CCNP Exam and Certification

Last updated on Apr 10, 2023

Introduction

Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) is a professional-level certification offered by Cisco Systems that validates a candidate's expertise in planning, implementing, and troubleshooting complex network solutions. This certification is designed for experienced network professionals who want to advance their careers in the networking industry.

The CCNP certification is recognized globally and is highly respected in the networking industry. It demonstrates that the certified professional has advanced knowledge and skills in network engineering and is capable of handling complex networking solutions.

CCNP Certification Process

The CCNP certification process consists of three exams that cover different aspects of network engineering. The three exams are:

CCNP Enterprise Core (350-401 ENCOR)
CCNP Enterprise Concentration Exam
CCNP Data Center, Security, Service Provider, or Collaboration concentration exam

To obtain the CCNP certification, a candidate must pass the CCNP Enterprise Core exam (350-401 ENCOR) and any one of the concentration exams listed above.

The CCNP Enterprise Core exam (350-401 ENCOR) is a comprehensive exam that covers network fundamentals, network access, IP connectivity, IP services, security fundamentals, automation, and programmability. The exam duration is 120 minutes, and the number of questions ranges from 90 to 110.

The concentration exams are focused on specific areas of network engineering, such as data center, security, service provider, or collaboration. Each concentration exam covers the relevant technologies, protocols, and best practices related to the specific area of network engineering.

The CCNP certification is valid for three years, and to maintain the certification, the certified professional must pass any one of the concentration exams or a professional-level or expert-level certification exam before the certification expires.

CCNP Exam Syllabus

The CCNP certification covers a wide range of topics related to network engineering. The following is a detailed syllabus of the CCNP certification:

CCNP Enterprise Core (350-401 ENCOR) Exam Syllabus:

The CCNP Enterprise Core exam covers the following topics:

a. Architecture

Explain the different Cisco Enterprise Architecture models
Describe the Cisco DNA Architecture and its components
Describe the Cisco SD-WAN Architecture and its components
Explain the different network virtualization technologies
Explain the different infrastructure virtualization technologies

b. Virtualization

Explain the different data center virtualization technologies
Describe the different virtualization components and their functions
Explain the different virtual networking technologies

c. Infrastructure

Explain the different network infrastructure components
Describe the different network infrastructure protocols and their functions
Explain the different network infrastructure technologies

d. Network Assurance

Explain the different network assurance technologies
Describe the different network assurance tools and their functions
Explain the different network assurance protocols

e. Security

Explain the different network security components
Describe the different network security protocols and their functions
Explain the different network security technologies

f. Automation

Explain the different network automation technologies
Describe the different network automation tools and their functions
Explain the different network automation protocols

CCNP Enterprise Concentration Exam Syllabus:

The CCNP Enterprise concentration exams cover the following topics:

a. CCNP Enterprise Concentration Exam (300-410 ENARSI)

Layer 3 Technologies
VPN Technologies
Infrastructure Security
Infrastructure Services
Network Architecture

b. CCNP Enterprise Concentration Exam (300-415 ENSDWI)

SD-WAN
SD-Access
QoS
Multicast
Network Services

c. CCNP Enterprise Concentration Exam (300-420 ENSLD)

Designing Cisco Enterprise Networks
Layer 2 Technologies
Layer 3 Technologies
VPN Technologies
Infrastructure Security
Infrastructure Services

d. CCNP Enterprise Concentration Exam (300-425 ENWLSD)

Designing Cisco Enterprise Wireless Networks
Wireless Site Survey
WLAN High Availability
WLAN Design
WLAN Deployment

e. CCNP Enterprise Concentration Exam (300-430 ENWLSI)

Implementing Cisco Enterprise Wireless Networks
Wireless LAN Configuration
Wireless Network Security
Wireless Network Troubleshooting
Wireless Infrastructure Services

f. CCNP Enterprise Concentration Exam (300-435 ENAUTO)

Automating Cisco Enterprise Solutions
Programming Concepts
APIs
Automation Tools

CCNP Data Center Concentration Exam Syllabus:

The CCNP Data Center concentration exams cover the following topics:

a. CCNP Data Center Concentration Exam (350-601 DCCOR)

