CCNA stands for Cisco Certified Network Associate. This is an exam for those pursuing entry-level certification and who want to become network engineers and administrators. There are two ways in which the exam may be taken. First, it can be taken as a single exam, which in this case is Composite number 640-802. The second way is through two-part exam that is designated as Interconnecting Cisco Network Devices. Its title is ended with numerals 1 or 2 for purposes of distinction, thus: ICND 1 and then ICND 2.

A vast majority of people who work in the world of professional networking consider CCNA as the basic requirement for those who want to operate well in both small and medium corporate networks. In addition to that, CCNA certification opens many doors for many other new exams, including CCDP (also Cisco Certified Design Professional) and Cisco Certified Network Professional or simply CCNP.

Some people say that getting CCNA certification is not easy since the examination is very difficult. The truth of the matter is that with proper preparations, nothing is insurmountable in the world of networking. The most challenging bit is preparing for certification exams. There are often so many areas to cover and very little time to cover it.

Generally, CCNA training covers a diverse range of topics in great detail but its primary focus is switching and routing. These two areas encompass many other sub-topics, including IP, Serial, Frame Relay, RIP, Ethernet, IGRP and many others. Access lists are also studies within the scope of routing and switching. After getting the CCNA certification, it is valid for only 3 years, after which it requires recertification.

People who pass this examination have the ability to handle installation, configuration, troubleshooting and generally operating small and medium-sized business networks. They are also able to handle the work of implementing and verifying connections that link up with WAN. It is mandatory for one to get a pass score in the 680-802 examination.

As modern technology moves towards IP convergence, the dream of an all-out digital world is almost turning into a reality. Professional communication systems are literally taking over at the work place. This is why the need for proper certification cannot be gainsaid. There is need for more and more network administrators. This is why this kind of certification is very important for people who want to start a career in the network administration.

Career opportunities in network administration bring with them many challenges. This is why one must further his knowledge through higher-level certification courses. The good thing about these courses is that they are not as challenging as the previous introductory course. This is because the experience acquired individuals of handle any network challenge that may arise.