What are the prerequisites for the CCNA exam?

1 Basic Requirements

The CCNA exam does not have any formal prerequisites, such as a degree or a previous certification. However, Cisco recommends that you have at least one year of experience in network administration, or equivalent education. You should also be familiar with the basics of IP addressing, routing, switching, and security. The CCNA exam covers a wide range of topics, so you need to have a solid foundation in network fundamentals.

2 Exam Format

The CCNA exam is a 120-minute test that consists of 60 to 70 questions. The questions are a mix of multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, simulation, and performance-based. You need to score at least 825 out of 1000 to pass the exam. The exam is delivered online or at a testing center, and you can choose to take it in English or Japanese. The exam fee is $300, and you can retake it after 14 days if you fail.

3 Exam Topics

The CCNA exam covers six main domains: network fundamentals, network access, IP connectivity, IP services, security fundamentals, and automation and programmability. You can find the detailed exam blueprint on the Cisco website. It is important to master topics such as network architectures, models, and protocols; Ethernet and wireless LANs; IP addressing and subnetting; routing protocols and routing tables; NAT, DHCP, DNS, and other IP services; network security concepts and best practices; VPN, firewall, and intrusion prevention systems; and network automation and programmability tools and methods.

4 Study Resources

In order to prepare for the CCNA exam, it is recommended to use a combination of study resources such as books, videos, courses, labs, and practice tests. Many official and unofficial resources can be found online, including the official CCNA study guide and practice tests from Cisco Press, the official CCNA training course from Cisco Learning Network, the CCNA video series from CBT Nuggets or INE, the CCNA lab simulator from Boson or Packet Tracer, and the CCNA practice exams from Pearson Vue or MeasureUp.

5 Study Tips

In order to ace the CCNA exam, you should plan your study schedule and stick to it. You should also review the exam objectives and blueprint, as well as use multiple sources of information and learning styles to gain a better understanding of the material. Additionally, it is important to focus on the concepts and scenarios, rather than just the facts and commands. Practicing your skills in a lab environment or a simulator is also beneficial, as is taking practice tests and reviewing your weak areas. Finally, it is important to relax and rest before the exam day, while also reading the questions carefully and managing your time wisely.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?