ccent certification trainingCisco CCENT Certification validates skill as an entry-level Network Technician.

Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT) certification covers the basics of computer networking. CCENT certified technicians understand the essential networking topics, such as network security & threat mitigation, IP addressing, and routed & switched networks. CCENTs can install, operate, configure & troubleshoot networks for a small branch office.

Passing the CCENT certification exam (Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 1 or "ICND1") is a tangible first step toward earning your CCNA certificate, the next stage in Cisco's popular Routing & Switching certification track. The CCNA is comprised of the CCENT (ICND1) plus ICND2. Many network professionals pursue ICND1 & ICND2 simultaneously to maximize learning time and resources, as the CCNA is a more valuable and comprehensive credential.

Becoming a Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician will boost your confidence and prepare you for the more advanced Cisco certification tracks, like the CCNP. There are numerous Cisco training programs and specialized degrees that feature coursework in current Cisco networking technologies.

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Skills Measured by CCENT Certification

Key knowledge areas and skill sets measured by the Cisco CCENT exam include the following. CCENT certified professionals can:

  • Describe the operation of data networks and the functions of various network devices.
  • Implement small switched networks and explain the operation of Cisco switches.
  • Implement small routed networks and describe the operation of Cisco routers.
  • Configure IP addressing schemes and IP services for a small branch office.
  • Connect, configure, and verify the operational status of a network device interface.
  • Explain and select the appropriate administrative tasks required for a WLAN.
  • Identify security threats to a network and describe general threat mitigation methods.
  • Implement and verify WAN links and describe the methods for connecting to a WAN.

Cisco CCENT Certification Exams

You must pass one exam to become a Cisco Certified Entry Network Technician (CCENT):

  • Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 1 (exam # 100-105)

CCENT Exam Format: Cisco certification exams are comprised of multiple testing formats including multiple choice, drag-and-drop, fill-in-the-blank, testlet, simlet and simulations. Explore the Cisco Certification Exam Tutorial from Cisco.com to familiarize yourself with these unique question types.

Time Limit: 90 minutes
Exam Length: 45-55 questions
Exam Cost: $165 USD
Passing Grade: Approximately 75% correct; Cisco does not publish exam passing scores because exam questions and passing scores are subject to change without notice. (Source: Cisco.com)

CCENT Prerequisites

  • Required: No required prerequisites for CCENT certification exam
  • Recommended: No additional prerequisites are recommended
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CCENT Certification Jobs

CCENT certification qualifies you for a variety of exciting job roles including:

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CCENT Salary

Average salaries for CCENT certified professionals and other Cisco certification holders:

  • CCENT: Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician | $59,000
  • CCNA: Cisco Certified Network Associate Routing & Switching | $75,000
  • CCNA Security | $78,000
  • CCNA Voice | $79,000
  • CCNA Wireless | $79,000
  • Cisco Data Center Unified Computing Support Specialist | $86,000
  • CCDA: Cisco Certified Design Associate | $88,000
  • CCNP Wireless | $89,000
  • CCNP: Cisco Certified Network Professional, Routing & Switching | $92,000
  • CCVP: Cisco Certified Voice Professional | $95,000
  • CCSP: Cisco Certified Security Professional | $100,000
  • CCNP Security | $103,000
  • CCDP: Cisco Certified Design Professional | $106,000
  • CCIE Routing & Switching | $122,000
  • CCIE Security | $130,000

Mean salary by Cisco certification (USA)
Source: Payscale.com

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About the Author

IT Subject Matter ExpertDaniel Greenspan is the founder and Editor-in-chief of ITCareerFinder. Working closely with IT professionals, world-class trainers, and hiring managers since 2005 has given him unique insight into the information technology job market and the skills and credentials IT pros need to succeed.


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