The Certified Wireless Network Administrator (CWNA) is a foundation level certification that measures the ability to administer any wireless LAN. A wide range of topics focusing on the 802.11 wireless LAN technology are covered in the coursework and exam, which is vendor neutral.

Certification track

The CWNA is the second exam in a four-level certification process that narrows its scope and focus during each step. Topics progress from wireless fundamentals (at the CWTS level), to the unique security requirements of 802.11 networks (CWSP), plus network & protocol analysis (at the CWNE level).

CWNA requirements

The main subject areas covered by the CWNA are as follows:

• Radio Technologies
• Antenna Concepts
• Wireless LAN hardware and software
• Network Design Installation and Management
• Wireless Standards and Organisation
• 802.11 Network Architecture
• Wireless LAN Security
• Troubleshooting
• How to perform site surveys

These subjects are covered at an introductory level in the CWNA coursework and examination. The other certifications specialize in one or more of these subjects.

Recertification

The CWNA certification is valid for three years. The certification may be renewed by retaking the CWNA exam or by advancing on to the next level (CWSP), and then to CWNE which is a lifetime qualification (as of 1/1/07).