Last updated on December 14, 2015
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is one of the elementary certifications of the Cisco Networking platform. The brand offers 5 certification levels ranging for entry-level to expert. The CCNA is an entry level certification dealing in managing and troubleshooting mid to small network infrastructure.The CCNA is one of the most popular Cisco certification courses and forms the basis of attaining further advanced level certifications like the CCNP, CCUM, Cisco Firewall, etc. The CCNA has a huge scope in the IT industry and as per the U.S. Bureau of Labor, the demand for CCNAs have increased by over 17%.
To be hired as a CCNA, organizations seek the following requirements:
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Common Requirements |
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| Degree Level | None required for certification; bachelor’s degree may be preferred by employers* |
| Degree Fields | Computer science, information science or engineering* |
| Experience | Varies; at least 1-2 years of experience common** |
| Certification | Voluntary; CCNA certification requires passing an exam*** |
| Key Skills | Communication, organizational, writing/documenting, troubleshooting, customer service and analytical skills** |
| Computer Skills | Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite and Cisco** |
| Technical Skills | Ability to use industry-specific tools, such as server hardware, routers and switches** |
Table courtesy: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
If you’re interested in gaining the CCNA certification, the following tips may help you:
1. Begin with attaining the entry level CCENT certification which can be done by passing the Interconnecting Cisco Networking devices (ICND1) exam. Once the CCENT certification is passed, the CCNA can be appeared for. Its advised that experience be attained from way before appearing for the CCNA exams since CCNA professionals look for several years of experience.
2. Next, start preparing for the CCNA exams using a combination of online materials, practice exams, textbooks and boot camps. For those who have taken the CCENT exams need to only appear for the ICND2 and for those who haven’t both ICND1 and ICND2.
3. Maintain your certifications by reappearing for the renewing exams. CCNA certifications have a shelf life of 3 years.
4. Consider specialized exams by choosing amongst service provider operations, security, wireless networks and voice. The specialized exams make the professionals ready to be hired by specifying their area of specialization.
Considering Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification and training? Which specialization do you want to opt for? Looking for Cisco certifications training? Get in touch with us by visiting our website at koenig-solutions.com.
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