The CCNA Certification Test
To achieve the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification, you must pass one exam: 200-301 CCNA. The exam typically includes 100–120 questions and must be completed within 120 minutes. Upon completing the exam (and any required survey), candidates typically receive their results within a few days. CCNA focuses on foundational networking knowledge and skills required to install, operate, configure, and troubleshoot small to medium-sized networks.
Passing Score
Cisco does not publicly disclose the exact passing score for the CCNA exam. At the end of your exam, you'll see your percentages in each of the exam objective categories.
Exam Objectives
While Cisco occasionally updates exam domains, the 200-301 CCNA exam generally covers:
- Network Fundamentals – 20%
- Network Access – 20%
- IP Connectivity – 25%
- IP Services – 10%
- Security Fundamentals – 15%
- Automation and Programmability – 10%
Price
- ~$300 USD (price may vary by region or currency).
Performance-Based Questions (Simulations)
Similar to other Cisco exams, the CCNA (200-301) includes simulation-style questions. These test your ability to configure and troubleshoot real-world scenarios in simulated network devices. Tasks may include:
- Configuring routers or switches.
- Troubleshooting IP connectivity or routing protocols.
- Implementing VLANs, trunking, or STP.
These simulations assess practical, hands-on skills to ensure certified professionals can apply networking concepts in production environments.
Study Methods
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Courses & Online Training
- Cisco Networking Academy: Official Cisco training modules and networking fundamentals courses.
- Jeremy's IT Lab's Free CCNA Course
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Practice Exams
- TechExam.Pro offers 100+ free practice questions
- Boson's ExSim-Max Practice Exams (Simulations included) - Code: JamesyTech for 15% off
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Hands-On Labs
- Packet Tracer: Free Cisco network simulation tool that replicates router and switch configurations in a virtual environment.
- GNS3 or EVE-NG: Advanced network emulators for realistic lab setups
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Official Cisco Resources
- Cisco Press Books: Official study guides, lab manuals, and practice question banks.
- Cisco Learning Network: Forums, webinars, study groups, and exam blueprints.
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Books and Guides
Exam Administration
- In-Person Testing: Taken at a Pearson VUE authorized testing center.
- Online Testing: Completed remotely through Pearson OnVUE, allowing you to test from home or another convenient location. Specific technical and environmental requirements must be met for online proctoring.
Continuing Education (CE) Program
Cisco certifications, including CCNA, are valid for three years from the date of issue. To keep your CCNA active, you must recertify by one of the following methods:
- Passing a Current Cisco Exam (e.g., the latest CCNA).
- Completing Cisco Continuing Education Credits (earn CE credits through authorized activities such as Cisco Live sessions, official training courses, or instructor-led classes).
- Earning a Higher-Level Cisco Certification (e.g., CCNP).
Exam Retake Policies
Cisco’s retake policies for the CCNA exam are as follows:
- First to Second Attempt: Candidates must wait 5 calendar days before retaking.
- Subsequent Attempts: Candidates must wait 5 calendar days from their last attempt for each additional retake.