CCDA

Cisco has an entry level design certification called the Cisco Certified Design Associate, or CCDA. This is similar to the CCNA in that it is a foundational certification that goes a mile wide and an inch or two deep. If you have passed your CCNA and you are looking for the next challenge, take some time to consider the available options...

1. Specialize in an area of networking with Cisco's Voice, Security, or Wireless CCNA Certifications.
2. Take your CCNA level knowledge to the next level and focus on the CCNP
3. Focus on the design track, starting with the CCDA.

If you are interested in persuing the CCDA, there are some great resources to get started. First, check out the Tekcert articles section for writeups on the CCDA or on specific topics that align with exam topics. Also, check out the Exam Topics, CCO login required.

If you are looking for a couple books to read, here are some recommendations:

The recommended place to start is the Designing for Cisco Internetwork Solutions. This is the mile wide, inch deep book that covers the theory behind the exam topics:

If that isn't enough for you and you want more, check out the offical exam certification guide for over a hundred practice questions on the CD:

CCDA Official Exam Certification Guide (Exam 640-863) (3rd Edition)