ccna

Everything You Need To Know To Start A Career In CCNA - TOPS Technologies

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Hiren

Last Updated: 22 Jan 2024


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Introduction

CCNA full form stands for Cisco Certified Network Associate It is a type of technical certification that Cisco provides for networking experts and is supplied by Cisco. The CCNA course program is intended to increase, enhance, and assess an individual’s understanding of networking. The certification demonstrates that the holder possesses the broad skills necessary to install, secure, operate, and troubleshoot problems that occur inside business networks. The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification provides IT workers with extensive knowledge of networking principles. It assists networking professionals in keeping their present skills and knowledge current by providing this resource. Accreditation broadens one’s career prospects within the networking industry. The person who holds the certification will find it easier to grow in his profession, receive promotions, and find new employment prospects, some of which come with bigger pay packages. The CCNA course duration may vary across different training programs, on average, it takes a year.

The CCNA Certification Exam includes a wide variety of interesting and important subject areas that are required for networking professionals. This Cisco certification provides an overview of the fundamentals of networking and IP connectivity, including topics such as the components of the routing table, IPv4 and IPv6 static routing, various IP services (DHCP, DNS, SNMP, FTP, and so on), as well as the fundamentals of network security and automation and programmability.

The following subjects are discussed in it:

  • Basics of the network
  • Access to the network
  • Connectivity via Internet Protocol (IP)
  • Internet protocol services
  • Pillars of safety and defense
  • Programmability and automated processes

On February 24, 2020, Cisco implemented a number of substantial modifications to the structure of its exams, with the primary goals of streamlining the process and increasing its adaptability. In addition to that, it aimed to bring the test up to date with the requirements of the current industry. In the past, Cisco provided a variety of CCNAs that catered to various networking subspecialties. The most recent upgrade combined all of these certifications into a single one called CCNA, which is now considered to be the basic credential for all Cisco-based professional routes.


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Four different levels of certification are offered by Cisco:

There is just one sort of certification offered by Cisco for beginners: the Cisco Certified Technician certification. This certification may be earned in one of three technological tracks: routing and switching, data center, or collaboration. This certification is not required in order to get a CCNA or any other higher-level credential because it is intended for technical support professions.

Cisco, in addition to supplying products and services, also offers certifications in a variety of fields, including routing and switching, security, collaboration, data centre, service provider, cloud, wireless, and industrial. These certifications may be found at the Cisco Certification Center. Certification denotes its existence at one of four levels, which are referred to as Entry, Associate, Professional, and Expert respectively. The Architect Certification is the highest level of certification that Cisco offers to its customers.

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 Entry Level : 

Two certifications are required to reach the entry level: the CCENT, which stands for Cisco Certified Entry Level Technician, and the CCT (Cisco Certified Technician). In order to obtain the Associate Level Certification, a candidate is required to have any one of these certificates. The CCENT certification opens the door to entry-level roles as network operators and marks the beginning of a groundbreaking career in networking. In addition to that, CCT encompasses CCT Routing and Switching as well as CCT Data Center.

Associate Level : 

The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Certification and the Cisco Certified Design Associate (CCDA) Certification are both included in the Associate Level. Candidates can gain the skills necessary to establish, manage, and troubleshoot fundamental corporate networks by earning Associate Level Certifications. The CCNA serves as the basis for further levels of certification. The Routing and Switching, Service Provider, Collaboration, Data Center, Cyber Ops, Security, Wireless, Cloud, and Industrial domains are the ones that candidates must master in order to pass the Associate level certification exam.

Professional Level : 

The Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Certification and the Cisco Certified Design Professional (CCDP) Certification are both included in the Professional Level. Certification at the Professional Level is an advanced level of certification that demonstrates an expert’s command of networking abilities. Each Certification covers a separate technology, which includes routing and switching, service provider, collaboration, data centre, security, wireless networking, and cloud computing.

Expert Level:

 Certifications such as CCIE, which stands for Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert, and CCDE, which stands for Cisco Certified Design Expert, are included in the Expert Level. The Expert Level Credential is a certification that is respected and recognized all over the world. The CCIE and CCDE communities have solidified their position as leaders in the industry thanks to their extensive professional experience and expertise. The certifications that make up the expert level are as follows: Routing and Switching, Service Provider, Collaboration, Data Center, Security, and Wireless.

