Certified Network Associate Cybersecurity Certification Explained

The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Cybersecurity certification (CCNACBR) is an associate-level cybersecurity certification designed for professionals interested in security operations, threat detection and incident response.

This certification is earned by passing the 200-201 CCNACBR: Understanding Cisco Cybersecurity Operations Fundamentals exam, which covers security concepts, security monitoring, host-based analysis, network intrusion analysis, and security policies and procedures.

Previously known as the Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate certification, CCNA Cybersecurity (200-201 CCNACBR) is now part of Cisco's broader certification portfolio, which includes associate, professional and expert-level certifications across networking, cybersecurity, automation and software technologies.

At Firebrand, we are proud to be an official Cisco Learning Specialised Partner.

What is CCNA CBR? Could it be right for you?

Let's take a look.

What is Cisco Certified Network Associate Cybersecurity?

Previously known as Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate, Cisco's associate-level cyber operations certification has been rebranded as CCNA Cybersecurity.

This certification attests that you are proficient in working in a Security Operations Center (SOC) environment, especially in terms of incident detection and response.

This course takes you through fundamental Cybersecurity Operations skills such as security monitoring, host-based analysis, and network intrusion analysis, as well as security policies and procedures relevant for SOC teams.
  

Who should take CCNA Cybersecurity?

CCNA Cybersecurity is aimed at people interested in cybersecurity operations, particularly roles involving security monitoring, threat detection and incident response in a Security Operations Center (SOC).

There are no formal prerequisites for the associated 200-201 CCNACBR exam. However, Cisco recommends familiarity with Ethernet and TCP/IP networking, Windows and Linux operating systems, and basic network security concepts.

This certification may be suitable for:

• Aspiring SOC analysts
• Entry-level cybersecurity analysts
• IT professionals moving into cybersecurity
• Network professionals looking to develop security operations skills
• Professionals working with security monitoring and incident response

At Firebrand, our courses are taught by Cisco Certified Trainers and use the latest official curriculum, so you know your training is in good hands!

Where can I take the CCNA Cybersecurity training?

You can study for the CCNA Cybersecurity certification with Firebrand through an immersive, hands-on training format that helps you develop practical cybersecurity skills.

CCNA Cybersecurity (200-201 CCNACBR) is an instructor-led programme designed to combine technical instruction with hands-on practical exercises. The course includes labs covering areas such as operating systems, endpoint security, network attacks, security monitoring, packet capture, event logs and SOC playbooks.

At Firebrand, you can complete your CCNA Cybersecurity training through our residential training experience or online. For the residential course, you will also enjoy 24-hour lab access, accommodations, and meals included in your course fee.

What will you learn?

Security fundamentals

• Security principles
• Access control
• Cloud security
• Cryptography
• Network security controls

Operating systems and endpoints

• Windows security
• Linux security
• Command-line interfaces
• Endpoint security

Network security and monitoring

• Network protocols
• IDS and IPS
• Network Security Monitoring (NSM)
• NetFlow
• Packet capture and analysis
• Network intrusion analysis

Threat detection and investigation

• Threat actors
• MITRE ATT&CK
• Cyber Kill Chain
• Malware analysis
• Threat intelligence
• Log analysis
• Threat hunting

Security operations

• SIEM
• SOAR
• XDR
• Incident response
• CSIRT operations
• SOC playbooks
  
  

What exam do you need to pass for CCNA Cybersecurity?

To earn the CCNA Cybersecurity certification, you must pass the 200-201 CCNACBR: Understanding Cisco Cybersecurity Operations Fundamentals exam.

The exam is 120 minutes long, is available in English, and has no formal prerequisites.

As part of Firebrand’s course, you can sit the official CBROPS 200-201 exam at the Firebrand Training Centre and return to work certified.

CCNA Cybersecurity Exam FAQs 

How should I prepare for the CCNA Cybersecurity exam?

Start by reviewing the official 200-201 CCNACBR exam topics and identifying any areas where you need to strengthen your knowledge. Cisco recommends training through Cisco U., although completing Cisco training is not a requirement for taking the exam.

Practical experience with networking, Windows and Linux, security monitoring, logs, packet captures and incident investigation can also help you build the knowledge covered by the exam.

What are the CCNA Cybersecurity exam topics?

• Security concepts
• Security monitoring
• Host-based analysis
• Network intrusion analysis
• Security policies and procedures
  
  

Is CCNA Cybersecurity the same as CyberOps Associate?

Yes. Cisco's CyberOps Associate certification has been rebranded as CCNA Cybersecurity. The current certification is earned by passing the 200-201 CCNACBR: Understanding Cisco Cybersecurity Operations Fundamentals exam.

How much does the CCNA Cybersecurity exam cost?

The Cisco 200-201 CCNACBR exam currently costs US$300, or can be purchased using Cisco Learning Credits. Prices may vary by region and applicable taxes.

If you take the accelerated course with us at Firebrand, the exam fee is included in the course package.

Does the CCNA Cybersecurity course include the 200-201 exam? 

At Firebrand, yes. Firebrand's accelerated CCNA Cybersecurity training includes the opportunity to sit the official 200-201 CCNACBR exam as part of the course, covered by the Firebrand Certification Guarantee.

How long does the CCNA Cybersecurity certification remain valid?

The CCNA Cybersecurity certification is valid for three years and can be renewed through Cisco's recertification programme.

Become CCNA Cybersecurity certified with Firebrand

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