What is CCNP? Its Full-Form, Certification Options and Career Outlook

CCNP stands for Cisco Certified Network Professional. It is an advanced networking certification offered by Cisco that validates your ability to plan, implement, verify, and troubleshoot enterprise networks across LAN and WAN. It is a step up from CCNA and offers certifications in multiple tracks, including Enterprise, Security, Collaboration, and Data Center.

By earning CCNP certification, professionals gain advanced skills in network design, troubleshooting, and security. These skills open doors to careers like network engineer, infrastructure specialist, and IT manager.

In this guide, we have covered all the important information about the CCNP certification, including its full form, benefits, career opportunities, and available specialization tracks to help you advance in networking.

Why is CCNP Important?

CCNP is an advanced certification that follows CCNA and validates enhanced networking skills. It is vital for networking professionals as it serves as a stepping stone towards better career opportunities and the development of specializations.

Here are more reasons why CCNP is regarded as so valuable in the IT industry:

1. Diverse Certification Paths for Specialization: CCNP offers multiple tracks like Enterprise, Security, Collaboration, and Data Center, which allow professionals to specialize in their area of interest. This flexibility ensures career alignment with industry demand, making CCNP a strategic choice for focused skill development.

2. Higher Positions and Better Salaries: CCNP qualifies you for senior roles like network engineer or IT manager. According to industry reports, certified professionals earn 10–20% higher salaries compared to non-certified peers.

3. Boosts Confidence and Personal Growth: CCNP not only enhances technical expertise but also improves confidence. Studies show 92% of certified individuals feel more competent after earning certifications, leading to better performance and personal fulfillment in their careers.

What are the Different CCNP Certification Tracks?

CCNP certifications encompass multiple paths and cover domains such as Enterprise, Data Center, Security, and Service Provider. Here is a concise list of CCNP certifications:

1. CCNP Enterprise

2. CCNP Security

3. CCNP Service Provider

4. CCNP Collaboration

5. CCNP Data Center

6. CCNP DevNet (Automation)

Check out our CCNP training courses for your CCNP certification journey. Contact our learner advisors to know more.

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Understanding the CCNP Exam Format

CCNP follows a two-exam format, unlike the CCNA certification. Each candidate needs to clear two exams in a track:

● Core Exam: Tests foundational knowledge across the chosen track.

● Concentration Exam: Focuses on a specialized area such as security, wireless, or automation.

The table below shows core and concentration exams for each CCNP track in 2025:

CCNP Recertification Criteria

A CCNP certification is valid for three years. To maintain your certification, you must complete the recertification process. Here are the options for recertification:

● Pass one technology core exam.

● Pass any two professional concentration exams.

● Pass a professional concentration exam and earn 40 continuing education (CE) credits.

● Earn 80 CE credits through Cisco-approved courses, events, or activities.

● Pass an expert-level CCIE Exam.

CCNP Exam Fees

The exam fee for CCNP is $700. The fee breakdown is:

● For core exam: $400

● For Concentration exam: $300

To understand the total cost of CCNP certification, check out our article on CCNP Certification Cost that details all related expenses, including training, education, and practice costs.

How to Prepare for CCNP?

Preparing for the CCNP certification requires a structured approach and access to the right resources.

Step 1: Start by identifying the two exams you need to pass: the core exam and a concentration exam.

Step 2: Enroll in training programs. You can learn from the Cisco Learning Network, or choose a third-party training platform like UniNets for affordable learning.

Step 3: Focus on building practical skills and solving real-world problems. You can check out our Virtual Labs to build skills for CCNP.

Step 4: Additionally, self-paced practice problems and mock exams help reinforce your understanding and build confidence.

Job Roles and Salaries for CCNP Certified Professionals

According to the 6figr.com report, CCNP-certified professionals in India earn an average annual salary of 15.8 lacs INR, with roles like IT manager averaging 19 Lacs INR and Network Engineer 23 lacs INR.

The table below shows other high-paying job roles and salaries for CCNP-certified professionals:

Is the CCNP Worth It? Final Thoughts

Yes, the CCNP certification is highly valuable for networking professionals seeking career growth and specialization. Globally recognized, it validates advanced expertise in enterprise networking, including automation and security.

The certification not only enhances earning potential but also serves as a stepping stone to prestigious credentials like the CCIE.

Additionally, it provides access to Cisco’s online certification community, offering networking opportunities and industry insights, making it a worthwhile investment for advancing your career in a competitive field.