- 1.CCNA certification provides $8,000+ average salary premium for networking professionals (Global Knowledge 2024)
- 2.Single 200-301 exam covers networking fundamentals through automation ($300, 120 minutes)
- 3.No prerequisites required but 1+ year networking experience recommended
- 4.Certification valid for 3 years; recertification required via exam or higher-level Cisco cert
$300
Exam Cost
+$8K
Salary Premium
120 min
Exam Time
3 Years
Validity Period
Why CCNA Certification Matters
The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is the most recognized entry-level networking certification globally. With Cisco holding 53.6% of the enterprise networking market share (Q3 2024), CCNA certification validates skills that employers actively seek.
According to the Global Knowledge IT Skills Report, CCNA-certified professionals earn an average of $8,000 more than non-certified networking professionals. The certification is particularly valuable for network administrators and those pursuing cybersecurity careers where networking knowledge is fundamental.
- Industry Standard: CCNA is the gold standard for networking fundamentals certification
- Salary Boost: $8,000+ average premium over non-certified professionals
- Career Foundation: Essential stepping stone to advanced networking and security roles
- Vendor-Neutral Skills: Despite being Cisco-focused, covers universal networking concepts
CCNA Exam Overview
The current CCNA certification requires passing a single exam: 200-301 CCNA. This consolidated exam replaced the previous track system in February 2020, simplifying the certification path while maintaining comprehensive coverage.
Source: Cisco Certification
| Aspect | Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Exam Code | 200-301 CCNA | Single exam covers all topics |
| Duration | 120 minutes | Extended from previous 90 minutes |
| Questions | 95-105 questions | Multiple choice, drag-and-drop, simulations |
| Passing Score | 825/1000 | Cisco uses scaled scoring |
| Cost | $300 USD | Same globally except for country-specific taxes |
| Languages | English, Japanese | Additional languages vary by region |
Exam Topics and Blueprint
The CCNA exam covers six major domains with specific weightings. Understanding these percentages helps focus study time effectively.
| Key Topics | ||
|---|---|---|
| Network Fundamentals | 20% | OSI/TCP models, Ethernet, IPv4/IPv6 addressing |
| Network Access | 20% | VLANs, trunking, EtherChannel, wireless concepts |
| IP Connectivity | 25% | Routing concepts, OSPF, EIGRP, default routes |
| IP Services | 10% | DHCP, DNS, NAT, NTP, QoS concepts |
| Security Fundamentals | 15% | Security concepts, device access control, VPNs |
| Automation and Programmability | 10% | REST APIs, JSON/XML, network automation tools |
Study Resources and Timeline
Effective CCNA preparation combines multiple resource types. Most candidates need 3-6 months of consistent study, depending on networking background.
Comprehensive but expensive resources directly from Cisco.
Key Skills
Common Jobs
- • Network Administrator
- • Network Engineer
Structured video learning with labs and practice.
Key Skills
Common Jobs
- • Network Technician
- • IT Support
Essential for practical skills and simulation questions.
Key Skills
Common Jobs
- • All networking roles
Critical for understanding exam format and difficulty.
Key Skills
Common Jobs
- • All roles preparing for CCNA
CCNA Study Timeline (3-6 Months)
Months 1-2: Foundation Building
Study network fundamentals, subnetting, and basic routing. Use official cert guide or video course. Practice with Packet Tracer daily.
Month 3-4: Advanced Topics
Learn VLANs, routing protocols (OSPF, EIGRP), and security concepts. Build lab scenarios. Start practice exams to identify weak areas.
Month 5-6: Exam Preparation
Focus on automation/programmability topics. Take multiple practice exams. Review weak areas. Schedule exam when consistently scoring 85%+.
Final Week: Review and Rest
Light review of key concepts. Avoid cramming new material. Rest well before exam day. Confirm exam logistics and location.
CCNA vs Degree: Which Path to Choose?
CCNA certification and networking degrees serve different career purposes. The optimal choice depends on your timeline, career goals, and current situation.
CCNA Certification
Focused, practical validation
Network Administration Degree
Comprehensive, foundational education
Our recommendation: For immediate networking career entry, CCNA provides faster ROI. For comprehensive IT foundations and management track potential, combine both—a network administration degree provides breadth while CCNA proves current technical skills. Many professionals start with CCNA then pursue degrees for career advancement.
Career Paths
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Monitor network security, investigate threats, and implement security controls—networking knowledge is foundational.
Network Security Specialist
SOC 15-1212Focus on network security architecture, firewall configuration, and VPN implementation.
Prerequisites and Experience Requirements
CCNA has no formal prerequisites, making it accessible to networking newcomers. However, Cisco recommends 1+ years of networking experience for optimal success rates.
Which Should You Choose?
- Want to start a networking career quickly
- Need validation of networking skills for current role
- Are pursuing cybersecurity and need networking foundation
- Want industry-recognized credential without degree commitment
- Have zero IT experience (consider CompTIA Network+ first)
- Want cloud-focused career (consider AWS/Azure certs)
- Are primarily interested in programming (focus on coding skills)
- Need broad IT knowledge beyond networking
- Want maximum career flexibility and advancement potential
- Are early in career with time for both
- Target management roles eventually
- Need degree for specific employer requirements
Recertification Requirements
CCNA certification expires after 3 years. Cisco offers multiple recertification paths, providing flexibility for maintaining your credential.
- Retake CCNA exam: Pass the current 200-301 exam again
- Earn higher Cisco certification: Any professional-level cert automatically renews CCNA
- Continuing education: Complete qualifying training courses (varies by program)
- Specialist certifications: Some specialist exams can extend CCNA validity
CCNA Certification FAQ
Related Degree Programs
Related Skills & Certifications
Career Guides
Sources and References
Official exam details and requirements
Salary data for IT certifications
Network administrator employment statistics
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.