Data Center Network Architecture
Data Center Infrastructure
Network Virtualization
Storage Networking
Compute Networking
Automation

b. CCNP Data Center Concentration Exam (300-610 DCID)

Designing Cisco Data Center Infrastructure
Network Virtualization
Storage Networking
Compute Networking
Data Center Automation and Orchestration

c. CCNP Data Center Concentration Exam (300-615 DCIT)

Troubleshooting Cisco Data Center Infrastructure
Storage Networking
Compute Networking
Network Virtualization
Data Center Automation and Orchestration

d. CCNP Data Center Concentration Exam (300-620 DCACI)

Implementing Cisco Application Centric Infrastructure
ACI Concepts
ACI Configuration
ACI Integration

CCNP Security Concentration Exam Syllabus:

The CCNP Security concentration exams cover the following topics:

a. CCNP Security Concentration Exam (300-710 SNCF)

Securing Networks with Cisco Firepower Next-Generation Firewall
Firewall Concepts
Firewall Configuration
Intrusion Prevention
Identity Services Engine (ISE)
Advanced Malware Protection (AMP)

b. CCNP Security Concentration Exam (300-715 SISE)

Implementing and Configuring Cisco Identity Services Engine
ISE Architecture
ISE Authentication and Authorization
ISE Policy Enforcement
Web Authentication and Guest Access

c. CCNP Security Concentration Exam (300-720 SESA)

Securing Email with Cisco Email Security Appliance
Email Security Concepts
Email Security Configuration
Email Security Troubleshooting

d. CCNP Security Concentration Exam (300-725 SWSA)

Securing the Web with Cisco Web Security Appliance
Web Security Concepts
Web Security Configuration
Web Security Troubleshooting

CCNP Service Provider Concentration Exam Syllabus:

The CCNP Service Provider concentration exams cover the following topics:

a. CCNP Service Provider Concentration Exam (350-501 SPCOR)

Implementing and Operating Cisco Service Provider Network Core Technologies
Service Provider Architecture
Service Provider Infrastructure
Service Provider Services
Automation

b. CCNP Service Provider Concentration Exam (300-510 SPRI)

Implementing Cisco Service Provider Advanced Routing Solutions
Routing Concepts
Service Provider Routing Protocols
Service Provider IP/MPLS VPN Solutions
Service Provider Multicast and QoS

c. CCNP Service Provider Concentration Exam (300-515 SPVI)

Implementing Cisco Service Provider VPN Services
VPN Concepts
Service Provider VPN Solutions
Service Provider MPLS VPN Solutions
Service Provider Quality of Service (QoS)

d. CCNP Service Provider Concentration Exam (300-535 SPAUTO)

Automating Cisco Service Provider Solutions
Service Provider Automation Concepts
Service Provider Automation Tools
Network Programmability

CCNP Collaboration Concentration Exam Syllabus:

The CCNP Collaboration concentration exams cover the following topics:

a. CCNP Collaboration Concentration Exam (300-810 CLICA)

Implementing Cisco Collaboration Applications
Cisco Unity Connection
Cisco Unity Express
Cisco Unified IM and Presence
Video Conferencing and Streaming

b. CCNP Collaboration Concentration Exam (300-815 CLACCM)

Implementing Cisco Advanced Call Control and Mobility Services
Cisco Unified Communications Manager (CUCM) Architecture
CUCM Call Routing
CUCM Mobility Features
CUCM Media Resources

c. CCNP Collaboration Concentration Exam (300-820 CLCEI)

Implementing Cisco Collaboration Cloud and Edge Solutions
Cisco Expressway
Cisco Webex
Cisco Cloud Collaboration Solutions
Cisco Umbrella

d. CCNP Collaboration Concentration Exam (300-835 CLAUTO)

Automating and Programming Cisco Collaboration Solutions
Programming Concepts
API Concepts
Automation Tools

CCNP DevNet Concentration Exam Syllabus:

The CCNP DevNet concentration exams cover the following topics:

a. CCNP DevNet Concentration Exam (350-901 DEVCOR)

Developing Applications Using Cisco Core Platforms and APIs
APIs and Protocols
Application Deployment and Security
Infrastructure and Automation

b. CCNP DevNet Concentration Exam (300-910 DEVOPS)

