CCNA
Definition:
CCNA is an entry or "apprentice" level networking certification. Cisco created the CCNA to recognize basic competency in computer networking, particularly for installation and support of LAN/WAN networks having 100 nodes or fewer. The CCNA covers both IP and non-IP networks including Novell IPX and AppleTalk.
Obtaining the CCNA requires passing a single certification exam. The CCNA exam, newly revised in 2002, contains 55-65 questions and lasts approximately 90 minutes. It now costs $125 (USD) to sit the exam.
Although the CCNA has no formal prerequisites, one must effectively complete hundreds of hours of study to prepare. Primarily, one must understand basic routing and switching as they relate to network design, performance and security.
Cisco offers more advanced certifications like CCNP (Cisco Certified Network Professional) and several varieties of CCIE (Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert) for those who wish to progress beyond the basic CCNA.
The Cisco CCNA network associate certification validates the ability to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot medium-size routed and switched networks, including implementation and verification of connections to remote sites in a WAN. This new curriculum includes basic mitigation of security threats, introduction to wireless networking concepts and terminology, and performance-based skills. This new curriculum also includes (but is not limited to) the use of these protocols: IP, Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP), Serial Line Interface Protocol Frame Relay, Routing Information Protocol Version 2 (RIPv2), VLANs, Ethernet, access control lists (ACLs).
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