How does the CCNP course assist you in taking a successful move forward in your career?
What is CCNP Security?
Cisco understands that infrastructure is about security as much as it is about interconnection. This has led to a greater emphasis on security training that incorporates prior CCNP Security editions’ best practices. There’s a fresh emphasis on safety at scalability now. Contemporary networked systems also rely heavily on mechanization.
To earn the current CCNP Security certification, students should complete the main examination SCOR-350-701: Implementing and Operating Cisco Security Core Tech. It includes information on a variety of network security subjects, including:
- Network security
- Cloud security
- Securing content in enterprise settings
- Endpoints
- Network resources access
- Policy enforcement
It’s worth noting that if you complete the main examination, you’ll be entitled to take the CCIE Security certification exam. After you’ve passed the core exams, you’ll need to choose a specialization exam. We won’t go into great depth regarding each examination, but there are six options right now:
- Using Cisco Firepower to Secure Networks (SNCF 300-710)
- Preparing and deploying Cisco Identity Services Engine (SISE 300-715)
- Using the Cisco Email Security Appliance to Secure Email (SESA 300-720)
- Cisco Web Security Appliance for Web Security (SWSA 300-725)
- Using Vpns Networks to Implement Secure Solutions (SVPN 300-730)
- Cisco Security Solutions Automation and Programming (SAUTO 300-735)
CCNP Security is similar to other security-related certifications in that it includes DoD 8570.01-M conformance. However, because it is more network-oriented on a scientific level, the security concepts and principles you do learn are specific to Cisco and are significantly more specialised than, for instance, CompTIA’s Security+ certification.
Network workers who really need to focus on managing network devices and executing security measures across the network can benefit from the CCNP Security certification. Candidates’ expertise of equipment such as firewalls, switches, and routers is tested on this exam.
What Does CCNP Security Require?
You only need to complete the main test to take the specific focus qualifying exam.
However, because this certification digs extensively into connectivity, you should have a clear grasp of networking before attempting to achieve it. Three to five years of expertise dealing with Cisco networking equipment is recommended by Cisco.
CCNP Security is valid for 2 years and must be updated afterwards. Ascending the Cisco certification ladder is the great place to stay qualified. This will renew your existing certificates while also advancing your professional chances.
How difficult is CCNP Security?
The CCNP is typically thought to be more challenging than the CCNA according to most exam takers. This is partly due to the fact that the CCNP test covers a much broader range of topics. In addition, the CCNP has a deeper level of content than the CCNA. Another thing to remember is that the weighting of the problems varies across tests. The CCNP test has easier questions but takes 30 minutes longer to complete.
What are the Pros of CCNP Security Certification?
Obtaining the CCNP Security certification has numerous advantages. The status of achieving such a difficult certificate, as well as social acknowledgment, are both objective rewards. But the basic fact is that obtaining a Cisco certification that is widely recognised and accepted will increase your credibility and marketability.
What about CCNP Cyber security pay scales? As per Zip Recruiter, a qualified CCNP Security holder may expect to earn roughly $113,369 per year.
Product Security Engineer, Security Operations Engineer, Lead Security Engineer, Senior Network Security Engineer, and Senior Information Security Engineer are some of the jobs you can anticipate to earn with a CCNP.
The CCNP Safety certification is required for most positions that involve both safety and Cisco device administration and repair. As a result, certain jobs will demand you to have at least a CCNP Security certification. As previously stated, this certification also provides DoD access, making it a favoured credential for many government-related positions.
You will get more opportunities within your firm if you hold a CCNP System check. You’ve improved your chances of getting a raise or a transfer.
The CCNP Security credential displays your dedication to self-improvement and knowledge. A worker with that much desire will be held in high regard and appreciated.
What are the Cons of CCNP Security Certification?
The CCNP Security exam, like most others, requires a significant amount of studying and preparation. The exam may be a foundational exam in the Cisco certification structure, but it does not make it simple. You must have about three and five years of expertise prior to taking tests, as well as a full understanding of the standardized test topics.
The CCNP certificate is valid for three years, and you can learn more about the renewal policy here. You can renew your certification by completing one or more of the following steps:
- Take an exam
- Attend a Cisco Live training session
- Author related content
- Complete online training courses
- Complete instructor-led training
Complete one technological foundation examination, any two professional concentration exams, and one CCIE lab test to get Cisco professional-level credentials. Earn 40 CE credits or 80 CE certs by completing any one specialized focus exam.
