What is CCNA? Entry-Level Networking Certification
The CCNA certification is widely recognised in the IT industry. But what is the CCNA certification? And should you take the course?
We explain everything you need to know in this in-depth guide.
So, let’s dive in.
Key Highlights
- CCNA certification is an entry-level IT certification that validates the knowledge of network fundamentals, IP connectivity, and network security.
- The certification is offered by Cisco and is widely recognised in the IT industry.
- CCNA certification can lead to various job roles such as network specialist, network administrator, and network engineer.
- The CCNA exam covers topics like network fundamentals, network access, IP connectivity, IP services, security fundamentals, and automation and programmability.
- The average salary for CCNA-certified professionals ranges from £27,036 for IT support specialists to £55,079 for senior network engineers.
- CCNA certification provides a strong foundation for further career growth in IT networking.
What is CCNA Certification?
The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification is an IT certification exam taken by technical professionals at an entry-level or associate level to demonstrate their understanding of network fundamentals, cybersecurity fundamentals, and system fundamentals concerning the Cisco technology environment.
The CCNA certification is designed to validate the skills and knowledge required to set up, configure, and manage medium-sized networks using Cisco technologies.
The CCNA certification is offered by Cisco Systems, a leading networking hardware manufacturer. It is part of Cisco’s five-level career certification path, starting from the entry-level CCNA certification and progressing to higher-level certifications like the Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) and Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE).
The CCNA certification is widely recognised in the IT industry and is considered a valuable credential for networking professionals.
To earn the CCNA certification, candidates must pass the CCNA exam, which covers a wide range of topics related to network fundamentals, network access, IP connectivity, IP services, security fundamentals, and automation and programmability.
The exam is designed to test candidates’ knowledge and skills in setting up, configuring, and managing network systems using Cisco technologies.
The CCNA certification is suitable for individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in networking and want to gain a strong foundation in network fundamentals and Cisco technologies. It is recommended for technical professionals at the associate level who are looking to enhance their skills and advance their careers in the IT industry.
Gain the skills required to pass the Cisco CCNA certification exam with the CCNA (200-301) course and lab from Seven Learning. Enrol today to get started or get in touch to chat with our support team.
What’s in The CCNA Exam?
The CCNA exam is designed to test candidates’ knowledge and skills in various areas of networking.
The exam covers a wide range of topics, including network fundamentals, network access, IP connectivity, IP services, security fundamentals, and automation and programmability.
Here is a breakdown of what’s on the CCNA exam:
- Network Fundamentals: This section focuses on network components, network topology, network basics, and IP addressing.
- Network Access: This section covers VLANs, switching concepts, inter-VLAN routing, and wireless LANs.
- IP Connectivity: This section delves into IP routing, OSPF, and EIGRP.
- IP Services: This section explores DHCP, NAT, ACLs, and SNMP.
- Security Fundamentals: This section covers network security concepts, secure access control, and wireless security.
- Automation and Programmability: This section introduces automation concepts and programmability in networking.
The CCNA exam consists of multiple-choice questions, drag-and-drop questions, and simulation questions that require candidates to configure and troubleshoot network devices.
It’s important to note that the CCNA exam has been updated, and the new exam (200-301 CCNA) encompasses the content previously covered in different CCNA specialisations. The new exam is more comprehensive and aligned with current industry needs.
How to Get the CCNA Certification
To obtain the CCNA certification, candidates need to follow a few steps. Here is a guide on how to get the CCNA certification:
- Familiarise yourself with the CCNA certification requirements: Before pursuing the CCNA certification, it’s essential to understand the certification requirements and the skills and knowledge necessary to pass the exam.
- Prepare for the CCNA exam: To increase your chances of success, consider enrolling in CCNA training courses or self-study using online resources and study materials. The Cisco Learning Network provides valuable resources, including study guides, practice exams, and training videos.
- Review the formal prerequisites: While there are no formal prerequisites to take the CCNA exam, it is recommended to have at least one year of experience using Cisco products and basic knowledge of IP addressing and network fundamentals.
- Schedule and take the CCNA exam: Once you feel prepared, schedule the CCNA exam through Pearson VUE. The exam is available in testing centres or can be taken online.
- Pass the CCNA exam: The CCNA exam consists of multiple-choice questions and simulations. Passing the exam requires a deep understanding of networking concepts, Cisco technologies, and network management principles.
- Receive the CCNA certification: Once you pass the CCNA exam, you will receive the CCNA certification from Cisco. This certification validates your skills and knowledge in network fundamentals, IP connectivity, network security, and other key areas of networking.
How Much is The CCNA Exam?
The CCNA exam is a requirement for obtaining the CCNA certification. To take the CCNA exam, candidates need to register and pay a fee. The cost of the CCNA exam may vary depending on the country and the testing centre. In the UK, the CCNA exam costs £246, plus tax.
Here is a breakdown of the costs associated with the CCNA exam:
| Exam Cost | £246 (plus tax) |
| Pearson VUE Testing Fee | Varies by location |
| Cisco Learning Credits | Can be used to purchase the exam |
Candidates can register for the CCNA exam through Pearson VUE, a global leader in computer-based testing. Pearson VUE offers a secure and convenient testing environment for candidates to take the CCNA exam. The exam is available in multiple languages, including English and Japanese.
In addition to paying the exam fee, candidates can also use Cisco Learning Credits to purchase the CCNA exam. Cisco Learning Credits are prepaid credits that can be used towards various Cisco training and certification programs.
They provide a flexible and cost-effective way for candidates to access training resources and certification exams.
Career Opportunities with CCNA Certification
CCNA certification can open up a wide range of career opportunities in the IT industry.