Architect Level:

The Cisco Certified Architect (CCAr) certification is the highest level of training that Cisco offers in its certification program. This certification enables network architects to develop methodical standards that organizations may use to support their goals.

Before Cisco introduced modifications to its certification programme in 2020, CCNA was required to take any test leading to higher-level certifications, such as Cisco Certified Network Professional and Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert. These changes took effect in 2020. This is not the situation any more. At this time, there are no formal qualifications, and individuals are free to take examinations whenever they believe they are prepared to do so. Cisco does, however, offer suggestions on the degree of competence required to pass particular examinations.

The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification remains an essential prerequisite for achieving other networking credentials. No matter what the recipient decides to concentrate on in the years to come, having this qualification will be beneficial to them.

Basic Advantages Of CCNA certification 

The following is a list of the primary advantages that come with earning the CCNA certification:

Knowledge. Those that are successful on the exam demonstrate that they have a fundamental understanding of how to manage a network.

Skills. A candidate who is successful in passing the CCNA test will receive extensive experience in a variety of activities and abilities.

Credibility  If a candidate has the CCNA certification on their CV, potential employers are able to see that the individual has been validated by Cisco and has experience working with a variety of Cisco networking technologies.

Updating skills.  Even for experienced IT workers, earning their CCNA certification by studying and passing the exam is beneficial since it allows them to remain current on the latest networking advancements.

Pay  According to the “2020 IT Skills and Salary Report” published by Global Knowledge, obtaining a new IT certification results in a salary rise of about 3,000$on average. 

Versatility  The Bureau of Labor Statistics of the United States made the projection that the need for IT specialists will continue to rise. Because of the versatility of the CCNA certification, obtaining it can be beneficial to a number of different IT job pathways.

Why Should One Do A CCNA Certification?

1. Worldwide acceptance of CCNA Certification

 Cisco is now the industry leader, and as a business, it is becoming more well-known around the world. The Cisco Certifications have proven to be essential components of the Networking industry. The knowledge and lab exercise modules that are included in Cisco Certification are of the highest quality, and they help candidates advance in their professions.

2. Constantly revising the course syllabus 

Since technological developments occur on a daily basis Nearly every day, we come across an original innovation that no one else has. As a result, the curriculum of the course has to be revised in order to bring the potential students up to speed with the abilities necessary to work with technology. CCNA course syllabus are modeled to help candidates recollect and retain their course syllabus.

3. Increases Earning Potential by Qualifying for Jobs with Higher Pay

 The CCNA curriculum provides students with essential fundamental-level information. The applicant will be prepared after completing the CCNA Certification, which includes hands-on lab skills. Therefore, businesses are more interested in applicants who have a CCNA Certification.

4. Candidates with CCNA certification are given first preference

 Candidates for the CCNA certification are equipped with the knowledge and abilities necessary to manage even the most complex network infrastructures. They are self-assured in their ability to set up, manage, and troubleshoot the network infrastructures.

5. The CCNA Routing and Switching certification is an absolute necessity: 

For the majority of the domains, having the CCNA Routing and Switching Certification is strongly recommended as a prerequisite. Candidates for CCNA Certification receive instruction in fundamental topics in order to prepare them for the exam. It not only trains the candidates to manage the technologies that are now in use, but also prepares them to handle the technologies of the next generation.

6. The fast expansion of networks: 

Networking is becoming increasingly prevalent in all spheres of activity. Networking will always be the most preferred career choice by candidates because every industry needs networks to run their business. Because of this, Networking will always be the most preferred career choice by candidates. Additionally, the industry will never run out of jobs, which demonstrates that the CCNA Scope is exorbitant for candidates all over the world.

7. CCNA aids in promotion

 Additionally, if anyone is currently employed in the information technology industry, having a CCNA Certification may be beneficial for their career advancement. Because of the core curriculum and hands-on lab modules, CCNA Certification will aid the applicant in their day-to-day employment. This will help the candidate get promoted. 

8. Obtaining a CCNA certification is a gateway to a variety of new fields: 

The knowledge and skills required to earn a CCNA certification are utilized not only in the networking industry, but also in a wide variety of other fields, such as computer hardware, computer games, defense and space, motion pictures and films, and many more. As a result, the CCNA Scope is reflected in a variety of diverse areas.

