CCNP
The Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) is a professional-level certification program offered by Cisco Systems, Inc., designed to validate the advanced knowledge and skills of information technology professionals in implementing, managing, verifying, troubleshooting, and optimizing complex enterprise networks and associated technologies across various domains.[1] Introduced as part of Cisco's career certification hierarchy, CCNP builds upon entry-level credentials like the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) and serves as a stepping stone toward expert-level certifications such as the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE).[2] The program emphasizes practical expertise in evolving areas like automation, security, virtualization, and intent-based networking, enabling certified individuals to handle real-world challenges in large-scale IT environments. CCNP certifications are structured around specialized tracks to accommodate different career paths in networking and IT infrastructure. The available tracks include CCNP Enterprise, which focuses on scaling and securing enterprise networks; CCNP Security, centered on advanced cybersecurity operations and threat defense; CCNP Collaboration, targeting unified communications and collaboration solutions; CCNP Data Center, dedicated to data center technologies including cloud integration; and CCNP Service Provider, aimed at optimizing service provider IP infrastructures.[1] Each track allows customization through a choice of concentration areas, ensuring relevance to specific job roles such as network engineers, security analysts, or data center architects.[1] To achieve a CCNP certification, candidates must pass two exams: a core exam that covers essential technologies for the track and one concentration exam selected from a set of options tailored to advanced topics.[3] For example, in the Enterprise track, the core exam (350-401 ENCOR) assesses dual-stack architecture, virtualization, and automation, while concentration options include advanced routing (300-410 ENARSI), SD-WAN implementation (300-415 ENSDWI), or network automation (300-435 ENAUTO).[4] There are no mandatory prerequisites, though Cisco recommends foundational knowledge equivalent to the CCNA level, along with hands-on experience in enterprise networking.[4] Passing the core exam alone earns a Cisco Certified Specialist designation, providing incremental recognition.[4] CCNP certifications are valid for three years from the date of completion and require recertification to maintain status, which can be accomplished by passing continuing education activities, retaking exams, or earning higher-level credentials.[5] These certifications are globally recognized and often lead to enhanced career opportunities, including roles in network administration, systems engineering, and IT consulting, with holders demonstrating proficiency in Cisco's ecosystem of hardware, software, and services.[1]Overview
Definition and Scope
The Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) is a mid-level professional certification program offered by Cisco Systems, designed to validate an individual's skills in planning, implementing, verifying, and troubleshooting enterprise networks and associated technologies.[2] This certification emphasizes advanced networking proficiency, moving beyond foundational knowledge to focus on practical, real-world applications in complex IT environments.[1] The scope of CCNP encompasses a broad range of advanced networking concepts, including automation, security, wireless technologies, and cloud integration, distributed across multiple technology domains to address modern enterprise needs.[2] It prioritizes hands-on implementation and problem-solving over theoretical basics, enabling professionals to manage scalable, secure, and efficient network infrastructures.[6] Within the Cisco certification ecosystem, CCNP serves as a critical bridge between the entry-level Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) and the expert-level Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE), positioning certified individuals for mid-career roles such as network engineer or network administrator.[2][7] As of 2025, the program features a multi-track structure that allows specialization in areas like Enterprise, Security, Collaboration, Data Center, or Service Provider. In August 2025, Cisco announced a new dedicated CCNP Wireless track, set to launch on March 19, 2026, providing flexibility to align with specific career goals in evolving IT landscapes.[2][8]Target Audience and Benefits
The CCNP certification is primarily targeted at mid-level IT professionals with 3-5 years of hands-on networking experience, including network engineers, system administrators, and individuals transitioning from the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) level.[9][6] It appeals to those in roles within enterprise IT environments, service providers, and cloud operations, where managing scalable infrastructures is essential.[6][10] Pursuing CCNP builds advanced expertise in complex network design, automation scripting using tools like Python and APIs, security implementation through protocols such as IPsec and zero-trust models, and in-depth troubleshooting techniques.[6][11] These skills enhance problem-solving capabilities for real-world scenarios, including hybrid cloud environments and programmable networks.[12][13] Career-wise, CCNP significantly boosts employability, with certified professionals often securing roles at global employers, including Fortune 500 companies, due to its recognition as a benchmark for enterprise-level proficiency.[14][15] Industry reports indicate average salary increases of 10-20% for CCNP holders compared to non-certified peers, with U.S. averages ranging from $130,000 to $168,000 annually depending on the track and location.[16][17] It also opens pathways to specialized positions in AI-integrated networks, where automation and secure architectures are increasingly critical.[15][11] In 2025, CCNP remains highly relevant amid digital transformation, aligning directly with industry demands for SD-WAN deployment, zero-trust security frameworks, and network automation to support distributed and cloud-native operations.[13][18][12] This focus equips professionals to address evolving challenges like secure remote access and efficient resource orchestration in hybrid setups.[19]History
