Cisco Systems Inc. specializes in networking and communications products and services. The company is probably best known for its business routing and switching products, which direct data, voice, and video traffic across networks around the world. However, Cisco also offers storage networking, applications for unified communications, telepresence and collaboration (WebEx), and an array of services from simple product support to complete solutions for data centers and cloud management.
To ensure that IT professionals have the skills and knowledge necessary to support Cisco products and solve customers’ technology problems on many fronts, the Cisco Career Certification program is all-embracing. That is, it begins at the entry level, then advances to associate, professional, and expert levels, and (in some certification areas) caps things off at the architect level.
Each level offers one or more credentials. Obtaining a credential usually involves passing one or more certification exams. Most Cisco exams are delivered by Pearson VUE. For higher-level credentials, candidates must also prove they meet necessary prerequisites. The higher the level of certification, the more credentials and prerequisites one needs to meet those requirements.
Certifications within Cisco’s portfolio include the following credentials:
There are many certifications and paths one can take in Cisco’s career program. That said, its two main paths cover network operation and network design. A typical Cisco networking certification ladder begins with the entry-level CCENT credential, moves up to the CCNA, onto the CCNP and culminates with the CCIE. The design-oriented might instead consider starting with the CCENT, moving up to the CCDA, then the professional-level CCDP, followed by the CCDE, and finish the program with the CCAr.
The Cisco Career Certification program also includes a number of specializations. These certifications acknowledge a professional’s skills in a specific Cisco technology, such as data center application services, voicemail and messaging or rich media. Cisco specializations are organized into two primary categories: one targeting technical certified and another targeting digital transformation specialists. Between these two categories, there are currently 15 specializations among which IT pros can choose.
The Technical Specialist category includes specializations across six subcategories:
Digital Transformation certified includes credentials geared to Business Architecture and Customer Success.
Achieving a specialist credential generally requires passing one or two exams. Some credentials also impose prerequisites.
Entry-, associate- and professional-level credentials are valid for three years, CCIE and specialist certifications are valid for two years and the CCAr is valid for five years. To keep certifications current, Cisco professionals need to recertify by passing a recertification exam or advancing to a higher level in Cisco’s certification hierarchy.
Cisco has two entry-level credentials: the Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT) and the Cisco Certified Technician (CCT). No prerequisites are needed to obtain either the CCENT or CCT credential, and candidates must pass a single exam to earn each credential.
CCENT certified professionals install, maintain and troubleshoot small networks or a branch of an enterprise network, and implement basic network security. The CCENT credential is a prerequisite for some associate-level CCNA solution track credentials and the CCDA.
CCTs work onsite at customer locations, diagnosing issues and repairing or replacing network-related equipment. A CCT can choose one of several specialty tracks, which currently includes Data Center and Routing and Switching.
Certification Exams Number of Questions Time to Complete CCENT 100-105 ICND1 45-55 90 minutes CCT Data Center 010-151 DCTECH 65-75 90 minutes CCT Routing & Switching 640-692 RSTECH 60-70 90 minutes
Cisco’s associate-level certifications include the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) and the Cisco Certified Design Associate (CCDA). One must pass one or two certification exams to achieve a CCNA or CCDA credential, depending on the track you choose.
The CCNA recognizes basic skills in installing, supporting, and troubleshooting wired and/or wireless networks. One can choose from several tracks, including Cloud, Collaboration, Cyber Ops, Data Center, Industrial, Routing and Switching, Security, Service Provider and Wireless. The CCNA is a prerequisite for the professional-level CCNP certification. Prerequisites for the CCNA vary depending on the solution track chosen as do the number of required exams. All solution tracks require either one or two exams.
