CCNA: Cisco Certified Network Associate

The CCNA is the industry standard for networking fundamentals, covering IP connectivity, network access, security fundamentals, and automation. While not purely a security exam, it provides the essential networking layer knowledge (L2/L3 switching and routing) that is a prerequisite for understanding how network attacks and defenses function. It validates the ability to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot medium-size routed and switched networks, including basic ACL configuration and device hardening. The exam also introduces modern network concepts like software-defined networking (SDN), REST APIs, and configuration management tools. For any security professional, this certification ensures you understand the "pipes" of the internet before you try to secure them.