Difference Between CCNA and CCNP Certifications

Over the last two decades or more, the Cisco Certifications have gained considerable momentum. Let's examine in further depth the possibilities available to individuals in the Networking area.

On Cisco's website, you may find additional information about newly-introduced Certifications, and for a comprehensive list of Certifications they provide, please refer to this CCNA and CCNP Certification Path. This article will examine "CCNA vs. CCNP" in depth.

What is CCNA certification?

CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) is Cisco's premier networking qualification. The primary objective of this certification is to provide an intermediate to entry-level certification for networking specialists and novices with prior expertise. The CCNA curriculum requires instruction in installing, testing, troubleshooting, and maintaining Cisco's medium-sized networking equipment. It has become one of the most esteemed certifications for entry-level networking.

It provides a comprehensive introduction to contemporary networking. Before discussing FHRPs, IPv4/IPv6 static routing, and OSPFv2, it discusses both wireless and wired network access and routing fundamentals. It addresses several IP services, such as DHCP, NAT, and QoS. In addition, the course introduces network security by discussing AAA, ACLs, VPNs, and secure wireless network access.

The CCNA certification allows applicants to expand their knowledge of the Cisco networking environment's principles and ideas. In addition, the certification provides learners with extensive information about the problem-free operation of IT equipment.

Advantages:

• The CCNA certification is highly regarded in the industry and can lead to a variety of career opportunities in networking.
• The certification is an entry-level qualification, making it a good starting point for those new to the field of networking.
• The certification covers a wide range of important networking topics, giving you a well-rounded understanding of the field.
• Earning the CCNA certification can help you stand out from other job candidates and potentially lead to higher salaries and advancement opportunities.

What is CCNP certification?

CCNP (Cisco Certified Network Professional) is a networking certification for professionals. It verifies the breadth and depth of expertise in the technical field. The available tracks are data center, Enterprise, Service Provider, Security, and collaboration. To get CCNP in any track, the candidate must pass a core test and a concentration exam.

CCNP Enterprise is one of the most common CCNP specializations. The CCNP Corporate core exam evaluates a candidate's understanding of enterprise network technologies, such as dual-stack architecture, infrastructure, security, network assurance, virtualization, and automation. Candidates in the CCNP curriculum are educated to build, debug, and manage LAN and WAN networks with 100 to 500 nodes. There are five tests for the CCNP Business certification, which cover wireless design, SD-WAN, network design, automation, wireless deployment, and advanced routing in enterprise networks.

Advantages:

• The CCNP certification is a professional-level qualification in networking, recognized by employers in the industry.
• The certification covers advanced networking topics, such as designing, implementing, and troubleshooting wide area networks (WANs), virtual private networks (VPNs), and security protocols.
• Earning the CCNP certification can open up a wider range of career opportunities and potentially lead to higher salaries and greater advancement opportunities.
• The CCNP certification is valid for five years, giving you more time between renewal requirements.

CCNA vs. CCNP

Conclusion

In conclusion, the CCNA and CCNP are two professional-level certifications in networking offered by Cisco. The CCNA certification is focused on entry-level networking skills, while the CCNP is geared towards more advanced, professional-level networking knowledge.

To earn a CCNP certification, you must first have a CCNA certification. Both certifications are highly regarded in the industry and can lead to a variety of exciting and rewarding career opportunities in networking.

Related Questions

1. Is CCNP harder than CCNA?

The CCNA certification is simpler to get than the CCNP certification. CCNA certification requires passing a single test, while CCNP certification requires two examinations. In addition, CCNP tests cover advanced subjects in much greater detail.

2. Is CCNA required for CCNP?

Yes, the CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) certification is a requirement for the CCNP (Cisco Certified Network Professional) certification. This means that you have to pass the CCNA exam before you can take the CCNP exam. The CCNA certification covers the basics of networking, while the CCNP certification covers more advanced, professional-level networking topics. If you have a CCNA certification, it shows that you know enough about networking to move on to the CCNP level.

3. What is CCNA salary?

A person with a CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) certification can make different amounts of money depending on their level of experience, the industry they work in, and the country they work in. Glassdoor says that the average salary for a person with a CCNA certification in the US is $73,000 per year. But CCNA-certified people with more experience and specialised skills may be able to make a lot more than this average. Before getting a certification, it's always a good idea to look into salaries in your field and area.