Characteristics of the New CCNA 200-301
BY READERS DIGEST
30th Sep 2021 Technology
The technology market is ever-evolving. Therefore, one needs a comprehensive set of skills to grow in this space.
Cisco has introduced specific changes in the CCNA course to keep up with the changing trends in the industry. The features of the new CCNA 200-301 course are discussed below in detail.
Features of new CCNA exam 200-301
1. Multiple exams replaced by a single exam
According to the old Cisco CCNA certification, a candidate has to appear for multiple exams. However, the new course has replaced this with a single exam. It has made the job easier for students. The code of the old exam was CCNA 200-125, and it has now been changed to CCNA 200-301. It has included fundamentals of software development and knowledge required for various job roles. The new CCNA course has replaced the following certifications.
- CCNA Cloud
- CCNA Collaboration
- CCNA Data Center
- CCNA Industrial
- CCNA Routing and Switching
- CCNA Security
- CCNA Service Provider
- CCNA Wireless
- Cisco Certified Design Associate (CCDA)
The updated course does not include any specialization. However, if you do want to pursue a specialization, you can now do so at the CCNP level.
2. New curriculum
The new exam comprises 120 questions and covers a variety of topics. Even under the new Cisco certification, they have not missed out on the core topics. The core topics comprise routing, switches, cabling, protocols, etc. The areas on which the syllabus focuses include:
- IP Fundamentals
- IP Connectivity
- Automation
- Network Access
- Security
To prepare for the exam, it is essential to understand the topics mentioned above. However, there are many websites providing training online such as Koenig Solutions, in case of any difficulty. These training sessions help students become thorough with the basics of every topic.
3. Price of new CCNA course
The CCNA certification cost has been reduced compared to the previous course. It is now priced at $300, while the old CCNA course fee was $330.
4. Benefits for CCNA students
- The students are no longer expected to study a vast number of topics. The syllabus now mainly focuses on industry-specific subjects. In addition, students can take training for the CCNA course online, which is considered an added advantage.
- Earlier, there were several specializations to choose from. It would cause confusion among students which specialization will serve them in the best possible ways. This is now resolved as the course has removed specialization, which can now be opted at the CCNP level.
5. Importance of topics
There are specific differences in the importance of modules in the previous and new CCNA courses. For example, there are six broad topics in the new course, while the old one had seven topics.
The weightage, in the old system, for each subject was between 10% and 15%, except LAN Switching and Routing Technologies. They had a weightage of 21% and 23% respectively. The topics of the new course, along with their importance, are mentioned below:
- Network Fundamentals carries a weightage of 20%.
- While IP Services carry a weightage of 10% in the exam.
- Network Access carries a weightage of 20%.
- Security Fundamentals have 15% weightage.
- IP Connectivity has a weightage of 25% in the exam.
- Lastly, Automation & Programmability carry a weightage of 10%.
6. Pattern of examination
The Cisco certification 200-125 had two exams of 90 minutes each. These exams were conducted in two phases with different schedules. The new CCNA course has one single exam which lasts for about 120 minutes.
The exam comprises around 120 questions which means the candidate has significantly less time to attempt a question. Therefore, one will not only have to practice time management but also accuracy. The exam can be attempted either in English or in French. The candidates who have completed the course before 24th February 2020 are bound to receive the certificate of the new CCNA course.
The old and new course curriculum focuses on the skill development of the candidates. The new course acts as a foundation for other courses. The CCNA training will equip the students for various job roles.
There are no prerequisites now for appearing in the new system. Cisco, however, recommends one have a good understanding of network fundamentals. In addition, experience in computer networking would be an advantage.
The primary aim of the CCNA Course 200-301 is to develop the skills required to survive in the IT industry. Since the IT industry is evolving at an incredible speed, it was needed to bring about these changes. The new course has just one training program and one exam. It will act as a career launcher for many students. Irrespective of where you are coming from, it will add value to your resume.
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