Cisco CCNA 200-125 vs 200-301: Choosing the Right Certification Path

Are you pursuing a career in networking and wondering which Cisco CCNA certification to choose? With the introduction of the new CCNA 200-301 exam, it's important to understand the key differences between CCNA 200-125 and CCNA 200-301 to make an informed decision. Whether you're a networking professional or a beginner, this blog post will help you compare and evaluate the two certification paths.

CCNA 200-125: The Classic Routing and Switching Certification

The CCNA 200-125 certification has been a pillar of networking certifications for years. It focuses on foundational networking concepts, including routing and switching, network protocols, IP addressing, and more. This certification is suitable for individuals seeking a comprehensive understanding of networking technologies with an emphasis on traditional routing and switching protocols.

CCNA 200-301: The Next-Generation Certification

The CCNA 200-301 certification, introduced in February 2020, aligns with the modern changes in networking technologies. It covers a broader range of topics than its predecessor, including network security, automation, programmability, and cloud computing. This certification is designed to address the evolving needs of the industry, making it an ideal choice for professionals who want to stay ahead of the curve.

Comparing Exam Objectives

When it comes to comparing the exam objectives, CCNA 200-125 primarily focuses on traditional routing and switching technologies. It dives deep into topics such as VLANs, OSPF, EIGRP, and network troubleshooting. On the other hand, CCNA 200-301 covers a wider array of subjects, including wireless networking, network security fundamentals, and knowledge of automation and programmability.

It's important to note that while CCNA 200-301 encompasses a broader scope of topics, it no longer includes the previous specializations like CCNA Security, CCNA Wireless, etc. Instead, Cisco introduced separate concentration exams to cater to specific technology tracks. This shift allows candidates to specialize in their desired area of expertise while still attaining the CCNA certification.

Choosing the Right Certification:

The choice between CCNA 200-125 and CCNA 200-301 depends on your career goals and aspirations. If you're interested in building a strong foundation in routing and switching technologies, and you don't require the additional subjects covered in the new exam, CCNA 200-125 might be suitable for you. However, if you want to future-proof your networking skills and stay relevant in today's rapidly evolving industry, CCNA 200-301 is the way to go.

Conclusion:

In summary, both CCNA 200-125 and CCNA 200-301 certifications have their merits. CCNA 200-125 provides a solid understanding of traditional routing and switching, while CCNA 200-301 covers a more extensive range of topics, reflecting the current technology landscape. Evaluate your career goals, assess the demands of the industry, and choose the certification path that aligns best with your aspirations. Whichever path you choose, gaining a Cisco CCNA certification will undoubtedly boost your networking career.