Everything You Need To Know That Wasn On The CCNA Exam

So, you have just passed your CCNA exam and can now proudly call yourself a Cisco Certified Network Associate. Congratulations on this remarkable accomplishment! But the learning journey doesn't stop here. In this article, we will dive into everything you need to know that was not covered on the CCNA exam, further enhancing your knowledge and helping you stand out in the networking industry.

1. Advanced Networking Protocols

The CCNA exam covers the basics of networking protocols, such as TCP/IP, OSI model, and routing protocols like OSPF and EIGRP. However, the networking field is constantly evolving, and it is crucial to stay updated with the latest advancements and protocols that are not covered in the exam.

Some of the protocols you should explore further include:

Network Warrior: Everything You Need to Know That Wasn't on the CCNA Exam

by Gary A. Donahue (2nd Edition, Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	14938 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	1293 pages

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• BGP (Border Gateway Protocol): Understanding BGP will give you an edge in handling complex routing scenarios and connecting different autonomous systems.
• MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching): Enhance your knowledge of MPLS, a protocol used for efficient data transmission across wide-area networks.
• SDN (Software-Defined Networking): Explore the concepts of SDN, which is revolutionizing network management and configuration.

2. Network Security

While the CCNA exam does cover basic network security concepts, it is essential to further strengthen your understanding of this critical aspect. As networks are the backbone of every organization, they face constant threats from malicious actors.

Delve into the world of network security by exploring:

• Firewalls: Learn about different types of firewalls, their configurations, and how they protect networks from unauthorized access.
• Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) and Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS): Understand how IDS and IPS work together to identify and prevent network attacks.
• Virtual Private Networks (VPNs): Explore VPN technologies and their significance in creating secure connections over public networks.

3. Network Automation and Programmability

Automation is transforming the networking industry, making network management more efficient and reducing human error. Familiarize yourself with the concepts of network automation and programmability to keep up with industry trends.

Here are some topics to study:

• Python Programming: With its simplicity and versatility, Python has become a popular language for network automation. Learn the basics of Python and how to leverage it for networking tasks.
• Network APIs: Understand how Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) can be used to interact with network devices and automate configuration changes.
• Network Monitoring Tools: Explore various tools and platforms that help monitor network performance and analyze collected data.

4. Wireless Networking

The CCNA exam covers the fundamentals of wireless networking, including Wi-Fi standards and basic configurations. However, wireless technology is constantly evolving and expanding.

To further enhance your wireless networking knowledge, consider diving into:

• Wi-Fi 6: Explore the new Wi-Fi standard that offers faster speeds, increased capacity, and enhanced security.
• Wireless Access Points (WAPs): Gain an in-depth understanding of WAPs and their functionalities, including deployment strategies and troubleshooting techniques.
• Wireless Security: Study advanced wireless security measures to protect networks from unauthorized access and potential attacks.

5. Cloud Computing and Virtualization

Cloud computing has revolutionized the IT industry, and networking is no exception. Understanding how networks are integrated with cloud services and virtualization is crucial for modern network professionals.

Explore the following topics to broaden your knowledge:

• Virtualization: Learn about virtual machines, hypervisors, and virtual network infrastructures.
• Cloud Service Models: Understand Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS), Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS), and Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) models.
• Cloud Networking: Explore networking concepts specific to cloud environments, such as virtual private clouds and network security groups.

Although the CCNA exam is an excellent stepping stone into the world of networking, there is much more to discover beyond its scope. By expanding your knowledge in areas like advanced protocols, network security, automation, wireless technology, and cloud computing, you will position yourself as a well-rounded network professional.

Stay curious and continuously seek opportunities to learn and grow in this ever-evolving field. The more you know, the more valuable you become in the networking industry.

Network Warrior: Everything You Need to Know That Wasn't on the CCNA Exam

by Gary A. Donahue (2nd Edition, Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	14938 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	1293 pages

FREE

Pick up where certification exams leave off. With this practical, in-depth guide to the entire network infrastructure, you’ll learn how to deal with real Cisco networks, rather than the hypothetical situations presented on exams like the CCNA. Network Warrior takes you step by step through the world of routers, switches, firewalls, and other technologies based on the author's extensive field experience. You'll find new content for MPLS, IPv6, VoIP, and wireless in this completely revised second edition, along with examples of Cisco Nexus 5000 and 7000 switches throughout.

Topics include:

• An in-depth view of routers and routing
• Switching, using Cisco Catalyst and Nexus switches as examples
• SOHO VoIP and SOHO wireless access point design and configuration
• to IPv6 with configuration examples
• Telecom technologies in the data-networking world, including T1, DS3, frame relay, and MPLS
• Security, firewall theory, and configuration, as well as ACL and authentication
• Quality of Service (QoS), with an emphasis on low-latency queuing (LLQ)
• IP address allocation, Network Time Protocol (NTP), and device failures