose CCST If:

• You have zero experience in IT or networking.
• You find the CCNA study material overwhelming and need a stepping stone.
• You want to validate your skills quickly to get an entry-level help desk job.
• You are a student or recent graduate looking to enhance your resume.

Choose CCNA If:

• You already have 1-2 years of experience in IT support.
• You have a strong grasp of networking basics and want to specialize.
• You are aiming for a role as a Network Administrator or Engineer.
• You are ready to commit to a rigorous study plan (usually 3-6 months).

Conclusion

So, is CCST higher than CCNA? No. But that doesn't mean it isn't valuable. The CCST is the perfect launchpad for beginners, providing the confidence and credibility needed to start an IT career. The CCNA is the next logical step, offering the advanced skills required to build and manage the networks of the future. By assessing your current skills and career goals, you can choose the certification that will best propel you forward.