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The Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) introduced the Network+ certification more than two decades ago, and it has continued to be one of the most recognized and sought-after credentials in the IT industry since then. The certification tests the skills of IT professionals who have some prior experience with networking that is required to work on network design and implementation.

You've learned about the exciting possibilities of a career in IT and are looking to jump in. You have some computer experience but need a qualification to help you get the entry-level role you need to get started. So, let us talk you through Cisco's CCNA certification and the types of jobs you can expect to get once you have it.

The Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) certification program underwent some changes earlier this year. It now encompasses two exams, one that tests your core networking skills, and a second that tests your knowledge in a concentration area of your choice. Earning the CCNP credential means that you have successfully passed both exams.

In February 2020, Cisco did some rearranging and updating its certification program to address the needs of modern networking, requiring both infrastructure and software expertise. One of the credentials that were affected is the Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) certification. The CCNP is a professional-level certification that validates your proficiency in building, implementing, and troubleshooting local area networks (LAN) and wide-area networks (WAN).

CCNA is Cisco’s entry-level certification exam for anyone looking to get started in IT, especially in network support and network management roles. In February 2020, Cisco made significant changes to the CCNA accreditation by bringing together the old multi-track program under one comprehensive exam. Consequently, elements of the specialist exams such as CCNA Security were consolidated into the new CCNA 200-301.

Cisco certifications are some of the most sought after and globally recognized in the information technology industry. The Cisco Certified Networking Associate (CCNA) credential is an important first step for many IT professionals. The CCNA has become one of the most popular certifications in the world. It provides certificate-holders with validation that they have comprehensive associate-level knowledge of the technologies and solutions needed to implement and administer a wide range of modern networking and IT infrastructure.

IT certifications, like the Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), are designed to test the skills that you will use on the job, not merely the knowledge you memorize from training (though there is a lot to remember, too). Most IT certification exams have a hands-on component that requires you to have practical experience that can only be learned by doing. The CCNP certification exams tend to be highly technical, with some questions that are more like lab exercises.

Cisco has some of the most popular IT certifications available to technology professionals. They are among the most well-known and widely recognized in the industry. Two of Cisco’s valuable certifications are Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) and Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP). These two certifications have recently undergone some changes (February 2020), and it’s essential to understand the new requirements if you’ve decided to begin or advance your IT career.

If you intend to work in the field of computer networking, system administration, or cybersecurity, getting to grips with Cisco based technology is critical to your future. With Cisco supplying two-thirds of the world's networking technology, you are sure to encounter Cisco equipment and software at some point in your career. This is particularly true in Maryland and the rest of the Washington DC region, where Cisco is heavily favored by the large organizations, agencies, and associations headquartered here.