Achieving and maintaining technical certifications is essential for professionals in the IT and networking industries. For many, Cisco certifications have long been the benchmark for demonstrating expertise in networking. These certifications, such as CCNA, CCNP, and CCIE, validate the skills of engineers working with Cisco technologies and provide recognition in a competitive industry. As technology advances, however, the landscape of networking is constantly evolving. The needs of businesses, the complexity of networks, and the increasing integration of software into networking solutions have all pushed the need for change in Cisco’s certification portfolio.
Historically, Cisco’s certification programs have been structured with a clear progression from CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) to CCNP (Cisco Certified Network Professional) and CCIE (Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert). These certifications have been fundamental for engineers seeking to establish credibility and advance in their careers. However, as the industry changed, so too did the challenges and expectations for networking professionals. The rapid adoption of cloud technologies, virtualization, automation, and software-defined networking (SDN) meant that professionals needed to expand their skills beyond traditional networking to include proficiency in software development, automation, and integration with cloud-based infrastructure.
In recognition of these shifts, Cisco introduced several key changes to its certification programs in 2020, announced during Cisco Live. The updates reflect the growing importance of new technology areas and the increasing demand for professionals who can navigate both networking and software solutions. The updated certification programs are designed to better align with modern network environments, which require a higher degree of expertise in various specialized fields such as security, enterprise networking, cloud, and automation. The changes also seek to better prepare networking professionals to manage the hybrid, cloud-native, and software-defined networks of the future.
The changes in Cisco certifications come at a time when the demand for skilled engineers is higher than ever. Today, professionals need not only knowledge of legacy technologies but also an understanding of the latest innovations in networking, security, cloud, and automation. This is where the modular and more flexible approach introduced by Cisco comes into play. The new certification structure allows professionals to specialize in specific areas such as Enterprise, Data Center, Security, and Collaboration at the CCNP and CCIE levels, giving them the opportunity to tailor their learning paths and focus on the areas that align with their career goals.
Additionally, Cisco introduced a completely new DevNet certification program to address the rising importance of software development in network engineering. This program focuses on automation, programming, and API integration, equipping engineers with the skills necessary to work in a modern software-driven environment. The integration of software development practices into traditional networking roles highlights the evolving nature of networking careers, where programming and automation have become essential.
With the introduction of these changes, Cisco certifications now align more closely with the needs of businesses and organizations. As companies increasingly rely on cloud services, automation, and advanced networking technologies, Cisco has adapted its certification programs to ensure that professionals can stay relevant in an ever-changing technology landscape. These changes reflect Cisco’s commitment to providing a certification program that supports both the current demands of the industry and the future trends that are shaping the world of networking.
This section will delve deeper into the evolution of Cisco certifications, explaining why the updates were necessary and what they mean for networking professionals. We will also examine the ways in which these updates are designed to better prepare professionals for the demands of modern network environments. Whether you are an engineer looking to upgrade your skills or a newcomer to the world of Cisco certifications, understanding these changes is essential for navigating the path ahead.
The Landscape of Networking Before the Changes
Before these updates, Cisco’s certification programs followed a more traditional model. The CCNA was the entry-level certification, which introduced networking concepts such as IP addressing, basic security, and routing. The CCNP built on this foundation, requiring professionals to gain deeper expertise in areas like routing and switching, security, and wireless technologies. The CCIE was the pinnacle of Cisco’s certification structure, demonstrating a high level of mastery in network design, implementation, and troubleshooting.
The certification process was relatively linear, with engineers needing to pass exams that focused on specific technologies. For instance, a network engineer who wanted to specialize in security could pursue the CCNA Security certification and then go on to obtain CCNP Security or CCIE Security. However, this specialization was somewhat rigid. Engineers had to follow specific paths, and their learning and certification were often confined to narrow domains, even as technologies were rapidly evolving.
