What Is a CCNP Enterprise Certification, and Should I Invest in One?

Pursuing networking certifications encourages ongoing learning and skill development in the rapidly evolving computer networking field. Tech company Cisco, best known for its networking hardware, software, and services, offers a range of certifications focusing on networking and cybersecurity skills, including the Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Enterprise certification. 

Explore the benefits of this certification to help you decide whether it can help you achieve your career goals. Learn more about the credentials, the concepts you’ll need to master, and the factors to consider when signing up for the exam. 

Read more: 6 Network Certifications for Your IT Career

Choosing your CCNP core exam

When you take the CCNP exam, you will complete two exams: a core exam and a concentration exam. You can choose several areas of specialization for your CCNP exam. You can select the option relevant to your interests depending on your current position and career goals. Seven areas of core exams include:

1. Enterprise

2. Service Provider

3. Data Center

4. Security

5. Collaboration

6. CyberOps

7. DevNet

The Enterprise core exam focuses explicitly on scaling and maintaining enterprises' networks, meaning you must strongly focus on relevant architecture, dual-stack infrastructure, virtualization, and network assurance.

Read more: IT Certifications vs. Degree: Which Is Right for You?

Why choose the CCNP Enterprise certification? 

The CCNP Enterprise certification program validates your skills in the continuously evolving field of enterprise network technologies. You set yourself apart by showcasing strong general knowledge in networking. Additionally, you can customize your certification to the relevant areas of your expertise.

Advancements in technology are leading to the development of novel applications and businesses in all aspects of life, including those revolving around people, devices, machinery, and software applications. However, challenges in workforce skills persist as organizations move toward intent-based networking and automation. Swift skill development remains the key to effectively tackling evolving networking challenges and meeting changing demands. 

The CCNP Enterprise certification program aims to expand your skill set and enhance your grasp of networking fundamentals. By choosing the enterprise focus area that aligns with your specific interests and objectives, you can position yourself for career advancement in enterprise networking. 

How do I earn the CCNP?

You'll earn a Cisco Specialist certification once you've passed the CCNP, which recognizes your core and domain-specific knowledge. Areas of specialization within the Enterprise exam focus on routing and services, SD-WAN, enterprise solutions, and more. In addition, completing this exam qualifies you to take the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) exam for senior networking experts.  

Read more: Overview of Cisco Certification: Training Programmes and Jobs

CCNP or CCNA: What’s the difference?

The Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) and Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) differ in the level of expertise they represent and the skills evaluated. The Cisco certification program encompasses five tiers: entry, associate, professional, expert, and architect. Additional differences include the following:

• CCNA is an associate-level networking certification, while CCNP is Cisco’s professional-level networking certification.

• CCNA addresses a wide array of fundamental networking technologies. In contrast,  CCNP offers specialization across seven tracks with more advanced and detailed coverage of specific technology areas.

• CCNA requires passing one exam, while CCNP mandates passing two exams.

In summary, CCNA is a foundational certification suitable for those new to networking. At the same time, CCNP is a professional-level certification designed for experienced network professionals who want to deepen their expertise and specialize in a specific area of networking. The choice between CCNA and CCNP depends on your career goals and current level of networking knowledge and experience.

Who should get the CCNP Enterprise certification?

The CCNP Enterprise certification can equip you for a range of job roles that incorporate enterprise network technology, such as: 

• Network automation engineer

• Systems engineer

• Network support technician

CCNP Enterprise prerequisites

As of September 2024, CCNP Enterprise has no formal prerequisites. However, Cisco recommends having three to five years of experience implementing enterprise network solutions before taking the exam. CCNP, as with all Cisco certifications, is valid for three years.

What is on the CCNP Enterprise exam?

The CCNP Enterprise consists of two exams, a core exam and your choice of a concentration exam, that test your knowledge on a range of networking topics. Learn more about specific expectations for both exams. 

Core exam topics

The core exam, titled “Implementing and Operating Cisco Enterprise Network Core Technologies (350-401 ENCOR),” evaluates your understanding of enterprise infrastructure, including:

• Dual-stack (IPv4 and IPv6) architecture

• Virtualization

• Infrastructure

• Network assurance

• Security

• Automation

How to prepare for your core exam 

You can prepare for this exam by completing the training course “Implementing and Operating Cisco Enterprise Network Core Technologies (ENCOR).” As of September 2024, this exam costs $400 and lasts two hours [1].

