WHY DOES CCNA EXPIRE?
The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification is one of the most popular IT certifications in the world. It is a vendor-neutral certification that validates your skills and knowledge in computer networking and demonstrates your ability to install, configure, and troubleshoot Cisco networking devices. The CCNA certification is valid for three years, after which you must renew it by passing the CCNA exam again or by earning a higher-level Cisco certification.
Why Does CCNA Expire?
There are a few reasons why the CCNA certification expires. First, the technology landscape is constantly changing. New technologies and protocols are being developed all the time, and the CCNA certification needs to be updated to reflect these changes. Second, the CCNA certification is a vendor-neutral certification. This means that it is not specific to any one vendor's products. As a result, the CCNA certification needs to be updated to ensure that it covers the latest products and technologies from all vendors.
Impact of CCNA Expiry
If your CCNA certification expires, you will lose the following benefits:
- The ability to use the CCNA certification logo on your resume and in your marketing materials.
- The ability to apply for jobs that require the CCNA certification.
- The ability to renew your CCNA certification at a discounted rate.
How to Renew Your CCNA Certification
To renew your CCNA certification, you must pass the CCNA exam again or earn a higher-level Cisco certification.
- Passing the CCNA Exam: You can renew your CCNA certification by passing the CCNA exam again. The CCNA exam is a 120-minute exam that covers a wide range of topics, including network fundamentals, IP addressing, routing, switching, and troubleshooting.
- Earning a Higher-Level Cisco Certification: You can also renew your CCNA certification by earning a higher-level Cisco certification. The Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) and Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) certifications are both higher-level Cisco certifications that cover more advanced topics than the CCNA certification.
Renewing your CCNA certification is a great way to stay up-to-date on the latest networking technologies and trends. It can also help you advance your career and earn a higher salary.
Conclusion
The CCNA certification is a valuable credential that can help you advance your career in networking. However, it is important to remember that the CCNA certification expires after three years. To maintain your certification, you must pass the CCNA exam again or earn a higher-level Cisco certification.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long is the CCNA certification valid?
The CCNA certification is valid for three years. - What happens if my CCNA certification expires?
If your CCNA certification expires, you will lose the ability to use the CCNA certification logo on your resume and in your marketing materials, the ability to apply for jobs that require the CCNA certification, and the ability to renew your CCNA certification at a discounted rate. - How can I renew my CCNA certification?
You can renew your CCNA certification by passing the CCNA exam again or by earning a higher-level Cisco certification. - What is the difference between the CCNA, CCNP, and CCIE certifications?
The CCNA certification is an entry-level Cisco certification that covers the basics of networking. The CCNP certification is a more advanced Cisco certification that covers more advanced topics, such as routing and switching. The CCIE certification is the highest-level Cisco certification and covers the most advanced topics, such as network design and troubleshooting. - Which Cisco certification is right for me?
The right Cisco certification for you depends on your experience and career goals. If you are new to networking, the CCNA certification is a good place to start. If you have more experience, the CCNP or CCIE certifications may be a better option.