CCNA Certification Validity: Detailed Explanation

Got your CCNA Certification? That’s a great achievement! But did you know CCNA Certification Validity lasts only three years? To keep it active, you’ll need to renew it before it expires. If you don’t, you might miss out on job opportunities or have to start over. 

The good news? Cisco offers multiple ways to recertify, whether by taking an exam or earning continuing education credits. In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about CCNA Certification Validity, how to check your status, and the best ways to stay certified. Let’s keep your CCNA up to date!

Table of Contents

1) CCNA Certification: A Brief Introduction

2) Validity of CCNA Certification

3) How to Maintain an Active CCNA Status?

    a) Recertification

    b) Earning Continuing Education (CE) Credits

4) Conclusion

CCNA certification: A brief introduction 

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) a globally recognised certification offered by CISCO, a leading networking solutions provider. It offers the knowledge and skills required to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot networks of organisations of various sizes. However, it's important to note that the exam format includes more than just single-answer and multiple-answer multiple-choice questions. Candidates may also encounter drag-and-drop questions, testlets, and simulation-based questions.

CCNA is undoubtedly one of the highly valued networking certifications. It provides proficiency in foundational networking concepts and Cisco technologies. Having a CCNA qualification can significantly enhance job prospects and open doors to exciting career opportunities.

How to obtain a CCNA certification? 

To earn a CCNA accreditation, one must pass the CCNA exam – 200-301 – offered by Cisco. It is a 120-minute exam that offers both single-answer and multiple-answer multiple-choice questions. The examination cost is £242.15. The topics of focus for the exam and its weightage are detailed in the CCNA 200-301 syllabus and are as follows: 

1) Network Fundamentals (20%): This section tests the foundational concepts of networking, IP addressing and subnetting, network topologies, and network devices. 

2) Network Access (20%): The network access section covers topics related to LAN switching technologies, Ethernet standards, wireless LANs, and configuring and troubleshooting network access control. 

3) IP Connectivity (25%): This section evaluates the ability to configure and troubleshoot IP connectivity, static routing, and troubleshooting techniques. 

4) IP Services (10%): This section covers additional network services and protocols like Domain Name System (DNS). 

5) Security Fundamentals (15%): This section handles network security concepts and implementing security measures to protect network infrastructure. 

6) Automation and Programmability (10%): For the DevNet track, there is a specific focus on automation and programmability in networking.

7) Generative AI: Introduces fundamental concepts of generative AI and its applications in network management and security.

8) Cloud Network Management: Explores strategies for managing and optimizing cloud-based network infrastructures.

9) Machine Learning: Covers the integration of machine learning techniques into network analysis and performance optimisation.

Validity of CCNA certification 

CCNA Certification Validity lasts for three years from the date of achievement, and is not based on the issuance date of the certificate itself. So, the three-year effectiveness period begins once the candidate completes the necessary exam(s) and is awarded the CCNA accreditation 

Understanding the validity period of CCNA certification is crucial for networking professionals to plan their career development effectively. As the certificate is valid for a specific duration, professionals need to consider the implications of an expiring certificate on their job prospects and career advancement. Additionally, understanding the benefits of CCNA certification aids in making informed decisions about maintaining and renewing it for better career opportunities. 

Start your journey to becoming a Cisco Certified Network Associate with our CCNA Certification today!

How to maintain an active CCNA status?
 

Maintaining an active CCNA status is of utmost importance for networking professionals as it demonstrates a commitment to continuous learning and professional growth. It showcases an individual's dedication to staying up to date with the latest industry trends and advancements.  

Cisco provides two renewal options for professionals who wish to maintain an active CCNA certification status, and they are as follows: 

Recertification 

One way to renew a CCNA certificate is by passing a more advanced Cisco certification exam within the same or different technology track. This approach allows networking professionals to deepen their knowledge and skills further while extending the validity of their certification. For effective recertification, consider CCNA exam tips to prepare for the advanced exams.   

For example, a CCNA Routing and Switching certification holder can pursue a Professional-level certificate like Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Enterprise. Completing the higher-level exam automatically renews the CCNA certificate and remains valid for an additional three years. 

Recertification through a higher-level exam also helps professionals stay updated with the latest networking technologies and industry best practices. If you wish to opt for recertification, you must pass any of the following exams: 

1) CCNA Exam 200-301: The first choice for any professional is to retake the 200-301 CCNA exam. 

2) Associate Exam: Cisco offers two associate exams - 200-901 DEVASC for Cisco Certified Devnet Associate and 200-201 CBROPS for Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate certification, and you are required to pass just one of them. 

3) Technology Core Exam: There are five CCNP tracks – Enterprise, Security, Service Provider, Data Centre, and Collaboration. Cisco provides a technology core exam for each of them, which is thoroughly covered in the CCNP Command Guide to help candidates prepare effectively.

4) Concentration Exam: You are allowed to choose a professional concentration exam related to five of the CCNP certificates, Cisco Certified CyberOps Professional or Cisco Certified DevNet Professional. 

5) Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) lab exam: The CCIE lab exam can only be taken upon passing a technology core exam. This is a rarely chosen option, but it helps recertify your previous certifications. 

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Earning Continuing Education (CE) credits 

Cisco offers a Continuing Education Program that allows certified professionals to accumulate credits by participating in authorised training courses, webinars, conferences, or other educational activities. You require 40 CE credits to renew the CCNA certification. 

The CE program offers a flexible and convenient way for professionals to stay updated with the latest networking technologies and advancements. It also provides opportunities for skill development while earning the required credits for CCNA recertification. 

The number of credits required for renewal varies based on the certificate level and track. By earning the required number of continuing education credits within the three-year validity period, professionals can keep their CCNA certificate active. 

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Conclusion 

The CCNA certification is a valuable credential for networking professionals, and maintaining its active status is crucial for career growth and professional development. We hope this blog has helped you understand the importance of CCNA Certification Validity and the different renewal options. 

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