Is CCNP Security Worth It?
We discussed the CCNP Security learning needs, exam topics, and potential earnings. Even after all that, we can confidently respond yes to the question, “Is the CCNP Security worth it?”
The CCNP training will assist you get a CCNP Security certification, that will assist you make it to the top of the application form stack. Certified employees are valued by employers. Being certified not only confirms that you understand what you’re doing, but it also helps to attract more qualified people as more learning and innovation possibilities arise.
In today’s business world, safety is more critical than before. The CCNP Security credential demonstrates that you grasp how security standards have evolved and how to execute them.
Which Specialty Exam Should I Take in CCNP Enterprise Certification?
Since March 2020, a lot has changed in Cisco certifications. The CCNP certifications have been completely revamped. For example, the CCNP Wireless, CCNP R&S, and CCDP, for example, have all been retired. The changes make determining which CCNP test you need to take for your particular career path more difficult.
The majority of CCNP certificates are simple; the title of the certification indicates the specialism. The pathway for security engineers is the CCNP Security. If you wish to work on data centre infrastructure, the CCNP Data Center is the right choice. The CCNP Enterprise, on the other hand, is a little more difficult.
The CCNP Enterprise now includes several specialities. That implies you’ll need to find the correct specialist test if you want to do something akin to the previous R&S or wireless certs. There are a total of six CCNP speciality tests, so there’s a lot to consider.
We’ll go over the current CCNP certification path and help you figure out which CCNP Enterprise speciality test is best for you.
Which CCNP Enterprise Specialty Exam Should I Take?
For context, we recommend reading the entire article:
- Take the 300-410 ENARSI CCNP Enterprise specialisation exam if you desire a network engineering certification similar to the old CCNP Routing & Switching.
- Take the 300-415 ENSDWI CCNP Enterprise speciality exam if you wish to work with SD-WAN and edge routing technologies.
- Take the 300-420 ENSLD CCNP Enterprise speciality exam if you wish to design enterprise networks.
- Take the 300-425 ENWLSD CCNP Enterprise specialist exam if you wish to be a wireless design engineer (someone who designs wireless networks).
- Take the 300-430 ENWLSI CCNP Enterprise speciality exam if you want to be a wireless engineer (someone who configures, manages, and troubleshoots wireless networks).
- Take the 300-435 ENAUTO CCNP Enterprise specialist exam if you want to be a network automation engineer.
Now that that’s out of the way, let’s get down to business.
The CCNP is the starting point for specialisation: Make an informed decision.
There were specialties available at the CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) level. Cisco, on the other hand, modified the structure of their certification programme, making the CCNA more foundational now. When you earn a CCNP certification, you gain professional specialisation. When you consider the usual job path, this makes sense. You should begin with a strong foundation of networking and hardware skills, which you can obtain at the CCNA level, and then specialise in a specific area.
For example, you could begin as a helpdesk technician who does a little bit of everything and then discover that you really enjoy security along the way. You can earn a CCNP Security to help you take the next step now that you have the experience.
The key takeaway is that the CCNP is when you start to specialise. Make sure you pick a specialisation that you enjoy.
Everyone should take the ENCOR Core CCNP Exam 350-401.
Regardless of which CCNP specialist course you take, you must pass the 350-401 ENCOR core test. This test covers the skills and principles of enterprise network configuration, troubleshooting, management, and security. The core test covers concepts that are important to all specialisations, which is why everyone who wants to get the CCNP must take it.
Breaking things up this way offers two advantages:
- The same set of essential skills and principles apply to all CCNP cert holders.
- Exams for specialisation can concentrate on the topics that are most important to the speciality.
Exams for the CCNP Enterprise Specialty
You can get your CCNP Enterprise by combining six specialist exams with the 350-401 ENCOR. We’ll go through each one in detail in the sections below. We’ll discuss which job titles a certain exam might be appropriate for as we go.
Implementing Cisco Enterprise Advanced Routing and Services (300-410 ENARSI)
The 300-410 ENARSI (Implementing Cisco Enterprise Advanced Routing and Services) exam focuses on advanced routing technology and services. That means it includes Layer 3 routing and VPN services, among other things.
