CCNA
Cisco Certified Network Associate
The CCNA is the most well-known entry-level certification in networking and provides a broad foundation: network fundamentals, routing & switching, IP services, security basics, as well as automation and cloud. Although primarily a networking certificate, it covers security fundamentals and is therefore also relevant for security beginners. The job market for CCNA holders is stable with consistently over 6,500 open positions per week (as of spring 2026). With version 1.1 (August 2024), AI/ML and cloud management topics were incorporated for the first time. Without hands-on experience in Cisco environments, completion remains rather theoretical.
› Quality score
Four-axis SecProve rubric, each 0–10. SecProve editorial assessment — each axis carries a written justification so you can push back on any single call without dismissing the whole score.
› Market signals
public, citable inputs to the recognition scoreCumulative since 1998; current active count smaller. Most-issued networking cert globally.
› Exam format
CCNA 200-301, 120 minutes, multiple-choice + drag-and-drop + lab simulations. Proctored via Pearson VUE. Passing score: ~825/1000.
5-day wait between attempts (varies by exam level).
› Recertification
Valid for 3 years. 30 CE credits over 3 years or higher-level Cisco exam.
› NICE Framework work roles
The NIST NICE work-role IDs this cert maps to. NICCS lookup.
› Core domains covered
The 1 domain this cert is centrally about. Passing the exam demonstrates working knowledge of each.
› Prerequisites
No formal prerequisites. Recommended: Basic knowledge of networking technology.
› Progression
requiredrecommendedWhere this cert fits in the typical learning path. Required edges are vendor-gated; recommended edges reflect de facto industry progression.
No vendor-gated prereqs.
No de facto priors typically expected.
No certs require this one.
See this cert’s domains highlighted on the interactive map, or compare it against the rest of the catalog.