The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification is a valuable and respected certification in the IT industry. It validates the skills and knowledge of networking professionals in the installation, configuration, and maintenance of Cisco routers and switches. However, Cisco offers two different paths to obtaining the CCNA certification: CCNA ICND and CCNA Intro or CCNA 640-801. How do you choose which path to take?
CCNA ICND stands for Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices, while CCNA Intro focuses on basic networking and network security. CCNA 640-801, on the other hand, is the full CCNA certification exam that covers both ICND and Intro topics. Here are some factors to consider when deciding which path to take:
Experience
If you already have some networking experience, you may benefit more from taking the CCNA ICND path. This path assumes some prior knowledge of networking concepts and focuses on the skills necessary to configure and troubleshoot Cisco devices. The CCNA ICND certification is divided into two exams, ICND1 and ICND2, and you can take them separately or in combination to earn your CCNA certification.
If you are new to networking or have very little experience, the CCNA Intro path may be a better fit for you. The Intro path covers the basics of networking, including network models, protocols, and addressing, as well as some network security concepts. This path can also be appealing if you’re looking to transition to a career in IT but don’t have any previous experience.
Time and Cost
If you’re short on time or don’t want to spend too much money on certification, the CCNA ICND path may be the best option. This path requires less time and money because you only need to take two exams instead of one. You also have the option to take the exams separately, which can help spread out the cost.
However, if you have the time and money to invest in a full CCNA certification, the CCNA 640-801 exam may be worth pursuing. This exam covers all CCNA topics and can demonstrate a more comprehensive understanding of Cisco technologies. Additionally, having a full CCNA certification can make you more competitive in the job market.
Career Goals
Your career goals can also play a role in which CCNA path you choose. If you’re interested in a career as a network administrator or network engineer, the CCNA ICND path may be the best fit. These roles typically involve configuring and maintaining network devices in a Cisco environment, and the CCNA ICND certification can demonstrate your proficiency in these areas.
If you’re interested in a career in information security, the CCNA Intro path may be more relevant. This path covers basic network security concepts, such as authentication, authorization, and accounting, as well as firewall and VPN technologies. A CCNA Intro certification can demonstrate your knowledge of these critical security concepts to potential employers.
Conclusion
Choosing the right CCNA path can be a daunting task, but considering your experience, time and budget constraints, and career goals can make it easier. If you’re already familiar with networking concepts and want to focus on Cisco technologies, the CCNA ICND path may be the best option. If you’re new to networking or interested in information security, the CCNA Intro path may be more suitable. And if you have the time and resources to invest in a full CCNA certification, the CCNA 640-801 exam can demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of Cisco technologies and make you more competitive in the job market.