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Official specifications published by Cisco
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100-490 Exam Topics and Domains
100-490 is organized into 4 weighted domains. Expect to work with Configuration management, Console access, ICMP, IP routing, and more.
General Networking Knowledge
OSI and TCP/IP Models
Use the OSI and TCP/IP models and their associated protocols to explain how data flows in a network
Network Hardware Basics
Describe the basic functionality and key differences of LAN switch, router, and wireless access points
Layer 2 Technologies
Differentiate between these Layer 2 technologies: Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet, Serial, and Optical
LAN Cabling
Describe LAN cabling
CSU/DSU Function
Describe the function of CSU/DSU
Telco Termination Point
Describe Telco termination point
IPv4 and IPv6 Addressing
Describe an IPv4 and IPv6 address and subnet
File Transfer and Diagnostic Protocols
Describe the function of FTP, TFTP and PING
Remote Access Protocols
Describe the function of Telnet and SSH
Cisco Equipment and Related Hardware
Cisco Product Identification
Identify the Cisco equipment including switches and routers across Nexus, Catalyst, ASR, NCS, and ISR product lines
Product Identification by Markings
Identify Cisco products by logo marking and model number (including, but not limited to, locations on chassis, line card, module, or adapter)
Transceiver Module Identification
Identify Cisco Transceiver Modules
Serial Number Location
Identify and locate the serial number of Cisco products (including, but not limited to, locations on chassis, line card, module, or adapter)
Common Components
Identify and describe commonly used components
Memory Types
Describe hardware memory common terms and their use in Cisco routers and switches
Cabling Identification
Identify the cabling on Cisco equipment
Installation Tools
Identify tools for hardware installation and replacement
Loopback Plugs
Identify the different loop-back plugs (RJ45 Ethernet, T1, 56K)
Cisco IOS Software Operation
Cisco Operating Systems
Describe the key role of Cisco IOS, IOS-XE, IOS-XR and NX-OS software
Operating Modes Navigation
Navigate between different operating modes
Current Mode Determination
Determine the current mode of a device
Configuration File Management
Copy and paste a configuration file from/to a router or switch
Basic IOS Commands
Use and interpret the basic Cisco IOS Software commands
Configuration Register
Describe the location and process to change the configuration register parameter
Configuration File Identification
Identify a configuration file from a Cisco device
Software Licensing
Describe the licensing process on different platforms
IOS-XE Boot Modes
Describe Bundle Mode/Install Mode IOS-XE
Service-Related Knowledge
Text Editor Usage
Locate and use a text editor such as, Notepad
Windows Command Prompt
Locate and use the Windows command prompt
Terminal Emulation
Locate, configure, and use Terminal Emulation (Tera Term, Putty)
Network Settings Configuration
Configure networks settings for Ethernet port on laptop (IP address, subnet mask and default gateway) and establish a connection with Ethernet ports on Cisco equipment using correct cable
Console Connection
Make a physical connection from laptop to Cisco console port
Interface Configuration
Connect, configure, and verify operation status of a device interface
File Server Configuration
Configure and use TFTP and FTP servers (TFTP d32/64, FIlezilla)
Software Upgrade/Downgrade
Perform software upgrade or downgrade using TFTP, FTP, xmodem, tftpdnld, or USB Storage
Configuration Management
Manage configurations via the TCP/IP network
Password Recovery
Perform password recovery on a Cisco device
Layer 1 and 2 Troubleshooting
- Identify and correct common network problems at Layers 1 and 2
- Troubleshoot serial or ether interface status
- Resolve Ethernet layer 2 (full and half duplex, speed issues)
- Perform WAN serial loopback test (T1, 56K and Telco assisted loopback)
How do I earn this certification?
Passing 100-490 earns the Cisco Certified Technician (CCT) Routing and Switching certification. It sits in the Field Technician (Entry-Level) track.
- 210-060 - CICD - Implementing Cisco Collaboration Devices
- 210-065 - CIVND - Implementing Cisco Video Network Devices
- 010-151 - DCTECH - Supporting Cisco Data Center System Devices
- 800-150 - FLDTEC - Cisco Certified Field Technician Direct replacement for all CCT tracks, launched December 12, 2024
- 200-301 - CCNA - Cisco Certified Network AssociateNatural progression from CCT to associate-level networking certification
- 200-901 - DEVASC - Developing Applications and Automating Workflows using Cisco Core PlatformsAlternative path for those interested in network automation and programmability
- 200-201 - CBROPS - Understanding Cisco Cybersecurity Operations FundamentalsEntry-level security operations certification complementary to networking skills
- CCST Networking - Cisco Certified Support Technician - Networking Foundation-level certification for those wanting to build IT fundamentals before CCT
- CCST Cybersecurity - Cisco Certified Support Technician - Cybersecurity Foundation-level security certification complementary to networking
Practice with Precision
The PlanetCert Simulator mirrors the real exam environment with authentic questions and timed pressure.
How to study for this exam?
The most effective way to prepare for 100-490 is by using the PlanetCert Simulator to practice questions and review detailed explanations.
What's changed on this exam?
- RETIRING
- Announcement date: 2024-11-01
- Catalyst 9000 Series Switches Latest models Added to equipment identification requirements in Domain 2.1
- Nexus 9000 Series Current generation Included in data center switch identification objectives
- Cisco 8000 Series Routers Latest models Added to router identification section
- IOS-XE Bundle/Install Mode 17.x New topic added to Domain 3.9 covering boot modes
- Meraki Cloud-Managed Switches Current Included in switch identification objectives
Who should take this exam?
- Basic understanding of networking concepts
- Familiarity with Windows operating system
- Basic computer hardware knowledge
- Experience with command-line interfaces helpful