CCNA Exam Prep Flashcards

All the top concepts in the official Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) curriculum.

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The fastest way to study for the CCNA exam.

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Brainscape’s CCNA flashcards help you study faster, remember longer, and master complex networking concepts with confidence. Whether you’re a junior network engineer, an aspiring IT professional, or a student prepping for your first big certification, Brainscape gives you the ultimate study system to tackle even the most intimidating Cisco Certified Network Associate topics.

With smart CCNA flashcards built around the official exam objectives, Brainscape helps you review network fundamentals, security concepts, IP routing, tree protocol concepts, and more—whenever and wherever you find time to study. If you’re overwhelmed by the depth of material or struggling to stay consistent while balancing work or school, our adaptive learning platform is your shortcut to efficient CCNA prep.

What you get with Brainscape’s CCNA flashcards:

Earning your CCNA is no small feat but with Brainscape’s CCNA flashcards, you can turn the tide in your favor:

  • 1300+ Flashcards covering every core concept in Cisco’s latest CCNA exam blueprint, including network fundamentals, IP connectivity, security fundamentals, network access, and more.
  • A structured curriculum that aligns with top CCNA study guides and official objectives so you’re never wasting time.
  • A scientifically optimized spaced repetition algorithm that helps you study CCNA content more efficiently and remember it for the long haul.
  • The ability to study across all devices—phone, tablet, or desktop—with full sync and offline access for ultimate flexibility.
  • Confidence-boosting metrics that help you track your progress and focus on weak spots in your CCNA exam prep questions.

Whether you're revisiting IP routing, comparing Cisco routers, or diving deep into Ethernet LAN, Brainscape ensures you don't just memorize but that you deeply understand.

FAQ: Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Exam

Is the CCNA Exam Very Difficult?

In a word? Yes. The Cisco CCNA exam is widely considered one of the hardest entry-level certifications in IT. With only about 50–60% of test-takers passing on their first try, it’s a real challenge, even for those with a few years of networking experience.

The exam tests deep conceptual knowledge across a wide range of topics, including network access, IP services, security fundamentals, and more. You’ll face a mix of multiple choice, drag-and-drop, and performance-based questions that demand not just recall, but real understanding.

That’s why using smart, adaptive tools like Brainscape’s CCNA flashcards is so critical. You’ll build true mastery of each concept through active recall, not just passive review. And with our mobile app, you can chip away at your CCNA study material even when you’re juggling a full-time job or course load.

What topics are covered on the Cisco CCNA exam?

The Cisco CCNA exam covers a wide range of foundational networking topics, including network access, IP connectivity, IP services, Ethernet LAN, communication protocols, automation, and security. Brainscape’s flashcards help break down each layer of these topics into bite-sized review sessions so you can verify your understanding of key concepts.

How many questions are on the CCNA exam?

The exam typically consists of 100–120 questions and takes 120 minutes to complete. You’ll see multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, and performance-based questions that test how well you can troubleshoot error messages, design networking architectures, and apply real-world knowledge of Ethernet LAN setups.

How should I prepare for the Cisco CCNA?

The best way to prepare is to review flashcards, take practice exams, and apply practical examples through hands-on labs. Tools like Brainscape help reinforce your Cisco CCNA knowledge by targeting weak areas, organizing all the information in one place, and making sure you're reviewing the right layer of detail for each objective.

Is Two Months Enough to Prep for the Cisco CCNA Exam?

It can be... if you have a study plan and the right CCNA study materials. Many candidates spend between 3–12 months preparing for the CCNA exam, especially if they're working full-time. But if you already have some networking fundamentals and you’re willing to consistently commit time each day, two months can be enough to study for the CCNA test effectively.

Brainscape helps you accelerate that timeline. Our CCNA flashcards app breaks the content down into digestible, high-yield chunks so you can learn efficiently. Whether you're brushing up on IP connectivity, memorizing command-line configurations, or tackling security fundamentals, Brainscape ensures you get maximum value out of every minute you study.

Is the CCNA Exam Being Discontinued?

Nope! While Cisco has updated and consolidated its certifications over the years, the CCNA exam is alive and well. In fact, Cisco restructured the CCNA exam in 2020 to reflect a broader, modernized curriculum. Today’s version includes a strong foundation in network fundamentals, security, automation, and programming basics.

If anything, CCNA is more relevant than ever. It remains one of the most respected and globally recognized IT certifications and continues to serve as the gateway to higher-level Cisco credentials (like CCNP) and long-term career growth in networking.