With the increasing complexity of modern IT infrastructures, the old approach to certifications no longer met the needs of professionals and organizations. Many businesses found that they needed network engineers who could work across multiple technology domains and integrate various systems—skills that went beyond traditional networking. The cloud, the increasing importance of network automation, and the need for security professionals who understood both networking and software development were some of the forces driving change.
As organizations continue to adopt cloud services and embrace digital transformation, network engineers have had to broaden their skill sets. Traditional networking tasks such as configuring routers and switches are still important, but many organizations now require their engineers to understand cloud computing, DevOps practices, and network automation. This shift has placed new demands on networking professionals, requiring them to integrate software-driven solutions with traditional networking skills. The update to Cisco’s certification programs was essential to ensure that engineers could adapt to these changes and develop the skills necessary for the future.
Additionally, security has become an even more critical focus in networking. As more organizations move to the cloud and embrace digital transformation, the risks associated with cyber threats grow exponentially. Network engineers now need to be well-versed in network security alongside traditional networking skills to ensure that systems are protected against malicious attacks and vulnerabilities. With this in mind, the updated Cisco certification programs aim to address these new challenges by incorporating security and automation as integral parts of the certification process.
The Need for a Modular Approach
Cisco’s decision to adopt a more modular approach to certifications reflects the growing need for flexibility in the certification process. Traditionally, the certification path was structured in such a way that professionals were required to pass a set of exams to earn each certification, often without the option to specialize in specific areas within the broader field. This structure worked well when network technologies were more siloed and specialized, but with the convergence of technologies today, it’s essential to provide engineers with the ability to develop expertise in specific areas while still maintaining a broad understanding of networking.
The modular approach allows professionals to pursue certifications in discrete, focused areas. For example, a professional may choose to specialize in enterprise networking but also gain expertise in security through a separate, focused track. This structure enables network professionals to accumulate smaller, more targeted certifications throughout their careers, rather than being forced to complete a broad, one-size-fits-all certification path.
Moreover, this modular approach aligns well with the evolving job market. As organizations continue to embrace cloud, automation, and multi-cloud environments, the demand for specialized skills is only expected to increase. The modular certification structure makes it easier for professionals to tailor their learning and certification paths to the skills they need to advance in specific technology domains.
The DevNet Certification Program
In addition to updating its existing certifications, Cisco also introduced a completely new DevNet certification program. This program is designed for network professionals who want to gain skills in network automation, programming, and API integration. As networks become increasingly automated and software-driven, Cisco recognizes the need for engineers who can bridge the gap between traditional networking and software development.
DevNet focuses on equipping engineers with the skills necessary to work in automation, programming, and API development, helping them bridge the gap between traditional networking and modern software-driven solutions. The introduction of this certification program is a direct response to the increasing demand for network engineers who can work with network automation tools, cloud services, and programming languages like Python to automate and manage networks.
The DevNet certification program consists of several levels, starting with the DevNet Associate certification and advancing to the DevNet Professional and DevNet Expert certifications. The program focuses on key areas such as network automation, Python programming, and API development, giving engineers the skills needed to build and manage modern, software-driven networks.
This certification program is an acknowledgment of the growing role of software development in network engineering. By incorporating DevOps practices and automation into traditional networking, the DevNet program allows engineers to remain competitive in the industry as automation becomes more critical in modern network management.
The need for change in Cisco’s certification programs was driven by the changing demands of the networking industry. As technology advances and new challenges arise, the traditional certification structure was no longer enough to address the needs of modern network engineers. By introducing updates to the CCNA, CCNP, and CCIE certifications and introducing the new DevNet program, Cisco has created a more flexible, modular, and specialized certification structure that better reflects the evolving landscape of networking and IT.
This evolution is essential for professionals who want to stay relevant in an industry that is rapidly transforming. The new certifications will ensure that engineers not only remain knowledgeable in traditional networking but also gain the skills required to work with modern software-driven networks, automation, and security technologies. The following sections will explore the key updates in the CCNA, CCNP, CCIE, and DevNet certifications, highlighting how each change aligns with the future of networking and the growing demands on networking professionals.
