More of this Feature • Part 2: Professional-Level Certifications • Part 3: Expert-Level and Specialist Certifications

Related Resources • Cisco Chapter Excerpts • Cisco Links and Information • Certification. Do I Need It? • Books

From Other Guides • Review - Cisco CCNA Exam #640-607 Certification Guide • IP Tutorial: Basic Addressing

Self Study Resources • CCNA Assessment Exam • Training Locator • Routing and Switching Qualification Sample Exam • Free CCNA Practice Questions

Featured Book Cisco CCNA #640 607 Preparation Library (With CD-ROM) Cisco Systems Inc. (Editor), et al More Cisco Books . . .

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"Now with real-world simulations, only Cisco Career Certifications can verify the current, proven skills necessary to optimize your company's network. "
-Cisco.com

Cisco offers three levels of certification. All are prestigious and worth the effort. You can start at the Associate level with a CCNA or CCDA, move up to the Professional level with a CCNP, CCDP, or CCIP and then on to the expert level with a CCIE certification. After receiving a certification at one of these levels, Cisco also offers a specialization option in one of nine topics: Cable, Content Networking, IP Telephony, Internet Solutions, Multiservice Switching, MxU, Optical, SNA/IP, & Security .

* The costs listed below are accurate for the exams, but the level of training needed by each individual varies. The approximate total is very conservative. Be sure to check Cisco's website for comprehensive information on the certification you plan to obtain.

CCNA- Cisco Certified Network Associate

A certification designed for individuals who install, configure, and operate simple-routed LAN, routed WAN, and switched LAN and ATM LANE networks that utilize Cisco routers and switches for small networks of 100 nodes or less.

The CCNA is obtained through a single exam and requires recertification every three years by taking the CCNA recertification exam.

*Approximate Costs:
Self Study CD from SelfTestSoftware: $99
Written Exam: $125
Total Approximate Cost: $224

CCDA- Cisco Certified Design Associate
This entry-level certification is designed for individuals who install, configure, and operate networks involving LAN, WAN, and dial access services for small businesses, home offices, and organizations that utilize Cisco routers and switches for small networks of 100 nodes or less.

*Approximate Costs:
Cisco CCDA Exam Preparation Library: $100
Written Exam: $125
Total Approximate Cost: $225

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