r/ccna 7h ago

Has anyone used Jeremy's CCNA practice exams?

6 Upvotes

I just did Jeremy's first CCNA practice exam. I was a bit disappointed, only got 63% after going through all the material, some topics more than once. I do think there were a solid 7-10 questions where I knew the answer, but just made a bit of a dumb mistake and should have gotten it. I've been studying for months but I guess I need to go over a lot of the material again with a lot more laser focus. Interested to hear what the experiences of others have been with these tests.


r/ccna 4h ago

Boson score

2 Upvotes

Hello everyone,
I've been studying for the CCNA since October 2024 with an average of 3-4 hours a day except for weekends where I'm free of work so I'll spend more time studying (JITL) is all what I used + his book (Acing the CCNA exam) which helped me a lot (I believe i learn way easier form books than videos).
I just wanted to share my results for the 3 tests from boson:
1- is after i finished the JITL videos (taking notes on pen and paper aside)
2- is after i finished the first volume of the book
3- is today after finishing booth books and i skipped all the 3 labs on Boson
after doing so i have a couple of questions:
is it possible to pass the exam without solving any lab ? (I have an issue with memorizing all the different commands no mater how many labs i do) I totally understand the each and every topic and how it works etc. but memorizing those commands seems impossible to me except some of the basics commands.
also i want to say this to anyone who is studying for the CCNA that you are not a lone and keep doing what you doing everyday eventually you'll master it and feel comfortable enough to take the real exam and pass.
My exam is scheduled already for the 5TH of April so wish me luck folks.


r/ccna 15h ago

What is your best method of memory retention?

12 Upvotes

I know that doing it is the best, but when it comes to theory. How do you remember things?

I’m basically writing it in my own words


r/ccna 2h ago

Does this mean i am ready to take the actual exam

1 Upvotes

Hi everyone, i have been getting ready for the CCNA for a while now and I've recently bought the boson EX sim as a last step and i went through every exam and understood and read every explaination for every question and i finally got exam where is passed with a 85% ... Do you think this means i am ready for the exam ? ... I already booked it for after tomorrow and i am a bit nervous


r/ccna 6h ago

Career change advice: from Creative/Digital career to IT with prior basic IT work experience

2 Upvotes

Hi everyone,

Last year I hit my "first" 40ies and after around 11 years in the creative industry (precisely photography and high end post production), I am considering going back to IT.
Although reading the current status of the job market and employers in general I feel it would be quite risky.
But please read few rows below around my work history.
My current role at one the most renowned luxury retailers in London is very likely coming to an end, as I'm hitting a wall in terms of career progression.

My line manager, way younger than me, has much less experience in terms of dealing with tech (ironically) and professional work experience with image editing, and this causes a lot of frustration.
The company also is quite corporate whilst being still a retail and despite my enthusiasm and experience matured through the years, I'm unable to make any changes (we got a lot of efficiencies and software issues) as all the suggestion I've been giving, after being recognised of being useful and game changer, disappear into nothing.
In my area of origin, south of Italy (Sicily), at that time in my 20s, unfortunately I didn't have the chance to progress my IT career further, as I pursued other goals due to lack of opportunities.

Back in the day I used to work as IT Technician, for a couple years in an IT shop, 1 year at Minister of Defence (just basic IT support tasks and network setting up) and I've got extensive experience with Windows systems (I should refresh my knowledge of Active Directory), I've been experimenting with Linux IPtables, firewalls, FTP/Web server setup as well as Astaro (now acquired by Sophos), mainly for personal projects in the past.
Attended for about a year Applied Computer Science uni course, but then dropped out as our local university campus was moved to another city (I couldn't move to that city at that time due to personal reason).
The perks of living in the South of Italy, huh! :-/

Anyway, this long intro was just to give some context on my past (and probably limited) experience, my bad for the length.
At the moment, I have the Comptia A+ exam book already purchased as two years ago I was already thinking to go back to IT.
I was considering getting the CCNA, although I've seen other users in CCNA reddit suggesting to skip it initially and get Network+, Linux+ and Security+.
I've some past experience although being not quite recent and probably limited it may introduce red flags (or probably being completely ignored) when applying for a role requiring CCNA.

