CCNA

Best courses

Cisco Networking Academy is the official learning platform from Cisco, offering purpose-built resources for candidates preparing for the CCNA 200-301 exam. As the creator of the certification itself, Cisco Networking Academy provides study materials that are directly aligned with the exam's objectives, covering all major domains including network fundamentals, network access, IP connectivity, IP services, security fundamentals, and automation and programmability. Their Individual Learning Path delivers a structured, self-paced curriculum with expert-led modules, hands-on labs using real Cisco IOS environments, and assessments designed to reinforce understanding across all exam topics.

In addition to core learning paths, Cisco Networking Academy offers flexible options for different stages of preparation. The Practice Exam product provides a timed, exam-like experience to help candidates gauge their readiness, while the Learning Lab gives hands-on access to 31 labs covering Layer 2 and Layer 3 features using real Cisco IOS CLI. For candidates seeking comprehensive coverage and exam-day confidence, the Exam Safeguard Plus tier bundles a learning path with a prepaid exam voucher and a free retake option. While the official resources carry the credibility of being authored by Cisco, some candidates have noted that the depth and quality of certain modules may not fully justify the higher price points, and the availability of only one practice exam can be limiting for those who want extensive test simulation.

Udemy is one of the largest online learning platforms in the world, hosting a broad selection of CCNA 200-301 preparation courses from a variety of independent instructors. Popular CCNA courses on Udemy feature in-depth video lectures covering all exam domains, from network fundamentals and IP connectivity to security and automation. Top-rated instructors such as David Bombal and Neil Anderson have built large followings by delivering comprehensive, well-structured courses that break down complex networking concepts into digestible lessons. Many of these courses include supplemental materials like downloadable PDFs, configuration guides, and lab exercises to reinforce hands-on learning.

Udemy's marketplace model means candidates can compare multiple CCNA courses side by side, reading student reviews and checking instructor credentials before purchasing. The platform frequently runs promotional sales, often discounting courses to $10-$20, making it one of the most affordable options for exam preparation. However, practice exams are typically sold as separate courses on Udemy, so candidates who want both video instruction and test simulation should budget accordingly. While the best Udemy CCNA courses rival more expensive alternatives in content quality, the platform's open nature means course quality can vary, so it's important to choose instructors with high ratings and proven track records.

Wendell Odom's CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide Library published by Cisco Press is widely regarded as the gold standard textbook for CCNA exam preparation. This comprehensive two-volume set covers every exam objective in thorough detail, from network fundamentals and IP connectivity to security fundamentals and automation. Each chapter is structured to build understanding progressively, with clear explanations, real-world examples, and diagrams that illustrate complex networking concepts. The books include chapter-ending review sections with Key Topic tables, review questions, and memory aids designed to reinforce critical information and help readers track their progress through the extensive material.

Beyond the core text, the Official Cert Guide Library bundles valuable digital resources that enhance the study experience. Readers gain access to the Pearson Test Prep software for realistic practice exams, over 8 hours of video mentoring from Wendell Odom himself, interactive flash cards, and a free Network Simulator Lite for hands-on lab practice. Premium editions and bundle options provide even more practice questions and full network simulator access for candidates who want maximum preparation. While the depth and thoroughness of these books are unmatched, candidates should be aware that the combined page count exceeds 1,000 pages, and some readers have found the writing style dense or unapproachable. The Official Cert Guide is best suited for disciplined, text-oriented learners who want a complete reference for every exam topic.

Boson has built a strong reputation in the Cisco certification community for producing some of the most realistic and challenging practice exams available. Their flagship ExSim-Max product for the CCNA 200-301 features four unique practice exams with thousands of carefully crafted questions that mirror the format, difficulty, and style of the actual Cisco exam. Each question comes with a detailed explanation that not only clarifies the correct answer but also explains why incorrect options are wrong, helping candidates build a deeper understanding of the underlying networking concepts. The customizable exam engine allows candidates to focus on specific exam domains, create custom quizzes, and review performance reports to identify areas that need additional study.

Beyond practice exams, Boson offers comprehensive courseware and a structured 8 Weeks to CCNA program for candidates who want a more guided study experience. The courseware covers all exam domains with lessons, labs, and integrated assessments, while the 8 Weeks to CCNA bundle combines courseware with ExSim-Max practice exams in a structured timeline designed to take candidates from beginner to exam-ready. Boson also offers a pass guarantee, providing additional confidence for candidates investing in their premium products. While ExSim-Max is widely praised as the best CCNA practice exam tool available, many candidates recommend using it alongside a primary study resource such as video courses or textbooks, as the practice exams alone may not be sufficient for candidates who are still learning the core material.

Jeremy's IT Lab has emerged as one of the most recommended free resources for CCNA 200-301 exam preparation, largely thanks to Jeremy McAllister's complete CCNA video series on YouTube. The free course covers every exam topic in a logical, structured sequence, with each video building on the previous one to create a comprehensive learning path. Jeremy's teaching style is praised for making complex networking concepts accessible to beginners, using clear explanations, helpful diagrams, and real-world analogies to break down topics like subnetting, routing protocols, and network security. The free video series alone has helped thousands of candidates pass the CCNA exam, making it an invaluable resource for budget-conscious learners.

For candidates seeking additional structure and practice, Jeremy's IT Lab offers paid products including practice exams, a CCNA Lab series, and a complete course bundle. The paid course adds bonus quizzes, supplemental materials, and organized access to the full curriculum, while the lab series provides hands-on practice with networking configurations. Practice exams are available for candidates who want to test their readiness before sitting for the real exam. While the free videos are comprehensive enough for many candidates to pass, some learners may benefit from supplementing with additional practice exams or a textbook for deeper coverage of certain topics. It's worth noting that since the core video content is freely available on YouTube, the paid course primarily adds convenience and supplemental materials rather than new instructional content.