A Cisco certified network professional (CCNP) is one who has acquired a Cisco career certification. This certification validates that an IT professional is fully qualified and adept at handling different Cisco networking systems as well as products. A CCNP therefore enjoys better career opportunities and increased chances of being employed by large multinational corporations.

The CCNP certification authenticates the various skill sets and knowledge expertise essential to know how to plan, install, configure, implement and troubleshoot converged local area network (LAN) and wide area network (WAN), both which have hundred to more than five hundred end devices. The CCNP also work in collaboration with other IT specialists on advanced security, wireless, voice and video solutions. One would need to get a Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification in order to become a CCNP.

CCNP Security Certification

This certification program aligns parallel to the job profile of a Cisco Network Security Engineer. The latter has responsibilities in security-specific implements such as routers, switches, appliances, and networking devices. They are also qualified to choose, deploy, support and troubleshoot firewalls, IDS/IPS solutions, VPNS for all kinds of networking milieus. To get CCNP Security certified, a professional would require training in CCNA Security or a CCIE Certification.

Cisco’s CCNP Certifications: Security, Voice and Wireless

CCNP Voice Certification

This certification authenticates the skills and knowledge required to understand and discover the most appropriate technology and solutions to create secure IT networks. A professional certified in CCNP Voice will be able to manage and administer network infrastructures to offer integrated communication services. To acquire this certification, a professional would need to get trained in CCNA Voice certification. CCNP Voice boot camps are organized by many training organizations to help professionals get certified.

CCNP Wireless Certification

The CCNP Wireless certification entails all elements of the wireless networking theory and principles. There are four tests in total that are required by this certification covering Wireless Site Survey, Wireless Voice Networks, Wireless Mobility Services, and Wireless Security. To acquire training in this certification, a valid CCNA Wireless certification is mandatory.

All these CCNP certifications offer a range of benefits to IT professionals. These include the following.

  1. IT professionals are able to enjoy better job prospects and compensation packages.

  2. The strenuous practice and training for various examinations enables professionals to add value to the technological industry.

  3. With a comprehensive knowledge base and expertise, IT professionals are in a position to provide better IT solutions that are crucial to the proper functioning of a networking environment.

Hence, getting certified in CCNP and its related specialized fields not only betters one’s career path but also aids towards a brighter future.

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