How to Become a Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA Security)

Cisco network certifications are some of the most sought after IT (Information Technology) certifications. There are four levels of Cisco certifications (Entry, Associate, Professional, and Expert) to enhance your professional credentials. Specialist certifications are also offered to verify focused knowledge in many topics.

According to Cisco, "CCNA Security Certification meets the needs of IT professionals who are responsible for network security. It confirms an individual’s skills for job roles such as Network Security Specialists, Security Administrators, and Network Security Support Engineers. This certification validates skills including installation, troubleshooting and monitoring of network devices to maintain integrity, confidentiality and availability of data and devices and develops competency in the technologies that Cisco uses in its security structure. Students completing the recommended Cisco training will gain an introduction to core security technologies as well as how to develop security policies and mitigate risks. IT organizations that employ CCNA Security-holders will have IT staff that can develop a security infrastructure, recognize threats and vulnerabilities to networks, and mitigate security threats."

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. PREREQUISITES - The prerequisite for this certification is a valid CCNA.

2. TRAINING - Cisco recommends the course Implementing Cisco IOS Network Security (IINS) for assistance in passing this certification exam. This course is available at many learning partners.

3. ADDITIONAL TRAINING AND REVIEW - Additional training and practice questions are available at the Additional Resources Links #1 & #2 [below].

4. CERTIFICATION EXAM(S) - Once you are ready to take your exam you can register through the Additional Resources Link #3 [below]. You will need to take exam number 640-553 (it lasts 90 minutes, with 55 - 65 questions).

5. RECERTIFICATION - CCNA Security certifications are valid for three years. To recertify, pass a CCNA Concentration exam (wireless, security, voice), or pass any 642 - XXX professional level or Cisco Specialist exam (excluding Sales Specialist exams), or pass a current CCIE or CCDE written exam.

Tips & Warnings

• To ensure your certification is remains valid, note step 5.

Resources

• CCNA Security Additional Study Information
• CCNA Security Practice Questions
• Schedule Your CCNA Security Exam

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on 12/10/2008 Thanks!