What is the full form of CCNA?

Introduction

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification programme, made available by Cisco Systems, attests to the installation, configuration, operation, and troubleshooting abilities needed for small- to medium-sized networks.

The entry-level CCNA certification covers a wide range of networking principles, including network basics. It is a widely accepted certification that proves competence in networking technologies and can open doors for professional growth in a variety of IT professions.

The 4 levels of Cisco certifications

Cisco offers four levels of certification to validate the knowledge and skills of IT professionals in various networking domains −

• Entry level − The Entry level includes Cisco Certified Technician (CCT) and Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT) certifications. These certifications cover basic networking concepts and provide a foundation for higher-level certifications.

• Associate level − A wide range of networking principles are covered at the Associate level, including the CCNA certification, covering network basics, network access, IP connection, IP services, security fundamentals, automation, and programmability.

• Professional level − The Professional level includes the CCNP certification and covers advanced networking concepts, including routing, switching, wireless, security, and collaboration.

• Expert level − The Expert level includes the CCIE certification and is the highest level of Cisco certification. It covers expert-level networking concepts, including design, implementation, and optimization of complex networking solutions.

Each level of Cisco certification builds upon the knowledge and skills of the previous level, providing a clear and structured path for IT professionals to advance their networking careers.

What are the benefits of being CCNA-certified?

There are several benefits to becoming CCNA-certified, including −

• Industry recognition − CCNA is a globally recognized certification that demonstrates your proficiency in networking technologies, making you a valuable asset to any organization.

• Career advancement − CCNA certification can lead to career advancement opportunities in various IT roles, including network administrator, network engineer, and network analyst.

• Expanded knowledge − The CCNA certification covers a broad range of networking concepts, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of how networks work and how to troubleshoot issues.

• Improved job performance − By giving you the abilities and information required to successfully design, build, configure, and troubleshoot networks, CCNA certification can enhance your job performance.

• Higher earning potential − CCNA-certified professionals typically earn higher salaries than their non-certified counterparts, as the certification demonstrates their expertise in networking technologies.

CCNA certification is a valuable credential that can help IT professionals advance their careers, expand their knowledge, and increase their earning potential.

What are the prerequisites for CCNA certification?

The prerequisites for CCNA certification depend on the type of CCNA certification you are seeking. Here are the requirements for the most common CCNA certification, CCNA Routing and Switching −

• No formal prerequisites − Although there are no strict requirements for the CCNA Routing and Switching certification, it is advised that applicants have a fundamental knowledge of networking principles.

• Knowledge of OSI model − Candidates should have a good understanding of the OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model and its layers.

• Familiarity with command-line interface (CLI) − Candidates should be familiar with basic command-line interface (CLI) configuration of switches and routers.

• Familiarity with network topologies − Candidates should be familiar with common network topologies such as LANs (Local Area Networks) and WANs (Wide Area Networks).

• Understanding of IP addressing and subnetting −Applicants must to be well- versed in IP addressing and subnetting.

• Familiarity with TCP/IP protocols − Candidates should be familiar with TCP/IP protocols and their functions.

How do you become CCNA-certified?

To become CCNA-certified, you need to follow these steps −

• Choose the CCNA certification track − There are various CCNA certifications available, so choose the one that aligns with your career goals and interests.

• Meet the prerequisites − Make sure you meet the prerequisites for the CCNA certification you are seeking.

• Prepare for the CCNA exam − Study and prepare for the CCNA exam by reading books, watching online tutorials, taking training courses, and practicing with hands-on labs.

• Schedule and take the CCNA exam − Once you feel confident in your knowledge and skills, schedule and take the CCNA exam at a Pearson VUE test center.

• Pass the CCNA exam − Pass the CCNA exam by achieving the passing score.

• Receive CCNA certification − After passing the CCNA exam, you will receive your CCNA certification from Cisco.

• Maintain CCNA certification − To maintain your CCNA certification, you need to recertify every three years by either passing the current CCNA exam or completing a designated continuing education program.

Conclusion

In conclusion, CCNA certification is a globally recognized credential that validates an IT professional's knowledge and skills in networking technologies. It is offered by Cisco and is available at four levels: Entry, Associate, Professional, and Expert. Becoming CCNA-certified can lead to career advancement opportunities, expanded knowledge, improved job performance, and higher earning potential. To become CCNA-certified, candidates should choose the CCNA certification track that aligns with their career goals, meet the prerequisites, prepare for the CCNA exam, pass the exam, receive the certification, and maintain it through recertification every three years. CCNA certification is a valuable credential that can help IT professionals advance their careers and succeed in the dynamic and ever-evolving field of networking.

FAQs

Q1. How long is CCNA certification valid?

Ans: CCNA certification is valid for three years. After three years, you need to recertify by either passing the current CCNA exam or completing a designated continuing education program.

Q2. What is the passing score for the CCNA exam?

Ans: The passing score for the CCNA exam is determined by Cisco and may vary depending on the exam version and difficulty level. In general, the passing score is around 800 out of 1000.

Q3. How long does it take to prepare for the CCNA exam?

Ans: The time required to prepare for the CCNA exam depends on your prior knowledge and experience in networking technologies. It can range from a few weeks to several months.