Origins and Early Development
The Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) certification was introduced by Cisco Systems in 1998 as a key component of the company's newly launched career certification program, building on prior credentials like the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) and addressing the surging demand for skilled networking experts during the late-1990s internet expansion.[20][21] In its inaugural structure, the CCNP required candidates to pass four distinct exams to demonstrate proficiency in foundational networking domains: Building Scalable Cisco Internetworks (BSCI, exam code 640-503), which covered advanced IP routing; Building Cisco Multilayer Switched Networks (BCMSN, exam code 640-504), focusing on campus network design and switching; Building Cisco Remote Access Networks (BCRAN, exam code 640-505), addressing dial-up and VPN connectivity; and Cisco Internet Troubleshooting (CIT, exam code 640-506), emphasizing diagnostic and support skills.[22] This single-track format validated hands-on expertise in configuring, operating, and troubleshooting Cisco enterprise networks, prioritizing traditional LAN/WAN protocols such as OSPF, EIGRP, VLANs, and ISDN without any specialized paths.[22] Prior to 2010, the certification saw targeted revisions to align with technological shifts. In 2002, CCNP version 3.0 updated the curriculum to incorporate Quality of Service (QoS) mechanisms and wireless LAN integration, reflecting the growing need for performance optimization in data-heavy environments. By 2007, version 6.0 overhauled the exam lineup—replacing CIT and BCRAN with Optimizing Converged Cisco Networks (ONT, exam code 642-845) and Implementing Secure Converged Wide Area Networks (ISCW, exam code 642-825)—to embed Voice over IP (VoIP) protocols and basic security practices like firewall configuration and VPN hardening, thereby responding to rising convergence demands and cyber threats in enterprise settings.[22] These enhancements maintained the four-exam requirement while evolving the focus toward integrated, secure network operations.Major Updates and Evolutions
In the period from 2010 to 2019, the CCNP certification underwent significant restructuring to introduce specialized tracks and incorporate emerging technologies such as cloud computing and mobility. In 2010, Cisco streamlined the Routing and Switching track by reducing topic breadth by approximately half and launching new exams, including Implementing Cisco IP Routing (ROUTE 642-902), Implementing Cisco IP Switched Networks (SWITCH 642-813), and Troubleshooting and Maintaining Cisco IP Networks (TSHOOT 642-832), which replaced broader foundational exams.[23] By 2013, Cisco expanded the program with dedicated tracks for Security and Data Center, alongside Voice (later Collaboration), allowing professionals to focus on specific domains while maintaining core networking skills. In 2016, exam codes shifted to the 300-series, with updates like Implementing Cisco IP Routing (300-101 ROUTE) reflecting trends in software-defined networking and virtualization to better align with evolving enterprise needs.[22] The most transformative change occurred in 2020, when Cisco overhauled the CCNP to a modular "core plus concentration" model effective February 24, retiring the previous multi-exam structure that often required three to four tests per track. This redesign introduced five primary tracks—Enterprise, Security, Service Provider, Collaboration, and Data Center—each featuring a shared core exam (e.g., 350-401 ENCOR for Enterprise) and one optional concentration exam (e.g., 300-410 ENARSI), reducing the total to two exams while emphasizing automation, security, and programmability.[24] The Enterprise track specifically replaced the legacy Routing and Switching certification, integrating cloud and wireless topics to address hybrid work environments.[6] Simultaneously, Cisco launched the DevNet track under CCNP to focus on developer skills and network automation, marking the program's first dedicated automation pathway.[25] In 2023, Cisco released the Designing and Implementing Cloud Connectivity (300-440 ENCC) concentration exam for the Enterprise track on September 20.[26] In 2025, the DevNet Professional certification transitioned toward rebranding as CCNP Automation, with updated exam topics for the core exam (e.g., 300-635 DCAUTO) released in July 2025 to highlight AI-infused automation tools like intent-based networking.[27] This full migration to the Automation track is set for February 3, 2026, automatically updating active DevNet credentials.[28] These evolutions have enhanced the CCNP's flexibility, aligning it more closely with job market requirements for specialized, adaptable skills in cloud, automation, and AI, while streamlining the path to certification from multiple exams to a targeted two-exam format per track.[1]Certification Requirements
Prerequisites and Preparation