Cisco created the CCDA to identify individuals who can design basic wired and wireless networks, and incorporate security and voice solutions. The CCDA is a prerequisite for the CCDP certification. To obtain the CCDA, candidates must possess either a valid CCENT, CCNA Routing and Switching (or any CCIE certification), and pass a single additional exam.
| Certification | Exams | Number of Questions | Time to Complete |
|---|---|---|---|
| CCDA | 200-310 DESGN | 55-65 | 75 minutes |
| CCNA Cloud | 210-451 CLDFND | 55-65 | 90 minutes |
| 210-455 CLDADM | 55-65 | 90 minutes | |
| CCNA Collaboration | 210-060 CICD | 55-65 | 75 minutes |
| 210-065 CIVND | 55-65 | 75 minutes | |
| CCNA Cyber Ops | 210-250 SECFND | 55-60 | 90 minutes |
| 210-255 SECOPS | 60-70 | 90 minutes | |
| CCNA Data Center | 200-150 DCICN | 55-65 | 90 minutes |
| 200-155 DCICT | 65-75 | 120 minutes | |
| CCNA Industrial | 200-601 IMINS2 | 65-75 | 90 minutes |
| CCNA Routing and Switching** | 200-125 CCNA | 60-70 | 90 minutes |
| 100-105 ICND1 | 45-55 | 90 minutes | |
| 200-105 ICND2 | 55-65 | 90 minutes | |
| CCNA Security | 210-260 IINS | 60-70 | 90 minutes |
| CCNA Service Provider | 640-875 SPNGN1 | 65-75 | 90 minutes |
| 640-878 SPNGN2 | 65-75 | 90 minutes | |
| CCNA Wireless | 200-355 WIFUND | 60-70 | 90 minutes |
**Candidates for the CCNA Routing and Switching may take exam 200-125 OR exam 100-105 plus 200-105.
Cisco’s professional-level credentials include two main programs: the Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) and the Cisco Certified Design Professional (CCDP). To obtain the CCDP, one must pass three certification exams and possess both the CCDA and CCNA Routing and Switching credentials or any Cisco CCIE or CCDE certification.
All CCNP solution tracks, except Routing and Switching, require candidates to pass four exams. Only three exams are required for the CCNP: Routing and Switching credential. Prerequisites for all CCNP solution tracks include either the lower-level CCNA credential or any CCIE credential. The CCNP: Service Provider credential also accepts the Cisco Certified Internet Professional (CCIP) credential as a prerequisite (which retired in 2012).
The CCNP credential recognizes professionals who plan, deploy, and troubleshoot local networks and wide area networks. The CCNP tracks are the same as those for the CCNA, except for Industrial and Cyber Ops, which are not offered in the CCNP track. The CCNP is recommended to climb up to the next step on the cert ladder – the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert.
The CCDP identifies proficiency in designing and deploying scalable networks and multilayer-switched networks. From the CCDP, you can move on to the Cisco Certified Design Expert.
