Cisco CCNA
The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is the foundational networking certification from Cisco. It validates the ability to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot small to medium-sized networks.
Overview
Level
Associate
Vendor
Cisco
Audience
IT beginners with some computer literacy, help desk technicians moving into networking, and career changers targeting infrastructure or network engineering roles.
Why get CCNA
CCNA establishes credibility in networking. It demonstrates you understand how IP networks function—not just that you followed a tutorial. Employers use it as a baseline filter for network technician and junior engineer roles. The exam covers real-world skills: subnetting, routing protocols, switching, VLANs, security fundamentals, and network automation basics. It also satisfies a meaningful portion of the knowledge base needed for higher-level Cisco and non-Cisco certifications.
When to get CCNA
Get CCNA if you want to work in networking, network security, or infrastructure. Get it early—it opens doors before you have work experience. If you already have 2+ years of hands-on networking experience and are targeting a senior role, you may consider going directly for CCNP. CompTIA Network+ is an alternative for those who want a more vendor-neutral foundation first.
Exam details
Exam Quick Reference
- Exam Code
- 200-301
- Vendor
- Cisco
- Level
- Associate
- Duration
- 120 minutes
- Format
- Multiple choice, drag-and-drop, and simulation questions. Approximately 100–120 questions.
- Questions
- 100–120 questions (approximate; Cisco does not publish the exact count)
Renewal: CCNA is valid for 3 years. Renew by passing any Cisco exam, completing continuing education credits through the Cisco Continuing Education Program, or earning a higher-level Cisco certification.
Skills covered
Network Fundamentals
- OSI and TCP/IP models
- IP addressing and subnetting (IPv4 and IPv6)
- Ethernet and LAN switching basics
- Wireless LAN fundamentals
- Network topology types
IP Connectivity
- Static routing
- OSPF (single area)
- Default routes
- IP routing concepts and forwarding decisions
IP Services
- NAT and PAT
- DHCP
- DNS
- NTP
- SNMP
- Syslog
- QoS concepts
Security Fundamentals
- VPN concepts
- Access control lists (ACLs)
- Layer 2 security (port security, DHCP snooping, dynamic ARP inspection)
- AAA concepts
- Wireless security protocols (WPA2, WPA3)
Automation and Programmability
- Network automation concepts
- REST APIs
- JSON data formats
- Cisco DNA Center overview
- SDN and controller-based networking concepts
- Python scripting basics (conceptual)
Step-by-step study path
This sequence reflects what consistently works. Follow it in order—don't skip ahead.
- 1
Understand the exam scope
Download the official CCNA 200-301 exam topics from Cisco's website. Review every topic area before buying any course material. Knowing what the exam actually covers prevents wasted study time on irrelevant material.
- 2
Learn networking fundamentals first
If you are new to networking, start with the OSI model, IP addressing, and subnetting before touching a video course. Subnetting must become second nature before exam day. Use practice tools until you can subnet quickly without a calculator.
- 3
Work through a primary video course
Choose one comprehensive video course and work through it completely. Do not jump between multiple courses at the same time. Udemy instructors like Jeremy's IT Lab offer full CCNA courses that align directly with the exam topics. Watch, pause, and practice as you go.
- 4
Read supporting material
The official Cisco Press CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide (two-volume set) is the most thorough written resource. Use it alongside your video course to reinforce concepts, especially for topics that need more depth than video alone provides.
- 5
Build hands-on lab skills
Cisco Packet Tracer (free, requires a Cisco Networking Academy account) is the primary lab tool for most CCNA candidates. GNS3 and EVE-NG are alternatives for those who want closer-to-real-hardware simulation. Lab work is not optional—the exam includes simulation questions.
- 6
Take practice exams
Begin practice exams once you have covered all topics. Boson ExSim is widely considered the gold standard for CCNA practice tests. Aim to consistently score above 85% before scheduling your real exam. Review every wrong answer—understand why, not just what.
- 7
Review weak areas systematically
Use your practice exam results to identify weak areas. Return to your video course, notes, or the official cert guide for those specific topics. Repeat targeted practice until the weak areas become strengths.
- 8
Schedule and sit the exam
Schedule your exam through Pearson VUE. You can take it at a testing center or online proctored. Book about two weeks out to give yourself a clear deadline. The exam is 120 minutes. Arrive rested and do not cram the night before.
