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Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA 3)

Advance Your Skills in Enterprise Networking and Network Security

The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA 3) course is the final step in the Cisco CCNA certification path. It builds on the knowledge gained in CCNA 1 and CCNA 2, helping you move from basic networking to managing complex business networks.

You’ll learn how to design and manage enterprise-level networks, improve network security, and use automation tools that make business systems run smoothly.

This Cisco networking course is ideal for people already working in IT support, network management, or technical roles who want to move into advanced positions in large enterprises such as network engineer, network administrator, or network security specialist.

When you finish and pass with a score of 70% or higher, you’ll earn a Cisco digital badge and a CCNA 3 certificate. This will show employers you have proven skills in enterprise networking, security, and automation.

You’ll learn how to design, protect, and manage large business networks that connect people, offices, and systems around the world.

Next course dates

Start date Location Duration / Fees
Anytime
University Centre
3 Hours / £270
Anytime
University Centre
3 Hours / £270
Anytime
University Centre
3 Hours / £270
Anytime
University Centre
3 Hours / £270

Benefits of Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA 3)

 

  • Complete your Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification and hold a worldwide recognised qualification in the IT industry.
  • Learn to design and manage enterprise-level networks used in modern organisations.
  • Develop hands-on skills in network security, routing, and wireless network management.
  • Use automation tools and scripts to simplify network tasks and save time.
  • Keep up with technological advancements demonstrating your commitment and progress to higher-level IT roles.

 

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Pave Your Path in IT & Network Management

Career Progression and Prospects

Completing CCNA 3 prepares you for the Cisco CCNA certification exam. This is a globally recognised qualification that proves your networking expertise.

With skills in enterprise networking, network automation, and security, you’ll be ready for roles such as:

  • Network Engineer – design and manage large business networks.
  • Network Administrator – support and maintain enterprise systems.
  • Network Security Specialist – protect networks from cyber threats.
  • IT Support Specialist – solve advanced network and system issues.

Employment Opportunities

The CCNA certification is highly valued across industries that rely on secure, scalable network solutions. It also opens pathways to advanced Cisco courses and senior IT roles in network management, cloud computing, and cybersecurity.

Key Course Information

Entry Requirements

To join this course, you need to have completed CCNA 1 – Introduction to Networks and CCNA 2 – Routing, Switching and Wireless Essentials.

These courses give you the core networking skills needed to move on to CCNA 3: Enterprise Networking, Security and Automation.

Qualification obtained

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA 3)

Extra costs and equipment

You will need a computer, laptop, or tablet that can run Cisco Packet Tracer and access the internet. All course materials are provided online through Cisco NetAcad at no extra cost.

What You’ll Learn

  1. Enterprise Networking Concepts
    • Learn how large enterprise networks are built and managed.
    • Understand the core, distribution, and access layers used in business systems.
    • Explore how redundancy keeps networks running smoothly and avoids downtime.
  2. Advanced Routing Protocols
    • Work with multi-area OSPF and EIGRP to improve routing performance.
    • Learn how to use route summarisation and load balancing.
  3. WAN Technologies and VPNs
    • Understand WAN technologies such as MPLS, Metro Ethernet, and VPNs.
    • Learn how to set up secure IPsec VPNs for remote work and site connections.
  4. Network Security Essentials
    • Study cybersecurity fundamentals and best practices for keeping data safe.
    • Configure firewalls, access control lists (ACLs), and AAA services.
    • Protect against common risks such as spoofing and unauthorised access.
  5. Network Automation and Programmability
    • Discover how automation and programmability improve efficiency.
    • Try basic Python scripting and explore tools like REST APIs and Ansible.
  6. Quality of Service (QoS)
    • Learn how QoS improves voice and video performance in business networks.
    • Control and prioritise data traffic to keep key applications running smoothly.
  7. Network Management and Monitoring
    • Understand how tools like SNMP, Syslog, and NetFlow help monitor performance.
    • Learn to track issues, analyse data, and optimise network speed and reliability.
  8. Redundancy and Load Balancing
    • Set up HSRP, VRRP, and GLBP for reliable connections and fast recovery.
    • Configure EtherChannel for improved link speed and stability.
  9. IPv6 Concepts
    • Build and configure IPv6 networks and run IPv4 and IPv6 together.
    • Learn OSPFv3 and other IPv6 routing protocols used in modern businesses.

How You’ll Learn

You’ll start with a three-hour introduction session at the University Campus or online using Microsoft Teams. You can contact your tutors for support anytime on Teams.

All study materials are available through the Cisco NetAcad Virtual Learning Environment, so you can learn at your own pace.

After about 4 to 6 weeks, you’ll take your final exams, either on campus or online. The practical test is completed on Cisco equipment or using Packet Tracer software.

Expert tutors

Our Cisco-certified tutors are experienced professionals in network engineering, IT support, and enterprise systems. They’ll guide you through the course, answer your questions, and help you prepare for your CCNA 3 assessments.

How You’ll Be Assessed

You will complete both practical lab and online exams to show your skills in enterprise networking and security.

Formative Assessment

  • Hands-on labs using Cisco Packet Tracer or real Cisco equipment.
  • Scenario-based tasks that test your ability to solve real business problems.

Summative Assessment

  • Final practical test – worth 50% of your mark.
  • Online multiple-choice exam – about 50 questions, worth 50%.

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