Finding the Right Cisco Certification Path: Options and Learning Methods

Posted on 03/28/2023 by Niko Venev

In many circles, Cisco is synonymous with advanced technologies that keep every aspect of the digital world up and running. For several industries, Cisco's technologies provide the backbone for flawless connectivity. Whether you're a new student, an established engineer, or an experienced software developer, Cisco has a certification that can catapult your career to the next level, especially within a corporate environment. But choosing the right path for you is a crucial part of the process, which is why it's important to take some time to consider your options before diving into a training program.

       

Live Cisco Instructor-led Courses

Course Title (click for details & dates) Length Price (USD)
Cisco CCNA Prep 5 days $3,100
       

Self-Paced Cisco eLearning

Course Title (click for details & purchase) Length Price (USD)
Cisco CCNA eLearning Bundle 5 courses $400

How Much Do You Know About Cisco? Learning by Level

Cisco is notorious for offering numerous certification levels, specializations, and areas of study. Beginners will first have to identify which certification level best meets their professional goals. These include:

  • Entry
  • Associate
  • Professional
  • Expert
  • Architect

Those who are fairly new to the information technology (IT) industry or who want to initiate a career change often choose to pursue a basic Entry or Associate certification, while those with more experience might pursue certification at a higher level.

 

Cisco Training Areas

Students who want to earn a Cisco certification can find that several of the available training areas appeal to them. While some of these areas can appear similar, it's important to learn the differences between each to determine which one will best advance your particular career. They include:

  • Collaboration
  • CyberOps
  • Data Center
  • Design
  • DevNet
  • Enterprise
  • Security
  • Service Provider

While each of these areas of focus offers credential possibilities, students should be aware that not all areas offer an Entry or Associate certification. In cases where only Professional and Expert certifications exist, Cisco may suggest that a credential-seeker have multiple years of experience in related areas before taking an exam. This can be true even in the absence of formal prerequisites.

In addition, Cisco offers some specialized certifications that fall outside of the standard certification pathways. These include:

  • Cisco Certified Technician Collaboration
  • Cisco Certified Technician Data Center
  • Cisco Certified Routing & Switching
  • Cisco Meraki Solutions Specialist
  • Cisco Customer Success Manager
  • Cisco Renewals Manager

Each of these certifications can require slightly different approaches to preparation for earning the credential, so students should research recommended study strategies and any prerequisites associated with them.

 

Be Prepared for Changes to Cisco Training

Since technology advances every day, the Cisco certification path that you choose can undergo changes as you progress through it. Cisco realizes the importance of apprising students of new requirements or modifications to certification pathways. That's why the company maintains updated certification roadmaps, which credential-seekers can regularly check to ensure that they're taking the right steps along their educational journey.

Typically, Cisco gives students ample time to understand anticipated changes to pathways and prepare for them. The company reviews every Cisco certification path on a quarterly basis. It also provides students with at least three months of advance notice before changing certification blueprints and publishing new exams. Cisco offers students the convenient option of receiving automatic notifications when certification pathways change. As Cisco certifications may need to be re-certified every few years, receiving these updates can ensure that you remain qualified to perform your job

 

Cisco Learning Made Easy: Sign Up for High-Quality Training Courses

Studying to earn a Cisco certification can be a daunting experience, but one of the easiest ways to prepare for these exams is to enroll in Cisco training classes. At Certstaffix Training, we provide everything that a great training option should offer: comprehensive course material and a live instructor to guide you through the class from beginning to end. Among our most popular offerings is Cisco Certified Network Associate training, as this is a highly sought-after entry-level certification. While our CCNA course can be taught online or on-site, a self-paced option is available for those who want more time to refer to materials as they work through the class. Depending on your preferred learning style, this flexibility can increase the odds of success for those who are truly new to these ubiquitous technologies. Choose the right option for you and sign up today!

 

Certifications:







Related Cisco CCNA Posts:

How Much Do Cisco CCNA Training Courses Cost?

Public instructor-led Cisco CCNA course prices start at $3,100 per student. Group training discounts are available.

Self-Paced Cisco CCNA eLearning courses cost $400 at the starting point per student. Group purchase discounts are available.

What Cisco CCNA Skills Should I Learn?

A: If you are wondering what Cisco CCNA skills are important to learn, we've written a Cisco CCNA Skills and Learning Guide that maps out Cisco CCNA skills that are key to master and which of our courses teaches each skill.

Read Our Cisco CCNA Skills and Learning Guide

CCNA Basics: How Can a CCNA Training Course Help Me Get Certification?

