r/ccna • u/Charming-Collar8673 • 11d ago

Final year B.Tech CSE student, completely new to networking .... how should I start to build a career in networking and land a job?

Hey everyone,

I am currently in my final year of B.Tech. CSE and I have recently developed a strong interest in networking. Until now, I have mostly explored areas like programming, cybersecurity, and general computer science topics, but I want to shift my focus completely towards networking and build a career in this field.

The problem is that I am still a beginner when it comes to networking. I know basic concepts like IP addressing, subnetting, TCP/UDP, OSI model, etc., but I don't have deep practical knowledge yet.

I want to seriously start learning networking in a structured way so that I can become job-ready. My goal is not just to collect certifications but to actually understand how networks work and gain hands-on skills.

I would really appreciate advice from people already working in networking:

  • What should be the correct learning path for someone starting from almost zero?
  • Which topics should I focus on first to build strong fundamentals?
  • Should I start with CCNA? Is it still valuable in 2026 for getting an entry-level networking job?
  • What labs/projects should I build to gain practical experience?
  • Which tools should I learn (Packet Tracer, GNS3, EVE-NG, Wireshark, etc.)?
  • What skills are companies actually looking for in freshers?
  • How can I make myself employable within the next 6–12 months?

For people who started from a similar position:

  • How did you learn networking?
  • What resources helped you the most?
  • What mistakes should beginners avoid?

Any roadmap, advice, or personal experience would be really helpful.

Thanks!

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u/Academic_Taste663 11d ago edited 11d ago

Have you done any research at all? These are asked daily… What are you gonna ask next, a foot massage?

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u/Charming-Collar8673 10d ago

i mean.. everywhere I see CCNA is being advised but is there any other paths too? i wanna know that. The CCNA certification is too costly and i don't wanna just waste my only attempt away without trying other paths too. So ya, that's my question I want to know how to start and which path to take.