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.

In this two-part episode, we explore the evolving role of artificial intelligence in enterprise networking—not just as a buzzword, but as a powerful tool for transformation. Cisco experts: Joe Clarke, Distinguished Engineer; Kareem Iskander, Principal Engineer and Technical Advocacy Lead; and Hank Preston, Distinguished Architect, join host Matt Saunders, Community Manager for the Cisco Learning Network, is joined by three. Together, they dive into how AI is reshaping network automation, operations, and the skills needed to thrive in this new era. The conversation covers foundational definitions of AI, the rise of agentic AI, and practical strategies for network engineers—whether you're writing scripts or not—to leverage AI as a tool for efficiency and insight. AMA with Kareem on the Cisco Learning Network: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/s/question/0D5Kd0000BkfcuLKQQ/ask-me-anything-ai

What exactly is agentic AI, how is it shaping enterprise networks, and what skills do you need to stay ahead in this new era of automation? Cisco Learning Network Community Manager Matt Saunders and Lead Technical Advocate for Learn with Cisco Kareem Iskander dive into all of these topics as they ask, “What’s the Deal with Agentic AI?" You’ll hear real-world examples, insights from Cisco Live, and learn how agentic AI can help address challenges like configuration drift and network resiliency. Matt and Kareem also explore the human side of AI—why critical thinking, creativity, and accountability are more important than ever.    Ask Me Anything open forum featuring all things AI and Agentic AI for Enterprise Networking with Kareem: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/s/question/0D5Kd0000BkfcuLKQQ/ask-me-anything-ai

Learn how Ethical Hackers think. Cisco’s new Certificate in Ethical Hacking is designed to teach just that, combining offensive security techniques with immersive Capture the Flag challenges that help learners validate their knowledge in real-world scenarios. In this episode, Jozef Janitor, Product Manager with Cisco Networking Academy, joins Business Architecture Manager Garet Marling and Cisco U. Product Manager Kate Dignan to discuss the Ethical Hacker program with Cisco Learning Network Community Manager Tanner Swift. Together, they break down how this certificate fits into a learner’s cybersecurity journey, what to expect from Cisco U., and how hands-on challenges like Capture the Flag: Operation SMB Exploit can help prepare you for a career in offensive security. • Cisco Certificate in Ethical Hacking: https://www.netacad.com/courses/ethical-hacker?courseLang=en-US • Capture the Flag: Operation SMB Exploit: https://u.cisco.com/challenges/capture-flag-operation-smb-exploit-26593 • Cisco Learning Network: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/s/certification/ethical-hacker

Listen in as we explore everything you need to know about the Cisco Certified Field Technician Certification – who this certification is for, the training that’s available, and how you can get started earning this certification. With the CCT or Cisco Certified Field Technician Certification, prove you have the skills to diagnose, restore, repair, and replace critical Cisco networking and system devices at customer sites. To learn more about this certification, please visit: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/s/cct

After getting laid off, Michael Bowden could have looked for a different job doing the same thing. Instead, he chose a career in networking, and never looked back. Listen in as Michael tells Cisco Learning Network Community Manager Matt Saunders about how he launched his career in the IT industry, became a Cisco Networking Academy instructor at the very same community college he studied at, and then started the “Debt Free in IT” video and audio podcast that you can subscribe to here: https://www.youtube.com/@debtfreeinitwmike/videos

Pursuing a career in tech can be challenging, especially when you’re not prioritizing your mental health. Senior Technical Advocate Jason Belk shares his insights with Cisco Learning Network Community Manager Tanner Swift on building a successful career in network automation while learning to prioritize mental health. Drawing from his own journey, Jason offers practical advice on staying ahead in a rapidly evolving field and cultivating resilience in the face of challenges. Tune in to learn how to avoid burnout, ignite career inspiration, and discover strategies to achieve balance in both your personal and professional life.