A: Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification demonstrate specialized knowledge in information technology concepts. There are several different types of CCNA certifications, with Routing and Switching being the most popular. Before employees seek CCNA certification, they often obtain a Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT) certification. Training courses taken in groups or at home can prepare students for CCNA certification exams, significantly reduce study time, and increase potential success with the tests. Though money will have to be spent on prep courses and study materials, significant potential pay raises after obtaining certification make earning these credentials a sound investment.

More Information on CCNA Basics: How Can a CCNA Training Course Help Me Get a Certification?

What Is the Best Way to Prepare for the CCNA Certification Exam?

A: Preparing for Cisco’s CCNA certification exam is a monumental undertaking. Since 95% of people fail the test the first time they take it and the required score to pass can be relatively high, many test-takers dedicate months to preparing for the exam. Good preparation requires finding quality materials to review, like legitimate practice tests and current study guides. Signing up for a comprehensive training program that covers both basic and advanced concepts can also help. Although some test-takers choose to study in their leisure time, a determined few make preparing for this notoriously challenging exam a full-time endeavor.

More Information on the Best Way to Prepare for the CCNA Certification Exam

What's the Best Way to Learn Cisco CCNA Concepts?

A: Generally, the fastest and easiest way to learn CCNA skills is to take a hands-on class that's taught by a live instructor. Since Cisco CCNA certification can be challenging to achieve, it's important to have the support you need while you practice what you need to know to earn this valuable credential. Also, make sure to choose a course that aligns with your knowledge level and covers multiple CCNA concepts. Students who find CCNA training overwhelming and have a generous amount of time to study may also consider taking a self-paced online course that can be completed at home.

More Information on the Best Way to Learn Cisco CCNA Concepts.

Which Cisco Certification Is the Best to Get?

A: The best Cisco certification that employees can obtain can depend on their skills, experience, jobs, and professional interests. While many Cisco certifications don't have prerequisites, employees may find it convenient to earn a credential based on the Cisco levels of Entry, Associate, Professional, or Expert. In addition, specialty certifications can be pursued. Generally, more advanced certifications result in higher pay. Some of the most popular Cisco certifications involve networking and software. Since Cisco topics can be complex, employees should consider investing in training courses to help them prepare for certification exams.

More Information on Which Cisco Certification Is the Best to Get.

How Do I Get Started Earning a Cisco Certification?

A: For beginners or individuals who want to change careers, learning Cisco and earning a certification can be daunting. To make the journey as smooth as possible, students should first assess their technology experience and areas of interest. Then, they should decide on a certification path that aligns with their professional goals and work toward either an Entry- or Associate-level credential. For the best odds of success on the certification exam, sign up for a training class taught by a knowledgeable instructor like those at Certstaffix Training.

More Information on Starting on the Path to Cisco Certification

Is Cisco CCNA training worth IT?

A: If you're looking for a way to improve your skills and career prospects in the IT field, Cisco CCNA training may be a good option for you. This type of training can provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to work with Cisco networking products and technologies.

Cisco CCNA certification is recognized as an industry standard, and it can open up doors to new opportunities in the IT field. If you're considering Cisco CCNA training, it's important to weigh the costs and benefits to see if it's right for you.

The cost of Cisco CCNA training can vary depending on the provider and the length of the program. However, you can expect to spend several hundred to several thousand dollars on training and certification exams depending on the mode of training chosen.

The benefits of Cisco CCNA training include improved job prospects, increased earnings potential, and the ability to work with leading-edge technologies. If you're looking to advance your career in IT, Cisco CCNA training is worth considering.

How do I train for CCNA?

A: There are a few different ways to train for Cisco CCNA certification. One option is to take an online live instructor-led Cisco CCNA class through Certstaffix Training. Or, you may choose a self-paced Cisco CCNA eLearning course. This second option allows you to learn at your own pace and in your own time and works best for individuals that learn well on their own.

Another option is to take an onsite class through Certstaffix Training if you have a corporate group of students. We send a trainer to your office or hold a private online live class just for your group.

No matter which option you choose, Certstaffix Training can help you prepare for your Cisco CCNA certification.

How long is CCNA training?

A: A Cisco CCNA training course is an excellent way to learn the basics of networking and prepare for the Cisco Certified Network Associate exam. An instructor-led CCNA course is typically 1 to 2 weeks (10 to 5 days) long, but can be shorter or longer depending on the pace at which you learn. Some people may need more time to grasp the concepts, while others may be able to move through the material more quickly. In either case, the important thing is that you take the time you need to understand the material before taking the exam.

What are learning options to prepare for Cisco CCNA Certification?

