New Entry-Level Cisco Certifications to Start Your IT Career

This post was co-authored by Par Merat, VP of Cisco Learning & Certifications, and Laura Quintana, VP & GM of Cisco Networking Academy.

New year, new certs, big opportunities

There is something about ringing in a new year that reignites our sense of optimism and determination. What better way to use that renewed energy than to begin a new tech career, advance your current role, or get certified to validate your IT knowledge? Hiring for networking professionals is still going strong. According to IT Career Finder, cloud computing, cybersecurity, systems and networks, and DevOps are among the top ten hot tech careers for 2023.

As the technology industry grows infinitely more competitive, hiring managers are expected to heighten their hiring preferences for candidates with technical certifications over those without. Whether you are new to the tech industry or want to amplify your current tech skillset, obtaining a Cisco certification is your key to success.

Cisco’s new entry-level certifications

Cisco Networking Academy and Cisco Learning & Certifications have teamed up to introduce two new entry-level Certified Support Technician certifications focused on entry-level tech job seekers, career changers, and even college and high school students.

Here’s what you need to know about Cisco’s two new certifications:

• The Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) Cybersecurity certification validates entry-level Cybersecurity knowledge and skills to support and assist with tasks including security principles, network security and endpoint security concepts, vulnerability assessment and risk management, and incident handling.
• The Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) Networking certification ensures successful candidates have the foundational knowledge and skills necessary to demonstrate how networks operate, including the devices, media, and protocols that enable network communication.

These new certifications are perfect stepping stones that will pave the way to your next career move, leading you to internships and apprenticeships to start your tech career and validating knowledge and experience to build your qualifications. You’ll also have a clear roadmap to progress to higher certifications such as CCNA, Security, and CyberOps. Cisco supports you through your entire career by equipping you with the skills to advance your career, earn top dollar, and be a leader in the tech industry. The Cisco Learning Network offers you the chance to learn more about Cisco’s learning portfolio and certifications available today and to get involved with our active tech community.

Follow these simple steps

Sign up for free training courses on Skills for All from Cisco Networking Academy. These training courses are free in an online, self-paced format that you can access anytime, anywhere. Learners also have the option to take instructor-led courses through a local academy.

• The Cybersecurity Career Path training for the CCST Cybersecurity certification is available in English, Spanish, and Portuguese. The CCST Cybersecurity exam will be available March 1, 2023, in English, with additional languages to follow.
• Training and the exam for the CCST Networking certification are targeted for April 2023.

Download the exam topics for more information to help you study. You can also visit the Cisco Learning Network Community to exchange ideas and questions with peers!

We cannot wait to hear your success stories, so don’t forget to share them with us. After all, your goals are our goals. Let’s dream big together in 2023 and make it one for the ages.

Happy Learning!

Laura Quintana, Vice President and General Manager, Cisco Networking Academy

Par Merat, Vice President, Learning & Certifications

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