As a CCIE with more than a decade of experience in the field, I cannot stress enough the importance of the CCNA Security Certification. Even if you are not considering this certification right now, let me explain why you should, and also provide some tips on how to keep up with the recertification rules that Cisco may change from time to time.
Firstly, it's important to know the exam number before registering for it. The official exam number and name is 6.45.53, also known as the IINS exam, which stands for implementing Cisco iOS network security. It's worth noting that there are now four CCNA certifications, and the main certification is still the CCNA 200-301 version. If you're taking the one exam path, you will take the CCNA 200-301 exam, while if you're taking the two exam path, you have to take the ICND1 exam and then the ICND2. I have another article on this topic on my website, which can help you make that decision.
In addition to the CCNA 200-301, there are now three concentrations: CCNA Security, CCNA Voice, and CCNA Wireless. To earn any of these certifications, you must first hold a valid CCNA certification. These concentrations are valuable in their own right, and it's great to see Cisco addressing these areas of interest in this way.
It's worth noting that the CCNA Security certification is valid for three years, and you will need to recertify to maintain it. To do so, you can either pass a CCNA concentration exam, such as wireless, security, or voice, pass any 642 professional or Cisco specialist exam (excluding sales specialist exams), or pass a current CCIE or CCDP written exam.
Keeping up with the recertification rules is crucial for Cisco professionals. Cisco publishes updates on its website, and it's up to us to keep up to date with the changes. We can't depend on Cisco to send us an email telling us to check the website - it's our responsibility as professionals to stay informed. I recommend checking the Cisco website regularly, specifically the training and events section, and career certifications and paths. Here, you will find every exam blueprint you would ever need, as well as information on when exams are expiring and how to recertify.
When it comes to the format of the CCNA Security exam, you can expect a 90-minute time limit, 55 to 65 questions, and various question formats, including simulation, drag and drop, radio button, and multiple choice. There's a tutorial and an example of each question type available on the Cisco training and certification site, which I suggest you check out to better prepare for the exam.
Okay, here's the dictation for the remaining section of the blog:
So, as you can see, the CCNA security certification is an important credential for network professionals who want to demonstrate their knowledge of network security. It's not just about passing an exam, but also about acquiring the skills needed to secure a network and make yourself more marketable in today's job market.
In addition to the CCNA security certification, there are two other certifications that network professionals should consider: voice and wireless. With the increasing popularity of these technologies, it's important to have a broad knowledge of network security and the ability to work with these technologies in order to stay competitive in the field.
If you're interested in pursuing these certifications, there are plenty of resources available to help you prepare for the exams. The Cisco website is a great place to start, as it provides detailed blueprints of the topics covered on each exam, as well as study materials and practice tests. You can also find study guides and tutorials on my website, as well as other sites on the web.
