What if I told you that there will be a whopping 1.4 million new IT jobs by 2027 according to “The Economic Times” survey? Well, a recent study conducted by Cisco in collaboration with the International Data Corporation (IDC) reckons that this will be the case in the next decade with a keen interest in emerging technologies such as cybersecurity, Big Data, and Internet of Things among others.
With so much at stake, it begs the question, is pursuing the CCNA Routing and Switching (CCNA R&S) certification worth it? And what’s all the hype around this credential? This article aims at eliminating all your doubts regarding the prestigious CCNA R&S certification to help you make an informed decision regarding your career goals. The idea is to give you an exhaustive coverage of this certification in addition to highlighting some of the top secrets for passing the required exams at the first attempt.
An Overview of the Cisco Certifications
The Cisco credentials are the bedrock of the networking industry. Perhaps you are already aware that these credentials are offered across all career levels. The CCENT and CCT certifications act as the stepping stone towards building a career in the IT industry.
The associate level certifications, on the other hand, are best viewed as the foundational level credentials. The professional, expert, and architect level certifications finally complete this hierarchy.
About the Cisco CCNA R and S Certification
The Cisco CCNA R&S certification provides knowledge of foundational technologies in addition to ensuring you maintain your credibility in the IT industry by equipping you with the skill sets required for the implementation of the upcoming technologies. With this credential you can opt for such positions as Network Engineer, Network Technician, Sr. Network Firewall Engineer, and earn annually about $76,000.
So, there are no prerequisites for this certification and Cisco provides two paths to attain it. You can choose to pass the two separate exams 100-105 and 200-105 by codes or take one composite 200-125 test. Go on reading to find more about these exams.
CCNA 200-125 Exam
This is a compound exam that verifies your skills relating to such technologies as LAN switching, WAN, IPv4 and IPv6 routing. You also should possess skills to complete tasks that deal with infrastructure services, security and management, and be profound in network fundamentals. Naturally, this exam merges the content of 100-105 and 200-105 exams into one.
200-125 exam has a 90-minute duration and assesses 60-70 items related to the aforementioned CCNA R&S certification. This composite exam will cost you $325.
If you have opted to take the two exams separately then this is what you need to know about these tests.
Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 1(100-105) Exam
100-105 exam presents 45-55 questions that should be completed in 90 minutes. It is majorly associated with the entry-level CCENT certification that marks your first step in building a career in the networking sphere.
That being said, the 100-105 exam covers various topics including Network Fundamentals (20%), LAN Switching Technologies (26%), Routing Fundamentals (25%), Infrastructure Services (15%), and Infrastructure Maintenance (14%).
Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 2(200-125 ICND2) Exam
This exam is the last part in this series of CCNA R&S certification exams. It presents 55-65 questions to be completed in 90 minutes. The test validates your knowledge of several key topics including LAN Switching Technologies (26%), Routing Technologies (29%), WAN Technologies (16%), Infrastructure Maintenance (15%), and Infrastructure Services (14%). It’s worth mentioning that each of the two exams costs $165.
Training Options
Let’s face it, you are never going to pass your exam on the initial attempt if you lack good study materials. A few reliable websites such as PrepAway can be helpful in this regard but here are a few options from the Cisco official website worth checking out.
Self-Study Options
If you enjoy studying alone at your own pace, then Cisco’s self-study materials got you covered. From the Cisco Press that is tasked with publishing all the training materials to the CCNA R&S blog, Cisco Platinum Library as well as the CCNA R&S study group, you have tons of options to choose from.
E-Learning Platform
With the frequent need for effective learning materials, Cisco modernized its e-learning platform to accommodate the diverse needs of the candidates. With this option, you get unlimited access to the ICND1 v3.0 and ICND2 v3.0 courses to help you prepare for your test in the right way.
Practice
Nothing’s better than using the simulated exam questions to prepare for your exam. Passing your exams becomes easier if you use the Cisco-approved CCNA R&S practice exams. Besides, you can sue the Cisco Learning Lab to improve your hands-on experience in readiness for the actual test.
Exam Scheduling
Like all the Cisco certification exams, you can schedule your test through the Pearson VUE website soon after paying the exam fee.
The Bottom Line
So that marks the end. Contrary to many people’s opinions, passing the CCNA certification exams is never challenging. It all goes down to the kind of materials you use during training. Looking to certify with confidence? The above tips will help you get started on the right foot. Gain the CCNA R&S certification and build your successful career in networking within Cisco Certification Path.
I’m Francis E. Hagopian, and I’m the voice and vision behind Billionaire365.com. For the last 15 years, I’ve lived and breathed Silicon Valley culture, arming myself with insights and know-how that I can’t wait to share with you. Think of me as your personal guide in the intricate maze of technology. I specialize in translating the complex into the understandable, so you can turn knowledge into power. This isn’t just about staying in the loop; it’s about giving you the tools you need to excel in a digital age. When you’re looking for reliable tech insights, know that I’ve got your back.
