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The CCNA (exam 200-301, "Implementing and Administering Cisco Solutions") is a single 120-minute exam that costs US$300 plus tax, about AED 1,102 at the fixed dirham rate. There are no prerequisites. The current version, v1.1, can be taken until 2 February 2027, and the new version, v2.0, is the only version from 3 February 2027.
This guide gives you the full syllabus for both versions, the exam format, fees, retake and renewal rules, a 12-week study plan, worked examples, and the careers the CCNA can lead to.
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Table of Contents
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1. What is the CCNA 200-301?
2. CCNA exam details: fee, duration, format and languages 3. CCNA v1.1 vs v2.0: dates and domain changes 4. CCNA 200-301 v1.1 syllabus 5. CCNA 200-301 v2.0 syllabus 6. What was added and removed in v2.0 7. How to register, and online exam rules 8. Retake, validity and renewal rules 9. CCNA exam fees and training costs (USD and AED) 10. Who should take the CCNA, and how hard is it? 11. Frequently asked questions |
CCNA stands for Cisco Certified Network Associate. This Cisco associate-level certification validates that you can build, configure, secure and troubleshoot enterprise networks. Passing the CCNA 200-301 earns you the certification.
The CCNA exam covers switching, routing, IP addressing, wireless, network services, security fundamentals, and automation and operations. It is widely requested for roles such as network technician, NOC analyst, support engineer and junior network engineer.
New to Cisco certifications? Our explainer, What is CCNA? Everything You Need To Know About CCNA, covers the basics in more depth.
| Item | Detail |
| Exam name and code |
Implementing and Administering Cisco Solutions (200-301 CCNA)
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| Duration | 120 minutes |
| Exam fee |
US$300 plus applicable tax, or Cisco Learning Credits
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| Languages |
English and Japanese
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| Delivery |
In person at a test centre, or online with a proctor, booked through Pearson VUE
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| Question types |
Multiple choice, drag-and-drop, and simulation or lab-style questions
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| Results |
Available online within 48 hours
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| Prerequisites | None |
| Certification validity | 3 years |
Source: Cisco CCNA exam page. Fees, policies and exam content can change, so confirm on Cisco's page before you book.
Cisco published the v2.0 exam topics on 20 May 2026. The exam code stays 200-301. The fee (US$300) and length (120 minutes) are the same for both versions, and so is the certification you earn. It is valid for three years from your pass date and does not expire when v2.0 launches.
| Date | What happens |
| Until 2 February 2027 |
Last day to sit CCNA 200-301 v1.1
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| From 3 February 2027 |
CCNA 200-301 v2.0 is the only version available. There is no overlap period
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The v1.1 syllabus has six domains, while v2.0 reorganises them into five broader domains. The new version puts more weight on hands-on troubleshooting, network infrastructure, security and AI in network operations.
| CCNA v1.1 domain | Weight | CCNA v2.0 domain | Weight |
| 1.0 Network Fundamentals | 20% | 1.0 Network Infrastructure and Connectivity | 25% |
| 2.0 Network Access | 20% | 2.0 Switching and Network Access | 25% |
| 3.0 IP Connectivity | 25% | 3.0 IP Routing | 20% |
| 4.0 IP Services | 10% | 4.0 Network Services and Security | 20% |
| 5.0 Security Fundamentals | 15% | 5.0 AI and Network Operations and Management | 10% |
| 6.0 Automation and Programmability | 10% |
No sixth domain in v2.0
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If you are still choosing a provider, compare the best CCNA training institutes in the UAE.
