Tips to Pass the CCNA Certification Exam

Introduction

A well-known IT certification is the CCNA designation. Earning CCNA certification proves your ability to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot medium-size routed and switched networks. With CCNA certification, you can build a solid foundation in networking that will help you prepare for more advanced Cisco certifications.

Passing the CCNA exam requires knowledge of various topics, including IP addressing, subnetting, routing protocols, switching technologies, and network security. Earning CCNA certification can open up career opportunities in various IT roles, such as network administrator, network engineer, and systems engineer. With CCNA certification, you can pursue more advanced Cisco certifications, such as CCNP or CCIE. This article will cover the foundational knowledge of CCNA and tips to pass the CCNA Certification Exam.

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Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

The Cisco Certified Network Associate, or CCNA, is a foundational information technology (IT) credential offered by the manufacturer of networking hardware. The CCNA is meant to verify your understanding of the basic networking concepts frequently required in IT positions’ networking responsibilities.

What will be on the CCNA Exam?

Following is a summary of the CCNA exam:

• Fundamentals of Networks (20 % )

This domain includes Physical interfaces and cabling types, IPv4 and IPv6 setup, IP parameters, wireless, virtualization, and switching foundations, along with network elements including routers, switches, and access points.

• Access to Networks (20 %)

This domain includes establishing and confirming connectivity between switches, Layer 2 discovery protocols, EtherChannel, and VLAN configuration; using Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol; Access connections for AP and WLC management, physical WLAN components, Cisco wireless architectures, and wireless LAN access.

• Connecting via IP (25 % )

This domain includes routing tables, first-hop redundancy protocol, setting and confirming IPv4 and IPv6 static routing, single area OSPFv2, and router selection.

• IP services (10%)

This domain includes configuring and verifying NAT and NTP; describing DHCP, DNS, SNMP, and Syslog features; per-hop behavior; using SSH; describing TFTP/FTP.

• Basics of Security (15 % )

This domain includes threats and their mitigation, physical access control, password policies, access control lists, Layer 2 security features, and wireless security protocols are examples of security concepts.

• Programming and Automation (10 % )

This domain includes contrasting controller-based networks with traditional networks, understanding automation ideas, and comprehending JSON data.

How to Become Certified as a CCNA?

You must pass Cisco’s 200-301 CCNA exam to earn your CCNA certification. There are no requirements for the test, although according to Cisco, CCNA candidates often possess the following knowledge before sitting for it:

• Using and implementing Cisco solutions for at least a year
• Basic familiarity with IP addresses
• Understanding of network basics

If you are looking to earn your CCNA certification, you will need to pass the CCNA exam. Here are some tips to help in your preparation:

• Understand the CCNA Exam Format

The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) exam is a 90-minute, 50–60 question assessment designed to test your knowledge of network fundamentals. There are written and practical sections to the exam. For the written portion, you will be asked questions about network concepts, theory, and configuration. You will be asked to configure a small network using actual equipment for the practical portion.

• Know Your Networking Fundamentals

Before studying for the CCNA exam, you must have a strong understanding of networking fundamentals. If you are new to networking, brush up on concepts like IP addressing, subnetting, and routing before starting your CCNA studies.

• Create a Study Plan

Make a study plan after gathering all the required materials. Depending on your time before the exam. You can use the reference study guide of CCNA published by IPSpecialist and is also available on Amazon:

https://amzn.to/3APhng7 

• Take CCNA Practice Exams

Practice tests are among the most acceptable ways to prepare for the CCNA exam. You will be able to become more comfortable with the exam style and determine any topics that require additional study. Be sure to simulate actual test conditions when taking practice exams, including timing yourself and working in a quiet environment.

• Get CCNA Certified

Once you have earned your CCNA certification, you will be on your way to a successful career in networking. The CCNA credential is widely recognized and will open many doors for you in the IT industry.

• Take Advantage of CCNA Resources

IPSpecialist has launched CCNA. Now it is releasing CCNP Security (SCOR) and CCNP Enterprise ENCORE. IPSpecialist is engaged in developing multiple CCNP concentration exams as well.

• Stay Up-to-Date on Networking Technologies

The networking world is constantly evolving, so staying up-to-date on the latest technologies is essential.

What advantages come with holding a CCNA certification?

The following are the key advantages of passing the CCNA exam:

• Knowledge

Those who pass the test demonstrate a basic understanding of managing a network.

• Skills

Passing the CCNA exam gains extensive practice in various jobs and abilities.

• Credibility

The CCNA certification shows prospective employers that a candidate has Cisco’s endorsement and is knowledgeable about various Cisco networking products.

• Updating Abilities

Even seasoned IT professionals might benefit from taking and passing the CCNA since it keeps them current on networking advances.

Conclusion

Earning your CCNA certification is a great way to advance your career in networking. By following these study tips, you can be well on your way to passing the CCNA exam and earning your credential. CCNA-certified professionals are in high demand, so now is the time to earn your certification.