The 300-410 ENARSI is your best bet if you’re seeking for a replacement for the outdated CCNP Routing & Switching test. Active CCNPs who passed the former ROUTE (300-101), SWITCH (300-115), and TSHOOT (300-135) examinations before February 24 were awarded the Cisco Certified Specialist – Enterprise Advanced Infrastructure Implementation and Cisco Certified Specialist – Enterprise Core certificates. If you pass the 300-410 ENARSI and 350-401 ENCOR exams, you’ll receive the same two certifications.
Given its specialisation, the CCNP Enterprise specialist exam 300-410 ENARSI is a suitable choice for:
- Network engineers
- Senior network administrators
Implementing Cisco SD-WAN Solutions (300-415 ENSDWI)
Edge routing and SD-WAN are becoming increasingly prevalent. The Cisco SD-WAN Solutions (300-415 ENSDWI) exam provides the abilities you’ll need to stay current. This exam covers subjects such as Zero Touch Provisioning (ZTP), Cisco’s SD-WAN overlay, and SD-WAN monitoring and management in depth.
Given its specialisation, the CCNP Enterprise specialist exam 300-410 ENSDWI is a suitable choice for:
- WAN Engineers
- Solution designers focusing on SD-WAN and edge technologies
Designing Cisco Enterprise Networks (300-420 ENSLD)
It takes a lot of effort to design an enterprise network. You must move a project from the requirements stage to the solutions stage while keeping cost, performance, and security in mind. Designing Cisco Enterprise Networks (300-420 ENSLD) is a Cisco-based course that covers enterprise network design. This may be the ideal CCNP Enterprise specialist test for you if your objective is to create networks from the ground up. The exam covers advanced routing, campus networks, software-defined access (SDA), and network and security services, among other subjects.
Given its specialisation, the CCNP Enterprise specialist test 300-420 ENSLD is a suitable choice for:
- Network architects
- Network managers
Designing Cisco Enterprise Wireless Networks (300-425 ENWSLD)
There are a lot of exciting things happening in the world of wireless with WiFi 6 and WiFi 6e. Designing Cisco Enterprise Wireless Networks (300-425 ENWSLD) is a fantastic choice if you want your CCNP Enterprise speciality exam to focus on designing WiFi solutions within enterprise networks. The test includes topics such as wired and wireless infrastructure, mobility, site assessments, and wireless local area networks (WLANs) (wireless local area networks).
Given its specialisation, the CCNP Enterprise specialist test 300-425 ENWSLD is a suitable choice for:
- Wireless sales engineers
- Wireless design engineers
Implementing Cisco Enterprise Wireless Networks (300-430 ENWLSI)
Let’s say you like wifi but want to be more involved in the setup and troubleshooting. You might want to take the Cisco Enterprise Wireless Networks (300-430 ENWLSI) test.
The 300-430 ENWSLI, like the 300-425 ENWSLD, has a strong wireless concentration, however it focuses on implementation rather than network architecture. That implies the ENWSLI covers enterprise wireless solutions subjects like device hardening, monitoring, and setup.
Given its specialisation, the CCNP Enterprise specialist test 300-430 ENWSLI is a suitable choice for:
- Wireless engineers
- Wireless integrators
Automating Cisco Enterprise Solutions (ENAUTO 300-435)
The CCNP Enterprise and Cisco Certified DevNet Professional certifications are earned by passing the core exam and the Automating Cisco Enterprise Solutions (ENAUTO 300-435) exam. This certification is a fantastic choice if you want to focus your career on the convergence of DevOps and Cisco equipment. Python programming, network programmability, NETCONF/RESTCONF/YANG, and automation tools are all covered in ENAUTO 300-435.
Given its specialisation, the CCNP Enterprise specialist test 300-435 ENAUTO is a suitable choice for:
- Network automation engineers
- DevOps engineers
Why Didn’t We Discuss CCNP Salary?
Okay, you’ve nabbed us. We haven’t mentioned the typical CCNP salary or which certifications will give you the best bang for your dollars. There are three reasons why we purposefully avoided doing so:
- The majority of pay data will be for “CCNP” or “CCNP Enterprise,” thus distinguishing between specialisations based on that alone will be difficult.
- There hasn’t been enough time to collect sufficient data to see what distinctions exist between the new CCNPs because of the new CCNPs.
- CCNP certified professionals, regardless of expertise, tend to make a respectable livelihood. If you choose something that interests you and master it, you’re more likely to make more in the long run.
