Our Range of Cisco Courses
Our Cisco course offerings cover both the foundational CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) and the advanced CCNP (Cisco Certified Network Professional) certifications. These online courses are designed for global accessibility, allowing you to study from anywhere in the world and fit your learning around existing work commitments. Our training is delivered through high-quality video content, recorded by recognised industry experts, providing you the flexibility to revisit and review complex topics as often as needed. To ensure a well-rounded learning experience, all our Cisco courses come complete with practice questions to test your knowledge, downloadable study materials for offline reference, and interactive learning activities to reinforce key concepts. Whether you’re starting your networking career with CCNA or advancing to CCNP level, our flexible, feature-rich courses provide the tools and expertise you need to succeed in the world of Cisco networking.
Who is Cisco?
Cisco Systems is a global technology leader specialising in networking and IT infrastructure. Founded in 1984, they’re best known for:
- Developing and manufacturing networking hardware
- Creating networking software and protocols
- Providing enterprise IT solutions
Key Cisco offerings:
- Routers and switches
- Cybersecurity products
- Collaboration tools (e.g., Webex)
- Data center technologies
- Internet of Things (IoT) solutions
Cisco’s influence:
- Major player in enterprise networking
- Significant contributor to internet infrastructure
- Innovations in areas like SD-WAN and intent-based networking
Their certifications are industry-standard, validating skills in networking, security, and other IT domains. Cisco-certified professionals are highly sought after in the IT job market, especially for roles involving network design, implementation, and management.
Are Cisco Courses Recognised in the UK?
Cisco certifications are highly recognised in the UK IT industry:
- Widely respected: Valued by UK employers across various sectors
- Industry standard: Often required or preferred for networking roles
- Government recognition: Accepted for many public sector IT positions
- Education sector: Recognised by UK universities and colleges
Key benefits in UK job market:
- Can lead to higher salaries
- Improves job prospects
- Demonstrates up-to-date networking skills
Popular Cisco certs in UK:
- CCNA (entry-level)
- CCNP (professional-level)
- CCIE (expert-level)
These certifications are particularly valuable for roles in network administration, security, and infrastructure management across UK businesses and organisations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cisco training worth it?
Cisco courses are highly valued in the UK’s thriving IT sector, offering a significant return on investment for many professionals. The UK’s robust technology market, with its concentration of global companies and growing startups, places a premium on networking expertise. Cisco certifications are widely recognised as the gold standard in this field, often serving as a key differentiator for job candidates.
For those embarking on or advancing their IT careers in the UK, Cisco training provides a solid foundation in networking principles and hands-on skills that are directly applicable to real-world scenarios. This practical knowledge is particularly valuable in a market where businesses are increasingly relying on complex network infrastructures and cloud technologies. Moreover, with the UK’s growing focus on cybersecurity and digital transformation, Cisco-certified professionals are well-positioned to take on critical roles in these expanding areas.
The investment in Cisco training regularly translates into tangible career benefits in the UK job market. Many employers view Cisco certifications as a mark of commitment and expertise, which can lead to improved job prospects, faster career progression, and higher earning potential. While the training does require a significant time and financial investment, the long-term career opportunities and job security it can provide make it a worthwhile endeavour for many IT professionals in the UK’s competitive tech landscape.
Which course is best in Cisco?
The best Cisco course depends on your career stage and goals:
For beginners:
CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate)
- Comprehensive entry-level certification
- Covers networking fundamentals
- Highly valued for entry to mid-level IT roles
For experienced professionals:
CCNP (Cisco Certified Network Professional)
- Advanced certification for specific specialisations
- Options include Enterprise, Security, Data Center
- Ideal for career advancement and specialisation
The choice depends on your experience level and career objectives in networking and IT infrastructure.
How much does a Cisco exam cost in the UK?
For the
Cisco CCNA and CCNP certifications in the UK, the typical exam costs are as follows:
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
Cost: Around £255 ($300).
This is a single exam (200-301 CCNA) that covers networking fundamentals, security, automation, and more.
Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)
Cost:
Core exam: Around £320 ($400).
Concentration exam: Around £255 per exam.
For the CCNP certification, you need to pass one core exam and one concentration exam, meaning the total cost can range from £575 to £640 depending on the specific concentration chosen.
What careers can I follow with Cisco courses?
Cisco certifications can lead to a variety of career opportunities in the UK’s IT sector. Here’s an expanded explanation with a list of potential job titles:
Cisco courses, particularly CCNA and CCNP, open doors to numerous career paths in the UK’s thriving technology landscape. These certifications equip you with skills highly valued by employers across various industries, from finance and healthcare to telecommunications and government sectors.
