Cisco‘s Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification is one of the most popular and valuable credentials for network administrators and engineers. As cyberthreats and network complexities continue rising, qualified network admins are in high demand across industries like technology, healthcare, finance and more.
A CCNA certification helps validate your skills in areas like network fundamentals, routing, switching, security and connectivity troubleshooting. Plus it can boost your resume and increase your earning potential.
While you can self-study for the CCNA exam, taking an online CCNA course offers major advantages:
Structured Learning: Online CCNA courses provide expert-designed lesson plans to prepare you efficiently for the exam. This saves you time compared to self paced learning.
In-Depth Content: The best online CCNA training digs deeper into concepts versus surface-level prep materials. This helps content "stick".
Hands-On Practice: CCNA courses equip you for the real-world with immersive labs for building your configuration and troubleshooting expertise.
Community & Support: Online forums allow networking with fellow students while instructor support helps clarify doubts.
Flexible Access: Learn anytime, anywhere by accessing course materials on mobile, tablet or desktop 24/7.
Proven Methods: Quality CCNA training platforms have helped countless professionals successfully achieve certification. Their blueprint works.
Based on factors like instructor quality, content depth, hands-on labs, support and value; here are 7 of the best online CCNA certification courses available now:
1. CCNA Course on Udemy
Overview:
With a 4.5 star average across nearly 18,000 reviews, Udemy offers an immensely popular CCNA training course tailored for beginners.
Course Details:
- 120+ lectures spanning 23 hours of on-demand video
- Lab demonstrations reinforce theoretical concepts
- Supplemental resources like PDFs, cheat sheets etc.
- Mobile and TV access for flexible learning
- Quick support response from instructor Lazaro Diaz
Highlights
- Comprehensive training for all CCNA exam domains
- Mini quizzes during lectures
- Affordable pricing with frequent discounts
Ideal For
Professionals new to Cisco networks looking for a well structured, back-to-basics CCNA learning program.
Rating: 4.5/5
2. An Introduction to Cisco Devices & Networks (Coursera)
Overview:
Get familiar with Cisco networking in under 5 hours with this introductory level Coursera program. It‘s a good kicking off point for CCNA prep.
Course Details:
- 3 hour video course with advanced learning
- Split-screen format for better visualization
- Network device simulation using Packet Tracer
- Graded assessments and completion certificate
- Free to audit or start under $50
Highlights:
- Foundational course to build core understanding
- Server access demonstration using telnet, SSH etc
- Implement password encryption for device security
Ideal For
Complete beginners new to Cisco networks and devices seeking an affordable starting package.
Rating: 4/5
3. CCNA Preparation Bundle (Cisco)
Overview:
Get exam ready with Cisco‘sAuthorized self-paced CCNA training bundle spanning ~75 hours of material.
Course Details:
- 2 video courses + CCNA exam voucher
- 300 practice questions and 15 lab exercises
- Covers exam domains like IP connectivity, security
- Track progress with chapter tests
- $600+ value bundle for under $300
Highlights
- Official CCNA prep from the exam creators
- Voucher saves $300 on certification cost
- Practice on actual Cisco software + equipment
Ideal For
Cisco network professionals pursuing certification for career growth or requirement.
Rating: 5/5
4. CCNA Certification Course (Whizlabs)
Overview:
Whizlabs offers an affordable CCNA course bundled with 180 practice questions, 3 full tests and key exam insights.
Course Details:
- Online learning program in video format
- 180 unique questions + 3 x 60 questions tests
- Free 20 questions sample test
- Key insights into CCNA exam pattern
- Access via desktop and mobile
Highlights:
- Guaranteed 100% money-back policy
- Active Q&A section for problem resolution
- Frequently updated content
Ideal for:
Budget-conscious CCNA aspirants wanting reliable exam prep tailored for passing quickly.
Rating: 4/5
5. CCNA Bootcamp (Global Knowledge)
Overview:
Choose between self-paced, online or classroom bootcamp models to undertake Global Knowledge‘s 5-day CCNA course.
Course Details:
- 3 learning models: self-paced, online, classroom
- 40 hours training + labs, exercises & projects
- Expert instructor with real-world perspective
- Covers IPv4/IPv6 networks, LANs etc
- Access training for 1 full year
Highlights:
- 3 flexible course options to match needs
- Hands-on practice configuring routers, switches
- Post-course exam vouchers available
Ideal for:
Working IT professionals needing vendor-agnostic CCNA training with flexible learning models.
Rating: 4/5
6. CCNA 200-301 Video Course (CBT Nuggets)
Overview:
Gain in-depth Cisco expertise from CBT Nuggets’ 30+ hour CCNA certification video course taught by networking gurus.
Course Details:
- 31 hours on-demand video content
- 9 course instructors sharing insights
- Chapters with lab walkthroughs
- Practice exams to track progress
- Free 7-day trial before subscribing
Highlights:
- Knowledge from 9 leading IT instructors
- Sharp visuals demonstrate concepts clearly
- Opportunity to try before buying
Ideal for:
Visual learners benefiting from engaging, multi-instructor video training.
Rating: 5/5
7. Cisco & CyberOps Associate Bundle (Infosec)
Overview:
Get intense 7-day CCNA & CyberOps bootcamp-style training with guaranteed passing from Infosec Skills.
Course Details:
- 7 days live online training
- 30+ hands-on labs & projects
- Official course Completion cert
- Exam vouchers – 2 certification attempts
- Onsite proctored exams
Highlights:
- Dual certification attainment
- Job placement assistance via 1-on-1 coaching
- 93% first-attempt exam pass rate
Ideal for:
Driven learners wanting deep-dive CCNA & CyberOps learning fuelled by expert coaching and support
Rating: 5/5
With myriad CCNA training options availaible, here are 5 key considerations when choosing program that‘s right for your learning requirements and preferences:
Approach: Does the teaching style match your optimal mode – videos, books, live classes?
Budget: Calculate total costs – tuition, voucher etc. Some vendors offer bundled pricing.
Instructor Access: Availability for queries before and after course completion.
Hands-On Practice: Look for pen testing labs, equipment simulation etc to apply concepts.
Exam Guidance: Study plans, mock tests, techniques to overcome test anxiety and more.
Regardless of course selected, be sure to attempt all recommended test questions, labs and projects. CCNA ultimately tests your hands-on configuration and troubleshooting capabilities versus theory recall.
So commit to consistent, long-term knowledge building rather than cramming to give yourself the best passing chance.
Once CCNA certified, multiple doors open up to advance your network administration career.
You can undertake specialized Cisco certifications like CCNP or CCIE to go deeper into complex networks, infrastructure design etc. These future-proof your skills as technologies evolve.
Alternatively, diversify into fields like cybersecurity, cloud computing and IoT infrastructure using your newfound Cisco proficiency as strong base to build upon.
And don‘t underestimate CCNA‘s resume power. Stand out among other applicants competing for coveted network admin/engineer roles across various industries.
Invest 1-2 hours daily over the next weeks into CCNA preparation using the guidance in this guide.
Then as you gain expertise securing organizations‘ critical systems and data, exciting new opportunities will come calling!
