A structured lesson workspace with readable content, hands-on examples, and a clean path to completion.
| Domain | Weight | Topics |
|---|---|---|
| 1.0 Network Fundamentals | 20% | OSI, TCP/IP, IP addressing, IPv4/IPv6, topologies, virtualization |
| 2.0 Network Access | 20% | VLANs, trunks, STP, EtherChannel, wireless |
| 3.0 IP Connectivity | 25% | Routing tables, static routing, OSPF, first-hop redundancy |
| 4.0 IP Services | 10% | DHCP, DNS, NAT, NTP, SNMP, syslog, QoS basics |
| 5.0 Security Fundamentals | 15% | ACLs, port security, VPN concepts, wireless security, AAA |
| 6.0 Automation and Programmability | 10% | REST APIs, JSON, SDN, controller-based networking, Python basics |
Domain 3 (IP Connectivity) carries the most weight at 25%. Domains 1 and 2 tie at 20% each. The remaining 35% is split across services, security, and automation. If you're short on study time, IP Connectivity and Network Access are where to focus — they're the densest topics and the highest-weighted.
Simulations are the ones candidates worry about most. They typically involve configuring a router or switch to meet a scenario: assign IPs, configure routing, apply ACLs, verify connectivity. You need to know the CLI. Not memorize it — know it well enough to configure from scratch under time pressure.
The exam is 120 minutes, roughly 100 questions. That's about 70 seconds per question. Simulations take longer — 5–10 minutes each — so they eat into the average. Time management is a real skill. If you're stuck on a question, flag it and move on. Come back at the end if time permits.
The CCNA tests six domains with IP Connectivity weighted highest. Simulations matter — practice the CLI. Time management matters — 70 seconds per question average. Section 21 continues with domain-specific review lessons.
Finish the lesson once you have worked through the material. This awards ★ 15 XP.