This is the current CCNA exam blueprint, valid until 2 February 2027. Objective wording follows Cisco's official exam topics.
| No. | Exam objective |
| 1.1 |
Explain the role and function of network components: routers, Layer 2 and Layer 3 switches, next-generation firewalls and IPS, access points, controllers, endpoints, servers, PoE
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| 1.2 |
Describe characteristics of network topology architectures: two-tier, three-tier, spine-leaf, WAN, small office/home office (SOHO), on-premises and cloud
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| 1.3 |
Compare physical interface and cabling types: single-mode fiber, multimode fiber, copper; Ethernet shared media and point-to-point connections
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| 1.4 |
Identify interface and cable issues (collisions, errors, mismatched duplex and/or speed)
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| 1.5 |
Compare TCP to UDP
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| 1.6 |
Configure and verify IPv4 addressing and subnetting
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| 1.7 |
Describe private IPv4 addressing
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| 1.8 |
Configure and verify IPv6 addressing and prefix
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| 1.9 |
Describe IPv6 address types: unicast (global, unique local, link local), anycast, multicast, modified EUI-64
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| 1.1 |
Verify IP parameters for client operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux)
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| 1.11 |
Describe wireless principles: nonoverlapping Wi-Fi channels, SSID, RF, encryption
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| 1.12 |
Explain virtualization fundamentals (server virtualization, containers and VRFs)
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| 1.13 |
Describe switching concepts: MAC learning and aging, frame switching, frame flooding, MAC address table
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| No. | Exam objective |
| 2.1 |
Configure and verify VLANs (normal range) spanning multiple switches: access ports (data and voice), default VLAN, inter-VLAN connectivity
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| 2.2 |
Configure and verify interswitch connectivity: trunk ports, 802.1Q, native VLAN
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| 2.3 |
Configure and verify Layer 2 discovery protocols (Cisco Discovery Protocol and LLDP)
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| 2.4 |
Configure and verify (Layer 2/Layer 3) EtherChannel (LACP)
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| 2.5 |
Interpret basic operations of Rapid PVST+ Spanning Tree Protocol: root port and root bridge, port states and roles, PortFast, root guard, loop guard, BPDU filter and BPDU guard
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| 2.6 |
Describe Cisco wireless architectures and AP modes
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| 2.7 |
Describe physical infrastructure connections of WLAN components (AP, WLC, access/trunk ports and LAG)
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| 2.8 |
Describe network device management access (Telnet, SSH, HTTP, HTTPS, console, TACACS+/RADIUS and cloud managed)
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| 2.9 |
Interpret the wireless LAN GUI configuration for client connectivity (WLAN creation, security settings, QoS profiles and advanced settings)
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| No. | Exam objective |
| 3.1 |
Interpret the components of a routing table: routing protocol code, prefix, network mask, next hop, administrative distance, metric, gateway of last resort
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| 3.2 |
Determine how a router makes a forwarding decision by default: longest prefix match, administrative distance, routing protocol metric
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| 3.3 |
Configure and verify IPv4 and IPv6 static routing: default route, network route, host route, floating static
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| 3.4 |
Configure and verify single-area OSPFv2: neighbor adjacencies, point-to-point, broadcast (DR/BDR selection), router ID
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| 3.5 |
Describe the purpose, functions and concepts of first hop redundancy protocols
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| No. | Exam objective |
| 4.1 |
Configure and verify inside source NAT using static and pools
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| 4.2 |
Configure and verify NTP operating in client and server mode
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| 4.3 |
Explain the role of DHCP and DNS within the network
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| 4.4 |
Explain the function of SNMP in network operations
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| 4.5 |
Describe the use of syslog features, including facilities and severity levels
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| 4.6 |
Configure and verify DHCP client and relay
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| 4.7 |
Explain the forwarding per-hop behavior (PHB) for QoS: classification, marking, queuing, congestion, policing and shaping
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| 4.8 |
Configure network devices for remote access using SSH
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| 4.9 |
Describe the capabilities and functions of TFTP/FTP in the network
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| No. | Exam objective |
| 5.1 |
Define key security concepts (threats, vulnerabilities, exploits and mitigation techniques)
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| 5.2 |
Describe security program elements (user awareness, training and physical access control)
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| 5.3 |
Configure and verify device access control using local passwords
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| 5.4 |
Describe security password policy elements, such as management, complexity and password alternatives (multifactor authentication, certificates and biometrics)
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| 5.5 |
Describe IPsec remote access and site-to-site VPNs
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| 5.6 |
Configure and verify access control lists
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| 5.7 |
Configure and verify Layer 2 security features (DHCP snooping, dynamic ARP inspection and port security)
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| 5.8 |
