You can see it againUnder pressure people bring back shapes and positions long after the wording has gone.
Picture superiority · Shepard 1967, Standing 1973
CISCOCisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification validates your ability to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot medium-sized routed and switched networks. It covers network fundamentals, IP connectivity, IP services, security fundamentals, and automation. CCNA is the industry standard for entry-level networking roles, opening doors to careers as a network engineer, administrator, or help desk professional.
Exam formatMultiple choice, drag and drop, simulation, and testlet
Duration120 minutes
DeliveryPearson VUE
Free questions1573
Content last reviewed 1 January 2025 · Up to date
The certification
What 200-301 proves, and what it asks of you
What this certification covers, who it is written for, and what the exam itself looks like on the day.
6domains
53objectives
326concepts
US $300exam fee
What it is
What this certification is
What it validates, who it is written for, and the experience it assumes.
About this certification
The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification is a globally recognized credential that validates your knowledge and skills across a broad range of networking fundamentals. It covers network access, IP connectivity, IP services, security fundamentals, and automation and programmability. CCNA is designed for IT professionals at any stage of their career, from those just starting out to those looking to formalize their networking expertise.
Earning CCNA demonstrates that you have the hands-on skills to configure, manage, and troubleshoot modern networks, and that you understand the principles that underpin today's IT infrastructure. It is a valuable asset for anyone seeking to build a career in networking, security, or software development, and it serves as a strong foundation for more advanced Cisco certifications.
Who it’s for
This certification is for individuals looking to enter the IT field, IT professionals who want to stand out in the job market, and those seeking to enrich their current roles with additional networking skills. It is also suitable for network support technicians, help desk administrators, and anyone who wants to build a solid foundation in networking. While there are no formal prerequisites, learners often benefit from one or more years of experience implementing and administering Cisco solutions. The certification is an asset to IT professionals of all experience levels.
Recommended experience
One or more years of experience implementing and administering Cisco solutions is recommended, though not required. Basic understanding of network fundamentals; Familiarity with IP addressing and routing concepts; Experience with Cisco equipment or network administration; Knowledge of security fundamentals and automation concepts
The syllabus
What you’ll learn
Every domain and objective Cisco measures, with the weight they carry on the exam.
The official Cisco exam outline · checked 1 January 2025 · See the source
Network Fundamentals
- 1.1 Explain the role and function of network components
- 1.2 Describe characteristics of network topology architectures
- 1.3 Compare physical interface and cabling types
- 1.4 Identify interface and cable issues (collisions, errors, mismatch duplex, and/or speed)
- 1.5 Compare TCP to UDP
- 1.6 Configure and verify IPv4 addressing and subnetting
- 1.7 Describe private IPv4 addressing
- 1.8 Configure and verify IPv6 addressing and prefix
- 1.9 Describe IPv6 address types
- 1.10 Verify IP parameters for Client OS (Windows, Mac OS, Linux)
- 1.11 Describe wireless principles
- 1.12 Explain virtualization fundamentals (server virtualization, containers, and VRFs)
- 1.13 Describe switching concepts
Network Access
- 2.1 Configure and verify VLANs (normal range) spanning multiple switches
- 2.2 Configure and verify interswitch connectivity
- 2.3 Configure and verify Layer 2 discovery protocols (Cisco Discovery Protocol and LLDP)
- 2.4 Configure and verify (Layer 2/Layer 3) EtherChannel (LACP)
- 2.5 Interpret basic operations of Rapid PVST+ Spanning Tree Protocol
- 2.6 Describe Cisco Wireless Architectures and AP modes
- 2.7 Describe physical infrastructure connections of WLAN components (AP, WLC, access/trunk ports, and LAG)
- 2.8 Describe network device management access (Telnet, SSH, HTTP, HTTPS, console, TACACS+/RADIUS, and cloud managed)
- 2.9 Interpret the wireless LAN GUI configuration for client connectivity, such as WLAN creation, security settings, QoS profiles, and advanced settings
IP Connectivity
- 3.1 Interpret the components of routing table
- 3.2 Determine how a router makes a forwarding decision by default
- 3.3 Configure and verify IPv4 and IPv6 static routing
- 3.4 Configure and verify single area OSPFv2
- 3.5 Describe the purpose, functions, and concepts of first hop redundancy protocols
IP Services
- 4.1 Configure and verify inside source NAT using static and pools
- 4.2 Configure and verify NTP operating in a client and server mode
- 4.3 Explain the role of DHCP and DNS within the network
- 4.4 Explain the function of SNMP in network operations
- 4.5 Describe the use of syslog features, including facilities and severity levels
- 4.6 Configure and verify DHCP client and relay
- 4.7 Explain the forwarding per-hop behavior (PHB) for QoS such as classification, marking, queuing, congestion, policing, and shaping
