CCNA Certification Program Overview, Prerequisites, Salary Trends & Exam Cost

The CCNA certification from Cisco is an essential qualification for professionals who want to work with Cisco networks that involve routing and switching. By obtaining this certification, individuals can acquire the technical abilities necessary to maintain the quality and efficiency of routers and network systems. Those who hold this credential are skilled at performing a range of critical tasks, including installation, configuration, troubleshooting, and problem analysis. They are also adept at verifying remote site connections, reducing security risks, and improving performance. Furthermore, CCNA holders possess expertise in using access control lists (ACLs), VLANs, and various routing protocols.

CCNA Certification Program Overview

The CCNA program by Cisco is designed for entry-level network engineers who are interested in learning basic to intermediate level networking. This program has been around for a long time and is widely recognized globally. With this certification, you will gain a better understanding of how to install, configure, troubleshoot, and operate router and switch networks. The 2020 version of the program also includes modules on programmability, security, and automation. It provides a partner-level certification with extensive training focused on the technologies required for managing IT infrastructures and networking.

To become Cisco certified in this credential, you only need to pass one exam known as the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) 200-301. This exam covers a broad range of fundamentals that are relevant to any area you may wish to specialize in. Taking the CCNA course online can greatly assist in preparing you for the exam by providing hands-on laboratory training that is applicable in real-world work scenarios.

Completing the training course not only helps you pass the exam but also earns you a Level 200 training badge, which signifies specific skills and learning outcomes that employers find valuable. Additionally, the course offers 30 Continuing Education (CE) credits that can be utilized to recertify your CCNA.

Alternatively, you can also retake the exam to recertify.

Prerequisites for CCNA exam

The CCNA examination assesses a candidate’s knowledge of networking concepts, protocols, and technologies, as well as their ability to configure, troubleshoot, and maintain Cisco network devices. To be eligible for the CCNA examination, one must fulfill the following prerequisites, as per the official website:

Basic computer literacy and operational skills: A candidate should have a basic understanding of how to use a computer, such as using a keyboard, mouse, and operating system.
Basic IP address knowledge: A candidate should have a basic understanding of IP addresses, subnetting, and other related concepts.
Fundamental network knowledge: A candidate should have a basic understanding of how networks work, including LANs, WANs, and the OSI and TCP/IP models.
Hands-on experience: A candidate should have some practical experience working with networking devices, such as routers and switches, and configuring them.
CCNA training: A candidate should have completed a Cisco-approved training course that covers the CCNA curriculum.

By fulfilling these prerequisites, a candidate can demonstrate that they have the foundational knowledge and skills required to pass the CCNA examination and become a certified networking professional.

Cost of CCNA Exam

The cost of the CCNA exam varies by country and currency. In the United States, the cost is $300. However, there are discounts available for students and veterans. It is recommended to check with the testing center for current pricing.

Salary trends for CCNA Certified professionals

The salary trend for CCNA certified professionals is quite promising in today’s job market. As technology continues to evolve, organizations require professionals who can understand, manage and troubleshoot complex networks. According to various sources, the average salary for a CCNA certified professional ranges from $50,000 to $95,000 annually. However, the salary range depends on several factors such as experience, geographical location, job position, and company size. The increasing demand for network engineers and administrators has led to a significant growth in salaries for the proficient professionals in recent years. With the constant changes in technology, it is expected that the demand for the certified professionals will continue to rise, creating more opportunities and higher salaries for those in the field.

Taking CCNA Certification training from Vinsys

Vinsys, a leading provider of training and consulting services, offers CCNA Certification training to IT professionals’ looking to enhance their skills and knowledge in networking. The credential is globally recognized and serves as a validation of one’s ability to manage and troubleshoot small to medium-sized networks. Vinsys provides comprehensive training that covers all the topics needed to pass the certification exam, including networking fundamentals, LAN switching, routing technologies, WAN technologies, and network security. The training is delivered by experienced and certified trainers who provide practical knowledge and real-world scenarios. Vinsys also offers flexible training options such as classroom, online, and corporate training, making it convenient for students to learn at their own pace and schedule.