| Certification | Exams | Number of Questions | Time to Complete |
|---|---|---|---|
| CCDP | 300-101 ROUTE | 45-65 | 120 minutes |
| 300-115 SWITCH | 30-40 | 120 minutes | |
| 300-320 ARCH | 60-70 | 75 minutes | |
| CCNP Cloud | 300-460 CLDINF | 55-65 | 90 minutes |
| 300-465 CLDDES | 55-65 | 90 minutes | |
| 300-470 CLDAUT | 55-65 | 90 minutes | |
| 300-475 CLDACI | 55-65 | 90 minutes | |
| CCNP Collaboration | 300-070 CIPTV1 | 65-75 | 75 minutes |
| 300-075 CIPTV2 | 50-60 | 75 minutes | |
| 300-080 CTCOLLAB | 55-65 | 75 minutes | |
| 300-085 CAPPS | 55-65 | 75 minutes | |
| CCNP Data Center** | 300-175 DCUCI | 55-65 | 90 minutes |
| 300-165 DCII | 55-65 | 90 minutes | |
| 300-170 DCVAI | 55-65 | 90 minutes | |
| 300-160 DCID | 55-65 | 90 minutes | |
| 300-180 DCIT | 70-80 | 90 minutes | |
| CCNP Routing and Switching | 300-101 ROUTE | 45-65 | 120 minutes |
| 300-115 SWITCH | 30-40 | 120 minutes | |
| 300-135 TSHOOT | 15-25 | 120 minutes | |
| CCNP Security | 300-208 SISAS | 55-65 | 90 minutes |
| 300-206 SENSS | 65-75 | 90 minutes | |
| 300-209 SIMOS | 65-75 | 90 minutes | |
| 300-210 SITCS | 65-75 | 90 minutes | |
| CCNP Service Provider | 642-883 SPROUTE | 65-75 | 90 minutes |
| 642-885 SPADVROUTE | 65-75 | 90 minutes | |
| 642-887 SPCORE | 65-75 | 90 minutes | |
| 642-889 SPEDGE | 65-75 | 90 minutes | |
| CCNP Wireless | 300-360 WIDESIGN | 55-65 | 90 minutes |
| 300-365 WIDEPLOY | 55-65 | 90 minutes | |
| 300-370 WITSHOOT | 55-65 | 90 minutes | |
| 300-375 WISECURE | 55-65 | 90 minutes |
**CCNP Data Center may take either the 300-160 or 300-180 exam.
Cisco’s expert-level credentials embrace two primary certifications: the coveted Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) and the Cisco Certified Design Expert (CCDE). Neither certification imposes prerequisites, but one must pass a written exam and a rigorous practical exam to earn either of these credentials.
Beginning in July 2016, Cisco updated its expert-level exams to include an evolving technologies domain. This new domain targets cloud, network programmability and the IoT, and it accounts for 10 percent of the total exam score. Cisco may change the syllabus included in this domain to reflect emerging technologies as they reach strong enough commercial interest, potential and presence to make them examworthy. The company describes this mechanism as a way to help future-proof its certifications so that employers may assume that those who hold current credentials are also up to speed on important new networking technologies.
For many network-track professionals, achieving the CCIE is the highlight of their careers. A CCIE has expert technical skills and knowledge of Cisco network products and solutions in one of the CCIE technical tracks, which currently include Collaboration, Data Center, Routing and Switching, Security, Service Provider, and Wireless.
The CCDE identifies experts who design infrastructure solutions for large enterprise environments, which include technological, operational, business and budget aspects of a project.
For persons seeking positions such as network architect or data center architect, a smart move is to acquire the Cisco Certified Architect (CCAr) certification. The CCAr is like the Ph.D. of the Cisco Career Certification program – it’s the highest level of certification that Cisco offers. This credential validates the skills of a senior network infrastructure architect, someone who can plan and design IT infrastructures based on business strategies. Many people consider the CCAr the most difficult tech certification to achieve.
To earn the CCDE certification, you must design a network solution to implement an assigned strategy; then, you must appear before a Cisco-appointed panel to explain and defend that solution.
Cisco maintains a comprehensive list of training and self-study resources. These resources include various forms of online learning, practice exams, learning labs, links to which appear on each certification’s web page. The Cisco Learning Network offers candidates a free basic membership that includes access to exam topics, live seminars, IT training videos, study groups, forums, study materials and much more. The subscription-based Cisco Platinum Learning Library provides professionals with on-demand learning and access to more than 400 courses, hands-on vLabs, the support library, and more. Additional training materials are also available from Cisco Press.
Learn how Infrastructure-as-a-Service company simplified its data center using Cisco’s Application Centric Infrastructure (ACI) approach.
Adopting Cisco’s ACI, NetApp experienced:
• Improvements in the density of throughput and cost per port
• Increased productivity of the infrastructure
• Integrated visibility and intelligence
• Agility enablement of the entire application infrastructure
Download this Case Study to learn more.
Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared on ByDanJohnson.com.
FAA proposed regulation has powerfully captured the attention of many pilots. Pilots have tons of questions. We have some answers. Everyone has a lot to read.
Overall, FAA’s Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification (MOSAIC) regulation proposal has been warmly received as it opens the door to more capable aircraft that a sport pilot can fly. That’s good, but the document has problems, too. Following are four examples.
MOSAIC’s language invigorated many readers when the Notice of Proposed Rule Making (NPRM) expressed support for a sport pilot certificate holder to fly at night, with proper training and a logbook endorsement. Yet the proposal refers to other FAA regulations requiring BasicMed or an AvMed. If you must have a medical, you are not exercising the central privilege of a sport pilot certificate. Why suggest that a sport pilot can do things that are blocked by other regulations? This conflict should be resolved.
Another opportunity gap involves aerial work. We’re pleased the Light Aircraft Manufacturers Association (LAMA’s) request was included, but it requires a commercial certificate to fly for compensation, and this requirement eliminates powered parachutes and weight shift trikes, for which no commercial certificate is available. This is discriminatory and should be fixed.
