If you’re an IT professional looking to advance your career in networking, obtaining a Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) certification is a wise choice. CCNP Certification demonstrates your expertise in managing and troubleshooting complex, enterprise-level networks. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the world of CCNP certification and explore why it’s important, how to prepare for the exam, the top training providers in Parkville, MD, and more.
What is CCNP Certification and Why is it Important?
CCNP certification is an advanced-level certification offered by Cisco Systems, one of the largest networking and telecommunications companies in the world. This certification is designed for network professionals who have at least one year of experience working with Cisco networking solutions. The certification covers the implementation and troubleshooting of enterprise-level routing and switching networks, including VPNs, wireless LANs, and advanced security.
CCNP certification is important for IT professionals because it validates your knowledge and skills in managing complex networks. Obtaining a CCNP certification demonstrates to potential employers that you have the expertise required to design, implement, and troubleshoot enterprise-level networks. CCNP is also a requirement for many higher-level networking positions, such as network engineer, network architect, and IT manager.
Another benefit of CCNP certification is that it can lead to higher salaries. According to a survey conducted by Global Knowledge, CCNP-certified professionals earn an average of 10% more than their non-certified counterparts. This is because CCNP certification is a recognized standard of excellence in the networking industry, and employers are willing to pay a premium for professionals who have achieved this certification.
In addition to the technical skills required to pass the CCNP certification exam, candidates must also possess strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills. These skills are essential for network professionals who are responsible for managing complex networks and troubleshooting issues that arise. By obtaining a CCNP certification, IT professionals can demonstrate to potential employers that they have the technical and analytical skills required to excel in their roles.
How to Prepare for CCNP Certification Exam
Preparing for the CCNP certification exam requires a combination of hands-on experience, study materials, and focused study time. Before taking the exam, it’s recommended that you have at least one year of experience working with Cisco networking solutions and have obtained a CCNA certification.
There are three exams that you need to pass to obtain the CCNP certification: Implementing Cisco IP Routing (ROUTE), Implementing Cisco IP Switched Networks (SWITCH), and Troubleshooting and Maintaining Cisco IP Networks (TSHOOT). You can take these exams in any order, but it’s recommended that you take ROUTE first, followed by SWITCH, and TSHOOT last.
To prepare for these exams, it’s recommended that you invest in study materials such as Cisco Press books, study guides, and practice exams. In addition, attending CCNP training courses can help you understand the concepts and technologies covered in the exams.
It’s important to note that the CCNP certification is valid for three years. After this time, you will need to recertify by passing one of the professional-level exams or a higher-level certification exam. It’s recommended that you continue to stay up-to-date with the latest networking technologies and advancements to maintain your certification and advance your career.
Benefits of CCNP Certification in Parkville, MD
Obtaining a CCNP certification in Parkville, MD can open up a variety of job opportunities and lead to higher salaries. According to PayScale, the average salary for a network engineer with CCNP certification in Parkville, MD is around $84,000 per year, with opportunities for growth in senior network positions.
CCNP certification can also help you stand out from other job candidates and demonstrate your expertise to potential employers. In addition, obtaining a CCNP certification gives you access to the Cisco Technical Support Center, providing you with technical support and access to software updates and bug fixes.
Another benefit of CCNP certification is that it can enhance your knowledge and skills in the field of networking. The certification covers a wide range of topics, including advanced routing, switching, and troubleshooting, which can help you become a more competent and confident network engineer.
Moreover, CCNP certification is recognized globally, which means that you can work in different countries and industries. This can provide you with a diverse range of experiences and opportunities to grow your career.
Top CCNP Training Providers in Parkville, MD
Parkville, MD has several training providers that offer CCNP training courses, including Global Knowledge, New Horizons, and INE. These training providers offer instructor-led courses, online courses, and self-paced learning programs to prepare you for the CCNP certification exams.
In addition to CCNP training, these providers also offer customized training programs that cater to your specific needs and learning style. They also offer practical experience and hands-on lab sessions, which are essential for mastering the technologies covered in the CCNP exams.
Furthermore, these CCNP training providers in Parkville, MD have a high success rate in helping their students pass the certification exams. They provide comprehensive study materials, practice exams, and one-on-one coaching to ensure that their students are fully prepared for the exams. Additionally, they offer career services such as resume building and job placement assistance to help their students land their dream jobs in the IT industry.
