The Cisco Certified Networking Associate (CCNA) certification has become one of the biggest and most popular IT certifications. Its predominant focus is on evaluating and validating appropriate skills required to succeed in today’s sophisticated network security environment. Therefore, a CCNA certification demonstrates your ability to expand on fundamental networking skills.
Cisco overhauled most of its certification program, particularly at the CCNA level. There is now a single CCNA certification to govern them all, rather than different ones connected to specializations such as security and the cloud. Each CCNA Certification cost varies with the various levels of test options.
Table of Contents
How different is the new CCNA?
The new CCNA certification appears to be more difficult than its previous version. Previously, you could finesse your way into CCNA Routing & Switching by beginning with a CCENT, which also helped you ease into various CCNA pathways later on. This is no longer feasible.
Although the new CCNA does not eliminate emphasis areas, they have been replaced with specialist credentials. Furthermore, you can take a test covering additional networking principles, requiring a broader perspective and comprehension of the content.
The prior CCNA certification didn’t cover the fundamentals, but the new CCNA goes deeper. As a result, the exam may be more complex than the previous CCNA exam. One should have proper training before opting for the CCNA exam, as the fee is a significant factor to consider.
The new CCNA covers current network basics from start to finish. Programmability and automation, in particular, can be difficult for newer networking professionals and candidates who are familiar with basic networking but are new to automation.
How will the changes help you?
Before this change, Cisco had not made significant modifications to its certification program in a long time. However, during this period, the demands of the IT industry have shifted.
Nowadays, associate-level skill does not necessitate specialization in any one field. Someone wanting to recruit a CCNA will typically want you to have a basic grasp of Cisco applications based on which the company can mold you to its requirements.
The certifications also provide a clear advancement route to your career. For instance, when you’re ready, you’ll be able to select a specialization of Cisco allowing you to tailor your job to the requirements of the business. This also provides you with significantly more adaptability than you originally had.
The new CCNA change establishes a clear progression route, likely to boost its success rates. Besides, you can quickly shift your focus if your career has taken you in a different direction. This eventually prepares you for something like a CCNP in the region you choose to specialize in.
Is obtaining a CCNA certification genuinely worthwhile?
The following are a few reasons why the new CCNA certification can truly benefit your IT career.
- Demonstrate that you are a qualified candidate
According to a recent Cisco survey conducted by Forrester Consultants, training and certification programs are essential for recruiting and hiring people for specialized networking roles. Professional certifications were also mentioned as a close second to a four-year degree as a requirement for job qualification.
- Experience a one-of-a-kind learning network
The Cisco Learning Network is the first of its type, using a social media network as a widely studied learning platform. This is an online communication community including wikis, blogging, collaboration, and document sharing, among other things.
- Experience and knowledge
Naturally, obtaining your certification will broaden your knowledge and experience. No matter how long you’ve been in the profession, one thing is sure – you’ll learn new things that will assist your career to the next level. You will also be able to see several developments resulting from the certification procedure.
- Professional Development
Including certificates on your resume or CV might help you advance your career. The CCNA certification is recognized worldwide, which means that you will be eligible to apply for a job anywhere you go. Additionally, you could even earn a raise after obtaining your qualification.
Conclusion
Overall, the new CCNA is more complex than the previous one and expects new IT workers to have a broader range of abilities. But the good news is that it will prepare you for real-world scenarios.
By receiving this certification, you can demonstrate that you have the necessary abilities to operate today’s networks. Additionally, with Cisco being as renowned as it is, the current CCNA will offer you an advantage when attempting to secure any job.
The rising sophistication of networking technologies predicts a worldwide lack of competent networking specialists. However, you can fill these gaps in the future by obtaining the certification now. After all, the CCNA certification courses offered by trained experts can help begin and advance your networking career.
Todd VanDuzer
Latest posts by Todd VanDuzer (see all)
- Why Finding the Right Thing to Study Matters: Setting the Foundation for Success - July 26, 2023
- How USA Staff Onboarding Benefits From Innovative Software - July 26, 2023
- Top 7 Best Reasons to Get an MBA - June 7, 2023
- How to Support Your Child When They Go to College - April 29, 2023
- How to Maximize Your Job Search with Expert Resume Writers Experienced in Your Field - April 20, 2023