Can You Pass the CCNA in Two Weeks?

Let’s be honest: unless you’re already working full-time in networking and just need a quick refresher, two weeks is a stretch.

The CCNA exam is dense, and the volume of information—from tree protocol concepts to IP routing to device security—requires focused, layered learning. That said, if you’re determined and have a strong baseline of knowledge, Brainscape can help you optimize every second of those 14 days with a rapid-fire review of CCNA prep questions and critical terms.

Still, for most people, a 4–8 week study plan is a more realistic path to success, and one where Brainscape can be your daily accountability partner.

How can flashcards help me pass the Cisco CCNA?

Brainscape’s flashcards make it easy to focus on the highest-priority topics—like Ethernet LAN, network access, and message delivery at each layer of the OSI model. With repetition and built-in performance tracking, you’ll retain key Cisco concepts and improve your ability to recall answers quickly and accurately.

What is Ethernet LAN in the CCNA exam?

Ethernet LAN refers to the most common type of networking technology used for local area networks. The Cisco CCNA exam tests your ability to configure, troubleshoot, and explain how Ethernet LAN enables communication across devices at the data layer. Our flashcards include step-by-step explanations and real-world practical examples to help you master these topics.

Additional Resources to Support Your CCNA Flashcards

Don’t let the CCNA exam intimidate you. With Brainscape’s CCNA flashcards, you’ll turn overwhelm into progress, complexity into clarity, and effort into results. Start studying now, and take one giant leap toward becoming a certified networking professional.

What Learners are Saying About Brainscape’s CCNA Flashcards:

“I’d been out of school for years and needed a way to squeeze CCNA study into my already packed work schedule. Brainscape helped me stay consistent and made it way easier to understand networking jargon. I passed on my first try.” — Liam A., Network Support Technician, Toronto

“What I loved about Brainscape was how it kept me focused. I could chip away at flashcards on the train, during lunch, or at home without having to drag around a huge textbook. It was like having a mini bootcamp in my pocket.” — Priya D., Junior Network Engineer, Bangalore

“The CCNA exam was no joke, but Brainscape helped me feel like I actually knew the material—not just memorized it. The flashcards covered everything from IP routing to switch configuration to protocols. Worth every penny.” — Marcus J., IT Specialist, Atlanta

Decks in this class (53)

