Foundational networking certification covering IP connectivity, network access, security fundamentals, automation, and programmability. Single exam format (200-301). Widely required for network engineering roles.
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May 9, 2026
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Gold-standard networking cert. Even with vendor-neutral alternatives (Net+, Juniper JNCIA), CCNA remains the most-asked-for in network-engineering job postings. Jeremy's IT Lab on YouTube cited as best free 2024 resource.
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May 9, 2026
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Worth Cost
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Exam Difficulty
Current 200-301 version added automation/programmability content (Python, REST APIs, Ansible). Some career-network-engineers feel this dilutes the core. Hands-on labs in Packet Tracer / Cisco Modeling Labs essential.
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May 9, 2026
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Recommended next steps: CCNP Enterprise for core networking, CCNP Security for security-track, or DevNet Associate for automation-focused roles. CCIE remains the technical-elite endgame.
Aggregated from "CCNA still relevant?" threads
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May 9, 2026
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Exam Difficulty
$330 fee + Cisco textbook costs + lab software adds up. SDN and cloud-networking careers ask less for CCNA than 5 years ago — Azure/AWS networking certs growing fast in relevance.
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May 9, 2026
HR Value
Worth Cost
Learning
Exam Difficulty
Career-switchers from non-IT backgrounds frequently land first NOC / junior network roles after CCNA. Cisco's training discount ($165 retake voucher) helps soften the blow if you fail first attempt.
Free YouTube playlist + Anki decks + Packet Tracer labs. Most-recommended free CCNA prep on r/ccna.
The definitive CCNA textbook. Two-volume set covering the full blueprint.
Industry-standard CCNA practice exams. Considered harder than the real exam — good thing.
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2h
Pass Score
825/1000
Remote Proctored
Test center only
Exam Languages
Study Time
~120 hours