Cisco Certified Network Associate Career Certification (CCNA) Changes

Recently, Cisco changed the requirements for their Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) designation to allow for a more flexible path to certification. Candidates may still elect to take one exam (640-801) that will meet the requirements for certification, or they can meet the certification requirements in two steps with two exams (640-821 and 640-811). Many prefer the two-step approach because it reduces the content in each exam to a more manageable size. The first half of this book covers the material required by exam 640-821, and the second part covers material required by exam 640-811. Together, the sections cover everything required by exam 640-801. Therefore, this book can be an effective guide no matter which path you choose. However, even if you select the two-step approach, we strongly encourage you to read both sections of this book prior to sitting for any of the exams. Our experience has shown that topics that are confusing in one section will often become clear in the other. Furthermore, familiarity with the entire scope of material can often make the answer to a specific question more recognizable. The exam names are as follows :

Introduction to Cisco Networking Technologies (640-821). If you elect the two-step approach, this will be the first exam you should take. It covers local area networking, wide area networking, and relevant Cisco equipment. The material is introductory level.
Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices (640-811). This is the second exam of the two-step approach. It assumes you are familiar with LAN/WAN technologies and moves directly into configuring and monitoring Cisco routers and switches.
Cisco Certified Network Associate (640-801). This exam essentially combines exam 640-811 and exam 640-821. If you are recertifying or have had experience configuring Cisco equipment, this is probably the exam you want to take.

As long as we are making recommendations, here is one more. Monitor the Cisco Web site as you prepare for the CCNA exams. Things change, and at Cisco they change quickly. We made every effort to make this book the most up-to-date study guide available. However, without a doubt, something will change, and it may affect the test, so be sure to monitor the Web site, which is located at http://www.cisco.com.