How to Become a Cisco Certified Design Associate (CCDA Certification)

Cisco network certifications are some of the most sought after IT (Information Technology) certifications. There are four levels of Cisco certifications (Entry, Associate, Professional, and Expert) to enhance your professional credentials. Specialist certifications are also offered to verify focused knowledge in many topics. According to Cisco, "The CCDA indicates a foundation or apprentice knowledge of network design for the Cisco converged network. CCDA certified professionals can design routed and switched network infrastructures and services involving LAN, WAN, and broadband access for businesses and organizations."

PREREQUISITES:

CCNA level knowledge and BCMSN level knowledge is needed to prepare for the CCDA certification exam.

TRAINING:

Cisco recommends the course Designing for Cisco Internetwork Solutions (DESGN) for assistance in passing this certification exam. This course is available at many learning partners in physical classroom and virtual classroom classes.

ADDITIONAL TRAINING AND REVIEW:

Additional training and practice questions are available at the CCDA Additional Study Information and CCDA Practice Questions.

CERTIFICATION EXAM :

Once you are ready to take your exam you can register through Schedule Your CCDA Exam. The exam number 640-863 DESGN. It lasts 90 minutes and contains 65 questions.

RECERTIFICATION:

CCDA certifications are valid for three years. To recertify, either pass the current CCDA exam, or pass any 642 professional level or Cisco Specialist exam (excluding Sales Specialist exams), or pass a current CCIE written exam.