The Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT) certification is the first stage of Cisco

Cisco

Cisco may refer to:Companies:*Cisco Systems, a computer networking company* Certis CISCO, corporatised entity of the former Commercial and Industrial Security Corporation in Singapore...

's certification system. The CCENT certification is an interim step to Associate level or directly with CCNA

CCNA

CCNA is the certification from Cisco.CCNA certification is a second-level Cisco Career certification...

 and CCDA  certifications

Professional certification (Computer technology)

Professional certifications in computer technology are non-degree awards made to those who have achieved qualifications specified by a certifying authority. Depending on the particular certification, qualifications may include completing a course of study, proof of professional accomplishments,...

. While the CCENT covers basic networking knowledge; it does not get involved with the more intricate technical aspects of the Cisco routing and switching and network design. The certification does validate the skills essential for entry-level network support positions. CCENT qualified individuals have the knowledge and skill to install, manage, maintain and troubleshoot a small enterprise branch network, including network security. The CCENT curriculum covers networking fundamentals, WAN technologies, basic security and wireless concepts, routing and switching fundamentals, and configuring simple networks. The applicable training is Cisco ICND1

ICND1

Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices Part 1 is the first half of the CCNA Certification or stands alone as the Cisco Certified Entry Network Technician certification. CCNA certification is usually required to hold titles such as Network Analyst or Network Administrator in the mainstream job...

 and the exam is (640-822 ICND1) The certification is valid for 3 years, and professionals may retake the exam to re-certify.