Maintenance experts have lots of questions; see the video at bottom.
ASTM standards writers raised questions about the value of noise regulations included for no present gain, “requiring solutions before the problem exists.” This appears to have political motivations.
You may find other aspects of MOSAIC that urge you to comment. If so, you may find the following helpful.
I can’t imagine anyone genuinely enjoys memorizing MOSAIC. The NPRM encompasses many pages in dense language; it’s tedious to review.
It just got a lot easier, thanks to Roy Beisswenger. [Beisswenger is founder and proprietor of Easy Flight]
Beginning in 2014—well before MOSAIC existed—Beisswenger and I spent years advocating on behalf of the LSA industry and the pilots that fly those light aircraft to the FAA. Beisswenger was the lead author on several white papers LAMA submitted to support each of its requests. They went over so well with the FAA that they are mentioned in the footnotes.
As you will see in the attached PDF study guide, Beisswenger has done a monster amount of work in reformatting the documents so that you can walk through it and find what you want much easier.
Beisswenger also addressed specific comments I had, whereupon memorizing one section, the FAA refers to another, and then to another. Before long, you forget where you started and struggle to retrace your steps. You also need internet access to study the FARs published outside the NPRM. The continuous back-and-forth makes studying the document slow, yet the clock is ticking on public comments. At this writing we have just over 60 days left.
Reviewing the NPRM is far easier with this PDF study guide because of the bookmarks, links, and backlinks, plus already-highlighted text which shows what current FARs could be changed plus some lightly-colored text that illustrates where the FAA will insert new language.
MOSAIC will still take a significant effort to review carefully, but Beisswenger made the task much easier and faster.
If you open the study guide with Adobe Acrobat on almost any device or computer—or if you use Preview on Apple laptops/desktops—you will gain access to the bookmarks (look for a small icon in the upper right of a tablet or a smart phone; in Preview, show the Table of Contents. On both, use the triangles to drop down further and further). Bookmarks are your navigation friend, helping you jump to places of interest or study.
Beisswenger even embedded back buttons on some pages when reviewing the FARs. This helps readers not get lost in their investigations.
Of course, within Acrobat (or Preview), you can search for specific text.
I observe for you that such ease of review was not possible when the SP/LSA regulation was released in 2004 (three years before the iPhone was introduced).
When reviewing MOSAIC I recommend you follow aspects of particular interest to you rather than try to absorb the whole thing.
However deep you go, Beisswenger made it much easier.
When you are ready to comment to FAA, use this link. We’ll have more advice on commenting as soon as possible but here’s some basic tips:
To see MOSAIC comments already made, use this link.
John Zimmerman, president of Sporty’s, thought our conversation in this edition of the “Pilot’s Discretion” podcast conveyed a lot of good information (audio—42 minutes). John was an excellent interviewer.
During their college years, many students take advantage of their school's study abroad program. These types of programs allow students to spend one (or more) semesters in a foreign country, while continuing to take classes.
This is an amazing opportunity to travel to a new place and engage in practical learning, beyond what you'll find in textbooks.
If your study abroad semester is coming up, or if it is something you think you'd like to do in the future, here are ways to make the most out of your time.
Traveling to a different country through your school's travel abroad program can be a great addition to your college years. (iStock)
INTERNATIONAL DESTINATIONS YOU CAN VISIT THIS SUMMER FOR THE ULTIMATE VACATION
Take time to write down the goals you have before you leave. If writing isn't really your thing, you can also make a vision board to display your goals in photographs.
HOW TO AVOID INTERNATIONAL ATM FEES
Before you go, jot down goals you want to accomplish while you are away. (Andia/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
Whether you write down just a few key items, or you have a long list, writing goals early can help remind you of the things you want to accomplish while you are on your trip. Also, these goals are not the only ones you can have. You can always add more to your list during your travels.
Travel documents can take a long time to get prepared, so it's vital to gather them as soon as you can, rather than scrambling at the last minute.
The main documents you'll need are a passport and a visa, depending on the length of your program.
You likely won't be making income while you are studying abroad, so you'll want to save up money beforehand that will have you covered while you're away.