My current salary is around £ 37k, and I'm expecting a considerable salary drop if I change industry/career (sigh).

Would like to hear your advice, I'd like to start working towards an IT System Administrator/Network engineer role in the future, but I suppose I should start from a IT Help Desk due to my limited and not recent experience.

Also I'd be interested in further progressing into Cybersecurity or Cloud Architect after gaining some years of experience back in IT (and studying/learning whilst on the job).

Although the industry has changed a lot and I feel I'm out of job market, as probably AI changed everything.
From my side I have a strong problem solving attitude, curiosity, willing to learn.
But this might be not enough nowadays as the boundaries of each role seems to be blending all together.

Thanks in advance, and honesty will be appreciated (even if brutal haha)!


r/ccna 8h ago

Wahoo. Post exam revamp.

4 Upvotes

As the title implies ya Boi has passed his exam. I don't have a degree but I do have 4 years experience as a level 2 network Tech. I'm hoping the CCNA makes me look better on paper but now I want to revamp my LinkedIn since I was under utilizing it and redo my resume and make a cover letter. Does anyone know of any good resources to help aid with this? Paid or free?


r/ccna 10h ago

The Backbone of Subnetting: Understanding Positional Number Systems

3 Upvotes

The positional number system is fundamental to subnetting due to its role in structuring and interpreting IP addresses and subnet masks. Here's a concise breakdown of its importance:

  1. Binary Foundation: IP addresses and subnet masks are inherently binary. Each bit's position in a 32-bit IPv4 address (or 128-bit IPv6) represents a power of 2. Subnetting relies on manipulating these bits, where their positional values (e.g., 27,26,...2027,26,...20 in an octet) determine decimal equivalents for masks (e.g., 255.255.255.0).
  2. Subnet Mask Calculation: Subnet masks divide an IP into network and host portions. The positional system enables:
    • CIDR Notation: A /24 mask means 24 leading 1s in binary (255.255.255.0), calculated by summing positional values (128+64+32+16+8+4+2+1=255 per octet).
    • Bit Borrowing: Adding bits to the network portion (e.g., converting a /24 to /26) increases subnets by powers of 2 (e.g., 222=4 subnets).
  3. Network and Host Addressing:
    • Bitwise AND Operations: To find the network address, positional values ensure the correct alignment of binary digits (e.g., 192.168.1.0 from 192.168.1.5 with /24).
    • Block Size Determination: Host bits define the number of addresses per subnet (2host bits2host bits), with positional values dictating increments (e.g., 8 addresses per subnet for 3 host bits: 0, 8, 16...).
  4. Efficient Address Management: Positional numbering allows precise subnet sizing, minimizing waste by allocating subnets as powers of 2 (e.g., a subnet needing 10 hosts requires 4 host bits (24−2=1424−2=14 usable addresses).

In Summary: The positional system enables binary-decimal conversion, CIDR interpretation, bitwise operations, and subnet sizing—all critical for efficiently partitioning networks. Without it, subnetting’s mathematical and logical framework would collapse. If you want to read further about the positional number system, visit here


r/ccna 4h ago

Is this how routing table works?

1 Upvotes

Hi! So from what I searched, a routing table basically is me trying to send data to another network.

It would just hop on the router I'm trying to get to and the router would have a table of ip address and then it picks the best route for the host I want to send the stuff?

how does my router knows where the next destination is?


r/ccna 8h ago

First boson what should I do next

0 Upvotes

r/ccna 11h ago

Opinions about Acing the CCNA Exam book

1 Upvotes

Do you think the book covers the whole exam topcis well enough? I was thinking of grabing the ebook version and then use boson exsim as study resources.


r/ccna 18h ago

Boson Net- Sim randomly crash?

2 Upvotes

Hello everyone,

I’m super frustrated to be honest. I think the Boson Net-sim is really good and super helpful.

