Starting My CCNA Journey — May 4, 2025
After much planning and contemplation, I’ve officially kicked off my journey toward earning the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification. Networking is a critical pillar of IT and cybersecurity, and I know mastering it will level up my capabilities in meaningful ways.
It’s not going to be easy — and that’s exactly why I’m doing it.
Game Plan
For the next couple of months, I’ll be dedicating a few focused hours each day to study, review, and hands-on practice. Here’s how I’m structuring my journey:
1. Core Course
I’m following the “Complete Cisco CCNA 200-301” course by David Bombal.
His content is top-tier — practical, clear, and regularly updated. It covers everything from basics to advanced topics with labs, quizzes, and challenges.
My rule: Don’t move ahead until I’ve truly grasped the current module through repetition and lab practice.
2. Daily Lab Work
Hands-on experience is the foundation of my learning. I’m setting aside time each day to lab out what I learn using:
- Cisco Packet Tracer
- GNS3 (for simulation when needed)
- Labs provided in Bombal’s course
Special focus areas for daily practice:
- Subnetting (mastery is a must)
- VLANs and Switching concepts
- Routing protocols (RIP, OSPF, EIGRP)
- Network security and ACLs
3. Mock Tests & Practice Questions
I’ll test myself weekly to measure progress and retention. I’m aiming to simulate the exam environment frequently to build confidence and speed.
Documenting the Process
I plan to document my journey through blog posts, notes, and study updates. This helps me track progress and may even help someone else in the same boat.
Why CCNA?
Because it challenges me. Because it’s respected. Because mastering networking makes me better at everything else I want to do in tech — from cybersecurity to cloud engineering.
It’s not about memorization. It’s about understanding how the internet works at a foundational level. That’s powerful.
Let’s get it. One subnet, one packet, one lab at a time.