Compare authentication, authorization and accounting concepts
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| 5.9 |
Describe wireless security protocols (WPA, WPA2 and WPA3)
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| 5.1 |
Configure and verify WLAN within the GUI using WPA2 PSK
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| No. | Exam objective |
| 6.1 |
Explain how automation impacts network management
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| 6.2 |
Compare traditional networks with controller-based networking
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| 6.3 |
Describe controller-based, software-defined architecture (overlay, underlay and fabric): separation of control plane and data plane, northbound and southbound APIs
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| 6.4 |
Explain AI (generative and predictive) and machine learning in network operations
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| 6.5 |
Describe characteristics of REST-based APIs (authentication types, CRUD, HTTP verbs and data encoding)
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| 6.6 |
Recognize the capabilities of configuration management mechanisms such as Ansible and Terraform
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| 6.7 |
Recognize components of JSON-encoded data
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This syllabus applies from 3 February 2027 and has five domains instead of six. Official topic list: Cisco Learning Network, CCNA v2.0 exam topics.
| No. | Exam objective |
| 1.1 |
Diagnose interface and cable (copper and fiber) issues such as collisions, errors, mismatched duplex, speed, distance, interface, signal levels, pinout and cable types
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| 1.2 |
Describe the role and function of hypervisors, virtual machines and containers
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| 1.3 |
Troubleshoot IPv4 address configuration, assignment and subnetting (public and private)
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| 1.4 |
Troubleshoot IPv6 address configuration, assignment and prefix sizing (unicast and modified EUI-64)
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| 1.5 |
Describe wireless principles: band and channel selection, RF characteristics, security protocols, causes of interference
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| 1.6 |
Troubleshoot wired and wireless client connectivity (IP configuration, network reachability and wireless security parameters on Windows, macOS and Linux)
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| 1.7 |
Troubleshoot DHCPv4 client, server and relay on IOS devices
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| No. | Exam objective |
| 2.1 |
Configure network infrastructure connectivity (switch-to-switch and switch-to-router): Layer 2/Layer 3 physical interfaces, 802.1Q trunk interfaces, LACP port-channel/EtherChannel, switch virtual interface (SVI)
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| 2.2 |
Configure Layer 2 switch port attributes for edge-host connectivity (VLAN, PoE, port channel and LACP) for desktops, printers and IoT, wireless APs, VoIP phones, virtualized hosts and network appliances
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| 2.3 |
Validate the accuracy of network documentation using CDP and LLDP
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| 2.4 |
Troubleshoot basic Layer 2/Layer 3 connectivity and device operations using show commands (including show logs), ping, extended ping, traceroute and packet capture output
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| 2.5 |
Configure operations of Rapid PVST+: root port and root bridge, port states and roles, PortFast, root guard, loop guard and BPDU guard
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| No. | Exam objective |
| 3.1 |
Interpret a routing table to identify the next hop for a packet (routing protocol, prefix/mask, administrative distance, metric and default route)
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| 3.2 |
Troubleshoot IPv4 and IPv6 static routing: default route, network route, host route, floating static
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| 3.3 |
Configure single-area OSPFv2 for IPv4 and OSPFv3 for IPv6: neighbor adjacencies (excluding authentication), point-to-point, broadcast (DR/BDR selection), router ID
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| 3.4 |
Interpret the operational status of first hop redundancy protocols (HSRP and VRRP)
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| No. | Exam objective |
| 4.1 |
Configure network devices with local usernames and as an AAA client (TACACS+ and RADIUS) for management
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| 4.2 |
Manage device configuration and software files using secure file transfer operations with SFTP/SCP
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| 4.3 |
Configure NAT/PAT on IOS XE routers
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| 4.4 |
Diagnose issues with DNS records (A, AAAA, CNAME, MX, NS and PTR) to support host, web application and mail server access by name
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| 4.5 |
Describe IPsec remote access and site-to-site VPNs (protocols and transport modes)
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| 4.6 |
Configure IPv4 access control lists (standard, extended, numbered and named)
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| 4.7 |
Configure Layer 2 security features: DHCP snooping, dynamic ARP inspection, storm control, RA guard, port security
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| No. | Exam objective |
| 5.1 |
Describe the role of agentic AI in network operations
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| 5.2 |
Select a prompt to send to a generative AI system to support network operations, considering prompt components such as data classification, output format, persona and instructions
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| 5.3 |
Describe network management approaches (device-based, cloud-based, controller-based, automation-based and infrastructure as code)
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| 5.4 |
Describe the function of SNMP in network operations
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| 5.5 |
Use configuration management mechanisms such as Ansible to execute commands
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| 5.6 |
Interpret syslog message content, severity levels and facilities
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Comparing the two topic lists shows where to focus if you move between versions.
