Another update to Cisco’s CCNA certification is on the horizon! The new CCNA v1.1 (CCNA 200-301) exam will replace the current version this summer. The updates to CCNA 200-301 are relatively minor, but they’re important changes that learners should be aware of.

Namely, the v1.1 exam updates are reflective of the increasing focus on cloud, automation, and AI in networking. 

Here’s everything you need to know about the latest CCNA changes, including key dates for CCNA retirement and release, what new exam topics will be included, and how to prepare.

According to Cisco, the current CCNA 200-301 exam will be available until August 19, 2024. Beginning on August 20, 2024, exam hopefuls will need to take the new CCNA v1.1 (CCNA 200-301) exam. This update is part of Cisco’s regular Certification Roadmaps review cycle, which helps Cisco certs stay relevant and up-to-date with the latest industry trends and technologies.

Last date to take the current CCNA 200-301 exam: August 19, 2024

New CCNA v1.1 (CCNA 200-301) goes live: August 20, 2024

The additions to CCNA v1.1 are already reflected in the CCNA online training from CBT Nuggets, featuring skills from Keith Barker, Jeff Kish, and John McGovern. 

Great certification exams should be relevant and useful. The upcoming changes to the CCNA reflect the industry's current shift toward automation and the use of AI and machine learning. The v1.1 updates are relatively minor additions to the current exam, but test takers should be sure their studies include the new topics. 

Just like the previous version of 200-301, the updated exam will continue to test your knowledge and skills related to network fundamentals, network access, IP connectivity, IP services, security fundamentals, and automation and programmability. As mentioned above, new topics included in CCNA v1.1 reflect the latest advancements in the field, including generative AI, cloud network management, and machine learning.

The Cisco exam blueprint shows the changes that will occur between the old CCNA 200-301 and the v1.1. Those updates are highlighted in bold within the table below and sorted by the domain in which they appear. 

200-301 CCNA v1.0 (2023 release)

200-301 CCNA v1.1 (2024 release)

2.5 

Interpret basic operations of Rapid PVST+ Spanning Tree Protocol

2.5.a Root port, root bridge (primary/secondary), and other port names

2.5.b Port states and roles

2.5.c PortFast

2.5 

Interpret basic operations of Rapid PVST+ Spanning Tree Protocol

2.5.a Root port, root bridge (primary/secondary), and other port names

2.5.b Port states and roles

2.5.c PortFast

2.5.d Root guard, loop guard, BPDU filter, and BPDU guard

2.8 

Describe AP and WLC management access (Telnet, SSH, HTTP, HTTPS, console, and TACACS+/RADIUS)

2.8 

Describe network device management access (Telnet, SSH, HTTP, HTTPS, console, TACACS+/RADIUS, and cloud managed)

6.4 

Compare traditional campus device management with Cisco DNA Center-enabled device management

6.4 

Explain AI (generative and predictive) and machine learning in network operations

6.5 

Describe characteristics of REST-based APIs (CRUD, HTTP verbs, and data encoding)

6.5 

Describe characteristics of REST-based APIs (authentication types, CRUD, HTTP verbs, and data encoding)

6.6 

Recognize the capabilities of configuration management mechanisms, such as Puppet, Chef, and Ansible

6.6 

Recognize the capabilities of configuration management mechanisms, such as Ansible and Terraform

If you’re planning to take the CCNA v1.1 exam, you’ll need to explain AI (generative and predictive) and machine learning in network operations. And instead of config management techniques like Puppet and Chef, the v1.1 updates cover Ansible and Terraform. 

These topics are covered in the new CCNA v1.1 course from CBT Nuggets trainers Keith Barker, Jeff Kish, and John McGovern. The latest CCNA video training also includes brand-new resources to help you prepare for the updated exam, like new virtual lab environments that let learners dive deep into the technologies in a whole new way.

“The live IOS labs give students full access to the CLI so they can practice routing and switching,” says Keith Barker, two-time CCIE and networking and security expert. “This is a great way to reinforce what you learn in each part of the course.”

August 19, 2024 is the last day to take the current CCNA 200-301 exam. After that date, you must take the new CCNA v1.1 (200-301) exam instead.

If you’re already studying for the CCNA 200-301 exam, there’s no need to panic. The updates themselves are relatively minor, though you may still have enough time to complete your cert before the new exam goes live. (At the time of this writing, there are still five weeks left until the old one goes away — more than enough time to cover the new additions to v1.1). 

If you’re starting fresh, don’t rush through your studies. Most people say they need about 5 months to study for the CCNA, so take your time to ensure you’re familiar with all the concepts that appear on the 120-minute exam. That way, you’ll be more than ready for the new CCNA v1.1 once you’ve taken the time to prepare. 

It goes without saying that earning your CCNA remains a valuable credential for anyone looking to start or advance their networking career. Staying up-to-date with the latest Cisco exams validates the real-world skills you already have. But it also shows employers you’re up to speed on all the latest skills needed for key networking concepts and on-the-job tasks.

If you’ve already been working in a networking role, earning your credentials demonstrates your commitment to continuous skill development. But perhaps most importantly — certifications like the CCNA can boost your career prospects and help you earn promotions and higher salaries.

Want to check out the revised CBT Nuggets CCNA course? Get a free 7-day trial.