As an I.T. professional, obtaining a Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Routing and Switching certification can open a world of opportunities for a Network Engineer's career. It demonstrates their ability to
install, configure, and troubleshoot Cisco enterprise networks and validates expertise in enterprise networking solutions. In this article, we will cover what is CCNP Routing and Switching certification, its eligibility requirements, benefits, and exam details for the CCNP Routing and Switching certification.
What is CCNP Routing and Switching?
CCNP Routing and Switching was a certification level provided by the networking giant Cisco. In February 2020, Cisco upgraded all its certifications and tracks; then, Cisco changed the name of CCNP Routing and Switching to CCNP Enterprise.
The Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Enterprise certification is a professional-level certification that validates a network professional's ability to plan, implement, verify, and troubleshoot enterprise networks. The CCNP Enterprise certification is designed for individuals with at least three to five years of experience in enterprise networking and who have previously completed the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) training.
The CCNP Enterprise certification focuses on the skills and knowledge needed to plan, implement, and troubleshoot enterprise networks, making it a valuable asset for network professionals looking to advance their careers in the enterprise networking field.
The CCNP Enterprise certification requires candidates to pass two exams: Implementing Cisco Enterprise Network Core Technologies (ENCOR 350-401) and Implementing Cisco Enterprise Advanced Routing and Services (ENARSI 300-410). These exams are designed to test a candidate's knowledge of enterprise networking technologies, such as network design, routing and switching, security, and wireless.
With the CCNP Enterprise certification, network professionals can demonstrate their ability to design, implement, and troubleshoot enterprise networks and work with experts on advanced security, voice, wireless, and video solutions.
Eligibility Requirements
Before 2020, a network engineer has to pass the CCNA exam in order to take the CCNP Certification exam. However, after the 2020 updates, there are no official eligibility requirements. One can take CCNP Certification without having any prior experience or certification.
However, it is recommended for the CCNP Routing and Switching certification (CCNP Enterprise), you must first complete CCNP ENCOR Training. Additionally, you must pass two exams: CCNP ENCOR and CCNP ENARSI, so training becomes very important.
Benefits of the CCNP Routing and Switching Certification
Holding a CCNP Routing and Switching certification can bring numerous benefits to your career. It can increase your earning potential, as certified professionals are often offered higher salaries than those without certification. It can also open up new job opportunities, as many companies prefer or require certified professionals for networking positions. Additionally, it can help you to stay current with the latest technologies and advancements in the field.
One of the most significant benefits of the CCNP Routing and Switching certification is the recognition it brings in the industry. It is a highly respected and sought-after certification, and holding it demonstrates to employers and clients that you have a high level of expertise in enterprise networking solutions.
Exam Details
To get CCNP Routing and Switching Certification, A.K.A. CCNP Enterprise certification, you have to clear two certification exams.
The Implementing Cisco Enterprise Network Core Technologies (ENCOR 350-401) exam tests a candidate's ability to implement core enterprise network technologies. The exam covers topics such as network principles, Layer 2 technologies, VPN technologies, and infrastructure services. In addition to the core exams, CCNP Enterprise certification also offers a concentration exam. The concentration exam allows candidates to focus on a specific area of enterprise networking, such as automation, security, or wireless.
There are various Cisco CCNP Concentration exams; you can choose any among these exams depending on your expertise. However, for routing and switching, we should consider ENARSI. The Implementing Cisco Enterprise Advanced Routing and Services (ENARSI 300-410) exam tests a candidate's ability to implement advanced enterprise routing and services. The exam covers topics such as advanced routing protocols, advanced security, and advanced services.
It is important to note that the CCNP Routing and Switching certification is valid for three years. To maintain your certification, you must pass a Cisco-approved CCNP Routing and Switching recertification exam, or earn a higher-level Cisco certification.
Preparing for the CCNP Routing and Switching Certification Exams
Preparing for the CCNP Routing and Switching certification exams requires a significant investment of time and effort. The best way to prepare is by taking a Cisco-approved training course, either in a classroom or online. These courses are designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to pass the exams, and they also offer hands-on experience with the technologies covered in the exams.
In addition to taking a training course, you should also consider purchasing study materials such as exam guides and practice tests. These materials can provide you with a deeper understanding of the exam content and help you to identify areas where you need further study.
In conclusion, the Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Enterprise/ CCNP Routing and Switching certification is a valuable asset for network professionals looking to advance their careers in the enterprise networking field. With this professional-level certification, network professionals can demonstrate their ability to plan, implement, verify, and troubleshoot enterprise networks.
The CCNP Enterprise certification requires candidates to pass two exams: Implementing Cisco Enterprise Network Core Technologies (ENCOR 350-401) and Implementing Cisco Enterprise Advanced Routing and Services (ENARSI 300-410), which are designed to test a candidate's knowledge of enterprise networking technologies, such as network design, routing and switching, security, and wireless.