The Cisco Learning Network

The CCNA is evolving to help learners build practical, job-ready networking skills for a world increasingly shaped by AI, automation, security, and cloud-managed architectures.

In this episode of the Cisco Learning Network Podcast, Cisco Learning Network Community Manager Tanner Swift sits down with Mubasher Nawaz, Cisco Certification Portfolio Manager, to discuss the newly refreshed CCNA certification and what learners can expect when the updated exam launches in February 2027.

Together, they explore why Cisco is updating the CCNA, how the certification is shifting toward hands-on, scenario-based learning, and why troubleshooting, automation, AI-enabled network operations, and real-world skills are becoming even more important for early-in-career networking professionals.

Whether you’re just beginning your networking journey, actively preparing for the current CCNA, or looking ahead to future certification updates, this episode offers helpful context on where the CCNA is headed and how learners can continue preparing with confidence.

CCNA Update Blog: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/s/blogs/a0DQO00000616W92AI/ccna-announcement-blog 
CCNA Podcast Thread: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/s/question/0D5QO00002GdwWx0AJ/allnew-cisco-learning-network-podcast-episodes-coming-your-way-

Major updates are coming to Cisco collaboration certifications in 2026, and learners preparing for CCNP Collaboration and CCIE Collaboration will want to pay close attention.

In this episode of the Cisco Learning Network Podcast, Cisco Learning Network Community Manager Tanner Swift sits down with Scott Hunt, Product Manager for Learn with Cisco and Training Certifications, to discuss the latest changes to Cisco collaboration certifications, including updates to CLCOR, CLACC, and CLHCT.

Together, they break down the shift from a primarily on-prem certification track to a more balanced approach that includes both on-premises and cloud technologies, the introduction of new cloud-focused learning paths, and the addition of a new Webex Contact Center specialist certification.

They also discuss what these changes mean for current certification candidates, how hiring managers are viewing these skills, and what learners should focus on as they prepare for the updated exams.

Whether you're pursuing CCNP Collaboration, preparing for CCIE Collaboration, or looking to stay current with the future of collaboration technologies, this episode provides the clarity you need to move forward with confidence.

Is AI a "magic wand" for your network, or is it a tool that requires a professional playbook? In this episode of the Cisco Learning Network Podcast, we cut through the industry noise to explore what it truly means to be an AI expert in today’s rapidly evolving tech landscape.

Join Cisco Learning Network Community Manager Matt Saunders and Principal Engineer Kareem Iskander as they sit down with Ryan Rose, Director of Product Management for Skills and Certifications at Cisco Learning & Certifications.

Together, they break down the "why" and "how" behind Cisco’s latest AI educational offerings. Whether you are a business professional looking to integrate AI into your daily workflows or an IT practitioner aiming to build and secure AI-driven infrastructure, this episode provides the roadmap you need.

https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/s/aitech-exam-topics

Cisco is bringing renewed focus to wireless certifications — and major updates are coming in March 2026.
In this episode of the Cisco Learning Network Podcast, Cisco Learning Network Community Manager Tanner Swift sits down with Andrew Richter, Content Engineering and Program Management lead focused on Wireless and Enterprise Networking, to discuss what’s changing across the wireless certification track.
Together, they break down the introduction of the new Wireless Core exam, updates to the CCNP Wireless pathway, changes to the CCIE Wireless practical exam, and what these updates mean for current certification holders. They also explore why these changes are happening now, how industry feedback shaped the new direction, and where learners can find study resources to prepare.
Whether you’re already working toward a wireless certification or just curious about where Cisco wireless learning is headed, this episode gives you the context and clarity you need to navigate the road ahead.

In this episode, we continue the conversation on how AI is transforming the world of enterprise networking. You’ll hear how Cisco approached internal AI adoption with caution and clarity, including the importance of private LLM instances and avoiding shadow AI practices. The group also explores how education, governance, and secure tools are critical for protecting data and building trust in AI systems.

From prompt injection attacks to certification updates, the episode breaks down how Cisco is evolving its learning paths and certification programs (like CCNA, DevNet, and CCDE) to reflect the skills networking professionals need in an AI-driven future.

Whether you’re an entry-level learner or a seasoned network engineer, you’ll walk away with actionable guidance—and a clear call to get involved, experiment responsibly, and help shape the next era of enterprise networking.