Certification

As stated before, the CCT Routing and Switching certification is an entry-level validation that can open you up to higher-level certifications offered by Cisco. Getting this designation is proof of your knowledge and understanding of the IOS operating modes for Cisco software and other relevant software types. It also shows that you have the skills to utilize the Command Line Interface of Cisco to service & unite various products. In addition, preparing for the CCT Routing and Switching certificate gives you a solid base in Cisco networking knowledge before you can move on to higher-level certifications. Finally, the certification proves you have operational knowledge of Cisco equipment while the other levels typically focus on the configuration process and more in-depth information.

Reference: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/training-events/training-certifications/exams/current-list/100-490-rstech.html

Career Opportunities

After taking and passing the Cisco 100-490 RSTECH exam, you will get the Cisco Certified Technician Routing and Switching certification, which means you can work as a field engineer. As for their duties, field engineers help in installing, replacing, and providing the maintenance of mechanisms of a company. This role is highly-specialized and the Cisco certification is an indication of your in-depth knowledge of their technology services and products. Also, it is an in-demand job and field engineers typically have to work with other members of a team. Particularly, field engineers are needed in a lot of industries that have any electronic equipment, products, or systems that must conform to certain standards and specifications. As of now, PayScale puts the average base salary for such specialists being $64,301 yearly.

Prerequisites

To be eligible for this certification exam, the potential candidates are required to possess an understanding of Cisco switch & router interfaces, models, cabling, as well as accessories. Please note that there are no official prerequisites for Cisco 100-490 and you don’t need to earn a certificate or have a technical background. However, the applicants should know all the topics and the content before taking the test.

Exam Details

The Cisco 100-490 exam consists of 55-65 questions that are to be completed by the candidates within the allocated duration of 90 minutes. This is a closed book test, which means that no reference materials are allowed while sitting for it. To register for the exam, you need to create an account with Pearson VUE, the official Cisco testing partner. The exam is available for the applicants in the English and Japanese languages.

To build the knowledge base for the Cisco 100-490 exam, the candidates are recommended to undergo the training course available on the official website. The Supporting Cisco Routing and Switching Network Devices v3.0 course is delivered online and equivalent to 6-7 hours of classroom instruction.

After successful acing the Cisco 100-490 exam, you will be awarded your CCT Routing & Switching certification. The certificate is valid for three years and requires renewal after the expiration of this period. You can undergo recertification via attending Cisco authorized educational events, taking additional certification tests, or through a combination of both.