9. The CCNA provides a comprehensive selection of Training Options:

Candidates for the CCNA Certification can choose from a wide range of subfields to specialize in, including routing and switching; security; collaboration; service provider; and so on. As a result, the CCNA Scope is quite expansive, and candidates have the freedom to pick the field in which they choose to concentrate their studies.

10. Benefit in re-certification: 

Cisco often updates the knowledge database, and Re-Certification takes place every three years so that professionals may keep themselves up to speed with ongoing trends and technology.

CCNA Certification – Is It Worth It?

The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification is widely regarded as one of the most valuable and desirable credentials for building successful professional careers. Monitoring, controlling, and maintaining the network foundation are the primary objectives of the CCNA certification. In addition to this, it covers the fundamentals of networking and the operation of various networking devices such as routers, switches, and repeaters. Another advantage of obtaining this certification is that it provides training on the most recent and cutting-edge network technologies, such as programmability and automation. Professionals who get the CCNA certification acquire the abilities necessary for the installation and maintenance of an organization’s complete network.

The credibility that Cisco enjoys among competitors is perhaps one of the most important benefits associated with earning the CCNA certification. Cisco is always working to enhance the quality of its products and services. Over time, both its popularity and its proportion of the market have grown significantly. Employers have a strong preference for people with Cisco qualifications when it comes to filling networking-related employment opportunities. The inclusion of this qualification on any CV will make a favorable impression on the people who are in charge of hiring new employees. Candidates will be able to demonstrate their professional understanding of network principles, IP services, and network security if they have this Cisco CCNA certificate.

Describes the practical applications of the knowledge gained.

Ensure to have greater prospects for one’s career and a bigger wage package.

Move forward with assurance in their professional endeavors.

Acquire the digital badges, then connect them to the appropriate social media accounts.

Perks Of CCNA Certification

1. Expertise

In the same way that gaining any other IT certification or higher level degree would enhance one’s knowledge, attaining the CCNA certification will do the same thing. In addition to achieving the CCNA certification, it will expand the knowledge of Cisco networking and gain a fundamental understanding of how the system functions. One’s professional life will benefit greatly from having this information.

2. An Increase in Salary Upon Completion of the CCNA Exam

An increase in one’s wage is another significant benefit that comes along with having a Cisco Certified Network Associate certification. Either inside the organization that one is already a part of or within the organization that he or she will soon be a part of. After earning the CCNA certification, he or she will be in a better position to enhance their wage and negotiate a higher one than a non-certified professional working in the same job.

3. Accolade of merit

Once the CNA certification is secured, it will not only make a raise in pay, but will also have better opportunities for promotion. Getting a CCNA certification will speed up the process of getting promoted and help candidates advance further in their job.

4. Advantages for the Organization

Familiarity with current trends and advancements in technology will not only be beneficial to one’s career, but it will also be beneficial to the business one works for. When companies hire Cisco-certified personnel, they are eligible for significant price reductions on all Cisco-branded goods and services.

5. Excellent Prospects for Professional Advancement

The networking business has a wealth of opportunities for professional advancement, making it an excellent choice for those who are either just beginning their careers or switching gears. The technology that people use every day is advancing, and this includes the technologies that organizations and governments use, which require competent professionals to manage the operation and security of their networks. There is still progress to be made in the networking business.

Job Roles After CCNA Certification

Technical support engineer

A customer or employee of a corporation may reach out to a technical support professional for assistance in resolving a technical issue that they are experiencing with their computer or other electronic equipment. They may screen incoming emails, screen incoming phone calls, engage in live chats with consumers, answer phones, or sit next to colleagues to instruct them on how to use their gadgets. In addition to submitting bills to clients, issue solving, suggesting remedies that are practical, and writing basic documentation for technological operations are also possible responsibilities of technical support engineers.

Network administrator

A company’s networks are managed by someone called a network administrator. They also provide personnel with training on how to maintain the network clean and functioning properly, in addition to troubleshooting and optimizing the network, managing updates, doing routine maintenance, and performing regular maintenance. Administrators of networks are also responsible for ensuring the security of an organization’s networks, assigning rights to staff members, and making recommendations on the tools and software that can assist in the operation of a network.

Data center technician

The upkeep and security of an organization’s servers falls under the purview of the data centre technician. They will install and upgrade these servers, as well as solve any ongoing difficulties that may occur, run diagnostics to discover faults, and maybe replace components if necessary. In addition, data center personnel document their work and keep event logs so that they may go back to previously completed tasks as necessary.

