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Cisco networking (CCNA) part 2

The Open University is a Cisco Networking Academy Support Centre. We offer the Cisco Certified Networking Associate version 7 curriculum, which provides the foundational knowledge, understanding and skills to configure larger LAN/WAN using Cisco equipment. As part of your studies, you’ll complete CCNA 3 Enterprise Networking, Security and Automation along with DevNet and gain simulated hands-on experience configuring networks through online activities.

What you will study

The full Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) curriculum consists of three parts, sometimes referred to as CCNA 1–3. This module covers CCNA 3–along with DevNet.1

Part 1: Enterprise Networks, Security and Automation (CCNA 3)
This part describes the architecture, components and operations of routers and switches in a small network. You’ll learn how to configure a router and a switch for basic functionality. By the end of this part, you’ll be able to configure and troubleshoot routers and switches and resolve common issues with RIPv1 and RIPv2; single-area and multi-area OSPF; virtual LANs; and inter-VLAN routing in both IPv4 and IPv6 networks.

Part 2: DevNet
Following on from the CCNA Routing and Switching content, you will explore how coding is used to automate the management of infrastructure networking technologies via the DevNet associate certification content. You will explore how application development and coding applies within the context of network automation, use a range of developer tools and environments to solve automation challenges, apply API’s to automate network device management and set up an automated solution for a given problem.

Each part consists of a number of chapters. Most chapters have an online exam, and both Part 1 and Part 2 have online final exams.

You will learn

This module will:

  • make you understand to a greater level of detail, the concepts and algorithms underlying switching and routing protocols
  • provide you with further practical skills for implementing switching and routing protocols in real-world scenarios
  • make you aware of best practices for securing LAN (Local Area Networks) and WAN (Wide Area Networks)
  • teach you the fundamental and systematic processes for troubleshooting larger networks
  • teach you the fundamental and systematic processes for network automation
  • provide you with an opportunity to go on and gain two industry-recognised qualifications (CCNA and DevNet certifications).

Professional recognition

Those within the networking technician and engineering discipline consider Cisco certification professional recognition and personal accreditation. Cisco CCNA R&S and DevNet certifications are invaluable entry accreditations for the network engineering profession.

Entry requirements

You must have passed one of the following modules:

We may allow you to study TM357 without passing TM257 or T216. You must have other relevant knowledge/experience, such as:

  • equivalent work at another university
  • relevant experience as an IT professional
  • Cisco NetAcad Introduction to Networks (CCNA 1) and Routing and Switching Essentials (CCNA 2).

Talk to an advisor if you’re not sure you’re ready.

Preparatory work

The Cisco DevNet course, the second part of TM357, requires you to be familiar with coding but not an expert. The module website will include a link to this free short Python Coding Course. You can revisit your coding skills, complete a refresher, or become familiar with concepts that you might have found challenging in the past.

What's included

Access to the Cisco study materials, and additional supplementary material, via the website.

Computing requirements

You’ll need broadband internet access and a desktop or laptop computer with an up-to-date version of Windows (10 or 11), or macOS Ventura or higher.

Any additional software will be provided or is generally freely available.

To join in spoken conversations in tutorials we recommend a wired headset (headphones/earphones with a built-in microphone).

Our module websites comply with web standards and any modern browser is suitable for most activities.

Our OU Study mobile App will operate on all current, supported, versions of Android and iOS. It’s not available on Kindle.

It’s also possible to access some module materials on a mobile phone, tablet device or Chromebook, however, as you may be asked to install additional software or use certain applications, you'll also require a desktop or laptop as described above.

Note: if using a Mac with an M1 chip, you could experience issues with the module software. We advise against using a Mac with this chip type for this module.

Teaching and assessment

Support from your tutor

Throughout your module studies, you’ll get help and support from your assigned module tutor. They’ll help you by:

  • Marking your assignments (TMAs) and providing detailed feedback for you to improve.
  • Guiding you to additional learning resources.
  • Providing individual guidance, whether that’s for general study skills or specific module content.
  • Facilitating online discussions between your fellow students, in the dedicated module and tutor group forums.

Module tutors also run online tutorials throughout the module. Where possible, recordings of online tutorials will be made available to students. While these tutorials won’t be compulsory for you to complete the module, you’re strongly encouraged to take part.

Assessment

You can find the assessment details for this module in the facts box.

Virtual day school

This module has a compulsory virtual day school.

The virtual day school (offered over a 4–6-week period, where you choose when you participate) provides practical experience with Cisco Networking technologies. Your work during the school will link to your end-of-module assessment.

If you have a disability

The OU strives to make all aspects of study accessible to everyone and this Accessibility Statement outlines what studying TM357 involves. You should use this information to inform your study preparations and any discussions with us about how we can meet your needs.

Future availability

Cisco networking (CCNA) part 2 (TM357) starts once a year – in October.

This page describes the module that will start in October 2025.

We expect it to start for the last time in October 2029.

Course work includes:

2 Tutor-marked assignments (TMAs)
End-of-module assessment