The New Cisco Certifications: Structure and Key Updates
With the announcement of several key changes to Cisco’s certification portfolio, the company introduced a new structure that includes modular certifications, specializations, and a clear pathway to specialization within core networking technologies. This section will focus on the new structure and how these changes impact networking professionals. We will dive into the specific modifications in Cisco’s most popular certification programs, namely CCNA, CCNP, CCIE, and the newly introduced DevNet certification.
CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate)
The CCNA certification has traditionally been the foundational level of Cisco certifications. It was designed to equip professionals with the necessary skills for networking roles by validating their knowledge of IP addressing, basic security, and routing. In the past, Cisco offered several CCNA specializations, such as CCNA Security, CCNA Wireless, and CCNA Routing and Switching. However, the updated certification structure has made a significant change by consolidating these specializations into a single, unified exam called Implementing and Administering Cisco Solutions (200-301 CCNA).
This change simplifies the process for individuals who are new to Cisco technology. Rather than having to take multiple exams to specialize in different areas, individuals can now earn a single CCNA certification that covers a broad spectrum of fundamental networking skills. The exam tests a wide variety of networking concepts, including IP routing, security fundamentals, network access, automation, and programmability, which are all essential components in today’s modern networking environment.
For professionals who are already studying for the previous CCNA exams, Cisco has provided a transitional period. If an engineer completes the CCNA certification before February 24, 2020, their certification will automatically migrate to the new program. This ensures that those already on their certification journey can still benefit from the changes while continuing their studies. Furthermore, this update removes the need for multiple certifications in areas like security or wireless at the entry level, making the process more efficient and streamlined.
CCNP (Cisco Certified Network Professional)
The CCNP certification has undergone a more significant transformation compared to the CCNA program. In the past, the CCNP program was structured around multiple specializations, such as CCNP Routing and Switching, CCNP Security, and CCNP Wireless. However, with the new changes, Cisco has consolidated the CCNP program into five core technology areas: Enterprise, Data Center, Security, Service Provider, and Collaboration.
This restructuring allows professionals to choose a path that aligns with their specific career interests and the needs of their organization. Rather than having to commit to a single specialization, engineers now have the flexibility to focus on core technologies and pursue certifications that align with their career goals.
To earn the new CCNP, professionals must pass two exams: a core exam and a concentration exam. The core exam validates fundamental knowledge in a given area, while the concentration exam focuses on specialized skills. For example, to earn the CCNP Enterprise certification, an engineer must pass the Implementing and Operating Cisco Enterprise Network Core Technologies (300-401 ENCOR) exam and then choose one of the concentration exams related to areas such as advanced routing, security, or wireless networking.
One of the most significant changes in the CCNP program is the removal of prerequisites. In the past, professionals were required to hold the CCNA certification before pursuing the CCNP. Under the new structure, engineers can directly pursue the CCNP certification, which opens up more options for professionals who wish to advance without needing to complete a lower-level certification. This update enables professionals to specialize earlier in their careers, which could lead to faster career advancement.
Additionally, each exam passed during the CCNP certification journey will earn the professional a specialist certification. For instance, passing the core exam earns the title of Cisco Certified Specialist–Enterprise Core, and passing the concentration exam earns the title of Cisco Certified Specialist for that area. This modular approach allows engineers to accumulate specialist certifications that are valuable in their own right and demonstrates deeper expertise in specific technologies.
CCIE (Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert)
The CCIE program, long regarded as one of the most prestigious certifications in the IT industry, has also been updated to better align with current network technology needs. In the past, the CCIE certification was designed to test professionals on the deepest levels of network engineering, often with a focus on specific areas such as Routing and Switching, Security, or Wireless. However, with the changes to the CCIE program, Cisco has now introduced six core technology areas: Enterprise Infrastructure, Enterprise Wireless, Data Center, Security, Service Provider, and Collaboration.
