CCNP® - Cisco Certified Network Professionals
The Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) certific
ation is an advanced level credential for IT professionals who aim to demonstrate their skills in managing and troubleshooting complex networks. The CCNP certification is typically pursued after the CCNA certification and offers specialized paths in various areas such as enterprise, security, data center, service provider, collaboration, and wireless. Here's a detailed overview of what CCNP certification training involves:
Key Components of CCNP Certification Training
- CCNP Certification Tracks
CCNP Enterprise:
Focuses on enterprise networking technologies.
Topics include advanced routing, switching, security, SD-WAN, and automation.
CCNP Security:
Focuses on network security solutions.
Topics include firewalls, VPNs, network access control, and intrusion prevention.
CCNP Data Center:
Focuses on data center technologies.
Topics include data center networking, storage networking, automation, and security.
CCNP Service Provider:
Focuses on service provider network technologies.
Topics include service provider architecture, services, and automation.
CCNP Collaboration:
Focuses on collaboration solutions.
Topics include voice, video, messaging, and collaboration endpoints.
CCNP Wireless:
Focuses on wireless networking technologies.
Topics include wireless LANs, security, and mobility services.
2. Core Exam
Each CCNP track has a core exam that tests knowledge of fundamental concepts within that specialization.
CCNP Enterprise Core (ENCOR 350-401):
Architecture
Virtualization
Infrastructure
Network Assurance
Security
Automation
CCNP Security Core (SCOR 350-701):
Security concepts
Network security
Secure network access
Visibility and enforcement
Endpoint protection and detection
Secure network management
CCNP Data Center Core (DCCOR 350-601):
Data center networking
Data center computing
Storage network
Automation
Security
CCNP Service Provider Core (SPCOR 350-501):
Architecture
Networking
MPLS and segment routing
Services
Automation
CCNP Collaboration Core (CLCOR 350-801):
Infrastructure and design
Protocols, codecs, and endpoints
Cisco IOS XE gateway and media resources
Call control
QoS
Collaboration applications
CCNP Wireless Core (WIFUND 300-425):
Wireless site survey
Wired and wireless infrastructure
Mobility
WLAN high availability
Advanced location services
Network security
3. Concentration Exams
Each track offers several concentration exams allowing candidates to specialize in a particular technology area.
Examples for CCNP Enterprise:
ENARSI 300-410: Implementing Cisco Enterprise Advanced Routing and Services
ENAUTO 300-435: Implementing Automation for Cisco Enterprise Solutions
ENSLD 300-420: Designing Cisco Enterprise Networks
Examples for CCNP Security:
SVPN 300-730: Implementing Secure Solutions with Virtual Private Networks
SISE 300-715: Implementing and Configuring Cisco Identity Services Engine
Examples for CCNP Data Center:
DCAUTO 300-635: Automating and Programming Cisco Data Center Solutions
DCIT 300-610: Implementing Cisco Data Center Infrastructure
4. Advanced Networking Concepts
Routing and Switching:
Advanced OSPF, EIGRP, BGP, and MPLS.
QoS (Quality of Service) configurations and policies.
Network redundancy and high availability solutions.
Security:
Advanced security implementations, including Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFWs) and VPNs.
Network threat detection and mitigation techniques.
Wireless:
Advanced wireless design and deployment strategies.
Wireless security protocols and troubleshooting.
Data Center:
Data center networking technologies such as FabricPath, OTV, and VXLAN.
Storage networking and Unified Computing System (UCS) architecture.
Collaboration:
Configuring and managing Cisco Unified Communications Manager (CUCM).
Implementing video and voice communication solutions.
5. Automation and Programmability
Network Automation:
Introduction to network automation tools and practices.
Using Python for network automation.
Working with REST APIs and network controllers (e.g., Cisco DNA Center).
Scripting and Tools:
Scripting basics with Python and Ansible.
Automating repetitive network tasks.
6. Hands-On Labs and Practice
Practical Labs:
Configuring and troubleshooting complex network scenarios.
Hands-on practice with Cisco equipment or simulators like Cisco Packet Tracer and GNS3.
Real-World Scenarios:
Implementing learned concepts in real-world case studies.
Working on projects that mimic enterprise environments.
7. Exam Preparation
Study Materials:
Cisco Press books and official certification guides.
Online courses and video tutorials.
Practice Tests:
Simulated exams to prepare for the question formats and time constraints.
Reviewing key topics and objectives.
Study Groups:
Joining study groups and forums for peer support and knowledge sharing.
Participating in online discussions and study sessions.
Skills Acquired
Advanced knowledge of networking concepts and protocols.
Ability to design, implement, and troubleshoot complex network infrastructures.
Proficiency in security solutions and best practices.
Expertise in specialized areas such as wireless, data center, or collaboration.
Skills in network automation and programmability.
Career Opportunities
Completing a CCNP certification can lead to advanced career opportunities, such as:
Senior Network Engineer
Network Architect
Network Security Engineer
Data Center Engineer
Collaboration Engineer
Wireless Network Engineer
Recommended Resources
Books:
"CCNP and CCIE Enterprise Core ENCOR 350-401 Official Cert Guide" by Brad Edgeworth
"CCNP Security Core SCOR 350-701 Official Cert Guide" by Omar Santos
"CCNP and CCIE Data Center Core DCCOR 350-601 Official Cert Guide" by Gary Ma and David Jansen
Online Courses:
Cisco Learning Network: CCNP Training
Udemy: Various CCNP courses tailored to specific tracks
LinkedIn Learning: Cisco CCNP courses
Practice Labs:
Cisco Packet Tracer
GNS3
Cisco DevNet Sandbox
Study Groups and Forums:
Cisco Learning Network
Reddit: r/ccnp
TechExams
These components and resources will help you build advanced networking skills, preparing you for the CCNP certification exams and advancing your career in network engineering.