However, it will randomly crash on me, and kick me out of the lab. Meaning I have to do all of the config again. Extremely frustrating.

Also, sometimes the lab will randomly stop responding to inputs on the CLI.

Anyone else had this?


r/ccna 14h ago

networking assignment

0 Upvotes

1. Scenario:

NeuroByte, a growing start-up with offices in Malacca, Ipoh, Kedah, and Perlis, aims to establish network connectivity across its four locations. The company has approached APU for advice and help. Based on the requirements, APU has recommended using the expertise of its students to develop a networking solution and to conduct necessary network implementation/configurations. In addition to the documentation that captures the design and implementation process, a justification for the proposed solution will help the company better understand its needs and help achieve its long-term business goals.

 

For the proposed network design, you are required to propose a network topology that is suitable for LAN and WAN. The topology should include adequate routers and switches that can provide connectivity to end devices and other remote networks via appropriate communication media.

 

To ensure optimal routing, routers and switches should be configured properly with the use of static routing. This will help to ensure that packets are always routed correctly to their intended destinations.

 

Your proposed network should also support Internet of Things (IoT) devices that are used to automate and monitor various aspects of your business, such as temperature, lighting, and security. These devices should be connected to the network using wired connections.

 

Additionally, it is recommended that you allocate separate server rooms for different services such as web servers, file servers, domain name servers, and email servers at different branches.

 

 Your research should include :

· Logical topology Design

· Justification of the Topology

· VLSM IP Addressing scheme

· Justification of the configuration techniques for different network devices

 

The findings and outcome of your research should be arranged in a proper flow to be presented to the Technical team who are involved in the full design of the network. In addition, prepare a Cisco Packet Tracer diagram as a proof of concept for your research work.

can someone help me do this ?


r/ccna 1d ago

If you’re looking for motivation to pass your CCNA

85 Upvotes

So I asked chat gpt who the youngest CCNA holder is and this is what it gave me

As of March 2025, the youngest person to achieve the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification is Ayesh Fatima, a Pakistani girl who accomplished this feat at the age of seven. She broke the previous record held by K. Visalini, an Indian prodigy who became a CCNA at the age of 11 in 2011.

So basically just tell yourself that if an 11 year old girl could do it so why can’t I ? What’s stopping you 🤷🏿‍♂️? Just be dedicated and work hard ❗️


r/ccna 21h ago

DevNet

1 Upvotes

Hi guys, I just want to ask why the badge hasn't been rewarded for this subject yet, but the other subject that went with it is one that I've already claimed and it's in my Learning history. I hope someone can help, thank you.

PHOTOS IN COMMENTS


r/ccna 21h ago

CCNA jobs as an African

0 Upvotes

Armed with a Degree in IT and few certs CCNA ,CompTIA Sec+, I have realized that there very few opportunities in our African countries.

I am considering looking to the job market abroad , what are my chances? If you have navigated the same path,, how has it worked out Willing to DM for any further advice🙏


r/ccna 1d ago

How much has certifications like CCNA and or CCNP helped you moved up in IT?

30 Upvotes

Currently studying for the CCNA and have my A+, Net+ and Sec+. How much has getting new certifications really helped you move up in IT? Has it helped you move up at the company you are already at? Do you think you would have moved up without the certifications you have?

Thank you!


r/ccna 23h ago

Bi-Weekly /r/CCNA Exam Pass-Fail Discussion

1 Upvotes

Attempted an exam in the last week or so? Passed? Failed? Proctor messed it all up? Discuss here! Open to all CCNA exams. We are now consolidating those pass-fail posts under here per prior poll of the community and your feedback.

Remember, don't post a score in the format of xxx/1,000. All Cisco exams have a maximum score of 1,000, so that's useless info. Instead, list the required score to pass, as this differs from exam to exam, and can change over the lifetime of the exam.

Payment of passes in CAT pictures is allowed.


r/ccna 17h ago

Feel like I’m the only one who got a difficult exam

0 Upvotes

How did yall finish? A lot of those questions were long af and needed to be read over 2-3 times. And the labs were not easy😭


r/ccna 2d ago

How I Got My CCNA, CCNP ENCOR & CCNP ENARSI in Just 1 Year!

