Cisco CCNP Security: Exam, Prerequisites, and How To Prepare

Editor's Note: Cisco has restructured its certification paths, but the CCNP Security certification remains a crucial cert for professionals focusing on security solutions and technologies. It covers various topics, including network security, secure access, VPNs, secure routing and switching, and intrusion prevention systems.

The Cisco Certified Network Professional Security (CCNP Security) certification remains a top certification for IT security professionals. As security concerns continue to dominate the industry, employers are looking for security professionals who have earned the experience and credentials to develop and maintain secure networks.

Cisco Certified Networking Professional Security (CCNP Security) 

The CCNP Security certification is designed for security professionals who focus on security in routers, switches, networking devices, and appliances. It also covers choosing, deploying, supporting, and troubleshooting firewalls, VPNs, and IDS/IPS solutions for networking environments. The certification aligns with roles responsible for securing networks, managing security solutions, and implementing security policies.

The CCNP Security certification requires passing two exams: the core CCNP Security exam and one specialty certification. 

Core Exam: 350-701 SCOR (Implementing and Operating Cisco Security Core Technologies)

This exam tests knowledge of core security technologies, including network security, cloud security, content security, endpoint protection, secure network access, visibility, and enforcement.

• Time allotted for the exam: 2 hours (120 minutes)

• Number of questions: 90-110

• Passing score: Cisco does not publish the passing score for its exams

• Question types: Multiple choice/single answer; Multiple choice/multiple answer; Drag and drop; Fill-in-the-blank; Simulation; Testlet; Simlet

• Exam registration: Pearson VUE

• Exam cost: $400 (USD)

Concentration Exams

Candidates can choose one of the concentration exams to focus on a specific area of security:

• 300-710 SNCF (Securing Networks with Cisco Firepower)

• 300-715 SISE (Implementing and Configuring Cisco Identity Services Engine)

• 300-720 SESA (Securing Email with Cisco Email Security Appliance)

• 300-725 SWSA (Securing the Web with Cisco Web Security Appliance)

• 300-730 SVPN (Implementing Secure Solutions with Virtual Private Networks)

• 300-735 SAUTO (Automating and Programming Cisco Security Solutions)

Experience and Prerequisites for the CCNP Security 

While there is no formal prerequisite for the CCNP Security, Cisco recommends having a good understanding of the exam topics before taking the exam. Learners should typically have three to five years of experience implementing security solutions. 

Previously, the CCNA Security certification was recommended as a prerequisite, but with the restructuring, it is now suggested learners hold the CCNA certification or equivalent knowledge.

Cisco Recertification

Cisco's professional-level certifications, including CCNP Security, are valid for three years from the date of certification. Learners can recertify by passing any one of the following:

• Any current Cisco 300-XXX professional-level exam

• Any current CCIE written exam

• Any current CCDE written or practical exam

• The CCAr interview and the CCAr board review

This flexibility allows certified professionals to maintain their certification status and stay current with evolving technologies and practices in network security.

The Next Step

Many learners who earn their CCNP Security certification choose to continue advancing their security careers within the Cisco universe, so they will pursue the CCIE Security certification.

Some learners may diversify their certification vitae/resume by pursuing certifications that fall outside the scope of Cisco products. The most popular security certifications pursued by CBT Nuggets learners include:

• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) 

• ISACA CISA 

• ISC2 CISSP

Salary Estimates for CCNP Security 

Payscale.com provides a helpful salary guide to help learners determine appropriate pay scales for job opportunities associated with CCNP Security. Depending on professional experience, Payscale.com reports a range of salaries for employees holding any CCNP certification between $66,000 and $159,000, with an average salary of $106,000. 

Common roles for those holding a CCNP Security certification include network engineer, special agent, senior network engineer, senior network architect, Cisco engineer, network security architect, Network security engineer, IT manager, and more.

Cisco Certifications

Cisco recently revamped its certifications to focus on job-based certifications rather than multiple levels of certifications for different specialties. Many certifications were retired, including: 

• CCNA Cloud

• CCNA Collaboration 

• CCNA Security 

• CCNA Service Provider 

Cisco provides an excellent certification overview that succinctly outlines each certification, its prerequisites, and related careers. To open up even more professional development opportunities, explore other Cisco certification training from CBT Nuggets. 

Final Thoughts

The CCNP Security certification continues to be highly relevant for network security professionals, providing advanced skills and knowledge to design, implement, and manage secure network infrastructures.

Security continues to be a hot topic in IT. Learners who equip themselves with a CCNP Security certification can create new and exciting professional opportunities. Ready to launch your security career to new heights with CCNP Security? Start learning with CBT Nuggets CCNP Security training today!