Here are some potential career paths for CCNA-certified professionals:
- Network administrator: Network administrators are responsible for managing and maintaining network systems. They configure and troubleshoot network devices, monitor network performance, and ensure network security.
- Network specialist: Network specialists focus on specific areas of networking, such as security, wireless, or cloud computing. They design, implement, and optimise network solutions based on specific requirements.
- Network security professionals: CCNA-certified professionals with a focus on network security can pursue roles as network security analysts, network security engineers, or network security administrators. They are responsible for protecting network resources from unauthorised access and potential threats.
- Network engineer: Network engineers design, implement, and maintain network infrastructures. They ensure the smooth operation of network systems and troubleshoot network issues.
What Salary Could I Earn With The CCNA Certification?
The CCNA certification can significantly impact your earning potential in the IT industry. CCNA-certified professionals are in high demand across various sectors, and their specialised skills and knowledge command competitive salaries.
Here are some average salaries for job roles that often request CCNA certification:
- Network specialist: The average salary for network specialists in the UK is £41,367 per year.
- Network engineer: Network engineers play a crucial role in designing, implementing, and maintaining network infrastructures. The average salary for network engineers in the UK is £39,223 per year.
- Senior network engineer: Senior network engineers oversee the design and implementation of complex network solutions. They are responsible for managing network performance and troubleshooting issues. The average salary for senior network engineers in the UK is £55,079 per year.
How CCNA Certification Enhances Your Career Prospects
CCNA certification enhances your career prospects in the IT industry by providing you with a solid foundation in networking principles, Cisco technologies, and network management.
Here’s how CCNA certification can enhance your career prospects:
- Increased job opportunities: CCNA certification is widely recognised in the IT industry and is often a requirement for networking roles. By obtaining the CCNA certification, you can access a wider range of job opportunities.
- Career advancement: CCNA certification serves as a stepping stone to higher-level certifications, such as CCNP (Cisco Certified Network Professional) and CCIE (Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert). These certifications can open doors to advanced networking roles and higher salaries.
- Competitive advantage: CCNA certification sets you apart from other candidates in the job market. It demonstrates your commitment to professional development and validates your skills in network fundamentals and Cisco technologies.
- Industry recognition: CCNA-certified professionals are highly sought after by employers due to their specialised knowledge and skills in networking. CCNA certification is recognised by industry professionals and can increase your credibility in the field.
CCNA vs. CompTIA Network+
CCNA and CompTIA Network+ are both entry-level networking certifications that can help professionals kick-start their careers in the IT industry.
Here are some key differences between CCNA and CompTIA Network+:
- Vendor specificity: CCNA is vendor-specific to Cisco technologies, while CompTIA Network+ is vendor-neutral. CCNA focuses on networking concepts using Cisco products, while CompTIA Network+ covers networking concepts applicable to various vendors.
- Depth of coverage: CCNA covers a broader range of networking topics and goes more in-depth compared to CompTIA Network+. CCNA dives deeper into network fundamentals, IP connectivity, network security, and automation and programmability.
- Market demand: CCNA is highly regarded in the IT industry and is often requested by employers, especially those using Cisco technologies. CompTIA Network+ is recognised as a foundational networking certification and is sought after by employers looking for networking professionals with vendor-neutral knowledge.
Both certifications have their merits, and the choice between CCNA and CompTIA Network+ depends on individual career goals, desired vendor specialisation, and the specific networking job market in your region.
Benefits of Pursuing CCNA Over Other Networking Certifications
There are several benefits to pursuing CCNA certification over other networking certifications.
Here are some key advantages of CCNA:
- Cisco recognition: CCNA is offered by Cisco, a leading networking hardware manufacturer. Cisco certifications are widely recognised and respected in the IT industry, and CCNA provides a solid foundation in Cisco technologies.
- Education credits: CCNA certification can be obtained using Cisco Learning Credits, prepaid credits that can be used towards various Cisco training programs. This allows candidates to leverage their existing training investments and reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
- Career advancement: CCNA serves as a stepping stone to higher-level certifications like CCNP and CCIE, enabling professionals to advance their careers in networking and access more specialised roles and higher salaries.
- Market demand: CCNA is highly sought after by employers, especially those using Cisco technologies. CCNA-certified professionals are in high demand in the IT industry and can access a wide range of job opportunities.
Conclusion
The CCNA certification opens doors to a world of networking opportunities, providing a solid foundation in network fundamentals, security, and automation. Whether you are starting your IT career or looking to advance, the CCNA certification can advance your career prospects.
Enrol in the Cisco CCNA certification exam with the CCNA (200-301) course today. If you have any questions, get in touch to chat with our support team who will be happy to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a CCNA certificate do?
The CCNA certificate validates your networking skills and knowledge in areas like network fundamentals, IP connectivity, and network security. It demonstrates your understanding of Cisco networking technology and can boost your career in IT networking.
How much does CCNA cost?
The cost of the CCNA certification exam is £239, plus tax. You can also use Cisco Learning Credits to purchase the exam. These credits can be obtained by employers to provide their workforce with flexible learning options on the Cisco platform.
What is the salary of CCNA certified?
The salary of a CCNA-certified professional can vary depending on factors like experience, location, and job role. On average, a network specialist with CCNA certification can earn around £41,367 per year, while a network engineer can earn around £39,223 per year.
Is CCNA certification worth IT?
CCNA certification is definitely worth it for IT professionals looking to advance their careers in networking. It provides a strong foundation in network fundamentals and Cisco technology, opening up opportunities for higher-level certifications and better job prospects. The return on investment in terms of salary and career growth can be significant.
