Everything You Need to Know About CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate)

CCNA is a popular entry-level IT certification issued by Cisco to networking professionals who clear its CCNA 200-301 exam. The certification is an essential piece of credentials for anyone looking to start their career in IT networking.

In this certification guide, we have covered every detail of the CCNA certification, like exam details, syllabus, and career aspects after achieving the certification. By reading this guide, you will know everything about Cisco's CCNA certification.

Furthermore, if you are interested in getting online training for CCNA or any other Cisco certification, you can check out our Cisco Training Courses.

What is CCNA?

CCNA stands for Cisco Certified Network Associate. It is an entry-level certification offered by Cisco that validates foundational knowledge in networking. It equips professionals with essential skills in network fundamentals, IP connectivity, security fundamentals, and automation.

Earning a CCNA certification demonstrates the ability to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot small to medium-sized networks, opening doors to job roles such as Network Engineer, Network Specialist, and Network Administrator.

To obtain the CCNA certification, individuals must pass the CCNA 200-301 Exam, which tests the candidate's knowledge of core networking concepts like LAN and WAN technologies, network security, IP addressing and Subnetting, routing, and switching, etc. We have provided a deep explanation of the CCNA syllabus below in the article.

CCNA certification also enables professionals to pursue Cisco's specialty certifications, such as the Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) or the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE).

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Why CCNA Is a Must-Have for Networking Professionals?

Networking is the backbone of every organization's IT infrastructure. As businesses increasingly rely on secure and efficient networks, the demand for skilled networking professionals continues to grow. CCNA is a globally recognized and respected certification across the IT industry. It serves as a benchmark for foundational networking knowledge and skills.

Here are some benefits of CCNA Certification:

● Validates your knowledge of networking concepts like IP addressing, routing and switching, network security, and automation.

● CCNA proves that a candidate not only understands networking concepts but can also apply them in real-world scenarios.

● Opens doors to various job roles, including Network Engineer, System Administrator, IT Support Specialist, and more.

● It also lays the groundwork for advanced Cisco certifications like CCNP and CCIE.

● CCNA adapts to new emerging technologies, as they recently added topics like network automation and programmability in the latest CCNA exam.

● Achieving CCNA certification builds confidence and enhances professional credibility.

CCNA Exam Details 2025

Here are some details about the CCNA certification exam:

● Exam Name: Implementing and Administering Cisco Solutions

● Exam Code: 200-301 CCNA

● < b>Duration: 120 minutes

● Exam Format: Multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, simulations, and simlets

● Number of Questions: Approximately 100 (between 90-110)

● Passing Score: Variable, typically around 750-850 out of 1000

● Languages Available: English, Japanese

● Grading: Pass/Fail; results available within 48 hours

How Much Does CCNA Cost?

The global standard cost of the Cisco 200-301 CCNA exam is $300 USD. But based on your location, you might have to pay taxes on the examination fees (GST in India).

CCNA Exam Cost in India (Including Taxes)

● Base Exam Fee (Cisco Official): $300 USD

● Applicable Taxes (GST @ 18%): $54 USD

● Total Cost in India: $354 USD ≈ ₹30,300 INR (may vary based on currency exchange values)

These are the costs of just taking the exam, but if you consider the costs of training, the cost can be higher.

By enrolling in CCNA training from UniNets, you can get online training with mock tests and lab sessions at a minimal cost of ₹12,500, which can further be reduced if you purchase the course in sale.

If you're interested in exploring other Networking Certifications Training Courses and seeking guidance for what best suits your career, contact our learner advisors now!

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Detailed Syllabus for the CCNA Certification Exam

The CCNA certification exam syllabus contains 6 core subjects:

1. Network Fundamentals

2. Network Access

3. IP Connectivity

4. IP Services

5. Security Fundamentals

6. Automation and Programmability

Network Fundamentals

This CCNA course topic will include all the fundamental skills and knowledge required to set up small to medium-sized networks.

Such as components of networks and their roles, topology designs of networks, different types of physical devices and cabling types, identification of cable and interface issues, TCP to UDP comparison, virtualization, and switching concepts.