IT security specialist

The primary responsibilities of an information technology security expert consist of ensuring the integrity and security of an organization’s various computer systems. They conduct research and select protection tools, such as those that recognise malware or protect against cybersecurity threats. Additionally, they may decide to encrypt emails and other communications between individuals within the company and customers and clients located outside the organization. IT security professionals are responsible for updating systems, constructing firewalls, and limiting access to private data that is held on computers, networks, and servers.

VoIP engineer

A voice over internet protocol, or VoIP, engineer is the person in charge of implementing and managing a company’s VoIP systems. VoIP stands for “voice over internet protocol.” They set up the internal telephone systems, get the necessary hardware and accessories, and install the necessary software in order to meet the requirements of the business. In addition to these responsibilities, VoIP engineers are responsible for connecting the company’s phone systems to the network, troubleshooting any problems that may arise, making recommendations for data services, managing users’ rights, and training users.

Information security analyst

An information security analyst works to improve the safety of the networks that a business utilizes. They execute monitoring, generate reports, install software to secure proprietary information and private customer data, and conduct testing to determine the extent to which the organization is vulnerable to security breaches. Information security analysts are also responsible for developing firm rules and processes to ensure that workers support the organization’s security efforts and refrain from performing actions that might put the company’s network at risk of being compromised.

Telecom engineer

The task of linking an organization’s many communication technologies falls on the shoulders of a telecom engineer. They deal with a variety of systems, including video, data, and voice, and execute activities such as the installation of equipment, the transmission of communication data, the reconfiguration of networks and systems, and the installation of equipment. Additionally, telecom engineers are responsible for the acquisition of new hardware and, when necessary, the performance of upgrades.

Wireless engineer

A wireless engineer’s job is to ensure that the internet connection in a particular location or for a company continues to function at its best. They are responsible for the installation, maintenance, and updating of wireless equipment, as well as the management of networks, the troubleshooting and repair of internet problems, the management of firewalls and permissions, the testing of networks and routers, and the creation of router protocols.

Network security engineer

A network security engineer is responsible for designing various types of security solutions. In addition to that, they optimize these systems, instruct users on how to use them, audit network protocols, plan system updates to increase the system’s performance, and produce documentation for all users. Network security engineers are also responsible for anticipating potential security risks, such as natural catastrophes and the damage they may do, and developing solutions that may protect the networks from these potential dangers. Additionally, they could be responsible for managing a group of network security specialists.

Director of information technology

An organization’s IT department is under the purview of a director of information technology, who is accountable for its daily operations. They are responsible for the management of information technology projects, the creation of employee schedules, the monitoring of business activities, collaboration with other company professionals to develop solutions to existing problems, the acquisition of information technology vendors for the organization, and the research of new technologies from which the organization may benefit. It is common practice for IT directors to be responsible for managing their department’s budget and providing top executives with reports on how their department is performing.

Average Salary After CCNA Certification

PayScale reports that the income range for a CCNA in India is around INR 4-7 LPA. The amount of money that CCNA programme graduates make is directly proportional to the amount of knowledge and expertise that they have obtained upon graduation. When compared to the typical salaries of other graduates with experience, the CCNA entry-level wage is quite modest. With their hands-on experience and their ability to network, the students have the option of working in either the public or the private sector. Students who have completed the Cisco Certified Network Associate certification course can find employment opportunities at a variety of the industry’s most reputable networking firms.

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Network Engineer           INR 3.50 LPA

Senior Network Engineer INR 7.14 LPA

Network Administrator INR 3.93 LPA

Software Engineer               INR 5.86 LPA

Technical Support Engineer INR 3.08 LPA

The CCNA training opens the door to a plethora of work prospects in the government’s information technology departments as well as other IT-based firms run by the government. Graduates of the CCNA programme may also find work in the following fields: management trainee (computer science), scientist, scientific assistant, computer programmer, project engineers assistant, different managers executives, senior executives (IT), and other related fields. The average pay for a CCNA certification course graduate working for the government in India is between 2 and 6 LPA.

FAQs

What is a CCNA Course?

Cisco Certified Network Associate is the complete version of the CCNA certification, which is a certificate course that lasts for around 1.5 years and focuses on the skills necessary to install, build, operate, troubleshoot, and switch systems. The training is provided by Cisco Networks and is meant to improve an individual’s knowledge of network basics, network access, IP connection, IP services, security fundamentals, automation, and programmability. The training is offered by Cisco Networks.