Concentration exam topics

The concentration exams delve into emerging and industry-specific subjects like network design and wireless technology. Your choices for CCNP Enterprise concentration exams include:

• Implementing Cisco Enterprise Advanced Routing and Services v1.0 (300-410 ENARSI)

• Implementing Cisco SD-WAN Solutions (300-415 ENSDWI)

• Designing Cisco Enterprise Networks (300-420 ENSLD)

• Designing Cisco Enterprise Wireless Networks (300-425 ENWLSD)

• Implementing Cisco Enterprise Wireless Networks (300-430 ENWLSI)

• Automating and Programming Cisco Enterprise Solutions (300-435 ENAUTO)

How to prepare for your concentration exam

Enrolling in a relevant Cisco training course, accessible on the company's certification page, can help you prepare for a concentration exam. For instance, if you aim to pass exam code 300-415 ENSDWI, the recommended training option is “Implementing Cisco SD-WAN Solutions.”

The concentration exams cost $300 and last 90 minutes as of September 2024 [2].

Learning options

You can access the recommended Implementing and Operating Cisco Enterprise Network Core Technologies (ENCOR) course through a range of options, including: 

• E-learning

• Classroom training led by Cisco or learning partners 

• Cisco U.

• Private group training

• Self-led practice, including practice problems and exams  

Virtual instructor-led private group training extends the classroom or virtual classroom experience to your chosen location, be it your office or any other offsite venue. Cisco U. is an ideal option if you prefer personalized training.

You can further complement your training with network simulation and training tools provided by Cisco: 

• Cisco Learning Labs: Enable you to gain hands-on experience with Cisco networking devices

• Cisco Modeling Labs: This lets you simulate both Cisco and non-Cisco networks

• Packet Tracer: Helps you rehearse stack, rack, and cabling skills virtually

Is CCNP Enterprise worth it?

If you have career aspirations in industrial networking, want to qualify for more advanced exams, or want to expand your professional network, CCNP Enterprise might be worth it for you. 

Once you understand the exam and its topics, your last step is to decide whether the certification aligns with your career goals. When weighing the pros and cons, consider the following notable benefits of the CCNP Enterprise certification:

• A prominent leader in industrial networking, Cisco’s CCNP Enterprise certification has global recognition. 

• Every CCNP Enterprise core and concentration exam will earn you an individual Specialist certification. You can attain specialist certifications in as many technology areas as you prefer.

• The CCNP Enterprise core exams also act as the prerequisites for CCIE exams.

• Your CCNP Enterprise certification gives you access to Cisco's online certification community, where you can connect with other certified professionals, share knowledge, and stay updated on industry trends.

• You can take the exam from almost anywhere. You can schedule your CCNP Enterprise exam online or at any Pearson VUE test center worldwide.

Career benefits 

CCNP certifies your proficiency in core network systems, typically making you eligible for higher-paying job positions. According to Payscale, CCNP-certified individuals earn an average base salary of $106,000 [3]. Related job titles you might pursue with this certification earn the following average annual US salaries: [3]:

• Network engineer: $91,554

• Network architect: $133,969

• Information technology (IT) director: $121,906

• Network administrator: $77,486

Learn more: 4 Types of Neural Network Architecture

Recertification 

To renew your CCNP Enterprise certification, you have two options:

• Pass any one professional concentration exam and earn 40 continuing education (CE) credits

• Earn 80 CE credits

Cisco’s Continuing Education portal lets you explore eligible activities and training programs and claim CE credits. Note that your new certification expiration date will be three years from the date you meet the recertification criteria.

Learn more with Coursera

The CCNP Enterprise certification exam is a great way to showcase your general networking knowledge and enterprise-specific expertise. It is one of the seven core CCNP exam options and offers a range of specializations, including SD-WAN, wireless networks, and enterprise solutions. This certification can set you apart if you are looking for a career in network administration or architecture.

Enhance your computer networking skills with The Bits and Bytes of Computer Networking course on Coursera. This beginner-friendly course from Google takes approximately 25 hours to complete and will help you comprehend modern networking technologies and protocols.