The CCNA is an extremely popular certificate in the IT world; it has been termed a stepping stone in the career development of a networking expert. However, how difficult the CCNA certification is rated depends on your background and habits when it comes to studying, as well as your experience. In this guide, we look at what makes CCNA challenging, its comparison with other certifications, and go through some study tips that will help you more easily get through the process.
CCNA Compared to Other Certifications: Which is Easier?
As already hinted, comparisons of CCNA to any other certification would boil down to what one is comparing: difficulty level, depth in knowledge level, or preparation time. The CCNA is considered by many to be somewhat of a middle challenge among IT certifications. That is to say that it is not as high ranking as its Cisco sister, the CCNP (Cisco Certified Network Professional), yet is not by any means an entry-level certification either, as can be said for CompTIA’s Network+.
CCNA vs. Network+
CompTIA Network+ is more or less treated as an entry-level certification for networking; it covers the basics of networking concepts, troubleshooting, and network operations. While Network+ has its value for those who are getting started in the field, CCNA goes deeper into a wide range of Cisco-centric technologies and more advanced networking topics such as IP addressing, routing protocols, and network security. For that reason, CCNA is considered a bit tougher because it requires the candidate to be more versatile with respect to networking principles and the Cisco ecosystem.
CCNA vs. CCNP
On the other side of the coin, CCNP is an advanced networking course; it includes more complex situations than what was pursued in the CCNA course. Contrasting with CCNA, CCNP requires deeper knowledge and practical experience, and hence, this course is a bit more challenging. If you feel that the CCNA course is slightly tough, then you may consider practical exposure and experience before diving into CCNP.
In a nutshell, CCNA is in the middle: harder than Network+, but not quite as challenging as CCNP. That’s by design; it’s a foundational certification intended to get you ready for more advanced networking jobs.
Top 5 Reasons People Think CCNA is Hard
Knowing why people struggle with the CCNA will help you study more effectively. Here’s a list of five common reasons:
Wide Range of Exam Topics
That covers everything from basic networking concepts to more advanced Cisco-specific technologies, ranging from different models of networking, IP addressing, and subnetting to various routing and switching protocols and network security. The extent of the material involved in this can be overwhelming if one is new to networking.
Depth of Technical Detail
It takes more than just general knowledge to have the detailed technical knowledge of how routing protocols like OSPF and EIGRP work, including troubleshooting and configurations. This requires an understanding of depth at both a theoretical and skill-based level.
Configuration and Troubleshooting Skills
The CCNA exam also includes practical elements involving network device configuration and troubleshooting issues; this means one needs practical experience and be comfortable with the command-line interface of Cisco. These sections of the examination can be very intimidating if one does not have enough practice.
Changing Exam Content
Cisco regularly renovates the CCNA exam content to include recent trends in technology and networking. This too is very difficult to manage because you will be required to remain updated on current study materials.
High Standards for Passing
The passing standard of the CCNA exam at Cisco is pretty high, ranging from multiple choice questions to simulation-based scenario questions. In this way, one needs not only to cognitively understand concepts but also needs to show their ability in solving problems practically, which can be pretty tough. Now, let us come to the original question.
How Long Does It Actually Take to Pass CCNA?
How long it takes you to be able to pass the CCNA exam depends on your background and how much time you can put into studying. Generally speaking, most people take between 3 to 6 months to be well-prepared for the exam. Here is a rough breakdown of how different factors can affect preparation time:
- Prior Experience
This might require less time in preparation if one has some experience in networking or dealing with Cisco devices. If a candidate is new to networking, then it will definitely take more time in order to understand the basic concepts and to get hands-on experience.
- Commitment to Study Time
Obviously, the number of hours you are able to commit to studying each week will determine how soon you will be able to prepare. In fact, if you are able to dedicate several hours daily to studying, then you can easily finish your preparation in a very short period of time. If, however, you study part-time, preparation takes longer.
- Methods of Study
Your selection of study materials and techniques is another variable. General study guides, online courses, practice exams, and hands-on labs will play a part in how long it takes to prepare. The more resources that you can use, the better your understanding will be and the faster you will be prepared.
- Practice and Hands-on Experience
Practical experience with networking gear and configurations is determined. Being in a lab environment or working in simulations using network emulators speeds up the learning process and retains it more effectively.
- Exam Familiarity
Familiarity with the format of the exam and question types can also affect study time. Practice exams and working through sample questions help you become comfortable with the exam format and better your chance at passing on the first try.
CCNA Study Tips: What You Need to Know
For the greatest chance of passing the CCNA exam, consider the following tips:
Create a Study Plan
A well-planned study plan will keep you in the right direction and allow you to cover all topics that one needs to. Segments divide your study material and are able to create a certain achievable goal every week. Also, review time and hands-on skill practice should be included.
Use Quality Study Materials
Invest in good study guides, textbooks, and online courses. Of course, the recommended study material from Cisco itself will include the CCNA Official Cert Guide. Supplement your studying with online forums and study groups so you learn and understand different perspectives.
Lab Practice
The CCNA exam is practical in nature. Practice for router and switch configuration using the network simulation tools: Cisco Packet Tracer and GNS3. Troubleshoot the problems that occur in your network. Practical experience will reinforce theoretical knowledge.
Take Practice Exams
Practice tests show how well you understand it and perhaps get familiar with the type of questions that might appear in the exam by noticing what areas need more review. Try to go through a simulated environment in order to build up your confidence level and improve test-taking skills.
Review and Revise
Regular review creates an impression of knowledge reinforcement. Focus on that which you are least sure about and revisit the key concepts at frequent intervals. Revision helps in consolidating learning and preparing you well for the examination.
Join Study Groups
You get support, motivation, and even sometimes extra resources when you join a study group. Joining a study group helps you to discuss topics that may seem difficult with your colleagues, exchange study materials, and even see others’ views on the subject matter.
Keep Updated
Stay informed about changes made to CCNA exam topics and study materials. For more information on objectives and format changes, visit Cisco’s website and other resources provided.
While the CCNA certification can be challenging, a good dose of preparation and the right attitude will most definitely make it achievable. Knowing what makes CCNA hard, comparing this certification to others in relation to their perceived level of difficulty, and using appropriate study methods will definitely increase your success rate of passing the exam and reaching further goals within networking. Whether you’re just entering the field or seeking to advance your career, the CCNA is a well-valued certification that opens up avenues for many opportunities in the IT world.
