You know about Cisco’s new CCNP Security certification, whether you are new to IT or an experienced professional. Perhaps you’re considering broadening your expertise — or shifting your career to one that emphasizes security. As cyber threats become more complex and widespread, security technologies are becoming more critical, increasing the demand for competent workers.
The CCNP Security certification is a cybersecurity path that will help you get closer to your goal of becoming a security expert. Maybe you’ve spotted the CCNP Security specialization and are debating whether or not to seek certification. Is it difficult to pass? Is the CCNP Security certification worthwhile?
What is the CCNP Security Certification?
Cisco understands that networking is about security as much as it is about interconnection. This has resulted in a greater emphasis on security training that incorporates prior CCNP Security editions’ best practices. There’s a new emphasis on security at scale now. Modern networked systems also rely heavily on automation.
You must pass the core exam, SCOR-350-701: Implementing and Operating Cisco Security Core Technologies, to achieve the new CCNP Security certification. It includes information on a wide range of security infrastructure subjects, including:
- Network security
- Cloud security
- Securing content in enterprise settings
- Endpoints
- Network resources access
- Policy enforcement
It’s worth noting that you’ll be entitled to take the CCIE Security certification exam if you pass the core exam. After you’ve passed the core exams, you’ll need to choose a concentration exam. We won’t go into great depth regarding each exam, but there are six options right now:
- Securing Networks with Cisco Firepower (SNCF 300-710)
- Implementing and Configuring Cisco Identity Services Engine (SISE 300-715)
- Securing Email with Cisco Email Security Appliance (SESA 300-720)
- Securing the Web with Cisco Web Security Appliance (SWSA 300-725)
- Implementing Secure Solutions with Virtual Private Networks (SVPN 300-730)
- Automating and Programming Cisco Security Solutions (SAUTO 300-735)
CCNP Security is similar to other security-related certifications in that it includes DoD 8570.01-M compliance. However, because it is more network-oriented on a technical level, the security concepts and principles you learn are specific to Cisco. You are significantly more specialized than, for instance, CompTIA’s Security+ certification.
Network workers who need to focus on securing network devices and executing security measures across the network can benefit from the CCNP Security certification. Candidates’ knowledge of equipment such as firewalls, switches, and routers is tested on this exam.
What Does the CCNP Security Certification Require?
There are no requirements for the CCNP in terms of knowledge. You only need to pass the core exam to take the specific focus certification exams.
However, because this certification delves deeply into networking technology, you should have a good understanding of networking before attempting to achieve it. Cisco recommends three to five years of experience working with Cisco networking equipment in a real-world setting.
CCNP Security is valid for three years and must be renewed after that. Climbing the Cisco certification ladder is the best way to stay qualified. This will renew your current certificates while also advancing your professional chances.
How Difficult is CCNP Security?
The CCNP is typically thought to be more complicated than the CCNA by most exam takers. This is partly because the CCNP test covers a much broader range of topics. In addition, the CCNP has a greater depth of material than the CCNA. Another thing to keep in mind is that the weighting of the questions varies between exams. The CCNP exam has fewer questions but takes 30 minutes longer to complete.
What Are the Benefits of Earning a CCNP Security Certification?
There are numerous benefits to attaining the CCNP Security certification. The prestige of achieving such a difficult certificate and peer acknowledgment are both subjective rewards. But the basic fact is that obtaining a Cisco certification that is widely recognized and accepted will increase your credibility and marketability.
What about CCNP Security pay scales? According to ZipRecruiter, a certified CCNP Security holder may expect to earn roughly $113,369 per year. This is significantly more than the average CCNA Security job in 2020.
Product Security Engineer, Security Operations Engineer, Lead Security Engineer, Senior Network Security Engineer, and Senior Information Security Engineer are some of the roles you can anticipate landing with a CCNP.
The CCNP Security certification is required for most security and Cisco equipment administration and maintenance positions. As a result, specific jobs will demand you to have at least a CCNP Security certification. As previously stated, this certification also provides DoD clearance, making it a favored credential for many government-related positions.
If you have a CCNP Security certification, you will have more chances inside your company. You’ve improved your chances of getting a raise or a promotion. Alternatively, you may take on a new position. The CCNP Security credential displays your dedication to self-improvement and learning. An employee with that much determination will be highly regarded and valued.
What Are the Disadvantages of the CCNP Security Certification?
The CCNP Security certification, like most others, requires a significant amount of studying and preparation. The exam may be foundational in the Cisco certification structure, but it does not make it simple. Before taking the exam, you should have between three and five years of experience — as well as a thorough comprehension of the exam topics.
The CCNP certificate is valid for three years, and you can learn more about the recertification policy here. You can recertify by doing one or more of the following:
- Pass an exam
- Participate in a Cisco Live training class.
- Author-related material
- Complete online education courses
- Completion of instructor-led instruction
Pass one technology core exam, two professional concentration exams, and one CCIE lab exam to get Cisco professional-level credentials. Earn 40 CE credits or 80 CE certs by passing any one professional focus exam.
Is the CCNP Security Certification Worth It?
In this article, we went over a lot of specifics. We talked about the CCNP Security experience requirements, exam subjects, and earning prospects. After all of that, we can confidently respond yes to the question, “Is the CCNP Security worth it?”
When looking for jobs, earning a CCNP Security certification will help you rise to the top of the pile. Employers value certified employees. Being certified not only confirms that you know what you’re doing but it also helps to attract more qualified people as more learning and innovation possibilities arise.
In today’s business world, security is more critical than ever. The CCNP Security credential demonstrates that you understand how security requirements have evolved and how to implement them.
Therefore, pass your CCNP Security exam with SPOTO 100% authentic exam dumps and training courses on the first try!
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