New or expanded in v2.0:
Topics no longer listed as separate objectives in v2.0:
These topics are still part of networking. Foundations such as TCP and UDP still help you answer troubleshooting questions; they simply no longer appear as stand-alone objectives.
Create or sign in to your Cisco certification account.
Open the CCNA 200-301 page on Cisco's website and choose to schedule an in-person or online exam.
Pick your exam version by date: v1.1 until 2 February 2027, v2.0 from 3 February 2027.
Book through Pearson VUE, choose a test centre or online proctoring, and pay US$300 plus tax, or use Cisco Learning Credits.
On exam day, bring valid identification as required by Pearson VUE and follow its check-in rules.
For the full journey from first lesson to certification, follow our step-by-step guide on how to become CCNA certified in Dubai.
If you take the CCNA online, Pearson VUE monitors you through your webcam for the whole exam. In general you will need:
Rules can change, so read Pearson VUE's current online testing requirements before you book. If your home setup is unreliable, a test centre is usually the safer choice.
| Rule | Detail |
| If you fail |
Wait 5 calendar days, counted from the day after the attempt, then retake. Each attempt costs the full fee
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| If you pass |
You cannot retake the same exam number for 180 days
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| Validity |
3 years from the day you pass
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| Renewal options |
Earn 30 Continuing Education credits, retake the 200-301 exam, or pass a higher-level Cisco exam such as a CCNP exam
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The cost of obtaining the CCNA certification includes the official exam fee and, optionally, the instructor-led CCNA course. While choosing the course will increase the total fee, it is often considered worth the investment.
| Cost component | USD | AED (approx.) |
| Cisco CCNA 200-301 exam | 300 plus tax |
1,102 plus tax (about 1,157 if 5% UAE VAT applies)
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| Retake after a failed attempt | 300 per attempt |
1,102 per attempt
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| CCNA training course, Dubai (40 hours, classroom or live online) | 545 USD (approximately) | 2000 AED |
| Study resources (books, practice tests) | Varies | Varies |
Training is optional; you can prepare on your own using Cisco's exam topics, study materials and hands-on lab practice. Edoxi's CCNA course in Dubai runs for 40 hours in small groups of four, with practice on real Cisco ISR routers and Catalyst switches, and fees can be paid in four instalments with Tabby.
Wondering whether classroom training is worth it? Read the advantages of CCNA training for networking professionals in Dubai.
There are no formal prerequisites. Basic IT knowledge, such as how computers connect to the internet, makes the early weeks easier.
Still deciding whether it fits your plans? See whether starting a career with the CCNA is the right choice.
The CCNA is an entry-level certification, but it is not an easy exam. It covers a wide range of topics in 120 minutes, and questions often test whether you can apply knowledge rather than recall definitions.
What most candidates find hardest:
In v2.0, the shift to "troubleshoot" and "diagnose" objectives makes hands-on practice even more important. Candidates who spend real time in a lab usually find the exam far more manageable than those who only read.