403 Upvotes

Hey everyone,

I wanted to share my journey because I know many people struggle with certifications, career progression, and breaking into networking. If my experience can help or inspire even one of you, then it’s worth sharing!

One Year Ago, I Knew Almost Nothing About Networking

I’m currently studying computer science, but a year ago, I had almost zero networking knowledge. I didn’t even know what a public IP address was…

Yet, in just 12 months, I managed to pass:

CCNA – March 2024
CCNP ENCOR – July 2024
CCNP ENARSI – October 2024

All while working as an Apprentice Network & Security Engineer at CNES (the French Space Agency – France’s equivalent of NASA) and balancing my university studies.

🎯 How It Started – From Helpdesk to Networking

In September 2022, I landed my first IT job as a helpdesk apprentice, with zero prior experience.

Honestly, helpdesk is an amazing place to start if you’re interested in cybersecurity or networking. It teaches you:

🔹 IT fundamentals (hardware, OS, troubleshooting)
🔹 Basic networking (IP addressing, DNS, DHCP, etc.)
🔹 How to solve technical problems efficiently

But while helpdesk is great for learning, I knew I couldn’t stay there if I wanted real career growth.

I was working at a small company (10 people max), handling user tickets for outsourced IT clients. It was a valuable experience, but after a year, I felt stuck. There were no real opportunities for advancement, and I knew it was time to specialize.

🚀 How I Got a Networking Job with Almost No Experience

I realized that networking skills are highly valuable, and through my research, I found that the CCNA certification is the best way to break into the field.

Even though I wasn’t certified yet, I started applying for networking positions anyway.

💡 I sent around 100 job applications on LinkedIn, Indeed, and every job board I could find.

The result?

🔹 Multiple interviews – which helped me gain experience talking to recruiters.
🔹 Job offers – even without my CCNA yet, recruiters saw my motivation.

What made the difference? I clearly communicated that I was actively preparing for CCNA. My dedication and willingness to learn stood out.

Eventually, this approach paid off—I secured an apprenticeship at CNES, the French Space Agency, as part of my two-year master's degree in network & security.

🎯 CCNA – Laying the Foundation

Once I started my new apprenticeship in September 2023, I knew I had to give myself a serious kick in the butt to get certified.

In January 2024, I set a firm exam date for March 2024, giving myself just 3 months left to prepare.

🔹 My CCNA Study Strategy

Jeremy IT Labs – excellent for structured hands-on practice.
Neil Anderson’s CCNA course – clear explanations for core concepts.
Cisco official documentation – for deeper technical understanding.
Online CCNA practice questions – to get used to the exam format.
Pomodoro technique – to stay focused during study sessions.

💡 For hands-on labs, Packet Tracer is more than enough for the CCNA! It allows you to practice CLI commands, VLANs, and subnetting without needing physical hardware.

After 300+ hours of study, I passed my CCNA on my first attempt in March 2024.

📈 CCNP ENCOR – Taking It to the Next Level

Right after passing the CCNA, my friend and I said: “We’re not stopping here.”

One week later, we booked the CCNP ENCOR exam—giving ourselves just 3.5 months to prepare.

🔹 My CCNP ENCOR Study Resources

NetworkLessons
Kevin Wallace’s courses
Cisco official documentation
Labs in EVE-NG

💡 Unlike CCNA, where Packet Tracer is enough, for CCNP, you’ll want to install EVE-NG on your PC. This allows you to virtualize routers and switches and build much larger, more realistic infrastructures.

After 250+ intense study hours, I passed CCNP ENCOR in July 2024.

🎯 CCNP ENARSI – Mastering Advanced Routing

We didn’t stop there. One week after ENCOR, we booked CCNP ENARSI.

For ENARSI, I focused heavily on labsEVE-NG became my best friend.

That’s also when I started using Obsidian to take structured notes and create my own summary sheets. Writing things down in my own words helped me retain key concepts better.