- 4.8 Configure network devices for remote access using SSH
- 4.9 Describe the capabilities and functions of TFTP/FTP in the network
Security Fundamentals
- 5.1 Define key security concepts (threats, vulnerabilities, exploits, and mitigation techniques)
- 5.2 Describe security program elements (user awareness, training, and physical access control)
- 5.3 Configure and verify device access control using local passwords
- 5.4 Describe security password policy elements, such as management, complexity, and password alternatives (multifactor authentication, certificates, and biometrics)
- 5.5 Describe IPsec remote access and site-to-site VPNs
- 5.6 Configure and verify access control lists
- 5.7 Configure and verify Layer 2 security features (DHCP snooping, dynamic ARP inspection, and port security)
- 5.8 Compare authentication, authorization, and accounting concepts
- 5.9 Describe wireless security protocols (WPA, WPA2, and WPA3)
- 5.10 Configure and verify WLAN within the GUI using WPA2 PSK
Automation and Programmability
- 6.1 Explain how automation impacts network management
- 6.2 Compare traditional networks with controller-based networking
- 6.3 Describe controller-based, software defined architecture (overlay, underlay, and fabric)
- 6.4 Explain AI (generative and predictive) and machine learning in network operations
- 6.5 Describe characteristics of REST-based APIs (authentication types, CRUD, HTTP verbs, and data encoding)
- 6.6 Recognize the capabilities of configuration management mechanisms such as Ansible and Terraform
- 6.7 Recognize components of JSON-encoded data
On the day
The exam itself
Everything Cisco publishes about sitting it, and nothing we inferred.
Prerequisites
No mandatory prerequisites — this certification has no required predecessor exam or credential.
Exam code200-301
CertificationCisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
Exam formatMultiple choice, drag and drop, simulation, and testlet
Duration120 minutes
DeliveryPearson VUE
LanguagesEnglish, Japanese
PricingUS $300
Certification levelAssociate
After you pass
Where this credential goes next
The path Cisco lays out, how the credential is kept, and where to book.
Step-by-step path to Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
Credential earnedCisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Associate level certification Renewal and maintenance
Your CCNA certification is valid for three years. You can renew by earning Continuing Education credits or by retaking the CCNA exam before it expires. Stay current with the latest technologies and maintain your certification.
Learn more about renewal requirements Lifecycle status
This certification is currently active and available. Cisco maintains this certification to validate current skills and industry relevance.
Exam status: ActiveMaintained by Cisco
Exam registration
Register for the exam through Pearson VUE, Cisco’s authorized testing partner.
Schedule your examVisit the official Cisco certification page for exam policies and requirements.
View the official pageYour coach
And when you are serious, your coach Pip takes over
Your coach in the app reads what you have answered with the book closed and tells you one thing to do tonight. It will not count an answer you gave with the page open, and it will tell you when you are not ready.
See how the coach worksBefore you book
Questions people ask
How does the current CCNA 200-301 v1.1 differ from the previous version?
The v1.1 update refreshes the exam content to align with the latest technologies and job roles, with a continued focus on network fundamentals, IP connectivity, security, and automation. The exam code remains 200-301.
Do I need to earn a lower-level Cisco certification before taking the CCNA exam?
No. There are no formal prerequisites for CCNA. While the Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) Networking certification is a good starting point, it is not required.
Is there a hands-on lab component in the CCNA exam?
The CCNA exam includes simulation and testlet questions that require you to configure and troubleshoot network devices in a simulated environment, testing practical skills.
If I fail the CCNA exam, when can I retake it?
You must wait 5 calendar days after your first attempt before retaking the exam. For subsequent attempts, the waiting period is 5 days as well. There is no limit on the number of attempts.
What job roles does the CCNA certification prepare me for?
CCNA prepares you for roles such as network engineer, network administrator, help desk administrator, and systems engineer, providing a broad foundation for IT careers.
Can I recertify my CCNA by passing a higher-level Cisco exam?
Yes. Passing a Professional or Expert-level exam, such as CCNP Enterprise or CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure, automatically renews your CCNA certification.
Is the CCNA exam available in my country?
The CCNA exam is available globally through Pearson VUE test centers and online proctoring, subject to regional availability.
Information freshness · Content last reviewed on 2025-01-01 Up to date
Practice free questions 1573 questions, free, no account needed.
The curriculum
The whole exam, mapped and written
Every domain, every objective, and every concept Cisco measures — each one written out.
6domains
53objectives
326concepts
334free pages
The domains, and what sits inside them
Every objective below is a page you can open and practise now, without an account.