Final Thoughts:
We hope that this post assisted you in determining which CCNP Enterprise specialisation exam was the best fit for you. It’s critical to remember that there is no such thing as an incorrect answer. The idea is to align your certification journey with your professional objectives. Decide where you want to go and take the CCNP Enterprise speciality exam that corresponds to your goals.
How to Pass CCNP Enterprise Certification exams?
CCNP is an acronym for Cisco Certified Network Professional. The CCNP certification course is designed to prove candidates’ knowledge and skills in Network and Security. You need these skills in enterprise networking technologies for holding the position of professional-level job roles. CCNP enterprise certification includes programmability and automation that can let you enhance your knowledge about networking. So, getting the CCNP enterprise (ENCOR + ENARSI) training is essential to pass CCNP Enterprise Certification exams.
To Crack CCNP Enterprise Certification Exams, take into account the following points.
Get CCNP Enterprise training and clear two exams to be CCNP certified.
- The first exam covers core enterprise technologies
- The second one is a concentration exam of your choice. This will customize your certification to your technical area of interest.
A well-designed CCNP training program helps you qualify for all the required exams and earn CCNP Enterprise certification.
CCNP Enterprise (ENCOR + ENARSI) Training
Those preparing for this certification program can join the CCNP Enterprise training course online. The training program prepares them to be ready for all required exams. It is one of the most important parts where you will develop knowledge about certification courses and topics related to the exam. There are online institutes where you can join online training for CCNP enterprise courses. Typically, a good CCNP training class includes –
- Online lectures
- 24×7 virtual lap access
- All sessions in the training are instructor-led where you can attend real-time lectures.
- Online recorded training videos
- Workbook and unlimited lab access for practices
Please note that topics in CCNP Security are a bit more ingrained in what you have learned in CCNA. It is therefore important to pass your CCNA exam and understand all its topics thoroughly before going to attempt the CCNP Security exam.
Learn from Experts
The next step is to learn from Cisco Certified professionals. They have the experience, expertise and skills to help you pass the exam. Experts at UniNets know now about what to teach and how to train you. They better know how to set study schedules and would teach all the topics step by step.
Trainers for CCNP Enterprise Certification exams at UniNets have been through on the path you wherein you lack. They have knowledge about what you should study and what you should skip. They keep themselves updated about CCNP Enterprise Certification exams.
Gain Experience
If you would have earned your CCNA certification, then you would know that no Cisco exam could be passed without practical exposure. CISCO recommends having experience of 1-3 years before appearing in the CCNP Enterprise Certification exam so that you can have experience with all its Cisco CCNP Security devices.
It is advisable to build a home lab to be familiar with Cisco devices. The exams require 4-5 hours of hands-on sessions per day on average to be aware of its concepts and layout. You should firmly understand the concept of CCNP. This is only possible when you practice a lot in the lab until you get it. The more you do your practice, the more knowledge you will gain and the better you’ll learn.
Study One Topic at a Time
For the best preparation for CCNP Enterprise Certification exams, studying one topic at a time is a good approach. Avoid reading the book at a time; rather go for a single topic. Read it, understand and then practice. Then go ahead for the next topic. Keep learning and practicing on it until you understand it. Keep up with the given instructions:
- Don’t read only one book. Explore more options and study correspondingly.
- Don’t gather much information and wouldn’t be learning it
- Choose a topic. Do deep research and clear the entire concept
- Keep in touch with your trainers or instructors
Additional Study Resources
No doubt, Cisco Press Books are the best resource for any Cisco exam. However, they could not be sufficient. So, join CCNP Enterprise (ENCOR + ENARSI) Training Course, participate in online forums to get your questions solved. Keep following CISCO blogs to be updated on anything advanced happenings. Search online videos shared by CISCO or experienced lecturers.
Conclusion
Learn that no specific prerequisites for CCNP enterprise certification are required. But, you must have a stronghold on exam topics along with 3 – 5 years of working experience in enterprise networking solutions. And for the best preparation for CCNP Enterprise Certification exams, there are no better means to prepare than taking as many practice tests as possible. Please note that the core exam proves your knowledge and skills of enterprise infrastructure such as IPv4 and IPv6, automation, security, virtualization, and network assurance.
To prepare for this exam, take the training course 350-401 ENCOR (Implementing and Operating Cisco Enterprise Network Core Technologies), network designs, SD-WAN, wireless and automation which are key topics. The best training courses for CCNP Enterprise Certification offered by UniNets provide you with Instructor-led hands-on live virtual training, virtual access for lab, training videos for a lifetime, online workbooks, weekdays and weekend classes, one-to-one and group training as well as corporate training.