While there are no formal prerequisites for obtaining the CCNP certification, Cisco recommends that candidates hold a valid Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification and possess three to five years of experience implementing and administering enterprise networking solutions.[6][29] This background ensures candidates can effectively engage with the advanced topics covered in the certification exams. Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in foundational networking concepts, including IP addressing, the OSI model, basic routing and switching protocols, and network security fundamentals, typically acquired through CCNA-level training.[30] Additionally, familiarity with Cisco IOS command-line interface (CLI) and simulation tools like Cisco Packet Tracer is essential for practical application.[31] Official preparation resources include self-paced digital training on Cisco U., such as the Implementing and Operating Cisco Enterprise Network Core Technologies (ENCOR) course, which typically requires 40-60 hours of instruction plus self-study.[31][32] Hands-on practice is available through Cisco DevNet sandboxes and Learning Labs, offering free access to virtual environments for configuring and troubleshooting enterprise networks.[33] Third-party options, such as video courses from CBT Nuggets and practice exams from Boson, complement these by providing structured video lessons and simulated testing environments.[34] Effective study strategies involve dedicating 100-150 hours per exam, prioritizing hands-on labs to build troubleshooting skills, and referencing official exam blueprints to focus on high-weight topics—for instance, infrastructure (30%) and security (20%) in the ENCOR core exam.[35][30] Candidates should allocate time proportionally to topic weights, incorporating regular practice with automation tools like Python scripting and REST APIs, which account for 10% of the core exam.[36] In 2025, preparation emphasizes self-paced learning via Cisco U., integrated with emerging AI simulation tools for network scenario modeling, alongside free Essentials events and tutorials offered by Cisco for certification guidance and hands-on AI experimentation.[37][38]Exam Structure and Format
The CCNP certification requires candidates to pass two exams within a chosen track: a core exam that covers foundational knowledge and qualifies the holder for the corresponding CCIE lab exam, and one concentration exam focused on a specialization area.[6] Each exam typically consists of 90-110 questions and lasts 120 minutes.[39] CCNP exams feature a variety of question types to assess both theoretical and practical skills, including multiple-choice (single or multiple answer), drag-and-drop, fill-in-the-blank, simulations, simlets, and testlets.[40] Simulations and configuration tasks emphasize emulation of Cisco hardware and software environments, requiring candidates to perform tasks such as network setup or troubleshooting in virtual labs.[41] Exams are delivered through proctored testing at Pearson VUE test centers or via online proctoring with OnVUE, ensuring a secure environment monitored by a live proctor.[42] As of 2025, the cost per exam is $400 USD, depending on the specific exam and track, and exams are available in multiple languages including English, Japanese, Spanish, and others where supported.[43][44] A passing score is determined on a scaled basis, with a minimum of 825 out of 1000 required; there is no penalty for unanswered questions, and results are provided immediately upon completion, along with issuance of a digital badge for successful passers.[39][42] General policies include a mandatory 5-day waiting period before retaking a failed exam, with no annual limit on attempts as long as the certification's three-year validity period is observed; accommodations for disabilities, such as extended time or assistive technology, can be requested through Pearson VUE during registration.[42][45]Tracks and Exams
Enterprise Track
The CCNP Enterprise track represents the most widely pursued specialization in the Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) certification portfolio, targeting professionals involved in designing, implementing, and operating enterprise-scale networks. It validates expertise in core infrastructure technologies, including dual-stack IPv4 and IPv6 architectures, network virtualization, and foundational security for enterprise environments, enabling candidates to address the demands of modern, scalable networks.[6] To achieve CCNP Enterprise certification, candidates must pass the core exam, 350-401 ENCOR (Implementing and Operating Cisco Enterprise Network Core Technologies), along with one concentration exam of their choice. The ENCOR exam, a 120-minute assessment, evaluates knowledge across six domains: enterprise network architecture (15%), virtualization (10%), infrastructure (30%), network assurance (10%), security (20%), and automation (15%). Key topics encompass routing protocols such as OSPF and BGP for dynamic routing, VLAN segmentation and trunking for Layer 2 infrastructure, wireless controller deployments, and Python-based scripting for network programmability and automation. Successful completion of ENCOR also earns the Cisco Certified Specialist – Enterprise Core credential and qualifies candidates for the CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure lab exam.[46][47] Concentration exams provide depth in specialized enterprise areas, allowing customization based on career focus. The available options include:- 300-410 ENARSI (Implementing Cisco Enterprise Advanced Routing and Services): Focuses on advanced routing protocols, Layer 3 VPN services, infrastructure security, and automation for enterprise networks.
- 300-415 ENSDWI (Implementing Cisco SD-WAN Solutions): Covers SD-WAN architecture, deployment, security policies, and management using Cisco's Viptela platform.
- 300-420 ENSLD (Designing Cisco Enterprise Networks): Emphasizes enterprise design methodologies, including campus, WAN, and automation-integrated architectures.
- 300-425 ENWLSD (Designing Cisco Enterprise Wireless Networks): Addresses wireless site surveys, RF design, and integration with wired enterprise infrastructure.
- 300-435 ENAUTO (Implementing Automation for Cisco Enterprise Solutions): Explores APIs, Python, Ansible, and NETCONF for automating enterprise network operations.
- 300-440 ENCC (Designing and Implementing Cloud Connectivity): Released on September 20, 2023, this exam targets cloud connectivity design and implementation, including IPsec VPNs, SD-WAN for hybrid environments, and secure multicloud integration strategies.[26]