CCDA Overview
Learn more about the benefits and requirements associated with achieving a CCDA certification. (3:29 min)
Announcement
Beginning October 1, 2013, the CCENT certification will become a prerequisite prior to achieving the CCDA certification.
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Cisco Certified Design Associate (CCDA) is for network design engineers, technicians, and support engineers, who enable efficient network environments with an understanding of network design fundamentals. A CCDA certified network professional demonstrates the skills required to design basic campus, data center, security, voice, and wireless networks.
Prerequisites
There are no prerequisite certifications for CCDA, however knowledge at the CCNA level and the CCNP level for switching is recommended to pass the CCDA exam.
CCDA Exams & Recommended Training
| Required Exam(s) | Recommended Training |
| 640-864 DESGN | Designing for Cisco Internetwork Solutions (DESGN) |
| NOTE: Updated ICND1, ICND2, and CCNA Composite exams can be applied towards the achievement of several Cisco associate-level certifications. Please visit the Associate-level Exam Logic Tool for more details. | |
The best way to prepare for this certification is to take the Cisco-approved training:
Designing for Cisco Internetwork Solutions (DESGN)
This course focuses on the foundational skills and knowledge necessary for professionals entering the specialization of network design or working as an apprentice to a more experienced network design engineer.
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Self-Study Materials
The following resources are suggested study supplements; they are not designed to serve as a complete self-study program.
- CCDA Syllabus
- 640-864 DESGN Exam Topics
- Cisco Learning Network - A variety of self-study materials can be found here.
Community-Generated Content
Learning Partner Content
- Partners: Log in for Partner Education Connection (PEC) curricula.
- Learning Partner Lounges - Find materials provided by Cisco Authorized Learning Partners.
To earn this Cisco certification, you must pass the following exam(s):
640-864 DESGN
This exam indicates a foundation or apprentice knowledge of network design for the Cisco converged networks based on Borderless Network Architecture. CCDA certified professionals can design routed and switched network infrastructures and services involving LAN, WAN, wireless, and broadband access for businesses and organizations.
- Learn more about the 640-864 DESGN exam
- Register for the exam
- Read current exam policies and requirements
CCDA Overview
