How Many Questions Are on the CCNA Exam? Facts You Must Know

How many questions are on the CCNA? Cisco doesn’t provide an official number for the CCNA 200‑301 exam, so the total can vary depending on the version you receive. Generally, the number of questions ranges from 75 to 120, but the exact count may differ from one test to another. Let’s take a closer look at the exam structure, question types, and tips to help you prepare effectively for the CCNA certification.

How many questions are on the CCNA exam?

How many questions are on the CCNA exam?

The CCNA 200‑301 exam does not have a fixed number of questions. The total can vary depending on the exam version, generally ranging from 75 to 120 questions, with 120 minutes to complete the test. Candidate feedback shows the variability in practice: some reported 75 questions with 4 lab simulations, while others encountered 89 questions with 3 labs on a different exam day. This range highlights why preparing for all question types is crucial, along with effective time management strategies.

Types of CCNA questions

The CCNA exam isn’t limited to multiple-choice questions. Candidates should be ready for a variety of question formats, including:

• Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs): Select one or more correct answers.
• Drag-and-Drop Questions: Match concepts, commands, or network diagrams.
• Simulation/Hands-On Labs: Solve practical networking problems using virtual devices.
• Fill-in-the-Blank Questions: Provide specific commands or values based on scenarios.

Content of CCNA questions

Despite not knowing how many questions are on the CCNA exam, the real focus should be on what the exam evaluates. Every question is mapped to the key domains of networking knowledge, and mastering these domains is what will ensure success.

The main content areas you need to be confident in include:

• Network Fundamentals: Networking components, OSI & TCP/IP models, IPv4 & IPv6 addressing, subnetting, network media, device roles
• Network Access: VLANs, trunking, switch configuration, port security, Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), EtherChannel
• IP Connectivity: Static & dynamic routing, OSPF configuration, routing tables, next-hop selection, troubleshooting connectivity
• IP Services: DHCP, DNS, NAT/PAT, NTP, SNMP, Quality of Service (QoS)
• Security Fundamentals: ACLs, securing routers & switches, authentication, VPNs, threat mitigation, security best practices
• Automation and Programmability: SDN basics, REST APIs, network automation, configuration management tools, programmable networks

To prepare effectively, candidates should rely on CCNA study guides for structured and comprehensive coverage. 

FAQs

1. How many questions can you miss on the CCNA exam?

Cisco does not officially publish a pass/fail threshold in terms of the number of questions you can miss. Focus on mastering each topic rather than aiming to memorize which questions to get wrong.

2. What is the CCNA exam passing score?

The official passing score for the CCNA 200‑301 exam is 825 out of 1000 points. This scoring model accounts for the varying difficulty of questions. Simulation-based questions may carry more weight than multiple-choice questions. It’s critical to review all topics thoroughly to ensure consistent performance across all sections.

Final thoughts

Knowing how many questions are on the CCNA exam and understanding the exam format can significantly enhance your preparation. With roughly 100 to 120 questions spread across multiple formats, the CCNA tests both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. By allocating your study time wisely, practicing simulation labs, and reviewing core networking concepts, you’ll be well-positioned to pass the exam confidently.