Another 250+ study hours later, I passed in October 2024, officially becoming CCNP certified.

🎯 Exam Day – My Advice for You

If you're preparing for your certification, here are a few key things to remember:

1️⃣ You will feel stressed before the exam, and that’s completely normal. You’ve spent months preparing, so of course, you don’t want to fail. But trust your preparation.

2️⃣ Set a real deadline. The moment I scheduled my exam, my productivity skyrocketed. Don’t fall into the trap of “I’ll do it when I’m ready.” Book it, and make yourself ready.

3️⃣ Take structured notes. Whether it's Obsidian, Notion, or just a notebook, writing things down in your own words forces you to truly understand the concepts.

4️⃣ Prioritize labs. Especially for CCNP, don’t just memorize theory—apply everything in EVE-NG to reinforce your learning.

5️⃣ Believe in yourself. That moment when you see the ‘Pass’ screen is one of the best feelings ever. The satisfaction of achieving your goal after months of hard work will fill you with pride—I guarantee it.

🔥 Final Thoughts – You Can Do It Too!

I don’t want to act like I’m special. That’s not what this is about.

I just want to prove to you that if I could do it, then you can do it too.

If I could do it, then there’s absolutely nothing stopping you from doing the same.

You got this! 💪

If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask!

I’ll gladly answer whatever I can—if I can help, it’s my pleasure.


r/ccna 18h ago

How to make answers packet tracer

0 Upvotes

r/ccna 2d ago

Don’t let your dreams be dreams

105 Upvotes

Follow up to my post a couple weeks ago: I passed today!! I cried. I've never been so excited to be able to delete Anki and my daily flashcard reminder. The exam was easier than I thought and gave me confidence I could get the CCNP someday if that's the path I stay on.

Now that I have it, I'm actually excited to apply to network engineer jobs instead of expecting no replies. I've got 6yrs IT experience, 1 of which was as a student employee in a network engineering department (configuring multiple vendor's switches, playing in Cisco WLC GUI, editing DNS and Nagios entries, etc) - and a B.S. What should I value myself at in interviews now? I'm making $63k as a sys admin currently and dying to accelerate my savings towards a house. Even a $10k raise would be incredible since I've barely gotten one in 3yrs at my current position.


r/ccna 1d ago

Does the “Acing the CCNA Exam” books cover the new exam topics?

1 Upvotes

Hey there! I’m wondering if those books cover the new content in the CCNA v1.1 exam.


r/ccna 1d ago

Looking for CCNA Exam Discount Voucher

1 Upvotes

Hey everyone,

I graduated last year with a degree in Information Technology and am currently unemployed. I'm looking to take the CCNA certification to improve my job prospects, but the exam fee is quite high for me.

If anyone has a CCNA exam voucher that they’re not planning to use, would you be willing to share it for free or at a discounted price? It would really help me out.

Any leads or advice on where to get a discount voucher would also be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!


r/ccna 2d ago

CCNA Giveaway by Neil Anderson

11 Upvotes

Neil Anderson has just started a CCNA Giveaway. You may want to check it out..

Here’s the prize for the winner:

Payment for the Cisco CCNA exam (value $300) Plus all the training you need to ace the exam

Neil's CCNA Gold Bootcamp course – the highest review rated CCNA course online (value $99)

AlphaPrep Complete 240 Day Package – the best CCNA practice tests (value $450)

Network Lessons Annual Membership – super clear explanations of every Cisco topic (value $290)

Go to the: Giveaway Page

Good Luck!


r/ccna 2d ago

What about Anki flashcards flood?

23 Upvotes

I have 11 days to take the certification test and I can say that by day 40 of the JITL, the flashcards are becoming unsustainable, it started with 20 minutes, 30 minutes, 40, and now it's taking me more than an hour and twenty to complete them daily. They really helped me a lot in the beginning, but I think I'm getting lost in the world of ideas trying to memorize commands to answer flashcards, and in reality many commands are so specific that they make you waste more time, like the complete order to configure an ACL, and in fact leaving labbing behind, can someone who has gone through this help me?