Starting step 3?
Jeremy's IT Lab is the most-recommended CCNA video course. See the paid resources section below for options and pricing.
View course options →Free resources
Download the official exam topics PDF directly from Cisco. This is your study roadmap.
Free, comprehensive CCNA course on YouTube. Widely regarded as one of the best free CCNA resources available.
Free network simulation tool from Cisco. Requires a free Cisco Networking Academy account.
Free interactive labs covering automation and programmability topics on the CCNA exam.
Active study community. Search before posting—most common questions are already answered.
Paid resources
The resources below are the most commonly recommended by passing CCNA candidates. Udemy prices are typical sale prices—discounts run frequently.
| Provider | Type | Price | Best for | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Udemy – Jeremy's IT Lab CCNA Course | Video Course | ~$15–$20 (on sale) | Most beginners and those who want the most thorough video-based coverage available | |
| Udemy – David Bombal CCNA Course | Video Course + Labs | ~$15–$20 (on sale) | Candidates who want strong hands-on lab coverage alongside video instruction | |
| Boson ExSim for CCNA | Practice Exam Software | ~$99 | Serious exam preparation. The most accurate CCNA practice tests available. | |
| Cisco Press Official Cert Guide (Vol 1 + 2) | Book | ~$70–$90 | Candidates who want the definitive written reference aligned to exam topics |
Udemy – Jeremy's IT Lab CCNA Course
Video Course · ~$15–$20 (on sale)
Most beginners and those who want the most thorough video-based coverage available
The premium version includes additional labs, flashcards, and quizzes beyond the free YouTube version. Frequently on sale.
Udemy – David Bombal CCNA Course
Video Course + Labs · ~$15–$20 (on sale)
Candidates who want strong hands-on lab coverage alongside video instruction
Includes GNS3 lab exercises. Good complement to Jeremy's IT Lab.
Boson ExSim for CCNA
Practice Exam Software · ~$99
Serious exam preparation. The most accurate CCNA practice tests available.
Not the cheapest option, but consistently cited by passing candidates as essential.
Cisco Press Official Cert Guide (Vol 1 + 2)
Book · ~$70–$90
Candidates who want the definitive written reference aligned to exam topics
Thorough but dense. Best used alongside a video course, not as a standalone resource.
* Some links above may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Affiliate disclosure →
Vouchers & exam cost
Always verify current pricing on the official Cisco site before purchasing. Prices change periodically.
Frequently asked questions
Is CCNA good for beginners?
Yes, if you are serious about networking. It is not a trivial certification—expect 3 to 6 months of dedicated study. But it is designed as an entry-level credential and does not require prior IT experience to pass.
How long does it take to study for CCNA?
Most candidates spend 3 to 6 months studying part-time. Those with existing networking experience may prepare in 6 to 8 weeks. Those brand new to IT should plan for the longer end of that range.
How hard is the CCNA exam?
It is a legitimately challenging exam. The simulation questions require hands-on skill, not just memorization. Consistent study over several months, combined with lab practice and practice exams, is what separates passing candidates from failing ones.
What score do you need to pass CCNA?
Cisco uses a scaled scoring system with a maximum score of 1000. The passing score for CCNA 200-301 is 825. Cisco does not publish individual question weights.
Can I get a job with just CCNA?
Yes. CCNA is recognized by employers as a qualification for network technician, junior network engineer, and helpdesk-to-networking transition roles. Pairing it with hands-on homelab or real work experience significantly improves job prospects.
Is CompTIA Network+ better than CCNA?
They serve different goals. Network+ is vendor-neutral and broader; CCNA is vendor-specific and deeper. CCNA carries more weight in enterprise networking roles. Network+ is a reasonable first step if you want a gentler introduction before committing to CCNA.
What certification comes after CCNA?
The natural progression is CCNP Enterprise for networking roles, CCNP Security for security roles, or Cisco DevNet Associate for automation/programmability. The path depends on the direction you want to take your career.
Does CCNA expire?
Yes. CCNA is valid for three years. Renew it by passing any Cisco exam, completing Cisco Continuing Education credits, or earning a higher-level Cisco certification before the expiration date.
Ready to study?
Start with Jeremy's IT Lab on YouTube (free) or the Udemy course. Add Packet Tracer for labs. Use Boson ExSim when you are ready to test yourself.