How to Gain Inroads into the CCNA Computing Industry?

The computing world has earned great popularity after the advent of internet or networking communication. Computer software as well as hardware professionals enjoy higher demand value and bright career prospects. Computing experts, especially in the field of software programming can be profited by getting a CCNA or Cisco Certified Network Associate license. The significant benefit is that a qualified CCNA professional can work anywhere, in an office environment or from home base with flexible work schedules.

Let us discuss more on CCNA and the required educational qualifications for a satisfying career in networking:

o   Study Background- Any student or working professional with an educational background in the computer science field can attempt for Cisco Certified Network Associate examination. A preliminary Cisco Certified Entry Network Technician license can also serve as a base for the superior CCNA certification.

o   Preparation- Preparing for the CCNA paper or exam can be done through self study, land based classroom courses, online programs or even through specially organized boot camps. There are two levels to obtain CCNA credential, first is clearing the ICND1 (interconnecting Cisco networking devices) exam and second clearing the ICND2 exam. Those with no previous record of ICND certification can take a combined course that includes both study curriculums for ICND1 and ICND2 examination.

o   Examination- Cisco exam papers are made available at specific Cisco government permitted centers. Candidates or students can sign up for online registration one month in advance. The exams have a short duration of 2 to 3 hours. However, lab tests can take up-to 8 to 9 hours. The pass percentage is decided on latest test scores, so the desired minimum passing grades can differ from one test to another.

o   CCNA Special Certifications- This credential is for proficiency in skills required to develop, sustain and trouble-shoot all the routing operations for basic or medium sized networks. There are 4 extra special certifications in CCNA for gaining competence in security, service providing procedure, and voice and Wi-Fi networks. Some of these specialized certifications can require candidates to have the latest CCNA certificate.

o   Software programmer or network administrator- Those holding CCNA credentials have better job opportunities in the computing field. They can become network administrators or software developers and work to co-ordinate various computer systems, servers, creating domains and operating these domains successfully. Many CCNA certified experts also become software or hardware technicians.

Queries Relating to CCNA Examination

Most of the questions are formed with multiple-choice singular answer or multiple-choice multiple answer. There can be drag and drop, fill in blanks, test let, simlet and simulations queries.

CCNA Online Training: CCNA online sessions are meant for professionals who do not have enough time to devote to classroom courses. Online courses give students the flexibility to study at their own pace. Self- Study for CCNA course can be tough and one should be prepared for it before enrolling in an online CCNA training course. Online students can study from their homes, internet cafes or company offices that are equipped with a good internet connection.

CCNA Boot Camp: This kind of training is recommended by industry experts. Boot camp means a typical full week class room course program, which are graced by networking experts and senior level CCNA certified professionals. The entire CCNA course syllabus is covered on a fast track basis in a communicative and educative environment. Complete training is provided on switches, routers and various other networking related devices to aid you gain an entry in the CCNA computing industry.

Cisco Certified Network Associate Job Prospects: CCNA specialists can aim to earn high income in the 5 figure range category. A decent science degree plus a CCNA certification and considerable experience can help a long way in boosting career graph to new heights. Security and Service-providers are up-coming fields in the computing job market. Some companies insist on candidates having extra credentials such as BlueCoat and F5, apart from having CCNA certification.

Now that you know all it takes to be a CCNA professional, get going by taking the right path!