The official Cisco exam outline · checked 1 January 2025 · See the source
1Network Fundamentals419 questions
1.1 Explain the role and function of network components10 concepts · 9 pagesOpen →1.2 Describe characteristics of network topology architectures6 concepts · 8 pagesOpen →1.3 Compare physical interface and cabling types5 concepts · 5 pagesOpen →1.4 Identify interface and cable issues (collisions, errors, mismatch duplex, and/or speed)6 concepts · 8 pagesOpen →1.5 Compare TCP to UDP4 concepts · 7 pagesOpen →1.6 Configure and verify IPv4 addressing and subnetting9 concepts · 4 pagesOpen →1.7 Describe private IPv4 addressing5 concepts · 6 pagesOpen →1.8 Configure and verify IPv6 addressing and prefix12 concepts · 8 pagesOpen →1.9 Describe IPv6 address types7 concepts · 7 pagesOpen →1.10 Verify IP parameters for Client OS (Windows, Mac OS, Linux)4 concepts · 6 pagesOpen →1.11 Describe wireless principles4 concepts · 6 pagesOpen →1.12 Explain virtualization fundamentals (server virtualization, containers, and VRFs)3 concepts · 6 pagesOpen →1.13 Describe switching concepts5 concepts · 7 pagesOpen →
2Network Access266 questions
2.1 Configure and verify VLANs (normal range) spanning multiple switches8 concepts · 7 pagesOpen →2.2 Configure and verify interswitch connectivity8 concepts · 6 pagesOpen →2.3 Configure and verify Layer 2 discovery protocols (Cisco Discovery Protocol and LLDP)7 concepts · 6 pagesOpen →2.4 Configure and verify (Layer 2/Layer 3) EtherChannel (LACP)6 concepts · 5 pagesOpen →2.5 Interpret basic operations of Rapid PVST+ Spanning Tree Protocol9 concepts · 8 pagesOpen →2.6 Describe Cisco Wireless Architectures and AP modes10 concepts · 9 pagesOpen →2.7 Describe physical infrastructure connections of WLAN components (AP, WLC, access/trunk ports, and LAG)4 concepts · 4 pagesOpen →2.8 Describe network device management access (Telnet, SSH, HTTP, HTTPS, console, TACACS+/RADIUS, and cloud managed)8 concepts · 8 pagesOpen →2.9 Interpret the wireless LAN GUI configuration for client connectivity, such as WLAN creation, security settings, QoS profiles, and advanced settings4 concepts · 4 pagesOpen →
3IP Connectivity122 questions
3.1 Interpret the components of routing table7 concepts · 6 pagesOpen →3.2 Determine how a router makes a forwarding decision by default3 concepts · 3 pagesOpen →3.3 Configure and verify IPv4 and IPv6 static routing6 concepts · 3 pagesOpen →3.4 Configure and verify single area OSPFv28 concepts · 7 pagesOpen →3.5 Describe the purpose, functions, and concepts of first hop redundancy protocols4 concepts · 7 pagesOpen →
4IP Services255 questions
4.1 Configure and verify inside source NAT using static and pools9 concepts · 4 pagesOpen →4.2 Configure and verify NTP operating in a client and server mode5 concepts · 7 pagesOpen →4.3 Explain the role of DHCP and DNS within the network9 concepts · 8 pagesOpen →4.4 Explain the function of SNMP in network operations7 concepts · 7 pagesOpen →4.5 Describe the use of syslog features, including facilities and severity levels6 concepts · 6 pagesOpen →4.6 Configure and verify DHCP client and relay4 concepts · 4 pagesOpen →4.7 Explain the forwarding per-hop behavior (PHB) for QoS such as classification, marking, queuing, congestion, policing, and shaping7 concepts · 6 pagesOpen →4.8 Configure network devices for remote access using SSH5 concepts · 5 pagesOpen →4.9 Describe the capabilities and functions of TFTP/FTP in the network7 concepts · 7 pagesOpen →
5Security Fundamentals289 questions
5.1 Define key security concepts (threats, vulnerabilities, exploits, and mitigation techniques)4 concepts · 6 pagesOpen →5.2 Describe security program elements (user awareness, training, and physical access control)4 concepts · 10 pagesOpen →5.3 Configure and verify device access control using local passwords6 concepts · 5 pagesOpen →5.4 Describe security password policy elements, such as management, complexity, and password alternatives (multifactor authentication, certificates, and biometrics)5 concepts · 7 pagesOpen →5.5 Describe IPsec remote access and site-to-site VPNs7 concepts · 8 pagesOpen →5.6 Configure and verify access control lists7 concepts · 3 pagesOpen →5.7 Configure and verify Layer 2 security features (DHCP snooping, dynamic ARP inspection, and port security)7 concepts · 5 pagesOpen →5.8 Compare authentication, authorization, and accounting concepts5 concepts · 6 pagesOpen →5.9 Describe wireless security protocols (WPA, WPA2, and WPA3)6 concepts · 6 pagesOpen →5.10 Configure and verify WLAN within the GUI using WPA2 PSK4 concepts · 7 pagesOpen →
6Automation and Programmability222 questions
6.1 Explain how automation impacts network management5 concepts · 8 pagesOpen →6.2 Compare traditional networks with controller-based networking7 concepts · 8 pagesOpen →6.3 Describe controller-based, software defined architecture (overlay, underlay, and fabric)4 concepts · 8 pagesOpen →6.4 Explain AI (generative and predictive) and machine learning in network operations5 concepts · 7 pagesOpen →6.5 Describe characteristics of REST-based APIs (authentication types, CRUD, HTTP verbs, and data encoding)4 concepts · 6 pagesOpen →6.6 Recognize the capabilities of configuration management mechanisms such as Ansible and Terraform10 concepts · 7 pagesOpen →6.7 Recognize components of JSON-encoded data5 concepts · 3 pagesOpen →
Not a table of contents
Every line on this map already opens
In front of every objective the practice pages are already there, free and without an account. This is one objective, opened.
