For almost a year I’ve had a goal of passing the CCNA Wireless exam. With a smile, I can say that I’ve successfully passed the CCNA Wireless exam after spending 40 minutes in the testing center. My Cisco certifications have been renewed until 2022.
My Cisco certifications date back 10 years ago when I first passed the CCENT.
The version of the exam I studied for was the 200-355 WIFUND, Implementing Cisco Wireless Network Fundamentals. While this exam is dated, being that I passed in 2019, the study material still contained good information on Cisco controllers. I believe WIFUND came out late 2016 or early 2017.
Either way, the exam is overdue for an update to include the latest Cisco wireless technologies. There are still references to the failed Converged Wireless based on 3850 switches. Even old lingo to marketing terms we barely hear about now.
But nonetheless, having to get one step closer to CCIE Wireless is good in my books.
Why CCNA Wireless
My wireless journey started with Cisco wireless controllers. At some point in 2018, I decided to pursue CCNA Wireless. At Cisco Live Orlando 2018, I nearly sat the CCIE Wireless written. I later changed my mind at the last minute and sat CCNA Wireless without studying. Failed miserably.
Turns out I didn’t know much of the language that is used and some of the really detailed values or exact GUI locations for configurations on autonomous APs.
My intent on taking CCNA Wireless was to increase my knowledge and teach others in the form of blog and video.
Study Materials
The primary method of studying was self-study utilizing the Cisco Press CCNA Wireless Official Certification Guide by David Hucaby.
The book covered the objectives for the most part. It’s detailed and easy to follow.
Other than the textbook I had access to different Cisco wireless controllers which made it easy in terms of having a “lab” for my studies. At the home lab, I also have a Cisco WLC 2504 and old Cisco AP3502i for autonomous AP labbing.
Following any study guide with labs is the best way to solidify a topic in your head. I highly recommend it.
For almost a year I was doing on and off studying. In December 2018 the studies became more formal and planned because I aimed for taking the exam by January 31st, 2019. The CCNA Wireless exam got pushed out multiple times until mid-February 2019.
What’s Next
The next logical step would be starting CCNP Wireless, 300-365 WIDEPLOY, but I may save that for Cisco Live 2019 in San Diego. I don’t intend to study for it beforehand.
My real goal, after passing, is to now focus on learning Python and developing blogs and videos based on CCNA Wireless.