Certifications at this level indicate an expertise with the foundations of networking. There are two certification options within the associate level

CCNA training - Is an entry level certification that supports all of the career tracks within Cisco's Certification program. This certification indicates knowledge of networking for the SOHO market and the ability to work in small businesses or organizations whose networks have fewer than 100 nodes.

A CCNA certified individual will be able to:

• Install and configure Cisco Switches and routers in multiprotocol internetworks using LAN and WAN interfaces.
• Provide Level 1 troubleshooting service
• Improve network performance and security

CCDA training- Is the first of the design certifications and supports those wishing to follow the design route.This certification indicates knowledge of design for the infrastructure, and the ability to prepare the network for implementing solutions and services.

A CCDA certified individual will be able to:

• Determine a customer's requirements for network performance,security,capacity,and scalability.
• Design a network infrastructure that meets these requirements
• Articulate the benefits of the design to a customer's satisfaction
• Develop and test a prototype network that validates the design-and demonstrate's that to a customer's satisfaction. 

Cisco's CCNA Prep Center is designed to assist those preparing for the CCNA certification. Although this site contains useful content for CCNA candidates, it does not cover all the skills and knowledge that you need to prepare for CCNA exams. You will need additional information, training, and support to pass the exam, which can be provided with Global Knowledge's INTRO and ICND courses.