The changes to the CCIE certification maintain the requirement of passing a core technology exam and a lab exam. However, the core exams have been streamlined to focus more directly on the advanced knowledge required in specific areas of networking. For example, to become a CCIE in Data Center, an engineer must first pass the Implementing and Operating Cisco Data Center Core Technologies (DCCOR 300-601) exam before attempting the associated lab exam. These core exams ensure that professionals have a solid theoretical foundation before moving on to the more complex, hands-on lab exams, which test real-world troubleshooting and configuration skills.
Additionally, the CCIE recertification policy has changed. Previously, CCIEs were required to recertify every two years, with one year of inactive status allowed before needing to recertify. The new policy requires professionals to maintain three years of active status before recertification is necessary. This gives engineers more time to stay current with the rapidly changing landscape of networking technologies before they need to retake exams or engage in further learning.
Overall, the changes to the CCIE program reflect a move towards specialization and a better alignment with the current demands of the industry. The introduction of core technology exams and the more flexible recertification policy make the CCIE program more accessible to a wider range of professionals while maintaining its status as one of the most challenging and respected certifications in the industry.
DevNet Certification
The DevNet certification program is one of the most exciting updates in Cisco’s certification portfolio. As networking increasingly integrates with software-driven technologies, network professionals are required to develop programming skills to automate processes and manage complex, cloud-based networks. Cisco’s DevNet program is designed to bridge the gap between traditional networking and modern software development practices, focusing on automation, programming, and application programming interfaces (APIs).
The DevNet certification program consists of multiple levels, including DevNet Associate, DevNet Professional, and DevNet Expert. The program is tailored for professionals who want to gain the skills needed to automate networks, write scripts to control network behavior, and develop software solutions to improve the functionality and efficiency of networks. With automation and programming playing a larger role in the networking space, DevNet provides engineers with a critical edge in the workforce.
By offering the DevNet Associate as the entry-level certification, Cisco is encouraging more professionals to embrace programming and automation. The program focuses on key areas such as Python programming, network automation, and API development, which are essential for modern network engineers working in cloud-native, virtualized, and software-defined environments.
DevNet addresses a crucial industry need, providing the training and certification necessary for engineers to transition from traditional networking roles to those that include programming, automation, and integration with modern IT solutions. This certification is ideal for engineers looking to future-proof their careers as the demand for network automation and software skills continues to grow.
The updates to Cisco’s certification programs reflect a broader trend in the networking industry towards specialization, modularity, and software-driven networking. By restructuring certifications around core technology areas and providing more flexible paths for specialization, Cisco has created a certification framework that caters to the changing needs of the IT landscape. The introduction of the DevNet program further highlights the importance of automation and software development in network engineering.
These changes ensure that Cisco certifications remain relevant and valuable to both current professionals and newcomers to the field. With more options to specialize and the ability to tailor certifications to individual career paths, Cisco’s updated programs offer networking professionals a more comprehensive and flexible way to advance their skills. In the next section, we will explore the advantages of these changes and how professionals can successfully navigate the updated certification process.
The Advantages and Challenges of Cisco’s New Certification Structure
The updates to Cisco’s certification programs have introduced several advantages for professionals, organizations, and the IT industry at large. The new structure is designed to provide greater flexibility, improve specialization, and better align with modern network demands. However, as with any major change, there are challenges associated with the transition to the new program. In this section, we will explore the advantages and potential drawbacks of Cisco’s updated certification system, and how professionals can navigate these changes to maximize the benefits.
Advantages of the New Cisco Certification Structure
1. Greater Flexibility and Specialization
One of the most significant benefits of the updated Cisco certification structure is its flexibility. The introduction of a modular approach allows professionals to focus on specific areas of networking that align with their career goals and the needs of their organization. With the new CCNP and CCIE certification paths, engineers can now specialize in areas such as Enterprise, Data Center, Security, and Collaboration, among others. This specialization enables professionals to deepen their expertise in a particular technology area, making them more competitive and valuable in the job market.
