WCNA — Worldwide Certified Network Analyst
The de facto Wireshark certification, owned and administered by Chappell University / Protocol Analysis Institute (Laura Chappell's organization) — not the official Wireshark Foundation. The WCNA validates packet-level analysis, protocol analysis, and network troubleshooting using Wireshark and related tools. 100-question MCQ exam delivered via Kryterion online proctoring, $299, 3-year renewal. Pure MCQ format with no hands-on lab component is a limitation versus network forensics certs like GNFA. Despite the theoretical format, WCNA is widely recognized in network forensics, network operations, and SOC analyst roles as the benchmark Wireshark credential. Useful complement to GCFE or CDSA for analysts whose workflow is packet-heavy.
| Issuer | Chappell University / Protocol Analysis Institute |
| Level | intermediate |
| Domains | Network Security |
| Practical weight | 0% |
| Cost (USD) | 299 |
| Renewal | 3 years |
| Skills | packet_analysis, protocol_analysis, network_traffic_analysis, network_forensics, network_troubleshooting, wireshark_tool |
Official certification page
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