The CCNA/CCDA exams are computer based - no need for paper and pencil at all. They have multiple choice questions only. The 640-864 DESGN Exam covers: Describe the Methodology used to design a network Describe network structure and modularity Describe network architecture for the enterprise Design Basic Enterprise Campus Networks Design Enterprise Edge and Remote Network Modules Design IP Addressing and Routing Protocols Design network services Network design is all about proper "division of labor" - you need to use the right gears to do the right things at the right place. You are seeing things from a broader planning perspective. The security exam, on the other hand, is more technical and is more concerned on the security aspect of networking. Topics that have to be dealt with in the CCNA Security exam include: Common Security Threats Securing Cisco Routers AAA Threat Mitigation with ACLs Secure Management and Reporting Mitigating Layer 2 Attacks IOS...