Some of the career titles you can pursue with Cisco certifications include:
- Network Administrator
- Systems Engineer
- Network Support Specialist
- IT Security Specialist
- Network Architect
- Cloud Infrastructure Engineer
- Data Center Technician
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- VoIP Engineer
- Wireless Network Engineer
- Network Operations Center (NOC) Engineer
- IT Project Manager
- Technical Support Engineer
- Solutions Architect
- Network Consultant
As you progress in your career and gain more advanced Cisco certifications, you can move into senior roles such as Senior Network Engineer, IT Infrastructure Manager, or even Chief Technology Officer (CTO).
The UK’s continued investment in digital infrastructure and the growing importance of secure, efficient networks across all business sectors ensure a strong demand for Cisco-certified professionals. Whether you’re starting your IT career or looking to advance to more senior positions, Cisco certifications provide a solid foundation for a rewarding and dynamic career in networking and IT infrastructure.
Is Cisco CCNA still in demand?
CCNA certification remains highly in demand in the UK’s IT job market. Its relevance has stayed strong due to the continuous growth of networked systems across all business sectors.
In today’s digital-first economy, companies of all sizes rely heavily on robust network infrastructure. This has kept CCNA-certified professionals in high demand. The certification is particularly valuable as it covers not just traditional networking, but also emerging technologies like cloud computing and network automation.
UK employers often list CCNA as a preferred or required qualification for many IT roles. It’s seen as a reliable indicator of a candidate’s networking knowledge and skills. For those starting their IT careers, CCNA can be a significant advantage, often leading to higher starting salaries and more job opportunities.
The certification’s broad recognition across industries – from finance and healthcare to telecommunications and government – ensures that CCNA holders have diverse career options. As businesses continue to expand their digital capabilities, the need for skilled networking professionals is likely to grow, keeping CCNA certification in demand for the foreseeable future.
Do Cisco certifications pay well?
Cisco certifications can lead to well-paying positions in the UK IT sector. Here’s an overview of potential earnings:
CCNA-certified roles:
- Entry-level: £25,000 – £35,000
- With 2-3 years experience: £35,000 – £45,000
CCNP-certified roles:
- Mid-level positions: £40,000 – £60,000
- Senior roles: £60,000 – £80,000
Specialist positions (e.g., Network Architects, Security Specialists):
These figures can vary based on location, industry, and specific job responsibilities. London and the South East typically offer higher salaries. Sectors like finance and telecommunications often pay premium rates for Cisco expertise.
As businesses continue to invest in network infrastructure and cybersecurity, demand for Cisco-certified professionals remains strong. This demand, coupled with the specialized skills these certifications represent, contributes to attractive compensation packages, including bonuses and opportunities for rapid career advancement.
Can I learn Cisco on my own?
Yes, you can learn Cisco training on your own, and many professionals in the UK successfully self-study for Cisco certifications. Here’s an overview of the self-learning approach:
Self-study resources:
- Recognised Cisco learning materials
- Online courses and video tutorials
- Practice labs and simulators
- Study guides and textbooks
Benefits of self-learning:
- Flexibility to study at your own pace
- Can be more cost-effective than classroom training
- Ability to focus on areas you find challenging
Challenges to consider:
- Requires strong self-discipline and time management
- May miss out on peer discussions and instructor insights
- Hands-on experience can be limited without access to physical equipment
Online learning platforms offer a dynamic and engaging way to prepare for Cisco certifications. Our course platform provides a mix of video lectures, interactive quizzes, and virtual labs (Additional Option) that simulate real-world networking scenarios. This hands-on experience is crucial for developing practical skills and confidence in working with Cisco technologies.
Additionally, many online courses offer forums or study groups where you can connect with fellow learners, share insights, and discuss complex topics. This collaborative aspect of online learning can enhance your understanding and keep you motivated throughout your Cisco certification journey.
Looking to speak to an adviser?
At Career Smarter, we’re ready to guide you towards a successful IT career with expert advice on our Cisco courses. Our knowledgeable advisers are here to help you choose the right path, whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your existing skills. We understand that investing in your future is important, which is why we offer flexible payment options through Klarna and Payl8r, making it easier to manage your course fees. Our efficient enrollment process means you can begin your learning journey within 24 hours of signing up. Plus, you’ll be assigned a dedicated account manager to ensure you have all the support and resources you need throughout your studies. With a track record of helping thousands of learners enhance their IT careers, Career Smarter is committed to your success. Don’t hesitate to reach out to our team today and take the first step towards transforming your IT career with our comprehensive Cisco courses.
