One of the biggest and most popular IT certifications is the Cisco Certified Networking Associate (CCNA) certification. Its main goal is to test and confirm that people have the right skills to succeed in today’s complex network security environment. So, getting a CCNA certification shows that you can build on your basic networking skills.
Most of Cisco’s certification programme was changed, but the CCNA level was changed the most. There is now just one CCNA certification that covers all of them. Before, there were different certifications for things like security and the cloud. Different levels of tests have different CCNA Certification cost for every exam
How is the new CCNA different?
The new version of the CCNA certification seems harder than the old one. Before, you could ease your way into CCNA Routing & Switching by starting with a CCENT, which also helped you ease into other CCNA paths later on. No longer is this possible.
Even though the new CCNA doesn’t get rid of emphasis areas, they have been replaced by credentials for specialists. You can also take a test that covers more networking principles and requires a broader view and understanding of the material.
The old CCNA certification didn’t go into detail about the basics, but the new one does. Because of this, the exam may be harder than the last CCNA exam. Before taking the CCNA exam, you should have the right training because the cost is a big factor.
The new CCNA covers network basics from the very beginning to the very end. Programmability and automation, in particular, can be hard for new networking professionals and candidates who know the basics of networking but are new to automation.
How are the changes going to help you?
Before this change, Cisco had not made significant modifications to its certification programme in a long time. During this time, however, the IT industry’s needs have changed.
Nowadays, associate-level skill does not necessitate specialisation in any one field. Most people who want to hire a CCNA will want you to have a basic understanding of Cisco applications. This way, the company can shape you to fit its needs.
The certifications also offer a clear advancement path to your career. For example, when you’re ready, you’ll be able to choose a Cisco specialisation that will let you adjust your job to meet the needs of the business. This also gives you a lot more ability to change than you had before.
The new CCNA change makes it clear how to move forward, which is likely to improve its success rates. Also, if your career takes you in a different direction, you can quickly change your focus. This will eventually get you ready for something like a CCNP in the area you decide to focus on.
Is it really worth it to get a CCNA certification?
The new CCNA certification can really help your IT career in the ways listed below.
Show that you are a good fit for the job.
A recent survey by Forrester Consultants on behalf of Cisco found that training and certification programmes are essential for finding and hiring people for specialised networking roles. People also said that professional certifications were almost as important as a four-year degree for getting a job.
Experience a learning network that is one of a kind.
Getting your certification will naturally help you learn more and gain more experience. No matter how long you’ve been in your field, you’re sure to learn new things that will help you move up in your career. You will also be able to see how the certification process has led to some changes.
Professional Development
Putting certificates on your CV or resume could help you move up in your career. The CCNA certification is recognised all over the world, so you can apply for jobs no matter where you go. Also, after getting your qualification, you might get a pay raise.
Experience & Knowledge
Getting your certification will naturally help you learn more and gain more experience. No matter how long you’ve been in your field, you’re sure to learn new things that will help you move up in your career. You will also be able to see how the certification process has led to some changes.
Final Words
Overall, the new CCNA is harder than the old one, and new IT workers will need a wider range of skills to pass it. But the good news is that it will help you get ready for situations in the real world.
By getting this certification, you can show that you have the skills needed to run the networks of today. Also, because Cisco is so well-known, having the current CCNA will give you an edge when looking for any job.
As networking technologies get more complicated, there will likely be a shortage of people who know how to use them. But if you get the certification now, you can make up for these gaps in the future. After all, the CCNA certification courses taught by trained professionals can help you get started in networking or move up in the field.