The modular structure also allows engineers to earn specialist certifications as they progress through the certification process. For example, once a professional completes the core exam in a specific track, they earn a Cisco Certified Specialist title. This allows individuals to accumulate credentials that demonstrate expertise in specific technologies and areas, even before achieving the full certification at the professional or expert level. This approach is especially beneficial for professionals who want to showcase their skills in targeted domains or gain recognition for specific knowledge without committing to an entire certification track.
2. Pathway to Advanced Certifications
The new structure provides a clear pathway to advanced certifications. For example, the CCNP program now includes a core exam and a concentration exam, allowing professionals to progressively build expertise. After passing the core exam, engineers can choose from several concentration exams that focus on specialized areas, such as advanced routing, security, or wireless networking. This not only provides a more focused learning path but also offers professionals the opportunity to earn valuable credentials as they move through the certification process.
This tiered system also benefits those who may want to eventually pursue the highest-level certifications, like the CCIE. With the new core technology exams required for CCIE, professionals gain the necessary foundational knowledge before advancing to the hands-on, lab exams, which are essential for earning expert-level certifications. This progression ensures that engineers are well-prepared for the advanced challenges they will face when managing complex networks.
3. Alignment with Industry Trends and Technologies
Cisco’s updated certifications better align with the current industry demands and technological advancements. As businesses increasingly move to the cloud, adopt automation, and embrace digital transformation, the updated certification paths focus on software-driven networks, cloud technologies, network automation, and security. The introduction of the DevNet program is a direct response to the growing need for network automation and software skills in modern IT environments. DevNet provides network engineers with the skills required to automate networks, write scripts for controlling network behavior, and integrate APIs for more efficient network management.
By incorporating automation and programming into the certification tracks, Cisco ensures that its professionals are equipped with the skills necessary to manage modern, dynamic network infrastructures. This update reflects the increasing importance of software development in the networking space, allowing Cisco-certified professionals to stay competitive in a rapidly changing industry.
4. Simplified Certification Process
With the removal of prerequisites for professional-level certifications, the new structure offers a more streamlined path for those wishing to advance their careers. In the past, professionals needed to pass the CCNA before pursuing the CCNP, which could delay their ability to specialize or move forward in their careers. Now, professionals can directly pursue the CCNP certification without needing to pass the CCNA, which makes the process more efficient for those who already have a strong foundation in networking or come from related fields.
Additionally, with the new approach, individuals no longer need to earn multiple certifications at the foundational level (such as CCNA Security, CCNA Wireless, etc.). The CCNA certification now provides a broader, more unified foundation that covers a range of technologies. This simplification of the certification process makes it easier for engineers to focus on higher-level skills, enabling faster career growth and more targeted expertise.
5. Increased Recognition and Industry Relevance
Cisco’s certification updates ensure that the credentials remain highly relevant and respected in the industry. As networking technologies evolve, Cisco certifications are increasingly seen as a mark of expertise not only in traditional networking but also in emerging areas such as cloud computing, automation, and network security. By offering certifications that span core technologies and specialized fields, Cisco ensures that professionals who hold their certifications are equipped to handle the complexities of modern network environments.
For employers, Cisco certifications provide a clear and reliable indicator of an engineer’s knowledge and expertise. As the certifications now focus more on real-world, practical skills through hands-on labs and core exams, employers can be more confident that Cisco-certified professionals are ready to tackle the challenges of managing and securing modern networks.
Challenges of the New Cisco Certification Structure
While the changes to Cisco’s certification program offer many advantages, there are also some challenges professionals must consider as they navigate the updated system. These challenges typically stem from the structural shifts in the certification program and the broader industry trends influencing the changes.
1. Adapting to the New Structure
One of the primary challenges professionals may face is the transition to the new certification system. Cisco has redesigned the CCNP and CCIE programs, introduced a modular approach, and consolidated several tracks into a unified certification structure. For professionals who are already pursuing certifications, adapting to the new structure may require a shift in their learning paths and exam strategies.
