How to Become a Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA Routing and Switching)

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 CCNA certification validates the ability to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot medium-size routed and switched networks. CCNA certified professionals have the knowledge and skills to make connections to remote sites via a WAN, mitigate basic security threats, and understand the requirements for wireless network access. CCNA training covers (but is not limited to) the use of these protocols: IP, Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP), Serial Line Interface Protocol Frame Relay, Routing Information Protocol Version 2 (RIPv2), VLANs, Ethernet, and access control lists (ACLs)."

PREREQUISITES:
There are no prerequisites for this certification.

TRAINING:
Cisco recommends the courses Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 1 (ICND1) & Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 2 (ICND2) for assistance in passing this certification exam. These courses are available at many learning partners in physical classroom, virtual classroom, and web based classes.

ADDITIONAL TRAINING AND REVIEW:
Additional training and practice questions are available at CCNA Additional Study Information and CCNA Practice Questions.

CERTIFICATION EXAM(S):
Once you are ready to take your exam you can register through Schedule Your CCNA Exam(s). You will need to either take exam numbers 640-822 ICND1 (lasting 90 minutes, with 50-60 questions) AND 640-816 ICND2 (lasting 75 minutes, with 45-55 questions); OR 640-802 (CCNA single exam - lasting 90 minutes, with 50-60 questions).

RECERTIFICATION:
CCNA certifications are valid for three years. To recertify, pass the ICND2 exam, or pass the current CCNA exam, or pass a CCNA Concentration exam (wireless, security, voice), or pass any 642 - XXX professional level or Cisco Specialist exam (excluding Sales Specialist exams), or pass a current CCIE or CCDE written exam.