6 AIRLINE TRAVEL TIPS FROM EXPERTS IN THE INDUSTRY
Create a budget for yourself to follow while you are in another country. (iStock)
The sooner you decide you'll be studying abroad, the better, since you'll be able to work extra hours before you leave and start putting money aside.
This will also be an important time to make a budget, so you aren't overspending during the semester. Create a rough budget to stick to before you leave, and then make any adjustments necessary once you get there.
Studying abroad is a great opportunity to learn a new language. You'll get a better grasp of the language once you spend time around people using it, but it will be helpful to begin learning the basics before you go.
If you are heading to a place you've never visited, or spent minimal time in, you'll want to conduct basic research on the country before you leave.
Research on the country you are visiting so you'll know what to expect when you arrive. (iStock)
TRAVELING SOON? 5 SMART TECH STEPS TO TAKE BEFORE YOU HIT THE ROAD
Do research to determine landmarks and sights you want to see while you're abroad and find some information on the laws and proper etiquette in the foreign country.
Once you arrive, get in the habit of writing in a journal at the end of each day. Write down everything you did, what you learned and what you're looking forward to. You'll be thankful you kept a journal to look back on after your trip. Also, take lots of pictures and create a scrapbook of your journey.
If writing really isn't your thing, another option is to create a video diary of your trip, where instead of writing, you take a short clip on your phone or camera each day talking about what you did. You can combine this with pictures and videos of you exploring so you can show everyone back home.
Studying abroad affords you opportunities to meet many new people, both students in your program and locals.
Locals can teach you so much about the country and can also help you learn the language.
Studying abroad can introduce you to many new people you would not have met otherwise. (iStock)
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Studying abroad is a once in a lifetime opportunity, so take advantage of the experience at hand. Visit everything you wanted to visit, spend time fully embracing the culture and learn as much as possible.
While this is easier said than done, take studying abroad as a chance to be extra extroverted and eager to learn.
If you sit back and wait for things to come to you, you're probably not going to have the experience you imagined. Ask questions, be present and enjoy every minute.
The cost of living abroad will inevitably vary from student to student, based upon individual living styles, budgetary habits, personal resources, and the fluctuating currency exchange rates. Taking these factors into account, students may find it difficult to actually estimate expenditures in preparation for a program. Students should be prepared to adapt their standards of living to their surroundings, and approach the experience with a sense of financial responsibility.
Here are some financial tips to remember, in preparation for your time abroad:
Credit/Debit Cards
Contact your bank and credit/debit card companies to let them know you will be abroad (when and where you will be going), so that your withdrawals are not denied or your credit card cancelled. The credit card and/or debit card you plan to use while abroad must be in your name, not your parents'. (Most major lenders will, at the request of the cardholder, provide an additional card in the name of a dependent authorized to use the account.)
ATM Fees
Check with your bank for information about daily/weekly limits on withdrawals, and about fees charged for the use of foreign ATM's. When withdrawing money from an ATM abroad, you will likely be charged a fee at the foreign bank, in addition to your own bank's fee. Ask your bank before you go if they have a partnership bank in the country where you will be living; if so, you might be able to avoid ATM fees.
Foreign Currency
Some places you may be traveling do not always accept credit card as readily as in the U.S. Buy some currency to have when you arrive. You may need money to get from the airport to your accommodation or school, and changing money in airports is often more expensive than at a bank. Communication with your bank prior to departure is important. Check with your financial institution regarding the exchange of currency. It is also helpful to inform your bank of your travel days for leaving and returning to the United States.
Traveler's Checks
Be aware that traveler's checks are becoming increasingly difficult to cash, especially in Europe. They are not highly recommended as a primary or secondary source of cash on most programs.
Flights
Look for student rate flights through companies such as STA and Student Universe. These companies tend to offer cheaper rates for students and other companies may offer cheaper rates for anyone under the age of 26.
Security
Be careful with purses, wallets, and backpacks, as they are easier targets for pickpockets. Do not carry all of your money in one place, and if possible, have a secure place to store these items in your dormitory or host family, while you are not intending to use them.
Budget
Always carry your student ID and International Student Identity Card with you, as many places offer students discounts or even free admission. Keep an eye out for student rates, and remember it never hurts to ask! Try to avoid eating out during the week; cooking for yourself and/or eating with your host family will save a lot of money for weekends, travel, souvenirs, etc.