For instance, individuals who were pursuing specializations within the CCNA track may need to adjust their approach to certification. The new CCNA exam is broader and covers a wider range of topics, and those who were preparing for multiple, specific certifications might need to redirect their focus to this new, more generalized entry-level exam. Similarly, professionals pursuing CCNP specializations must now adapt to the core and concentration exam format, which may require additional study time and a different exam strategy.
While Cisco offers transition tools to help professionals understand how their current certifications map to the new structure, the learning curve associated with understanding the updated paths can be a challenge.
2. Time and Effort Required for New Certifications
Although the new modular structure offers flexibility, it also requires professionals to put in more time and effort into earning specialist certifications. The multiple exams in the CCNP and CCIE tracks (core exam and concentration exam) mean that professionals must pass more exams to achieve full certification compared to the old structure, where a single specialization exam might have sufficed.
For professionals who are already working full-time or have other responsibilities, the updated certification process may seem more time-consuming. The multiple exam requirements can increase the time it takes to achieve full certification. As a result, professionals may need to plan their study time more carefully to manage the demands of certification preparation alongside their day-to-day work.
3. New Recertification Policy for CCIE
The change in the CCIE recertification policy is another challenge that professionals may face. Previously, CCIE holders were required to recertify every two years, which meant they could remain current with industry trends and technologies. With the updated policy now requiring professionals to maintain three years of active status before recertification is necessary, some engineers may need to adjust how they manage their continuing education and professional development.
This shift in the recertification timeline could affect those who prefer shorter intervals for staying updated with emerging technologies. Engineers who are proactive about maintaining their expertise might need to reassess how they manage their professional learning to ensure that they remain competitive and relevant after the extended recertification period.
4. Financial Costs of Certification
Finally, while the new certification programs provide more flexibility and specialization, they may also increase the financial costs associated with earning certifications. Since the updated CCNP and CCIE programs require multiple exams, professionals may need to invest in additional study materials, training courses, and exam fees. The cost of multiple exams may be a concern for some professionals, particularly those who are just starting their careers or are not fully sponsored by their employers.
Employers, however, can consider investing in their employees’ training to help cover the costs of certifications. Cisco has long been a leading provider of networking solutions, and its certifications continue to offer substantial returns in terms of professional development and organizational expertise.
Conclusion
The new Cisco certification structure offers numerous advantages for professionals seeking to stay current in the rapidly evolving world of networking. With greater flexibility, specialization, and alignment with industry trends such as automation, cloud, and software-defined networks, Cisco has created a certification portfolio that better reflects the needs of the modern IT landscape.
However, the changes come with challenges, including the need to adapt to a new certification structure, the time and effort required to complete multiple exams, and the costs associated with earning certifications. Professionals must also adjust to changes in recertification policies and keep pace with the evolving demands of the industry.
By understanding both the advantages and challenges, professionals can better navigate the new Cisco certification structure and ensure they are well-equipped for the future of networking. In the next section, we will look at practical tips for success in the new Cisco certification system and how professionals can effectively plan their certification journeys.
Practical Tips for Success in Cisco’s New Certification System
The changes to Cisco’s certification program present both exciting opportunities and challenges for professionals looking to advance their careers. As the certification structure evolves to become more modular, flexible, and aligned with modern technologies, it’s essential for individuals to adopt strategies that will allow them to succeed in this new framework. In this section, we will explore practical tips for navigating the updated Cisco certification system, helping professionals plan their certification journeys effectively and stay on track toward their career goals.
1. Understand the New Structure and Your Career Goals
Before embarking on your Cisco certification journey, it’s crucial to fully understand the updated structure and how it aligns with your career aspirations. The new modular approach allows for a more customized path based on your interests, whether you are looking to specialize in specific technologies, such as enterprise networks, data centers, or security, or pursue a broader set of skills across different domains.
Start by reviewing the core technology areas offered in the CCNP and CCIE programs. Understanding the certifications available in Enterprise, Security, Service Provider, Collaboration, and other tracks will help you determine which aligns with your career goals. Similarly, the new DevNet program is an excellent choice for those interested in network automation and programming. Consider your current job responsibilities, long-term career trajectory, and the technologies you are passionate about when deciding on the best certification path.
