Cisco offers a wealth of free online courses that can equip you with valuable networking skills. This guide explores these resources with a focus on South African learners.

Free Cisco Courses Available

There are two primary avenues for free Cisco courses in South Africa:

• Cisco Networking Academy: (https://www.netacad.com/)
  • This is a global program offering free online and in-person courses aligned with industry certifications like CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate).
  • The program partners with institutions worldwide, including South African colleges and universities. You can find a list of Cisco Networking Academy academies near you by searching on their website.
  • Courses are self-paced and cover various networking fundamentals like routing, switching, and security.
  • While the platform itself is free, some academies might charge enrollment fees for additional resources or instructor-led sessions.
• Cisco Skills for All: (https://skillsforall.com/)
  • This platform offers free, bite-sized online courses on various IT topics, including networking basics aligned with Cisco technologies.
  • Courses are self-paced and accessible on any device.
  • You can earn digital badges upon course completion, showcasing your newly acquired skills.

Focus on South Africa:

While both platforms cater to a global audience, some Cisco Networking Academy partners in South Africa offer additional benefits:

• Localized Support: Some academies might provide additional support in English or Afrikaans.
• Career Guidance: Some academies might offer career guidance workshops or job placement assistance specifically tailored to the South African IT market.

Remember: It’s always best to check with your chosen academy for specific details on language support and additional services.

Taking Advantage of Free Cisco Courses

• Identify Your Goals: Determine the specific networking skills you want to develop. Cisco offers courses for beginners to advanced learners.
• Choose the Right Platform: Cisco Networking Academy provides a more structured curriculum with certifications, while Skills for All offers shorter, introductory courses.
• Check Academy Details: If you opt for the Cisco Networking Academy route, locate an academy near you and inquire about their programs and any associated fees.
• Set a Schedule: Commit to dedicating time for consistent learning to progress through the courses.
• Explore Additional Resources: Cisco provides a wealth of free resources like documentation, white papers, and online communities to supplement your learning.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Are there any hidden costs? The core Cisco Networking Academy curriculum and Skills for All courses are free. However, some academies might charge additional fees for enrollment or instructor-led sessions.
• Do I need any prior knowledge? Cisco Networking Academy offers beginner courses, while Skills for All has introductory modules. No prior experience is necessary for some courses.
• Can I get a job with just these courses? While these courses provide valuable foundational knowledge, a Cisco certification (obtained through paid exams) might be required for some networking jobs. Skills for All courses can enhance your overall IT skillset.
• Are there any alternatives for in-person learning? Both platforms offer online courses, making them accessible throughout South Africa.

Remember: This guide provides a starting point. Explore the Cisco Networking Academy and Skills for All websites for a comprehensive list of courses and further information.