The Cisco Certified Networking Associate certification (CCNA) is globally recognised by most companies worldwide. It is an Associate or an entry-level networking certification issued by networking hardware company Cisco.
If you plan to get a Cisco CCNA certification, you are in the correct place. But before you begin to learn, you need to have a better understanding of it.
What is CCNA?
CCNA is a premier networking certification offered by Cisco Systems that validates an individual’s ability to enhance, develop networking knowledge, and evaluate the IT and networking qualification.
Cisco CCNA certification certifies a person having comprehensive knowledge to plan, configure, verify, and troubleshoot complex networks consisting of routers, switches, firewalls, and servers.
Is it Worth Getting a CCNA Certification?
CCNA is the most preferred and highly valued certification as it offers an in-depth understanding and concept of networking concepts. The Cisco certification increases job opportunities in the networking domain.
Below are some reasons why you should get this certification:
1. It Enhances and Validates Knowledge
Getting CCNA training will enhance your networking knowledge, and the certification will validate it. It helps learn to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot routed and switched networks. Cisco CCNA certification will help you evolve in the digital era.
2. Increased Career Options
A CCNA certification will provide you with new career opportunities. And you will be able to perform networking tasks at an advanced level. CCNA certification will catapult your career to the next level.
3. Helps Increase Your Paycheck
Cisco certification increases your earning potential and speeds up the promotion process. In addition, many organisations reward employees who earn CCNA certification.
4. High Preference for Cisco Certified Professionals
According to the study conducted by International Data Corporation (IDC) in 2008, the CCNA training and certification programs positively impact the growth of an individual. As a result, they are given higher preference in the competitive job market.
All these points together point out that getting CCNA certified is worth it for anyone aiming to build a lucrative career in networking and related services.
How To Get The CCNA Certification?
To get the CCNA certification, you must pass the required exam. Grades can be obtained on passing either of the exams below:
- ICDN1 (100-101) or the ICDN2 (200-101) Exams
- Combined CCNA (200-120) Exam
The tests are designed to measure an individual’s ability to install, configure, and troubleshoot network systems. The certification training can be done directly or through Cisco Learning Partners. Preparation for exams can be done through self-study, classroom training, or online. You need to score at least 80% or above to pass the exam.
CCNA Certification Cost
The CCNA certification for Entry level to Architect level costs $125 – $600 plus tax, i.e., 9302–44650 INR plus tax. Depending on the taxes, the exam fees may vary from country to country.
Tips on How to Prepare for CCNA Certification Exam
Theoretical and Practical Knowledge
Both theory and practical knowledge are necessary to pass the CCNA exam. You should use theoretical knowledge in a real-world environment to troubleshoot network issues.
Study Resources
CCNA exam preparation requires gathering correct study materials. The latest editions of Cisco’s books can be referred to. Several platforms provide CCNA courses online, which can be a great source of increasing your knowledge on the subject to pass the exam.
The CCNA course fees would vary from platform to platform, and depending on the type, of course, you opt for. Also, you need to learn to work with binary mathematics.
Arrange for Practice Tests
Schedule and take practice tests online or offline well in advance before exams. This will help you identify your firm as well as your weak points. While you can continue to sharpen your strengths, you can devote time to improve your weaknesses.
Conclusion
Cisco CCNA certification is globally recognised and respected in the industry. The certification prepares you to work as a Computer Support Specialist, Network Consultant, or Network Administrator. All of these have massive scope in the job market, and they are ever-expanding. Getting CCNA certified is more worth it now than ever. It is essential to always think of levelling up in your career. The Cisco certifications help level up and give you a good career path.
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