How to Become a Cisco Network Admission Control Specialist

A Cisco Network Admission Control Specialist is someone who has shown the aptitude and proficiency to install, configure and operate the NAC Appliance. With a Cisco certification, a person greatly improves their job skills and their ability to get a job or a raise at a current job.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Obtain the prerequisite certifications. The CCNA, Cisco Certified Networking Associate, is required. This is required for most Cisco certifications. It is a 3-year certification acquired after taking a series of Cisco certification exams.

2. Decide on your method of study. You can enroll in a local class. Cisco also offers online classes, as well as study guides. Decide which method is best for you.

3. Study for the 2 required exams. 642-552 SND (Securing Cisco Network Devices) and 642-591 CANAC (Implementing Cisco Intrusion Prevention System) are the 2 exams that are required. They cover Cisco routers, firewalls, remote access and networks.

4. Register to take your exams. Exams do not need to be taken together. Pearson Vue partners with Cisco for testing and certification. You can find locations and register worldwide.

5. Take your exam. Each exam is 75 minutes.

6. Inform your employer or potential employers about your certification. Passing the certification for the Cisco Network Admission Control Specialist is an accomplishment that will make you a valuable employee.

Tips & Warnings

• The exams are very difficult. Ensure that you have studied everything listed in the study guide or during your class. Preparation can take from several months to a year.
• There is an extensive list on the Cisco website telling you all that needs to be studied. Use this as a check list to ensure that you have covered all that might be on the certification exam.
• Cisco certification tests are very difficult. Ensure that you are prepared to take the exam. If you have to retest, you will also repay the fee.

Resources

• Pearson Vue
• Cisco