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Accessibility statement
The Open University is a Cisco Networking Academy Support Centre. We offer the current Cisco Certified Networking Associate version 7 curriculum, which provides the foundational knowledge, understanding and skills to configure small-scale LAN/WAN using Cisco equipment. As part of your studies, you’ll complete CCNA Introduction to Networks and CCNA Switching, Routing and Wireless Essentials and gain simulated hands-on experience configuring networks through online activities. We ensure that the content we deliver each year reflects Cisco's current certifications.
The full Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) curriculum consists of three parts, sometimes called CCNA 1 to 3. This module covers CCNA 1 and 2.1
Part 1: Introduction to Networks (CCNA 1)
This part will provide a firm theoretical and practical grounding in all networking aspects, focusing on local area networks (LANs). It will introduce you to the key networking hardware and software, and give you your first insight into the importance of internet addressing.
Part 2: Switching, Wireless and Routing Essentials (CCNA 2)
Routers and switches are used extensively in wide-area and local-area networks. Their basic function is to forward data packets across networks and between networks. Part 2 focuses on how you can configure routers to operate in computer networks and their switch counterpart.
Each part consists of ten or more segments. The segments are grouped, with checkpoint exams that count towards your module result. Each of the two parts also has a final online exam that counts towards your result.
1Module Cisco networking (CCNA) part 2 (TM357) covers CCNA 3 and Cisco DevNet Associate.
There are no formal entry requirements to study this module.
However, you’ll need a good knowledge of the subject area obtained through any of the following:
Introduction to computing and information technology 1 (TM111) and Introduction to computing and information technology 2 (TM112) are ideal preparation.
You’ll get help and support from an assigned tutor throughout your module.
They’ll help by:
Online tutorials run throughout the module. While they’re not compulsory, we strongly encourage you to participate. Where possible, we’ll make recordings available.
Course work includes:
You must attend the compulsory1 day school to pass this module.
There’s no additional cost for the school, but you must pay for travel.
Cisco instructors run the day schools (offered at a range of UK venues and on various dates during March and April). The school provides practical experience with Cisco Networking technologies, and your work during the school will link to your end-of-module assessment.
Instructions for booking will be on the module website.
1 If you’re disabled, a carer, live outside the UK, or serving in a NATO armed forces-related role, you may apply for an exemption. If exempt, you’ll complete an online, remote lab-based activity instead.
You’ll have access to a module website, which includes:
Additionally, the website includes:
The OU strives to make all aspects of study accessible to everyone, and this Accessibility Statement outlines what studying TM257 involves. You should use this information to inform your study preparations and any discussions with us about how we can meet your needs.
To find out more about what kind of support and adjustments might be available, contact us or visit our Disability support website.
Cisco networking (CCNA) part 1 (TM257) starts once a year in October.
It will next start in October 2026.
We expect it to start for the last time in October 2028.
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