IT & Cloud
Cisco CCNA (200-301)
Cisco Certified Network Associate
Quick facts
| Provider | Cisco |
|---|---|
| Exam code | 200-301 |
| Level | intermediate |
| Format | Multiple choice, drag-and-drop and simulations |
| Questions | Approximately 100–120 questions |
| Duration | 2 hours |
| Passing score | Not published (scaled score, historically around 825/1000) |
| Exam fee | $300 |
| Validity | 3 years |
| Languages | EN, JA |
Overview
The Cisco CCNA (200-301) is the best-known entry-level networking certification. It covers network fundamentals, IP connectivity and services, security fundamentals, and a growing share of automation and programmability.
It is a single exam with no prerequisites, but it is broad and includes hands-on simulations, so candidates usually practise in a lab (physical kit or a simulator). It remains a strong foundation even as networking shifts toward cloud and automation.
Who it is for
- People starting a career in networking
- IT support technicians moving toward network roles
- Anyone who wants a recognised networking foundation
Who it is not for
- People targeting cloud-only or security-only roles (look at AWS or Security+).
- Absolute beginners may find it steep, though no prerequisite is required.
- Those who want a vendor-neutral cert (consider Network+).
Exam structure
| Network Fundamentals | 20% |
|---|---|
| Network Access | 20% |
| IP Connectivity | 25% |
| IP Services | 10% |
| Security Fundamentals | 15% |
| Automation and Programmability | 10% |
How the exam is weighted
- Network Fundamentals 20%
- Network Access 20%
- IP Connectivity 25%
- IP Services 10%
- Security Fundamentals 15%
- Automation & Programmability 10%
Realistic study time
- Some networking/IT 80-120 hours over 2-3 months
- New to networking 150-200 hours
Bars show relative effort, not a guarantee. Your time depends on background and study method.
What it really costs
| Exam fee | US$300 |
|---|---|
| Retake | Full fee again |
| Study materials + labs | US$0-300 — NetAcad and Packet Tracer are free |
| Renewal | Recertify or earn CE credits in 3 years |
Fees change and vary by region. Confirm the current amount on the official site before you register.
Is it worth it?
Worth it for anyone starting in networking or infrastructure; CCNA is widely recognised and a strong base for higher Cisco tracks or security. If your career is moving purely into cloud or software, a cloud certification may be a better first investment.
What to do next
CCNA is the networking foundation; next is CCNP. Compare CCNA vs Network+ if choosing your first networking cert.
FAQ
- Is CCNA still worth it in 2026?
- Yes for networking and infrastructure roles. Networks still underpin everything, and CCNA is a recognised foundation, though it increasingly pairs well with cloud and automation skills.
- How hard is the CCNA?
- It is a broad intermediate exam with simulations. Most people study three to four months and practise in a lab or simulator.
- CCNA or CompTIA Network+?
- Network+ is vendor-neutral and slightly gentler; CCNA is Cisco-specific, more in-depth, and more directly recognised for networking jobs. Many start with Network+ then move to CCNA.
Related exams
- CompTIA Network+ (N10-009)— CompTIA
- CompTIA Security+ (SY0-701)— CompTIA