Introduction:
Cisco certifications are very popular and are geared toward those who work with Cisco routers, switches and other equipment. These exams are difficult and for those who have hands on experience. The CCIE is for experts. Cisco certifications stay valid for 2 to 3 years at which time the must be upgraded or retaken to remain valid. In addition to the options listed below, Cisco has quite a few specializations that are not listed below.
Editor's Notes:
Unlike many of the other certification vendors, Cisco has done an excellent job maintaining the integrity of their exams. For that reason, their certifications still command high salaries. Cisco has recently started using simulation types of exam questions which force candidates to have hands on experience with the products.
Designations:
The table below outlines the most popular Cisco certifications:
| Certification |
Description |
| CCNA |
The CCNA certification (Cisco Certified Network Associate) indicates a foundation in and apprentice knowledge of networking. The CCNA consists of 1 exam.
|
| CCDA |
The CCDA certification (Cisco Certified Design Associate) indicates a foundation or apprentice knowledge of network design for the Cisco Internetwork Infrastructure. This certification consists of 1 exam. It is recommended that you have a CCNA before attempting this certification.
|
| CCNP |
The CCNP certification (Cisco Certified Network Professional) indicates advanced or journeyman knowledge of networks. This cert requires passing 4 exams and a CCNA as a prerequisite.
|
| CCDP |
The CCDP certification indicates advanced or journeyman knowledge of network design. This certification consists of 3 exams and requires a CCNA and CCDA as prerequisites.
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| CCIP |
The CCIP (Cisco Certified Internetwork Professional) provides individuals working in service provider organizations with competencies in infrastructure IP networking solutions. This certification consists of 3 or 4 exams depending on the path you choose. A CCNA is required as a prerequisite.
|
| CCSP |
The CCSP certification (Cisco Certified Security Professional) indicates advanced knowledge of securing Cisco networks. This cert requires 5 exams and a CCNA or CCIP as a prerequisite.
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| CCIE |
Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) is the most difficult of all Cisco certifications and possibly one of the most difficult offered by anyone. The cert consists of a written exam as well as a hands on lab exam. There are 4 different CCIE paths to choose from: CCIE Routing and Switching, CCIE Security, CCIE Service Provider, CCIE Voice.
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