Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) - Specializations Available

CCNP Certification focuses on routing & switching of scalable networks including intranets & campuses. It includes building scalable CISCO networks, securing converged wide area networks. It is used by Cisco certified professionals as a step between CCNA & CCIE. This article goes beyond CCNP (Routers and Switches) to the other specializations in the area of design, voice, internetwork & security. We discuss what is involved in each, the career options and the demand trends for these certifications.

CCDP – It is a professional-level certification designed to reflect advanced knowledge in network design. After you successfully complete CCNA or CCDA certification, you are eligible to give exams CCDP. It is a direct entry into the professional world and a certificate that is recognized by the industry. It is crucial for you to invest your time and money in this certificate, by appearing for the CCDP exam. After you get CCDP certified, you can find jobs in the domains of network design and implementation, or optimization network performance.

CCVP - There is growing demand for CCVP (Cisco certified voice professionals) in the global market to integrate the VoIP (voice over internet protocol) system into the existing networks. To be eligible for CCVP, you must first pass the CCNA certification. VoIP system is integrated into the IP-based networks. CCVP is the worldwide recognized IT certification in IP-based networks.

CCIP - This is for those professionals who want to work, or are working in a service provider organization with competencies in infrastructure IP networking solutions. CCIP certified individuals must have a thorough knowledge & understanding of network technologies in the service provider arena. Demand for CCIP is great in the current scenario, and CCIPs command high salaries as compared to other professionals.

CCSP - It is designed for IT Professionals who are responsible for delivering self-defending networks that are integrated & adopted. CCSP ensures that a network professional should be actively involved in designing and delivering multiple levels of security departments. A CCSP can secure and manage network infrastructure to protect productivity and reduce costs. Either the CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) or CCIP (Cisco Certified Internetwork Specialist) are prerequisites for CCSP.

Source: CCDP, CCVP, CCIP, CCSP Jobs

Related to: CCNA