CCNA 2026: Networking, AI & Automation Prep
The ultimate study guide for the 2026 Cisco CCNA exam. Includes core networking (IPv4/IPv6), security fundamentals, and the newly added 2026 modules on AI-driven network analytics, machine learning in routing, and Python-based automation.
Cards in this deck
What is "AI-Driven Network Analytics"?
The use of machine learning algorithms to analyze traffic patterns, predict potential failures, and automate troubleshooting.
Define "SD-WAN" (Software-Defined WAN).
A centralized approach to managing wide area networks that uses software to route traffic securely and efficiently across the cloud.
What is the purpose of "Python" in CCNA 2026?
It is used for network automation—writing scripts to configure thousands of devices at once rather than manual entry.
Define "JSON" in the context of APIs.
JavaScript Object Notation; a lightweight data format used by network controllers (like Cisco DNA Center) to exchange data with applications.
What is an "Intent-Based Network" (IBN)?
A networking model that uses AI to translate business goals (intent) into network configurations automatically.
Explain "Northbound vs. Southbound APIs".
Northbound: Communicates between the controller and applications. Southbound: Communicates between the controller and physical devices.
What is a "Next-Generation Firewall" (NGFW)?
A security device that goes beyond traditional port/protocol filtering to include deep packet inspection and encrypted traffic analysis.
Define "IPv6 Link-Local Address".
An address used for communication within a single network segment (always starts with fe80::).
What is "Overlay" vs. "Underlay" Networking?
Underlay: The physical hardware/cabling. Overlay: The virtualized logical network (like a VXLAN) that runs on top of it.
What is a "Wireless LAN Controller" (WLC)?
A centralized device used to manage multiple Access Points (APs) in an enterprise environment.
Define "OSPF" (Open Shortest Path First).
A link-state routing protocol used to find the best path for data packets within a single autonomous system.
What is "Predictive Maintenance" in 2026 Networking?
Using AI to identify hardware that is likely to fail before it actually crashes, based on temperature and error logs.
What is a "Container" (e.g., Docker) in IT?
A lightweight, portable package that includes everything needed to run a piece of software, isolated from the rest of the system.
Define "PoE" (Power over Ethernet).
A technology that sends both data and electrical power over a single Ethernet cable (used for IP phones and cameras).
What is "VLAN Trunking" (802.1Q)?
A method of sending traffic from multiple VLANs across a single physical link between two switches.
What is a "Default Gateway"?
The IP address of the router that a host uses to send traffic outside its local network.
Define "MAC Address Learning".
The process a switch uses to build a MAC Address Table by looking at the source address of incoming frames.
What is "Ansible" in Network Automation?
An open-source tool used to automate the deployment and configuration of network devices using "Playbooks."
Explain the "CIA Triad".
The foundation of security: Confidentiality (privacy), Integrity (no unauthorized changes), and Availability (uptime).
What is "BGP" (Border Gateway Protocol)?
The routing protocol that manages how data is routed across the entire internet between different organizations.
Define "DHCP Starvation Attack".
A cyberattack where an attacker exhausts all available IP addresses in a DHCP pool, preventing legitimate users from connecting.
What is "Cisco DNA Center"?
A centralized dashboard used to manage, automate, and secure an entire enterprise network from one interface.