How to be a CCNA

Cisco Certified Networking Associate is a base for starting your career with Cisco.
"This exam tests a candidate's knowledge and skills required to install, operate, and troubleshoot a small to medium size enterprise branch network"

The following are the topics covered in 640-802

• Building a Simple Network
• Ethernet Local Area Networks
• Wireless Local Area Networks
• Exploring the Functions of Routing
• Wide Area Networks
• Network Environment Management

A.How to start preparing

You might consider to have the following to ensure a smooth self study

• Study Guides (Todd Lammele's CCNA Study Guide or a Cisco Press 640-802 Study Guide)
• CBT for a better understanding of concepts (CCNA Video Mentor for 640-802 or/and CBT Nuggets)
• A Simulator or Emulator to train in a virtual device (Boson/Dynamips)
• Dumps for virtual tests(Testinside/P4S/Testking)

Mentioned above are those people have been using for quite sometime and found to be worthy enough. Alright, now that you have gathered the materials required, lets move on to the next step..

B. Course of Action

1. Read one topic at a time. Try to understand completely.
2. It is good to relate topics to what you have learned. The more you to try to relate, you discover new concepts. That will help you to understand newer topics easily
3. Try simulating the concepts learned. Only then, new doubts arise and more clarity sought.
4. Passing the exam will just make you yet another paper certified associate. You need to have the knowledge to work with your certification.
5. Learning is a never ending process. Never lose hope if you don't understand/ get the right way in the first attempt. We are always there to help you out.
6.After completing your subject, sit down and work out the virtual tests. Try the latest dumps and browse forums to find out what people have experienced.

C.Cisco Exam policies

Registering for exams
Gather information required for exam registration
Pearson Vue is the Cisco authorized test delivery partner. You can register online, by telephone, or by walk in (where available).

http://www.cisco.com/web/learning/le3/le11/learning_about_registering_for_exams.html

The D Day
Be aware of the code of conduct required at the Testing Centre
Read the questions thoroughly before answering them
Manage your time and do not miss out on the simulations. They contribute to a good score.

Retaking the exam
Candidates may only take a beta exam once.
Candidates who fail an exam must wait a period of five (5) calendar days, beginning the day after the failed attempt, before they may retest for the same exam.
Once passed, a candidate must wait a minimum of 180 days before taking the same exam with an identical exam number.
Candidates who violate these policies are in violation of the agreement.

The cost of CCNA exam is USD 150. Your Cert is valid for three years and you may choose to do a CC*P or continue to have CCNA be taking a recertification

Good luck
*thanks to the dirizhor*