Network Access

The network access topic will cover VLAN configuration and verification, inter-switch connectivity configuration and verification, layer 2 discovery protocols configuration and verification, EtherChannel configuration and verification, the need for spanning tree protocol and its operations, Cisco wireless architecture, WLAN components, AP, and WLC management access connections.

IP Connectivity

The IP connectivity topic will cover components of the routing table, how a router makes a forwarding decision, IPv4 and IPv6 static routing configuration and verification, OSPFv2 configuration and verification, and the first-hop redundancy protocol.

IP Services

The IP services topic will cover the configuration and verification of NAT, NTP operation, the roles of DHCP and DNS in a network, SNMP functions, use of syslog features, configuration and verification of DHCP client, configuration of network devices for remote access, and the function of FTP in the network.

Security Fundamentals

This topic will cover security concepts, security program elements, device access control configuration, security password policy elements, remote access, site-to-site VPNs, access control list configuration and verification, layer 2 security features configuration, wireless security protocols, and WLAN configuration.

Automation and Programmability

The topic will cover automation impacts on network management, controller-based networking, and a JSON-encoded data overview.

Are You Eligible for CCNA Certification?

This is a common question related to the CCNA certification. There are no formal prerequisites for CCNA certification. Any graduate from any stream can apply for the CCNA certification exam.

Having one or more years of experience in implementing Cisco solutions will increase the chances of getting the certification.

Jobs For CCNA Certified Professionals

Obtaining a CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) certification improves your job prospects and opens doors to various career choices. Some popular high-paying job roles that fresher can join after CCNA certification are:

● Network Engineer

● Network Administrator

● Systems Engineer

● Network Security Specialist

● Wireless Network Engineer

● Technical Support Engineer

● Field Network Engineer

● Maintenance Engineer

● Information Technology Manager

● Networking Trainer

CCNA Certification Salary: What Can You Expect to Make?

A CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) certification opens a gateway to high-paying roles in the networking and IT infrastructure domain. Whether you're starting your career or looking to upskill, CCNA can significantly boost your earning potential.

The table below shows the earning potential of CCNA holders:

Is CCNA Worth It?

Absolutely! The CCNA certification is a strong starting point for anyone looking to build a career in IT networking. It teaches essential skills like IP addressing, routing, switching, and network security that are needed for roles like Network Engineer, Cloud Engineer, or Cybersecurity Specialist.

It is a globally recognized certification and opens up job opportunities in tech support, system administration, and network management. Certified professionals in India can earn up to ₹6 LPA, while in the US, freshers can start at $55,000+ per year.

Plus, CCNA lays the foundation for advanced paths in cloud computing, cybersecurity, and virtualization, making it a smart investment for long-term career growth.

How to Study Smart for the CCNA 200-301 Exam

There are several steps you can take to prepare for the Cisco CCNA certification exam and get CCNA certification on your first attempt:

1. Start with Cisco’s official exam blueprint to understand the exact topics covered. This helps you focus your study time on what truly matters.

2. Use Packet Tracer or GNS3 daily to build hands-on experience. Simulating real network setups makes concepts stick and improves troubleshooting skills.

3. Study in short, focused sessions (30–45 minutes) with breaks in between. This keeps your mind fresh and helps you retain information better than long cramming hours.

4. Master subnetting and IP routing early in your prep. These are core topics that appear frequently in both theory and practical questions.

5. Choose one reliable third-party course like UniNets' CCNA training videos. A structured video course can simplify complex topics and keep you motivated.

6. Take timed practice exams regularly to identify weak areas and get used to the exam format. Review your mistakes to improve faster.

7. Treat every lab task like a real-world scenario and don’t just follow instructions. Try to understand why each step matters in a live network environment. You can use our CCNA virtual lab for practice.

Summing Up!

The CCNA certification is a globally respected credential that lays the foundation for a successful career in networking and IT infrastructure. It covers essential topics like IP addressing, routing, switching, and network security.

To prepare smartly, focus on Cisco’s official blueprint, practice daily with tools like Packet Tracer, and use a reliable third-party course. Consistency, hands-on labs, and targeted practice exams are key to clearing the CCNA 200-301 certification exam on your first attempt.