Implementing DevOps Solutions and Practices Using Cisco Platforms
DevOps and Automation
Agile Software Development
Continuous Integration and Continuous Deployment (CI/CD)

c. CCNP DevNet Concentration Exam (300-915 DEVIOT)

Developing Solutions Using Cisco IoT and Edge Platforms
IoT Concepts
IoT Security
Edge Computing and Analytics

d. CCNP DevNet Concentration Exam (300-920 DEVWBX)

Developing Applications for Cisco Webex and Webex Devices
Webex APIs and SDKs
Webex Devices
Webex App Development

CCNP Certification Exam Process:

To obtain CCNP certification, candidates must pass three exams:

The core exam (one of the following):

350-401 ENCOR (Enterprise)
350-601 DCCOR (Data Center)
300-410 ENARSI (Service Provider)
300-420 ENSLD (Design)
300-430 ENWLSI (Wireless)
300-435 ENAUTO (Automation)

Two concentration exams from the list of concentration exams for the desired track.

Candidates can take the exams in any order they prefer, but it is recommended to take the core exam first. Each exam costs $400 USD, and they are available in English and Japanese. The exams are conducted by Pearson VUE, a global leader in computer-based testing.

The exams consist of multiple-choice questions, drag-and-drop questions, and simulation-based questions. The duration of each exam is 120 minutes.

Once a candidate passes all three exams, they will receive the CCNP certification, which is valid for three years. To recertify, candidates must pass one professional-level exam or any CCIE written or lab exam before the certification expiration date.

Benefits of CCNP Certification:

CCNP certification offers the following benefits to networking professionals:

a. Career Advancement: CCNP certification enhances the career prospects of networking professionals. CCNP-certified professionals are preferred for job roles such as network engineer, network administrator, and network architect.

b. Skill Development: CCNP certification validates the skills and knowledge of networking professionals in designing, implementing, and troubleshooting complex networking solutions.

c. Industry Recognition: CCNP certification is recognized globally as a standard for networking expertise. It is a prestigious certification that demonstrates the credibility and expertise of networking professionals.

d. Higher Salary: CCNP-certified professionals earn higher salaries than non-certified professionals. According to PayScale, the average salary for a CCNP-certified network engineer is $89,000 per year.

e. Access to Cisco Resources: CCNP-certified professionals have access to exclusive Cisco resources, including training materials, community forums, and events. These resources enable professionals to stay updated on the latest networking technologies and trends.

f. Networking Opportunities: CCNP-certified professionals can connect with other networking professionals through Cisco's community forums and events. These networking opportunities enable professionals to share knowledge, collaborate on projects, and expand their professional network.

Tips for Passing CCNP Exams:

a. Create a Study Plan: Create a study plan that covers all the topics in the exam syllabus. Allocate sufficient time for each topic, and ensure that you have a clear understanding of each topic before moving on to the next one.

b. Use Cisco Resources: Use Cisco's official training materials, such as books, videos, and practice exams, to prepare for the exam. These resources are designed to align with the exam syllabus and provide comprehensive coverage of the topics.

c. Practice with Simulators: Use simulators to practice the configuration and troubleshooting of networking devices. Simulators provide a realistic environment for practicing networking skills and enable professionals to gain hands-on experience.

d. Join Study Groups: Join study groups or forums to connect with other professionals who are preparing for the same exam. Study groups enable professionals to share knowledge, collaborate on projects, and gain new perspectives on networking topics.

e. Take Practice Exams: Take practice exams to evaluate your knowledge and identify areas where you need improvement. Practice exams simulate the actual exam environment and provide feedback on your performance.

Conclusion:

CCNP certification is a globally recognized certification for networking professionals. It validates the skills and knowledge required to design, implement, and troubleshoot complex networking solutions. CCNP certification offers several benefits, including career advancement, skill development, industry recognition, higher salary, access to Cisco resources, and networking opportunities.

To obtain CCNP certification, candidates must pass a core exam and two concentration exams from the list of concentration exams for the desired track. Candidates can prepare for the exam by creating a study plan, using Cisco resources, practicing with simulators, joining study groups, and taking practice exams.