Taking the CCNA?… Here are Some Tips to Help You
The best certification in the field of networking is acquired by taking the ccnp exam. The exam is not only a single certification but is the key towards other higher level certifications like CCNP. By putting in required amount of effort in preparation, and using some time management and practice techniques, one can get through the test easily.
In the recent years, CCNA exam has gained a lot of popularity and repute in giving recognition to professionals who are experts in installing, configuring and operating small to medium size networks like LAN, WAN, wireless LAN and switched network services. The exam is also an entry level certification for the CISCO Career Certification Program. It can be regarded as the primary step towards higher and even more complex certifications in the field of networking by CISCO.
There are two ways in which one can approach the CCNA certification exam:
? The 640-801 exam which the CCNA exam
? The 640-821(Introduction to CISCO Networking Technologies) and 640-811(Interconnecting CISCO Networking Devices)
Both the channels lead to the CCNA certification which is also a requirement for CCNP certification. The next level in networking certifications is CCNP, where it is ensured that the networking professional is an expert at planning, configuring and operating routed WAN, switched LAN and remote access networks using the products by CISCO. But before taking the CCNP, it is better to clear the primary level in the form of the CCNA exam.
The CCNA exam has various objectives included in it like Bridging/Switching, Routed Protocols, WAN Protocols, Network Management, CISCO Basics etc. The computer based test structure includes multiple choice questions, fill in the blanks, drag and drop questions, simulations and exhibit based questions.
A large variety of study materials and preparation resources are present that can be used by the candidates to prepare for the test. Online, printed and software, many kinds of these materials are present at the service of CCNA candidates. They can choose the preparation aids as per their requirements and preferences. But still small and big tips by experts and certified professionals can help the candidates in getting the CCNA certification easily.
The first step towards preparing for the CCNA exam or for any kind of test for that matter, is always finding a good book or any kind of preparation materials. The study materials should come from a reputed printing house that updates the information related to the test, its syllabus and pattern regularly. Another kind of preparation materials are the practice and test papers that help the candidates become aware of the test pattern and get familiarized with what should be expected in the real test. These practice tests help to test ones acquired knowledge and also know about the level of preparation that one has reached.
Time management is a very crucial aspect of CA+ practice exams preparation. One should know the techniques to manage the long list of questions that appear in the test in a limited amount of time. The best way to prepare for this is to monitor the time taken in answering each question while taking the practice tests. By monitoring the time taken, one can cover up on the time front and also learn some time management techniques. One among them is to skip the questions that are taking longer to answer as it is not good to waste too much time on one question for which one is not sure. By doing this, expensive time that can be spent in answering other questions about which one is confident.
In depth preparation, above all other things, is the prime requirement of doing well in the test. If one is prepared well and is sure about all the topics that come under the test syllabus, it can be taken for sure that one can clear the test with the desired scores. Therefore, one should be ready to face the test with complete effort and hence add to the value of one’s professional career by gaining expertise validation.