It’s important to have a clear roadmap of your goals before diving into preparation, as this will help you stay focused and motivated throughout the certification process.
2. Leverage Cisco’s Learning Resources
Cisco offers a wide array of training materials, learning resources, and study tools to help professionals prepare for their certification exams. As the certification process becomes more modular, you’ll find that Cisco has tailored learning paths for each certification. These paths include study guides, practice exams, and hands-on labs that are designed to align with the specific requirements of each certification level.
For instance, Cisco’s Cisco Learning Network provides access to study materials, virtual labs, video courses, and community support from other Cisco-certified professionals. These resources are invaluable in helping you prepare for the exams, gain practical experience with Cisco technologies, and stay up to date on the latest networking trends.
Another key resource is Cisco’s Cisco Press, which publishes a range of textbooks and study guides tailored to each certification exam. These books are comprehensive and provide in-depth explanations of the concepts and technologies covered in the exams.
Finally, hands-on experience is crucial for success in Cisco’s certification exams. Make sure to take advantage of Cisco’s virtual labs and Packet Tracer to simulate real-world network scenarios. Practical application of networking concepts will not only reinforce your learning but also give you the confidence to tackle complex exam scenarios.
3. Stay Focused on Core Technologies
As the Cisco certification structure has shifted to focus on core technology areas, it’s important to build a solid foundation in key networking concepts. For example, whether you are pursuing the CCNP Enterprise or the CCNP Security certification, each track will require a strong understanding of fundamental concepts such as routing and switching, network security, and IP addressing.
Start with the basics and ensure you have a thorough understanding of the core technologies covered in the core exams. For instance, the 300-401 ENCOR exam, required for the CCNP Enterprise certification, covers a wide range of topics, including network access, IP routing, and security fundamentals. Take time to study these core concepts deeply, as they provide the foundation for your concentration exams and advanced certifications.
Once you are confident in the core areas, you can proceed to the more specialized concentration exams, which allow you to delve deeper into specific areas of interest. The modular certification system gives you the flexibility to pursue specialized certifications, but always make sure your understanding of the core technologies is solid first.
4. Create a Study Schedule and Stick to It
Success in Cisco certifications requires discipline, focus, and consistency. Given that Cisco certifications often require preparation for multiple exams, it’s important to create a study schedule that allocates time for each exam and ensures you cover all the necessary topics.
Set specific goals for each stage of the certification process. For example, if you’re pursuing the CCNP Enterprise, first aim to complete the core exam (300-401 ENCOR) and then tackle your chosen concentration exam. Break your study plan into smaller, manageable tasks, and schedule time each day or week to focus on studying and hands-on practice.
Make sure your study schedule includes time for both theory and practice. While reading textbooks and watching videos is essential for learning concepts, hands-on labs and simulations will reinforce your understanding and help you apply what you’ve learned in real-world scenarios.
Additionally, don’t forget to factor in time for reviewing and taking practice exams. Cisco offers a variety of practice tests and mock exams that can help you assess your readiness and identify areas where you need further improvement.
5. Take Advantage of Community Support
One of the benefits of Cisco’s learning ecosystem is the strong support from the Cisco Learning Network community. The network is a rich resource for advice, troubleshooting, and encouragement from fellow professionals who are also preparing for Cisco exams. Many engineers find that connecting with others in the community helps them stay motivated, exchange tips, and gain insights into challenging exam topics.
Consider joining study groups, forums, or online communities dedicated to Cisco certifications. Engaging with peers who are going through similar challenges can help you stay focused and provide valuable perspectives on difficult exam concepts.
In addition to community forums, you can attend Cisco Live events, which provide a wealth of knowledge, from in-depth technical sessions to opportunities to network with other professionals. Cisco Live also often includes certification exam preparation and study sessions, offering additional resources for those looking to earn certifications.