How Long is the CCNA Course?

Different training institutes give a distinct time schedule for a certain CCNA course. However, it is contingent on the efforts made by the aspirant as well as their ability. The examination is often carried out after a period of thirty days, one month, or six months. The target score for the aspirant is somewhere between 810 and 850 out of a potential 1000 points. The Certified Network Associate credential is valid for a period of three years. As a consequence of this, individuals may choose to repeat the examination after a period of three years in order to verify that their certification is still current.

What Is The Fee For CCNA Certification Course?

The CCNA course fees in India may vary depending on the infrastructure and facilities provided by the institutions and universities that are part of the education system there. The CCNA exam costs between INR 25,000 and 30,000 in India on average per candidate. The CCNA prices are distinct from those of other computer certification courses offered in India, and there is a significant amount of interest in this particular training programme among networking businesses. When compared to the comparable rates in other countries, the CCNA certification fees are around average.

What Is CCNA Salary In India?

Those who complete CCNA training in India may expect an average income package of between 4 and 7 LPA (Indian Rupees) (Source: Payscale). The level of expertise and job experience in the networking industry that the student already possesses is a significant factor in determining the amount of money that will be awarded to them as a starting wage. In recent times, the information technology age has expanded, which has resulted in an increase in the number of work prospects available to graduates who have finished this degree. In recent years, networking companies have been providing salaries that are far higher than those offered by other types of networking businesses. As a result, graduates of the CCNA course will have access to a substantial pool of employment options.

What Is The Career Scope After CCNA?

The graduates of a CCNA Full Course at a college will have a suitable number of employment alternatives available to them. Students who enroll in CCNA programs at institutions in India receive both theoretical and practical training, which assists them in the development of their professional careers.  CCNA courses in India are becoming popular and giving great results to Candidates in their careers. Candidates who successfully complete this training will be able to work for any of the leading networking companies and have a promising career moving forward. Students who complete the CCNA programme have the option of applying for a variety of career options, some of which are as follows:

  • Network Engineer
  • Network Technician
  • Network Associate
  • Network Support Engineer
  • System Administrator
  • System Engineer
  • Technical Support Engineer
  • Information Technology (IT) Manager
  • Senior Network Engineer
  • Network Security Specialist

How To Get CCNA Certification?

Candidates will need to take the CCNA test, number 200-301, that is provided by Cisco in order to earn the CCNA certification. Although there are no requirements for the test, Cisco states that candidates for the CCNA certification typically have the following experience before taking the exam: A minimum of one year of experience utilizing and putting into action Cisco products and solutions.

The top technologies course is designed to teach students about the latest and greatest technologies. Check out our YouTube channel for more information on any course, such as CCNA, graphic design, and web design, among others, It will cover topics like web development, cyber security, programming languages, and more. If you want to be successful in the IT field, it's important that you have a good understanding of all the latest technologies. The training course is perfect for anyone who needs to be ready for a career in the IT field. Learn android programming from our expert trainers and gain skills that are in high demand! The training course is perfect for anyone who needs to be ready for a career in the IT field. Learn android programming from our android training institute. We provide the best CCNA Course in Surat,  Vadodara, Ahmedabad, Rajkot, and Nagpur with live projects and 100% placement assistance.

Author Bio: 

Niral Modi works as a Chief Executive Officer at TOPS Technologies, which is an Education company with an estimated 303 employees; and was founded in 2008. They are part of the Executive team within the C-Suite Department, and their management level is C-Level. Niral is currently based in Chicago, United States.

TOPS Technologies offer The Best CCNA Course in RajkotGraphic Designing & Web Design Training through Live Project Training. Having tie-ups with 3000+ IT software development companies, We provide a 100% Job Guarantee in Software Development Courses. We are known for our training courses in PHP, Python, Java, Android & iOS, Asp. Net, C & C++, Angular Courses, IoT, Software Testing, CCNA, Cloud Computing, Ethical Hacking, Hardware Networking, Cyber Security Training, Digital Marketing, MVC Training, hardware and networking training institutesand SEO. We also teach Laravel, Nodejs, Unity 3D Game Development, Machine Learning with Python, Data Science, and Linux server training!



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