11 Reasons why CCNP Enterprise Certification is Important?
Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Enterprise validates the ability to troubleshoot, verify, implement, plan and local and wide-area enterprise networks and work collaboratively with specialists on wireless, voice, video solutions, and advanced security.
Having a Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Enterprise certification validates your ability to implement and troubleshoot both LAN and WAN networks. In addition, candidates will be acknowledged as a person who can collaborate with specialists on issues related to video solutions, voice, wireless, and advanced security. CCNP Enterprise certification is suitable for those with at least one year of experience in networking.
Candidates who obtain the certification are known to possess a precious skill set that is needed in enterprise roles such as systems engineer, network engineer, network technician and support engineer more. You will need to get CCNA certified before attempting for CCNP Enterprise certification.
With that in mind, here are 11 reasons why CCNP Enterprise Certification is the key to success in Networking Industry:
- Job availability is high
CCNP Enterprise certification qualifies you for many different jobs such as IT manager; computers and information systems manager; network engineer; computer systems and network administrators; computer network architect or engineer projects, just to name a few.
- Salary potential is high
Getting a CCNP Enterprise certification will qualify you for an array of employment opportunities and the chance to earn a higher salary. According to research conducted by Cisco, candidates that are CCNP enterprise certified are earning at the least 10% more than those employed at the similar position, but without the certification.
- Skill recognition
Obtaining CCNP Enterprise certification is a way to have your advanced knowledge and skills in computer networking showcased. Being certified from a recognize company like Cisco means that you will be acknowledge as an individual that has received best coaching available in the industry.
- You get an opportunity to keep up with the technology
We are all surrounded by technology. The best way to keep your career growing is to keep up with the current technology, which is exactly what a CCNA Enterprise certified professional does.
- You make your resume mouthwatering
Candidate’s resume speak volumes about their education, work and skills experience. Once you see a CCNP Enterprise certification on the resume you can expect the potential employers to believe that you are the kind of person who will carry on with the company and will be an asset to it. Having such certifications in your resume also shows your interest in education and learning.
- You build up self confidence
A CCNP Enterprise certification can work as a confidence and morale builder. Candidate build up a confidence of knowing that you have a top-notch certification of an industry that is constantly growing, as opposed to being afraid of applying for the job due to less education.
- Excellent job growth
Apart from helping you to find a very good job in computer networking, earning a CCNP Enterprise certification puts you on the top of the list when it is time for promotions and career advancements. In case an individual want to switch the company, this certification will help you obtain a better job without having to begin from entry level and operating their way up gradually.
CCNP Enterprise certifications make you eligible for positions that have high growth expected in coming years.
- Individual make themselves eligible for more advanced certifications
Many Cisco Enterprise certifications work as stepping stones for more advanced certifications, or at least provide the additional training necessary for acquiring additional certifications. This is certainly the truth with the CCNP Enterprise certification.
Obtaining a CCNP Enterprise Certification prepares you for further education.
- Advanced Training is offered
While studying for your CCNP Enterprise exam, you will be trained in various areas of computer networking, such as network design, configuration, installation and troubleshooting. The experience and training candidate gain through this certification will get them ready for several career opportunities. They will not only obtain knowledge, but also practical training that will be invaluable in times to come.
- You get brief understanding of the computer networking industry
The very first thing an individual with the CCNP Enterprise certification gets is profound knowledge of the computer networking industry. In addition, when preparing to qualify the test for this certification, they spend a lot of time studying which makes them acutely mindful of the field you will be working in.
After you have the certification, it means that you understand most of the requirements of your field as well as have lots of experience too. It also shows that you have the technical skills to find solution to wide ranging issues and the elegance to save the company from several malicious hazards and viruses.
- Candidates get an opportunity to work in various nations of the world
Whether you have the experience of the field or not, CCNP Enterprise certification will offer wonderful career opportunities to all CCNP aspirants out there, particularly in IT equipped and emerging countries such as Dubai, Nigeria, Australia, USA, Angola, UK, Algeria, and India. Remember, few things in this commercial world are as precious as certifications.
Conclusion
So, CCNP Enterprise certification is good choice for network engineers and related professionals who are looking for Cisco professional certifications. Also, this certification proves your skills and technical knowledge required to work with enterprise networking solutions.