6. Prepare for Practical Exams and Labs
For advanced Cisco certifications such as CCNP and CCIE, practical, hands-on experience is crucial. As the exams move beyond theoretical knowledge to include real-world troubleshooting, configuration, and design tasks, it’s important to spend time in Cisco’s virtual labs or other network simulators like Packet Tracer to gain practical skills.
The CCIE lab exam is especially challenging, as it requires real-time problem-solving in a simulated environment. Before attempting the CCIE lab, make sure to practice under time constraints to simulate the actual exam conditions. Cisco provides practice labs for engineers pursuing CCIE, and these can help you become familiar with the types of scenarios and tasks you will face during the exam.
For those pursuing other certifications, ensure that you incorporate practical labs into your study routine. These labs will help you refine your skills and ensure you can apply your knowledge to solve network problems, configure devices, and optimize networks in real-world scenarios.
7. Stay Updated and Recertify Regularly
Technology is constantly evolving, and so are Cisco’s certification programs. The introduction of new technologies such as network automation, cloud networking, and 5G means that professionals must stay updated on the latest trends to remain competitive in the job market. Regularly reviewing Cisco’s updates and incorporating them into your study routine will help you stay on top of changes in the field.
Additionally, while the new recertification policy for CCIE professionals extends the certification period to three years, it’s important to stay engaged with the learning process and recertify when required. Even if you don’t need to recertify immediately, continuing to invest in professional development will help you maintain your expertise and keep your skills sharp.
Navigating the updated Cisco certification system requires careful planning, focus, and consistent effort. By understanding the new structure, leveraging available resources, and maintaining a disciplined study routine, professionals can succeed in earning Cisco’s highly respected certifications. With a modular approach that emphasizes specialization, hands-on practice, and alignment with industry trends, Cisco certifications provide a clear path for professionals looking to advance their careers and stay competitive in the rapidly changing world of networking.
By taking advantage of study materials, community support, and hands-on labs, and by staying focused on your career goals, you can ensure success in the Cisco certification journey and equip yourself with the skills needed to excel in modern network environments.
Final Thoughts
The updated Cisco certification program represents a significant shift in how networking professionals can advance their careers and adapt to the changing landscape of technology. By introducing a modular, specialized, and more flexible structure, Cisco has created a certification framework that better aligns with the demands of modern network environments. As the industry continues to evolve with the rapid adoption of cloud computing, automation, network security, and software-defined networking, Cisco’s certification programs ensure that professionals remain at the forefront of these advancements.
The new structure provides greater opportunities for specialization, enabling engineers to focus on specific technologies and areas that are most relevant to their career paths. Whether you’re pursuing the foundational CCNA certification or advancing to the expert-level CCIE, the updated program allows for a more personalized learning journey. The addition of the DevNet certification program also marks a crucial step in addressing the integration of programming and automation within traditional networking, empowering engineers to remain competitive in an increasingly software-driven world.
However, despite the many advantages, the updated certification system does present challenges. Professionals may face a steeper learning curve as they adapt to the modular approach and the increased number of exams required to achieve certain certifications. The financial cost and time commitment involved in pursuing multiple exams can also be a concern for some. Nonetheless, these challenges can be overcome with careful planning, consistent study, and a disciplined approach to the certification process.
As you embark on your Cisco certification journey, it’s important to stay focused on your career goals and take full advantage of the resources Cisco offers, such as study materials, practice exams, and community support. Establish a clear study plan, engage with fellow professionals, and leverage hands-on labs to gain practical experience with Cisco technologies. Success in Cisco certifications requires not just theoretical knowledge but the ability to apply that knowledge in real-world network environments.
In conclusion, Cisco’s new certification programs offer professionals the tools they need to stay relevant, competitive, and successful in an ever-evolving industry. The certifications provide a clear path to deepening your expertise, demonstrating your knowledge, and securing career advancement in the networking and IT sectors. By embracing the new structure and committing to continuous learning, professionals can ensure they are well-equipped to tackle the challenges of modern network environments and continue to thrive in the years ahead.