CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) is an entry-level information technology (IT) certification from Cisco Systems. It is designed to validate a candidates knowledge and skills required to install, operate, and troubleshoot a small to medium size enterprise branch network. The CCNA certification exam covers a broad range of fundamentals, including network fundamentals, network access, IP connectivity, IP services, security fundamentals, automation, and programmability. To achieve a CCNA certification, candidates must earn a passing score on Cisco exam No. 200-301. There are no prerequisites to take the CCNA certification exam, but one or more years of experience implementing and administering Cisco solutions is recommended. Cisco and its learning partners offer a variety of different training methods, including books published by Cisco Press, and online and classroom courses available under the title "Interconnecting Cisco Network Devices". The CCNA certification is worth it for networking professionals as it proves that they have the skills required to manage and optimize todays most advanced networks.