What are the top certifications for Network Engineers?

Cisco certifications like CCNA and CCNP are foundational. Others include CompTIA Network+, Juniper JNCIA, and cloud-specific ones like AWS Certified Advanced Networking.

Should Network Engineers pursue security certifications?

Yes. Certifications like CompTIA Security+ or Cisco CCNP Security help engineers expand into network security and meet enterprise security compliance requirements.

Are vendor-neutral certifications valuable?

They are. Vendor-neutral certs such as CompTIA Network+ or Certified Network Defender (CND) offer broad knowledge applicable across various platforms and tools.

Do certifications help with salary growth?

Certifications often lead to higher-paying roles and promotions. They demonstrate technical proficiency, commitment to learning, and alignment with current industry standards.

What should a Network Engineer highlight on a resume?

Highlight technical skills like routing, switching, firewalls, cloud networking, and certifications such as CCNA or AWS. Include real examples of network optimization or security improvements.

How can someone from IT support become a Network Engineer?

Start by learning networking fundamentals, earning a CCNA or Network+ certification, and gaining hands-on experience configuring routers, switches, and firewalls.

What Certifications Help Network Engineers Grow Their Career?

In the evolving world of IT infrastructure, Network Engineers must continuously upgrade their skills to stay competitive. Certifications validate technical expertise, demonstrate initiative, and often open doors to new roles or promotions. Whether you're focused on traditional networking, automation, cloud environments, or security, earning relevant certifications is a smart investment. Here are the top certifications that help Network Engineers grow their careers.

1. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Why it’s foundational: The CCNA is one of the most recognized entry-to-mid-level networking certifications in the industry.

Covers IP routing and switching, network access, and automation fundamentals
Validates hands-on skills in configuring and troubleshooting Cisco hardware
Serves as a gateway to more advanced Cisco paths (e.g., CCNP, CCIE)

Ideal for early-career professionals or those looking to solidify core networking concepts.

2. CompTIA Network+

Why it’s broad and vendor-neutral: Network+ offers a general foundation for networking without focusing on specific vendors.

Covers basic networking, protocols, cabling, and security
Often used as a stepping stone before CCNA
Useful for IT pros expanding into networking roles

This certification is great for those transitioning from support or system admin roles.

3. Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP Enterprise)

Why it’s advanced: The CCNP validates the ability to plan, implement, and troubleshoot large-scale enterprise networks.

Deepens knowledge of routing, switching, wireless, and SD-WAN
Includes a core exam plus concentration exams in automation, wireless, or security
Recognized as a top-tier enterprise networking credential

Recommended for mid-level engineers managing complex infrastructure.

4. Juniper Networks Certified Associate (JNCIA-Junos)

Why it’s valuable in multi-vendor environments: Juniper certifications provide expertise on the Junos OS and Juniper hardware.

Gain configuration and troubleshooting experience in Juniper CLI
Learn routing and switching tailored to Juniper networks

This cert is increasingly relevant for enterprises using non-Cisco gear.

5. AWS Certified Advanced Networking ? Specialty

Why it’s critical for cloud engineers: As cloud infrastructure becomes the norm, networking in AWS environments is in high demand.

Covers VPCs, hybrid environments, Direct Connect, and automation
Validates integration of AWS with traditional networking
Great for engineers transitioning into DevOps or cloud networking

Requires hands-on AWS experience and knowledge of modern architectures.

6. Certified Wireless Network Professional (CWNP - CWNA)

Why it’s useful: For engineers working in wireless-heavy environments, CWNP offers in-depth training in wireless technologies and security.

Covers WLAN design, troubleshooting, and RF fundamentals
Respected in healthcare, education, and enterprise deployments

Often leads to specialization in wireless design or security roles.

7. Palo Alto Networks Certified Network Security Engineer (PCNSE)

Why it’s focused: With security becoming integral to networking, this certification validates skills in managing next-gen firewalls and network defense.

Focuses on PAN-OS, policies, threat prevention, and VPN
Highly valued in security-centric environments and MSSPs

Pairs well with traditional networking and cloud security roles.

Final Thoughts

Certifications are more than resume boosters—they're a way to demonstrate technical depth and a commitment to continuous learning. Whether you’re just starting your career or moving into advanced or cloud-based roles, the right certification can open new opportunities and significantly enhance your value in the job market. Choose certifications that align with your interests, company tech stack, and long-term goals to strategically grow your career as a Network Engineer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top certifications for Network Engineers?: Cisco certifications like CCNA and CCNP are foundational. Others include CompTIA Network+, Juniper JNCIA, and cloud-specific ones like AWS Certified Advanced Networking.
Should Network Engineers pursue security certifications?: Yes. Certifications like CompTIA Security+ or Cisco CCNP Security help engineers expand into network security and meet enterprise security compliance requirements.
Are vendor-neutral certifications valuable?: They are. Vendor-neutral certs such as CompTIA Network+ or Certified Network Defender (CND) offer broad knowledge applicable across various platforms and tools.
What should a Network Engineer highlight on a resume?: Highlight technical skills like routing, switching, firewalls, cloud networking, and certifications such as CCNA or AWS. Include real examples of network optimization or security improvements. Learn more on our How to Write a Network Engineer Resume page.
How can someone from IT support become a Network Engineer?: Start by learning networking fundamentals, earning a CCNA or Network+ certification, and gaining hands-on experience configuring routers, switches, and firewalls. Learn more on our How to Become a Network Engineer page.