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is a certification that validates your knowledge and skills in networking fundamentals. It is highly recognized in the IT industry and can open up various job opportunities for you. Obtaining a CCNA certification requires rigorous training and preparation, which can be achieved through different options such as:

CCNA Programs Near Me

There are various training institutes and colleges that offer CCNA programs near you. These programs are usually instructor-led and provide hands-on experience in a classroom setting. This option is ideal for those who prefer face-to-face interaction with the instructor and other students.

CCNA Online Study

If attending classes physically is not possible for you, online study can be a convenient option. You can access study materials, lectures and even interact with your instructors through online platforms. This is especially beneficial for individuals who have busy schedules but still want to obtain a CCNA certification.

Online CCNA Training

Similar to CCNA online study, online training offers the flexibility of studying at your own pace from anywhere in the world. The difference is that online training usually provides more comprehensive study materials and practice exams to better prepare you for the certification exam.

CCNA Certification Online

Preparing for a CCNA certification exam can be done entirely online. There are various websites and platforms that offer CCNA certification courses that are self-paced, allowing you to study at your convenience. This is a great option for those who prefer independent studying and have a strong foundation in networking.

Online CCNA Courses

Online CCNA courses are structured programs that cover all the exam topics and provide you with a certificate upon completion. These courses are designed to prepare you specifically for the certification exam and provide hands-on experience through virtual labs and simulations.

CCNA Online Classes

Similar to online CCNA courses, online classes offer structured lessons and assignments to prepare you for the certification exam. However, instead of self-paced learning, these classes have a set schedule and require you to attend live lectures and participate in discussions with other students.

CCNA Online Training Course

CCNA online training courses provide comprehensive study materials, as well as access to live instructors and virtual labs. These courses are designed to mimic a classroom setting and offer a well-rounded learning experience for those who prefer online training.

CCNA Course Cost

The cost of CCNA courses varies depending on the type of program and institution you choose. On average, classroom-based programs tend to be more expensive than online options due to additional costs such as textbooks and lab fees.

CCNA Self Paced Training

Self-paced training is a flexible option that allows you to study at your own pace, without any set schedule. This is ideal for those who have other commitments and need the flexibility to fit studying into their busy schedules.

Cisco Classes Online

In addition to CCNA-specific courses, there are also general networking classes offered by Cisco that can help you prepare for the certification exam. These online classes cover various networking topics and can provide a strong foundation for your CCNA studies.

CCNA Certification Online Training

CCNA certification online training is specifically designed to prepare you for the certification exam. These courses cover all the necessary exam topics and provide practice exams, as well as live instructor support, to ensure your success in obtaining a CCNA certification.

CCNA Certification Course Online

Similar to online training, CCNA certification courses are structured programs that cover all the exam topics and provide you with a certificate upon completion. These courses are specifically tailored for those seeking a CCNA certification and offer various support resources to aid in your studies.

CCNA Certification Training Online

CCNA certification training online offers comprehensive study materials and virtual labs to help you gain hands-on experience in networking. These courses are designed to fully prepare you for the certification exam and offer support from experienced instructors.

CCNA Certification Classes Online

CCNA certification classes online provide structured lessons and assignments, as well as live instructor support, to ensure your success in obtaining a CCNA certification. These classes not only cover exam topics but also provide practical knowledge that can be applied in real-world scenarios.

CCNA Live Classes

For those who prefer a more interactive learning experience, live classes are available online. These classes offer live instructor support and allow for discussions with other students, providing an immersive learning environment to prepare you for the CCNA exam.

Wrapping Up

No matter which training option you choose, obtaining a CCNA certification is a valuable investment in your career. With the increasing demand for skilled network professionals, having this certification can greatly enhance your job prospects and open up opportunities for growth in the IT industry. So take your time to research and determine which training option best suits your needs and learning style, and start working towards achieving a CCNA certification today. Enjoy the journey of expanding your knowledge and skills in networking!

Where Can I Learn More About Cisco CCNA?

Cisco CCNA Blogs

Cisco CCNA User Groups

Cisco CCNA Online Forums

Explore CCNA Training Classes Near Me:

Certstaffix Training provides Cisco CCNA classes near me or online, depending on the number of students involved. We offer online courses for individual learners, as well as in person classes at your office for corporate groups. Our trainers are highly experienced professionals with the expertise necessary to help you gain a thorough understanding of Cisco CCNA concepts and tools. With our courses available online for individuals or in person for corporate groups, it's easy to develop your Cisco CCNA skills. Start learning today and see how Certstaffix Training can help you reach your goals.







 

Start your training today!