CCNA 200-123 vs 200-301: A Comprehensive Comparison

Are you interested in pursuing a career in networking? If so, you've probably come across the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification. Cisco offers different versions of the CCNA exam, including the 200-123 and the newer 200-301.

Overview of CCNA 200-123

The CCNA 200-123 certification exam is the older version of the CCNA exam. It covers a wide range of networking topics, including network fundamentals, LAN switching technologies, routing technologies, infrastructure services, and more. This exam was designed to validate the candidate's knowledge and skills required to install, operate, and troubleshoot small to medium-sized enterprise branch networks.

Overview of CCNA 200-301

On the other hand, CCNA 200-301 is the newer version introduced by Cisco. This updated exam was designed to reflect the latest advancements in networking technologies and aligns with today's job roles. The 200-301 exam covers topics such as network fundamentals, network access, IP connectivity, IP services, security fundamentals, and automation and programmability.

Key Differences Between CCNA 200-123 and 200-301

1. Exam Content:

The CCNA 200-123 covers a broader range of topics compared to the 200-301. It includes outdated technologies and concepts that have been replaced or are no longer widely used in the industry. On the other hand, the 200-301 focuses on the latest networking technologies, including automation and programmability.

2. Number of Questions:

The CCNA 200-123 exam typically consists of around 60-70 questions, while the 200-301 exam consists of approximately 100 questions. The newer exam requires a deeper understanding of the topics covered.

3. Exam Duration:

The time allotted for the CCNA 200-123 exam is around 90 minutes, whereas the 200-301 exam allows 120 minutes. This change provides candidates with more time to thoroughly answer the increased number of questions.

4. Exam Cost:

The price of the CCNA 200-123 exam is around $300, whereas the 200-301 exam costs approximately $400. The updated exam's higher cost reflects the added value of the new topics and technologies covered.

Which Exam Should You Take?

Deciding which exam to take depends on your career goals and the current industry demands. If you are starting your networking journey and want to acquire a solid foundation in both old and new networking technologies, the CCNA 200-301 exam is the way to go. However, if you are already familiar with the older technologies or need to maintain the validity of an older certification, the CCNA 200-123 might be a suitable choice.

Conclusion

The CCNA certification is valuable for anyone aspiring to venture into the field of networking. Both the CCNA 200-123 and 200-301 exams have their own merits, but the newer 200-301 exam aligns better with the current industry trends. It covers the latest technologies, including automation and programmability, making it a more valuable certification in today's job market.