How can I gain the CCDA certification?

The Cisco Certified Design Design Associate (CCDA®) certification is based on Service-Orientated Network Architecture (SONA) and aimed at those whose work involves network design, specifically around LAN, WAN and broadband access for companies and business.

It is a foundation-level qualification and indicates the holder has the necessary skills to design routed and switched network infrastructures and services. There are no prerequisites for certification, but candidates should have a switching knowledge-level equivalent to that for the CCNA and CCNP and have practical experience in the deployment and operation of Cisco networks.

It is recommended candidates complete the Designing for Cisco Internetwork Solutions training course before attempting the exam to ensure they have covered all the relevant topics. These include:

Application of a methodology to network design
Structuring and modularisation of networks
Designing basic data centre and campus networks, remote connectivity and IP addressing
Selection of routing protocols
Evaluation of network security solutions
Identification of voice and wireless networking considerations
Implementation and operation of network designs

To achieve certification candidates must complete the 640-864 DESGN exam.

Cisco Certified Design Associate