There are two main trainings recommended by CISCO before taking up the CCNA or Cisco Certified Network Associate certification examinations, both of which are outlined below.
The first is the Introduction to Cisco Networking Technologies (INTRO). The prerequisites for this training include basic computer literacy and basic knowledge of PC hardware configurations and networking business drivers. INTRO is intended for people who want a fundamental knowledge and comprehension of networking, such as Open Systems Interconnect (OSI) seven-layer model concepts; terminology; and technologies. The training also provides them with basic skills to configure a Cisco IOS router for network connectivity.
The course outline consists of eight modules: Building a Simple Serial Network, Building a Smarter Network, Growing the Network, Connecting Networks, Ensuring the Reliability of Data Delivery, Connecting to Other Networks, Operating and Configuring Cisco IOS Devices, and Managing Your Network Environment.
The other main training program is the Interconnecting Cisco Network Devices (ICND). Knowledge of Introduction to Cisco Networking Technologies (INTRO) content is the prerequisite for the instructor-led ICND training course. The training lasts for five days and concentrates on focuses on using Cisco Catalyst Switches and Cisco routers connected in local-area networks (LANs) and wide-area networks (WANs). It is mainly designed to educate students on how to select, connect, configure, and troubleshoot the various Cisco networking devices.
The course outline consists of seven modules: Configuring Catalyst Switch Operations, Extending Switched Networks with VLANs, Determining IP Routes, Managing IP Traffic with Access Lists, Establishing Serial Point-to-Point Connections, Establishing Frame Relay Connections, and Completing ISDN Calls.
There is also an additional training module called the CCNA Prep Center Pilot. Included in this module are sample questions, simulations, e-learning modules, labs, tips from CCNA professionals, expert advice, and success stories, along with other CCNA resources. You can access the module through their CISCO’s webpage, http://forums.cisco.com/eforum/servlet/PrepCenter?page=main, but you need to register (for free) in order to get in.