What is a CCNA certification?
The CCNA certification is a basic certification in information technology (IT) offered by the networking hardware company Cisco. It tests your understanding of important networking concepts that are commonly required for IT roles.
Here are there (3) important facts to keep in mind:
• To earn the CCNA certification, you need to pass one exam, the 200-301 CCNA.
• The exam costs $300, plus tax.
• There are no requirements to take the exam, but it’s recommended that you have some training and experience with computer networks.
Is a CCNA certification right for you?
The CCNA certification is generally recommended for individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in networking, or who are currently working in entry-level networking roles and seeking to advance their skills and career prospects.
It is also suitable for IT professionals who work with Cisco products and solutions and want to gain a deeper understanding of networking concepts. There are no strict prerequisites for taking the CCNA exam, but some experience with computer networks and Cisco products is recommended.
Jobs opportunities with CCNA certification
Holding a CCNA certification can open up various job opportunities in the field of networking. Some of the job titles that may be suitable for CCNA certification holders include:
Network Administrator: Responsible for managing and maintaining network systems and infrastructure, including troubleshooting network issues, implementing security measures, and monitoring network performance.
Network Engineer: Designs and implements computer networks, including hardware, software, and communication systems. They may also be involved in network architecture planning and security.
Network Support Technician: Provides technical support for network systems, including troubleshooting and resolving network issues, installing and configuring network devices, and maintaining network documentation.
Network Analyst: Analyzes network data to identify trends and patterns, and recommends improvements to network systems and infrastructure.
IT Manager: Oversees the IT department, including network administration, hardware and software support, and IT project management.
CCNA certification holders may also be eligible for higher salaries and career advancement opportunities within their organizations. Additionally, holding a CCNA certification can demonstrate to employers that the individual has the knowledge and skills necessary for a career in networking.
How to obtain the CCNA certification?
To become CCNA certified, you need to take the 200-301 CCNA exam provided by Cisco. There are no requirements for the exam, but Cisco suggests that CCNA candidates usually have the following experience before taking the exam:
At least one year of experience using and implementing Cisco products and solutions
Basic understanding of IP addressing
Knowledge of network fundamentals.
About the CCNA Exam
The 200-301 CCNA exam is offered in English and Japanese and lasts for 120 minutes. It covers the following topics:
• Network fundamentals (20%): This includes knowledge of network components like routers, switches, and access points, as well as network topology architectures, physical interfaces and cabling types, IPv4 and IPv6 configuration, IP parameters, and wireless, virtualization, and switching fundamentals.
• Network access (20%): This covers configuring and verifying VLANs, Interswitch connectivity, Layer 2 discovery protocols, EtherChannel, Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol operations, Cisco wireless architectures, AP modes, physical WLAN components, AP and WLC management access connections, and wireless LAN access.
• IP connectivity (25%): This includes topics such as routing tables, router decision-making, configuring and verifying IPv4 and IPv6 static routing and single area OSPFv2, and first hop redundancy protocol.
• IP services (10%): This covers configuring and verifying NAT and NTP, describing DHCP, DNS, SNMP, and syslog features, per-hop behavior, using SSH, and describing TFTP/FTP.
• Security fundamentals (15%): This includes knowledge of security concepts like threats and mitigation, physical access control, password policies, access control lists, Layer 2 security features, and wireless security protocols.
• Automation and programmability (10%): This covers comparing traditional networks with controller-based networks, automation concepts, and interpreting JSON data.
Considering CCNA or CompTIA Network?
CompTIA Network+ is another certification that tests your knowledge of computer networks, just like the CCNA. However, there are some differences between them.
Unlike the CCNA, the Network+ certification doesn’t focus on specific network products or tools made by a certain company. Instead, it’s designed to prepare you to work with any kind of network system or device, regardless of the manufacturer.
The Network+ certification is considered by some to be more basic and introductory than the CCNA. The CCNA covers more topics in greater depth.
So, which certification should you choose? Many people opt for the CCNA even though it’s specific to Cisco products because Cisco dominates the networking market. However, if you’re new to networking or find the CCNA too difficult, Network+ can be a good option to start with.
You can always get the Network+ first and then take the CCNA later when you have more experience.
CCNA courses and training
There are many methods of learning available. You can choose either a face-to-face class, a live virtual class, or pre-recorded online
Skillet is one of the training providers that offer face-to-face and live virtual classes in Malaysia. This course is HRDC claimable course, learn more.
Conclusion
Obtaining a CCNA certification is a great way to advance your career in the IT industry. It is an entry-level certification that prepares you for a variety of networking roles such as network specialist, network administrator, and network engineer. With the increasing demand for network professionals in today’s digital age, holding a CCNA certification can set you apart from the competition and open up a world of job opportunities.
In addition to providing a strong foundation in networking concepts and skills, the CCNA certification also offers the potential for career advancement and higher salaries. Furthermore, the knowledge gained through CCNA training and certification is valuable not only for those interested in working with Cisco products but also for those seeking to work with other networking devices and systems.
Overall, obtaining a CCNA certification can be a worthwhile investment in your career, providing you with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the fast-paced and ever-evolving world of IT networking.