Cisco has added performance-based labs to CCNA certification exam. There are typically four performance-based labs with 3-4 questions per lab. Anecdotal evidence suggests point weighting is low and reason not to burn a lot of time with them.
Cisco recommends spending no more than 5-7 minutes on each lab. It is a mistake to spend 10+ minutes on any single lab and have to rush through the remaining questions.
Manage your time well and realize it is a long exam. There are partial points awarded for getting some lab questions correct. Cisco CCNA does not allow review of any previous questions whether multiple choice, drag and drop, or labs after clicking the Next button. Each lab starts with the following initial window that provides instruction for test-takers.
Configuration Labs
This lab type is comprised of multiple configuration tasks based on a network topology. For example, configure various switching protocols between switches and verify connectivity. You could also have a lab that requires you to configure OSPF routing, modify network type, and enable passive interfaces. Make sure to save your running configuration for each device before closing lab.
The split window user interface (UI) design show lab topology and command-line interface (CLI) in different windows. CCNA lab software is based on real IOS and navigation buttons are similar.
Analyze Show Command Output
This lab type will ask test-takers to interpret the operational status of network protocols and configuration settings. This will require you to select and issue the correct show commands to answer lab questions. For example, identify the OSPF designated router (DR) for a network topology, or identify trunking protocol assigned to a network interface. Test-takers do not have access to show running-config command for this lab type.
How to Prepare For CCNA Performance-Based Labs
CCNA 200-301 Practice Tests include performance-based labs similar to the real exam. Review the official CCNA exam syllabus and note configuration topics. Make sure you can configure all topics listed where configuration keyword is used. Exam tips and tricks article has essential information on how to prepare for CCNA 200-301 exam. Practice with each show command, analyze output, and learn what operational information is provided.