Introduction
The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is a classic first networking certification. It proves you can install, configure and troubleshoot small and medium networks.
What is the CCNA?
CCNA is earned by passing a single exam (200-301). There are no formal prerequisites, although Cisco recommends some experience with networking and IP addressing.
Exam structure
The exam lasts 120 minutes and mixes multiple-choice, drag-and-drop and simulation questions. The topics are grouped into six areas:
- Network fundamentals (about 20%).
- Network access (about 20%): VLANs, trunking, wireless.
- IP connectivity (about 25%): routing tables, static routes, OSPF.
- IP services (about 10%): NAT, DHCP, DNS, NTP.
- Security fundamentals (about 15%).
- Automation and programmability (about 10%).
Skills covered in the exam
Subnetting quickly and correctly is the single most useful skill. You also need to read a routing table, configure VLANs and trunks, understand OSPF neighbour states and know what a REST API and JSON look like.
Study tips to pass the exam
- Do a few subnetting exercises every day until you can solve them in under a minute.
- Build labs in Packet Tracer for every topic you read about.
- Turn command outputs into flashcards: "what does this line of show ip route mean?".
- Review protocols and port numbers with spaced repetition.
Career opportunities
CCNA is useful for network technicians, network administrators, NOC engineers and anyone moving toward cloud or security networking.
Practice quiz
Try the free CCNA practice quiz on this page to check your fundamentals.
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Exam formats, fees and objectives are updated regularly. Always confirm the current details on the official exam page before you book.
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