A CCNA or Cisco Certified Network Administrator certification is a specialized information technology certification that qualifies individuals to operate specific Cisco technologies. The Cisco company is a leader in providing high tech networking equipment internationally. Different kinds of Cisco certification help employers to verify that their network administrators are skilled enough to handle complex hardware setups involving Cisco products.
As a popular networking certification, a CCNA certification is treated as the gold standard by many IT managers. Those who are studying for a CCNA exam need to learn a wide range of skills for handling networks. The CCNA certification is considered a vital part of training for Cisco networks and other similar hardware setups.
Those who are taking an exam for CCNA certification will learn about protocols including IP and Ethernet, as well as those associated with more proprietary technologies. They will generally learn to operate, configure, install, and troubleshoot Cisco networks. They will learn about both performance and security for networks.
The Cisco company offers detailed information on CCNA certification through their “Cisco Press” online site. According to Cisco Press, there is no prerequisite necessary for taking a CCNA certification. Beginners who are studying for CCNA may have already taken a basic A+ certification program for learning about operating systems and different hardware setups.
In Cisco’s CCNA training program, there are five progressive levels of advancement. Students begin with Entry level and progress to Associate, Professional, Expert, and Architect levels. A standard CCNA certification is valid for three years.
General trends in network complexity have made CCNA certification a valuable asset in the workplace. Networks of past times were relatively simple constructions, but the need for additional rack server technology, and advanced remote data handling has led employers to value and pursue high-level network administrators as a critical part of handling a technology-dependent business in almost any industry. Large and small businesses are ramping up internal hardware setups to compete with other firms, and professionals with a CCNA certification can help those businesses to build competitive networks and IT installations.
Individuals who complete a CCNA program may want to pursue additional Cisco certifications. The company handles a range of education initiatives focused on the use of their products. For many professionals who want to advance themselves in their IT fields, a seal of approval from Cisco can go a long way toward a relevant future in networking.