Professional Certificate in CCNA

What Is CCNA Certification?

The CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) validates your ability to install, configure, and troubleshoot medium-sized networks. This globally recognized certification covers:

• Network fundamentals and access concepts
• IP connectivity and services
• Security fundamentals
• Automation and programmability

Role of a CCNA Certified Professional

Certified professionals typically work as:

• Network Engineers
• System Administrators
• IT Support Specialists
• Network Security Technicians

How CCNA Compares to Other IT Certifications

CCNA Program Overview

Duration

• 3-6 months depending on study intensity

Curriculum Highlights

• Network fundamentals and architecture
• IPv4 and IPv6 addressing
• Routing protocols (OSPF, EIGRP)
• Switching concepts and VLANs
• Wireless network principles
• Network security fundamentals
• Automation and network management

Entry Requirements

• Basic computer knowledge
• KCSE certificate (minimum D+)
• No formal networking experience required

Accreditation

• Cisco Certified training program
• Internationally recognized certification

Program Cost

• Training: Ksh 50,000 - Ksh 150,000
• Exam fee: $300 (paid directly to Cisco)
• Some institutions offer payment plans

Online Study Options

• Available through Cisco Networking Academy
• Hybrid options at many training centers
• Virtual labs for practical experience

Top CCNA Training Centers in Kenya

Cisco Networking Academies

1. KCA University (Cisco Academy)
   • Location: Nairobi
   • Contact: 020 284 6000
   • Website: www.kca.ac.ke
2. Strathmore University (Cisco Academy)
   • Location: Nairobi
   • Contact: 0703 034 222
   • Website: www.strathmore.edu

Private Training Institutions

1. East Africa Institute of Certified Studies (ICS)
   • Location: Nairobi
   • Contact: 0722 205 883
   • Website: www.ics.ac.ke
2. Kenya College of Accountancy (KCA)
   • Location: Nationwide campuses
   • Contact: 0722 206 988
   • Website: www.kca.ac.ke

Public vs. Private Training Comparison

CCNA Career Opportunities

Potential Employers

• Internet Service Providers (Safaricom, Airtel)
• Banks and financial institutions
• Government agencies
• Multinational corporations

Job Roles and Salaries

• Network Technician: Ksh 50,000 - Ksh 120,000
• Network Administrator: Ksh 80,000 - Ksh 180,000
• Systems Engineer: Ksh 100,000 - Ksh 250,000

International Opportunities

• Global demand for Cisco-certified professionals
• Remote networking jobs
• Pathway to higher Cisco certifications (CCNP, CCIE)

Why Get CCNA Certified?

Skills You'll Gain

• Configure and troubleshoot Cisco routers and switches
• Implement network security best practices
• Design basic network architectures
• Understand cloud and virtualization concepts

Challenges and Considerations

• Exam requires thorough preparation
• Need to recertify every 3 years
• Practical experience enhances job prospects

Career Progression Path

• CCNP (Cisco Certified Network Professional)
• CCIE (Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert)
• Cybersecurity specializations
• Cloud networking certifications

Student Success Stories

"After completing my CCNA at Strathmore University, I got hired as a network engineer at a leading ISP with starting salary of Ksh 120,000. The certification opened doors I never imagined possible."
- James W., Nairobi

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What's the passing score for CCNA exam?

825/1000 (on a scale of 300-1000)

2. How much does CCNA training cost in Kenya?

Ksh 50,000-150,000 plus $300 exam fee

3. Which is the best college for CCNA in Kenya?

Strathmore University and KCA University are top Cisco academies

4. Is CCNA marketable in Kenya?

Extremely marketable with growing IT infrastructure

5. Can I study CCNA online?

Yes, through Cisco Networking Academy online

Conclusion

The CCNA certification is your ticket to rewarding IT networking careers in Kenya and beyond. With Cisco's global recognition, practical skills training, and strong industry demand, CCNA graduates enjoy excellent career prospects in various sectors.