CCNP
A Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) is a person in the IT industry who has achieved the professional level of Cisco Career Certification.[1]
CCNP Structure
[edit]The CCNP program includes multiple specialized tracks that allow professionals to develop expertise in specific areas of networking and telecommunications. Each track typically requires passing two or more exams, usually consisting of:
A core exam: Covers the fundamentals and general concepts of the chosen specialization. A concentration exam: Focuses on more specific areas related to the specialization.
Professional certifications
[edit]Prior to February 2020 there were approximately eight professional-level certification programs within Cisco Career Certifications.[2][3]
- CCDP
- CCNP Cloud
- CCNP Collaboration
- CCNP Data Center
- CCNP Routing and Switching
- CCNP Security
- CCNP Service Provider
- CCNP Wireless
Cisco has announced that as of February 2020, the above format has been retired and replaced with the following:
- CCNP Enterprise (integrating CCNP Routing and Switching, CCDP and CCNP Wireless)
- CCNP Data Center (integrating CCNP Cloud)
- CCNP Security
- CCNP Service Provider
- CCNP Collaboration
- Cisco Certified DevNet Professional
Migration guides to the newer certification exams are available from Cisco at its CCNP Migration Tools page.[4]
Required exams
[edit]Before February 2020 relevant entry-level certifications needed to be passed in advance if a candidate wanted to attempt the professional level exams. Starting February 2020, no entry-level certification will be required to attempt the CCNP exams.[5]
Validity
[edit]The validity of CCNP Certification is 3 years. Renewal requires certification holders to register for and pass same or higher level Cisco recertification exam(s) every 3 years or obtain 80 continuing education credits.
Related certifications
[edit]Main CCNP Specializations
[edit]1. CCNP Enterprise Focused on enterprise networks, this track covers topics such as routing, switching, SD-WAN, and software-defined networking (SDN).
2. CCNP Security Geared towards professionals working in network security, this specialization includes topics such as firewalls, VPNs, intrusion detection solutions, and more.
3. CCNP Data Center Designed for data center networks, this specialization covers advanced technologies like virtualization, automation, and storage services.
4. CCNP Collaboration Focused on enterprise collaboration solutions, such as IP telephony, video conferencing, and unified communications.
5. CCNP Service Provider Tailored for network engineers working for service providers, emphasizing scalable solutions and advanced transport technologies.
6. CCNP DevNet A recent certification that combines networking and development, focusing on network automation, APIs, and system integration.
References
[edit]- ^ CCNP Routing and Switching - IT Certificates and Career Paths - Cisco Systems
- ^ "Professional Certifications".
- ^ "Certifications - Training & Certifications".
- ^ "CCNP Routing and Switching". Cisco.
- ^ "CCNP Infographic" (PDF). cisco.com. Cisco. Retrieved 30 November 2023.
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