1.1 Explain the role and function of network components9 pagesOpen →
Free in front of it
45 questions on this objective, five to a page. Every range above is a real page, open now, with no account.
Reading the map is not the same as knowing the ground
The curriculum tells you what is on the exam. Proving you know it is a different job — and it is the one the closed-book run does.
Free questions
1573 questions. No account, no card.
The whole bank is open. 5 questions to a page, every answer explained, and a discussion thread on each one.
1573questions
334pages
53objectives
Freealways
Browse by domain
Every objective, and every page range, is a link — so you can pick up exactly where you left off.
1Network Fundamentals419 questions
2Network Access266 questions
2.1 Configure and verify VLANs (normal range) spanning multiple switches32 questions · 7 pagesOpen →
3IP Connectivity122 questions
4IP Services255 questions
5Security Fundamentals289 questions
6Automation and Programmability222 questions
What a practice page gives you
1Five to a page
Short enough to finish, long enough to matter.
2Every answer explained
Not only which one is right — why the others are wrong.
3A discussion on each
Ask, answer, and vote. Every question has its own thread.
A question, and the idea behind it
Every question comes from a concept
These are not trivia. Each one is written against a concept in the book, so when you get one wrong there is somewhere to go and find out why.
The visual book
See it once. Carry it into the exam.
The pages shown here come from our AI-900 book — an example of how each concept is written in plain language and, where the idea needs one, drawn as a full page you can take in at a glance.
326concepts
1573free questions
Why a picture, and not another paragraph
Three reasons, and each one is a real finding rather than a slogan.
You can see it againThe whole idea at onceWhere it starts, what happens in the middle, what comes out, and the mistake to avoid.
Multimedia principle · MayerThe look-alikes sit togetherThe pairs the exam tests are drawn side by side, so the difference is seen, not told.
Dual coding · PaivioWhat one page is made of
You are never asked to read a poster here — only to see how one is built. After that, every other page is legible at a glance.
1A numbered strip on top
The idea as a sequence, followed with a finger before a word is read.
2Panels for the parts
What it is, how the machine learns it, when it is the right tool.
3The trap, framed
The distinction the exam tests, given its own box instead of buried in prose.
4One line at the bottom
The sentence to carry into the exam room.
Open book, on purpose
Answer it with the picture beside you
This is the part that teaches. The illustration and the written explanation stay where they are while you work, so a scenario stops being a memory test and becomes something you can simply look at.
It teaches · it does not count
A smartphone uses AI to unlock when the owner looks at the camera. Which AI capability is being used?
AImage classification
BFacial recognition
COptical character recognition
DObject detection
Look at the five steps. Detect finds a face, align straightens it, encode turns it into numbers, search compares it with a stored face, and decide answers one question: is this the same person? Classification would only say “a face”. Detection would only draw a box. Neither decides whose.
Then the page shuts, and it starts counting
The same questions come back with the book closed — that run is the one that counts. After it, your coach picks one thing for tonight, sized to the time you have, and brings pages back before you lose them.
Testing effect · Roediger & Karpicke 2006 · spacing effect · Cepeda et al. 2006
Official resources
Straight from Cisco
Where the exam is defined, scheduled and scored.
3official links
326concepts mapped
The source
Cisco’s own pages
We link to them rather than repeat them, so nothing here goes stale behind them.
Checked against the source
Every objective on the official Cisco outline already has questions here
We build from the official skills outline, not from a summary of it — 53 objectives, 326 concepts written under them, and free questions against every one. When Cisco changes the outline, this page changes with it.
53objectives on the outline→326concepts written→1573free questions
An official page tells you what will be asked. It cannot tell you what you will get right.
That is the only question worth answering the night before, and no link answers it. You answer it by taking the questions with the book closed, and seeing what comes back.