Cisco Networking
Career Pathway
From Zero to Network Technician and CCNA Preparation
Start with the We Are One required hardware, operating systems, and Packet Tracer foundation; complete Cisco’s Network Technician pathway; then advance through the three-course CCNA curriculum. Cisco certification exams are separate from NetAcad course completion.
Program Structure
Your Path to Cisco Networking Certifications
Begin with the We Are One required foundation, complete Cisco Networking Academy’s official Network Technician pathway and pathway exam, then advance through the three-course CCNA curriculum. Cisco certification exams are separate from NetAcad course completion.
Computer Hardware Basics
- PC components & mobile devices
- Storage devices & peripherals
- Basic troubleshooting
- IT safety practices
Operating Systems Basics
- Windows & Linux fundamentals
- File management & user accounts
- OS troubleshooting
- Virtualization introduction
Getting Started with Cisco Packet Tracer
- Packet Tracer interface
- Build simple topologies
- Connect and configure devices
- Practice in a virtual lab
Networking Basics
- Network fundamentals
- IP addressing
- Protocols & media
- Wireless concepts
- Basic troubleshooting
Networking Devices and Initial Configuration
- Router and switch setup
- Initial device security
- Addressing and connectivity
- Configuration verification
Network Addressing and Basic Troubleshooting
- IPv4 & IPv6 addressing
- Subnetting fundamentals
- DHCP & DNS
- Troubleshooting methodology
Network Support and Security
- Network support methods
- Device and account security
- Threat awareness
- Ticketing and documentation
Network Technician Career Path Exam
- Cisco pathway assessment
- Knowledge validation
- Career-path completion milestone
- Separate from the CCST Networking certification exam
CCNA: Introduction to Networks
- Network models and protocols
- Ethernet and switching
- IPv4 & IPv6 addressing
- Subnetting fundamentals
CCNA: Switching, Routing, and Wireless Essentials
- VLANs & inter-VLAN routing
- STP & EtherChannel
- Static routing & OSPF
- WLAN configuration & security
CCNA: Enterprise Networking, Security, and Automation
- Enterprise routing
- WAN technologies
- ACLs & NAT
- Network security
- Automation & programmability
Recommended Add-On Courses
Certification Milestones: CCST Networking and CCNA
The Network Technician pathway prepares students for the separate CCST Networking certification exam. The three-course CCNA series prepares students for the separate CCNA 200-301 exam. NetAcad courses and career-path exams are training milestones; Cisco certification is earned by passing the applicable proctored certification exam. We Are One Foundation covers the cost for eligible students.
Estimated Timeline
Built Around Your Schedule
Whether you’re studying full-time or balancing work and family, this pathway works for you. Both schedules estimate training completion; CCNA certification requires passing the separate Cisco exam.
Full-time student
15–20 hours per week
Part-time student
8–10 hours per week
Career Outcomes
Jobs You Can Land
Many students qualify for entry-level networking roles while still in the program. The CCNA certification opens doors to higher-level positions — and is a direct stepping stone to CCNP Enterprise.
During Program
- IT Help Desk Technician
- Junior Network Technician
- Cable & Infrastructure Technician
- Desktop Support Specialist
- IT Support Analyst
After CCNA
- Network Administrator
- Network Engineer
- Systems Administrator
- NOC Technician
- Cloud Networking Specialist
Ready to Earn Your
CCNA Certification?
Training and certification are free for eligible veterans and underserved community members nationwide. No experience required — we start from the very beginning.