What is Cisco?
Cisco Systems is the foundational infrastructure of the global internet. As Cisco states:
For more than 35 years, Cisco has been the worldwide leader in networking, transforming how people connect, communicate, and collaborate.
On security specifically:
In today’s threat landscape, security can’t be an add-on — it must be built into the network from the ground up. Cisco certifications validate that professionals can design, implement, and operate secure network infrastructures.”
Is This Right for You?
This is for you if...
- You want to specialize in network security at the enterprise or service provider level
- You’re targeting DoD 8570 roles — CCNA Security and CCNP Security both qualify
- You want deep, vendor-specific expertise that commands premium salaries
- You’re working toward Network Security Engineer, Security Architect, or NOC/SOC lead roles
- You already have a networking foundation and want to move into security
This is NOT for you if...
- You want vendor-neutral fundamentals first — start with CompTIA instead
- You’re focused purely on offensive security — OffSec or EC-Council tracks serve that better
- You’re not ready to invest significant time — CCNP and CCIE require serious commitment
Certification Roadmap
Phase 1 — Entry Level (0–6 Months)
Cisco launched the CCST as their true entry point:
The CCST certifications validate the skills required for entry-level support roles in networking and cybersecurity — the ideal starting point for new IT professionals.
| Certification | Exam Code | Focus | Passing Score |
|---|---|---|---|
|
CCST Networking |
100-150 |
Networking fundamentals |
750/1000 |
|
CCST Cybersecurity |
100-160 |
Security operations baseline |
750/1000 |
Cisco Systems is the foundational infrastructure of the global internet. As Cisco states:
For more than 35 years, Cisco has been the worldwide leader in networking, transforming how people connect, communicate, and collaborate.
On security specifically:
In today’s threat landscape, security can’t be an add-on — it must be built into the network from the ground up. Cisco certifications validate that professionals can design, implement, and operate secure network infrastructures.
Phase 2 — Associate Level (3–12 Months)
CCNA is the most sought-after Cisco certification globally:
CCNA validates the ability to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot medium-size routed and switched networks. It’s the essential foundation for all Cisco career certifications.
| Certification | Exam Code | Focus | Exam Length | Passing Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
CCNA |
200-301 |
Networking, security fundamentals, automation |
120 questions / 120 min |
825/1000 |
Phase 3 — Professional Level (12–30 Months)
CCNP Security requires one core exam plus one concentration exam:
CCNP Security validates the skills required to design, implement, and operate core security technologies including infrastructure, perimeter, content security, secure access, and visibility.
| Certification | Code | Focus | Duration | Passing Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Core (required) |
SCOR 350-701 |
Implementing and Operating Cisco Security Core Technologies |
90–110 questions/90 min |
825/1000 |
|
Concentration: Firepower |
SNCF 300-710 |
Securing Networks with Cisco Firepower |
90–110 questions/90 min |
825/1000 |
|
Concentration: ISE |
SISE 300-715 |
Implementing and Configuring Cisco Identity Services Engine |
90–110 questions/90 min |
825/1000 |
|
Concentration: VPN |
SVPN 300-730 |
Implementing Secure Solutions with Virtual Private Networks |
90–110 questions/90 min |
825/1000 |
|
Concentration: Automation |
SAUI 300-735 |
Automating and Programming Cisco Security Solutions |
90–110 questions/90 min |
825/1000 |
Phase 4 — Expert Level (30–48+ Months)
CCIE Security is the pinnacle:
CCIE Security certifies expert-level knowledge and skills required to design, implement, and manage comprehensive security solutions. Candidates should have 5–7 years of experience before attempting.
| Certification | Format | Focus | Duration | Passing Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
CCIE Security — Written |
400-251 |
Security architecture and theory |
120 minutes/90 min |
800/1000 |
|
CCIE Security — Lab |
Practical |
End-to-end security implementation |
8 hours/ |
Pass/Fail (no numeric score — Cisco uses a holistic assessment) |
Career Opportunities
| Certification | Target Job Titles | Average Salary (US) |
|---|---|---|
|
CCST |
IT Support Technician, Junior NOC Analyst |
$45,000 – $60,000 |
|
CCNA |
Network Administrator, Junior Network Engineer |
$60,000 – $85,000 |
|
CCNP Security |
Network Security Engineer, Firewall Engineer |
$90,000 – $130,000 |
|
CCIE Security |
Senior Security Architect, Principal Engineer |
$130,000 – $180,000+ |
Recommended Resources
Official Study Guides
Cisco Press is the only publisher approved directly by Cisco:
Cisco Press Official Cert Guides are developed in close collaboration with the Cisco certification team and provide comprehensive coverage of exam objectives.
- CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide Vol. 1 Wendell Odom
- CCNA 200-301 Official Cert Guide Vol.2 Wendell Odom
- CCNP and CCIE Security Core SCOR 350-701 Official Cert Guide
- Cisco Digital Learning — on-demand training with labs and practice exams
- Cisco Modeling Labs (CML) — official virtual lab for CCNP/CCIE preparation
- CBT Nuggets — widely used video training for CCNA and CCNP
- David Bombal (Udemy/YouTube) — practical networking and security labs
Where to Practice
── Hands-On Practice Platforms ──
- Cisco Packet Tracer — official free network simulation tool
- GNS3 — advanced multi-vendor network simulation for CCNP/CCIE prep
- Hack The Box — network-focused machines for security concepts
How to Get Started
- Start with Packet Tracer. Download it free from Cisco NetAcad. Build your first network topology on day one. Hands-on from the beginning — not after months of reading.
- Get your CCNA first. Even if your goal is CCIE, CCNA is the foundation. Wendell Odom’s Official Cert Guide plus David Bombal’s labs. Give yourself 3–6 months.
- Pick your CCNP concentration early. Know your direction before you start — Firepower for network security, ISE for access control, SVPN for secure connectivity.
📌 Note: The information on this page — including certification details, exam codes, pricing, and salary ranges — is regularly reviewed and updated to reflect the latest data from official sources. Always verify current details directly with the relevant certification body or platform before making any decisions.
Community & Support
── Cisco Communities ──
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