Travel
When you arrive, consider buying a long-term bus or train pass; a monthly or multiple trip pass is likely a better value than daily passes. Make a budget for travel in addition to your weekly expense budget. Be aware of the current exchange rates in the countries you plan to travel to- this can greatly affect your travel budget.
This bestselling textbook provides an engaging and user-friendly introduction to the study of language.
Assuming no prior knowledge of the subject, Yule presents information in bite-sized sections, clearly explaining the major concepts in linguistics – from how children learn language to why men and women speak differently, through all the key elements of language. This fifth edition has been revised and updated with new figures and tables, additional topics, and numerous new examples using languages from across the world.To increase student engagement and to foster problem-solving and critical thinking skills, the book includes thirty new tasks. An expanded and revised online study guide provides students with further resources, including answers and tutorials for all tasks, while encouraging lively and proactive learning. This is the most fundamental and easy-to-use introduction to the study of language.
During their college years, many students take advantage of their school's study abroad program. These types of programs allow students to spend one (or more) semesters in a foreign country, while continuing to take classes.
This is an amazing opportunity to travel to a new place and engage in practical learning, beyond what you'll find in textbooks.
If your study abroad semester is coming up, or if it is something you think you'd like to do in the future, here are ways to make the most out of your time.
INTERNATIONAL DESTINATIONS YOU CAN VISIT THIS SUMMER FOR THE ULTIMATE VACATION
Write down goals
Get your travel documents in order early
Figure out your financials
Begin to learn the language of the country you'll be living in
Research the country ahead of time
Keep a travel journal during your stay
Make friends, both within your program and locals
Embrace every opportunity that comes your way
Push yourself to be extroverted
Take time to write down the goals you have before you leave. If writing isn't really your thing, you can also make a vision board to display your goals in photographs.
HOW TO AVOID INTERNATIONAL ATM FEES
Whether you write down just a few key items, or you have a long list, writing goals early can help remind you of the things you want to accomplish while you are on your trip. Also, these goals are not the only ones you can have. You can always add more to your list during your travels.
Travel documents can take a long time to get prepared, so it's vital to gather them as soon as you can, rather than scrambling at the last minute.
The main documents you'll need are a passport and a visa, depending on the length of your program.
You likely won't be making income while you are studying abroad, so you'll want to save up money beforehand that will have you covered while you're away.
6 AIRLINE TRAVEL TIPS FROM EXPERTS IN THE INDUSTRY
The sooner you decide you'll be studying abroad, the better, since you'll be able to work extra hours before you leave and start putting money aside.
This will also be an important time to make a budget, so you aren't overspending during the semester. Create a rough budget to stick to before you leave, and then make any adjustments necessary once you get there.
Studying abroad is a great opportunity to learn a new language. You'll get a better grasp of the language once you spend time around people using it, but it will be helpful to begin learning the basics before you go.
If you are heading to a place you've never visited, or spent minimal time in, you'll want to conduct basic research on the country before you leave.
TRAVELING SOON? 5 SMART TECH STEPS TO TAKE BEFORE YOU HIT THE ROAD
Do research to determine landmarks and sights you want to see while you're abroad and find some information on the laws and proper etiquette in the foreign country.
Once you arrive, get in the habit of writing in a journal at the end of each day. Write down everything you did, what you learned and what you're looking forward to. You'll be thankful you kept a journal to look back on after your trip. Also, take lots of pictures and create a scrapbook of your journey.
If writing really isn't your thing, another option is to create a video diary of your trip, where instead of writing, you take a short clip on your phone or camera each day talking about what you did. You can combine this with pictures and videos of you exploring so you can show everyone back home.
Studying abroad affords you opportunities to meet many new people, both students in your program and locals.
Locals can teach you so much about the country and can also help you learn the language.
Studying abroad is a once in a lifetime opportunity, so take advantage of the experience at hand. Visit everything you wanted to visit, spend time fully embracing the culture and learn as much as possible.
While this is easier said than done, take studying abroad as a chance to be extra extroverted and eager to learn.
If you sit back and wait for things to come to you, you're probably not going to have the experience you imagined. Ask questions, be present and enjoy every minute.