Not sure where to begin? Our overview of how to become a Cisco Certified Network Associate gives you a roadmap.
Cisco does not set an official study time. As a general guide, beginners often need around 12 weeks at 10 to 12 hours a week. People who already work with switches and routers may need less.
| Weeks | Focus (v2.0 domain) | Lab practice |
| 1–2 | Infrastructure and addressing (1.0) |
Subnetting drills, cable and interface faults, IPv6 addressing
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| 3–5 | Switching and network access (2.0) |
VLANs, trunks, EtherChannel, Rapid PVST+; break and fix a trunk
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| 6–8 | IP routing (3.0) |
Static and default routes, single-area OSPF, reading routing tables
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| 9–10 | Network services and security (4.0) |
DHCP, NAT/PAT, ACLs, DNS, Layer 2 security
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| 11 | AI, network operations and management (5.0) |
SNMP, syslog, Ansible basics, AI concepts
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| 12 | Full review |
Timed practice exams and a review of weak areas
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| Resource | Best for |
| Cisco Learning Network exam topics |
The authoritative syllabus for your exam version; use it as a checklist
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| Cisco U. learning path |
Guided study with pre- and post-assessments
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| CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide, Volumes 1 and 2 (Cisco Press) |
In-depth reading; check that the edition matches your exam version
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| Cisco Packet Tracer |
Free simulator for building and breaking small networks
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| Cisco Modelling Labs |
Realistic labs with real Cisco software images
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| Cisco practice exams and network simulators |
Testing readiness under time pressure
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The CCNA prepares you for entry-level and junior roles in enterprise networking, telecoms, data centres and IT support. Common job roles include;
Not sure which role to aim for first? See 5 jobs you can get after CCNA certification in Dubai.
Indeed salary data for the UAE, based on job postings, gives a useful guide:
| Role | Average monthly pay (AED) | Source and date |
| Network Engineer (UAE) | 5,165 (typical range 2,276 to 11,722) |
Indeed UAE, 154 salaries, 3 October 2026
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| Network Engineer (Dubai) | 5,923 |
Indeed UAE, 3 October 2026
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| Senior Network Engineer (UAE) | 9,773 |
Indeed UAE, 3 October 2026
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| Network Security Engineer (UAE) | 8,031 |
Indeed UAE, 47 salaries, 12 October 2026
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These figures come from job postings, so treat them as market indicators rather than guaranteed starting salaries. Pay depends on experience, employer and the certifications you hold.
To see what the certification can do for your career, read the top benefits of CCNA certification.
Passing a CCNP-level exam also renews your CCNA.
Comparing the two levels? Read CCNA vs CCNP: which Cisco certification is right for your networking career.
Both are respected networking certifications, but they suit different goals.
| Factor | Cisco CCNA 200-301 |
CompTIA Network+ N10-009
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| Focus | Configuring and troubleshooting networks, mainly on Cisco IOS |
Vendor-neutral networking concepts, operations and troubleshooting
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| Duration | 120 minutes | 90 minutes |
| Questions | Number not published by Cisco | Up to 90 |
| Passing score | Not published; reported as pass or fail |
720 on a scale of 100 to 900
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| Exam fee | US$300 plus tax |
About US360toUS405, depending on seller and region
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| Prerequisites | None |
None required; CompTIA A+ and 9 to 12 months of networking experience recommended
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| Validity | 3 years | 3 years |
| Best for | Roles working with Cisco equipment, and a path to CCNP |
A broad, vendor-neutral foundation for IT and support roles
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The CCNA 200-301 is a strong first step towards a career in networking and IT infrastructure. Preparing well takes more than memorising definitions: you need to understand networking fundamentals, practise configurations, read command output and troubleshoot common problems.
Start by downloading the official exam topics for your version. Build skills across every domain, practise regularly in a lab, and use timed practice tests to find weak areas. Most importantly, match your study resources to your exam date, so that you prepare for the right version.