1.1 Network Components
Summarize the role and function of network components.
40  cards
1.2 Network Topology and Architectures
Summarize characteristics of network topology architectures.
24  cards
1.3 Interfaces and Cable Types
Examine physical interface and cabling types.
20  cards
1.4 Interface and Cable Issues
Recognize interface and cable issues, such collisions, errors, mismatch duplex, and/or speed.
15  cards
1.5 TCP and UDP
Compare and Contrast TCP andUDP.
14  cards
1.6 IPv4 Addressing and Subnetting
Configure and verify IPv4 addressing and subnetting.
17  cards
1.7 Private IPv4 Addressing
Summarize private IPv4 addressing.
13  cards
1.8 IPv6 Addressing
Configure and verify IPv6 addressing and prefix.
40  cards
1.9 IPv6 Address Types
Summarize IPv6 address types, including Unicast, Anycast, Multicast, and Modified EUI 64.
22  cards
1.10 IP Parameters for Client OS
Verify IP parameters for Client OS (Windows, Mac OS, Linux).
23  cards
1.11 Wireless Principles
Summarize wireless principles, such as non-overlapping wifi-channels, SSID, RF, and encryption.
20  cards
1.12 Virtualization Fundamentals
Summarize virtualization fundamentals (server virtualization, containers, and VRFs).
24  cards
1.13 Switching Concepts
Summarize switching concepts, including MAC learning and aging, frame switching, frame flooding, and MAC address tables.
26  cards
2.1 VLANs
Configure and verify VLANs (normal range) spanning multiple switches, including access ports (data and voice), default VLAN, and InterVLAN connectivity.
30  cards
2.2 Interswitch Connectivity
Configure and verify interswitch connectivity, including trunk ports, 802.1Q, and Native VLAN.
32  cards
2.3 Layer 2 Discovery Protocols
Configure and verify Layer 2 discovery protocols (Cisco Discovery Protocol and LLDP).
38  cards
2.4 EtherChannel
Configure and verify (Layer 2/Layer 3) EtherChannel (LACP).
28  cards
2.5 Rapid PVST+ Spanning Tree Protocol
Interpret basic operations of Rapid PVST+ Spanning Tree Protocol, including root port, root bridge, other port names, port states, PortFast, root guard, loop guard, BPDU filter, and BPDU guard.
19  cards
2.6 Cisco Wireless Architectures
Summarize Cisco Wireless Architectures and AP modes.
14  cards
2.7 WLAN Components
Summarize physical infrastructure connections of WLAN components (AP, WLC, access/trunk ports, and LAG).
24  cards
2.8 Network Device Management Access
Summarize network device management access (Telnet, SSH, HTTP, HTTPS, console, TACACS+/RADIUS, and cloud managed).
24  cards
2.9 LAN GUI Configuration
Interpret the wireless LAN GUI configuration for client connectivity, such as WLAN creation, security settings, QoS profiles, and advanced settings.
24  cards
3.1 Components of Routing Table
Interpret the components of routing table, including routing protocol code, prefix, network mask, next hop, administrative distance, metric, and gateway of last resort.
24  cards
3.2 Router Decision Making
Determine how a router makes a forwarding decision by default, including longest prefix match, administrative distance, and routing protocol metric.
27  cards
3.3 IPv4 and IPv6 Static Routing
Configure and verify IPv4 and IPv6 static routing, including default route, network route, host route, floating statistics.
26  cards
3.4 OSPFv2
Configure and verify single area OSPFv2, including neighbor adjacencies, point-to-point, broadcast, and router ID.
24  cards
3.5 First Hop Redundancy Protocols
Summarize the purpose, functions, and concepts of first hop redundancy protocols.
24  cards
4.1 Inside Source NAT
Configure and verify inside source NAT using static and pools.
23  cards
4.2 NTP Operating
Configure and verify NTP operating in a client and server mode.
28  cards
4.3 DHCP and DNS
Summarize the role of DHCP and DNS within the network.
30  cards
4.4 SNMP
Summarize the function of SNMP in network operations.
20  cards
4.5 Syslog Features
Summarize the use of syslog features including facilities and levels.
21  cards
4.6 DHCP Client and Relay
Configure and verify DHCP client and relay.
26  cards
4.7 Forward Per-Hop Behavior for QoS
Summarize the forwarding per-hop behavior (PHB) for QoS, such as classification, marking, queuing, congestion, policing, and shaping.
27  cards
4.8 Remote Access using SSH
Configure network devices for remote access using SSH.
21  cards
4.9 TFTP/FTP
Summarize the capabilities and functions of TFTP/FTP in the network.
23  cards
5.1 Key Security Concepts
Define key security concepts (threats, vulnerabilities, exploits, and mitigation techniques).
21  cards
5.2 Security Program Elements
Summarize security program elements (user awareness, training, and physical access control).
25  cards
5.3 Device Access and Local Passwords
Configure and verify device access control using local passwords.
21  cards
5.4 Security Password Policies Elements
Summarize security password policies elements, such as management, complexity, and password alternatives (multifactor authentication, certificates, and biometrics).
31  cards
5.5 IPsec and site-to-site VPNs
Summarize IPsec remote access and site-to-site VPNs.
45  cards
5.6 Access Control Lists
Configure and verify access control lists.
51  cards
5.7 Layer 2 Security Features
Configure and verify Layer 2 security features (DHCP snooping, dynamic ARP inspection, and port security).
26  cards
5.8 Authentication, Authorization, and Accounting Concepts
Examine authentication, authorization, and accounting concepts.
23  cards
5.9 Wireless Security Protocols
Summarize wireless security protocols (WPA, WPA2, and WPA3).
21  cards
5.10 WLAN within the GUI
Configure and verify WLAN within the GUI using WPA2 PSK.
21  cards
6.1 Automation and Network Management
Summarize how automation impacts network management.
17  cards
6.2 Traditional Networks and Controller-Based Networking
Examine traditional networks with controller-based networking.
16  cards
6.3 Controller-Based Software Defined Architecture
Summarize controller-based, software defined architecture (overlay, underlay, and fabric).
19  cards
6.4 AI and Machine Learning in Network Operations
Summarize AI (generative and predictive) and machine learning in network operations.
22  cards
6.5 REST-based APIs
Summarize characteristics of REST-based APIs (authentication types, CRUD, HTTP verbs, and data encoding).
33  cards
6.6 Configuration Management Mechanisms
Recognize the capabilities of configuration management mechanisms, such as Ansible and Terraform.
30  cards
6.7 JSON-Encoded Data
Recognize components of JSON-encoded data.
33  cards

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