CCNP Certification Cost and Duration in Parkville, MD
The cost of CCNP certification in Parkville, MD varies depending on the training provider and the exam fees. The cost of the three CCNP exams ranges from $300 to $500 each, while the cost of CCNP training courses ranges from $1,500 to $4,000. Some training providers offer bundled packages that include the cost of the exams.
The duration of CCNP certification training in Parkville, MD also varies depending on the training provider and the course delivery method. Instructor-led courses typically last between five and seven days, while online courses and self-paced learning programs can take several weeks to complete.
It is important to note that the cost of CCNP certification in Parkville, MD may also include additional expenses such as study materials, practice exams, and travel expenses if the training provider is located outside of the area. It is recommended to research and compare different training providers to find the best value for your budget.
Furthermore, CCNP certification can lead to higher earning potential and career advancement opportunities in the field of networking. Many employers require or prefer candidates with CCNP certification, making it a valuable investment in your career. Additionally, CCNP certification can provide a deeper understanding of advanced networking concepts and technologies, allowing professionals to take on more complex projects and responsibilities.
Best Study Materials for CCNP Exam Preparation in Parkville, MD
There are several study materials available for CCNP exam preparation in Parkville, MD. Cisco Press books are an excellent source of information, covering the topics and technologies covered in the CCNP exams in detail. In addition to books, study guides such as those offered by Boson and Kaplan provide practice exams and exam simulations to help you prepare for the exam.
Online resources such as Cisco Learning Network and Cisco VIRL can also be helpful in understanding the technologies covered in the CCNP certification exams. These resources provide access to live labs, digital courses, and videos to help you prepare.
It is also recommended to join study groups or attend CCNP exam preparation courses offered by local training centers. These courses provide hands-on experience and allow you to interact with other professionals preparing for the same exam. Additionally, attending these courses can help you identify your weak areas and focus on improving them before the exam.
Job Opportunities with CCNP Certification in Parkville, MD
Obtaining a CCNP certification in Parkville, MD can open up a variety of job opportunities, including network engineer, network administrator, network analyst, and network architect. According to Glassdoor, there are currently over 100 job openings for network engineers in Parkville, MD that require CCNP certification.
CCNP certification can also lead to higher salaries and career advancement opportunities. According to the 2020 Global Knowledge IT Skills and Salary Report, the average salary for a CCNP-certified network engineer is $106,000 per year.
In addition to the job opportunities and higher salaries, obtaining a CCNP certification can also provide individuals with a competitive edge in the job market. Employers often prefer candidates with certifications, as it demonstrates their knowledge and expertise in the field. CCNP certification can also help individuals stay up-to-date with the latest networking technologies and trends, which is essential in a constantly evolving industry.
Comparison of CCNP and Other Networking Certifications
There are several other networking certifications available in addition to CCNP, including CompTIA Network+, Juniper Networks Certified Internet Associate (JNCIA), and Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE). Each certification covers different technologies and focuses on different aspects of networking.
Compared to other networking certifications, CCNP is considered to be one of the most comprehensive and respected certifications. The CCNP certification covers a wide range of networking technologies and provides a deeper understanding of advanced network concepts such as VPNs and wireless networks.
However, it is important to note that obtaining a CCNP certification requires a higher level of knowledge and experience compared to other certifications. The CCNP certification is designed for experienced network professionals who have already obtained a CCNA certification and have at least one year of networking experience. In contrast, other certifications such as CompTIA Network+ and JNCIA are more entry-level certifications that are suitable for individuals who are new to the networking field.
Tips to Pass the CCNP Exam on the First Attempt
To pass the CCNP certification exams on the first attempt, it’s important to have hands-on experience with Cisco networking solutions, study regularly, take practice exams, and attend CCNP training courses. It’s also important to understand the exam format and structure and to manage your time effectively during the exam.
During the exam, read the questions carefully, eliminate obvious incorrect answers, and use the process of elimination to narrow down the possible answers. Make sure to manage your time effectively and answer each question in the order that you feel most comfortable with.
Another important tip to pass the CCNP exam on the first attempt is to stay calm and focused during the exam. It’s natural to feel nervous, but try to stay relaxed and confident. Take deep breaths and remind yourself that you have prepared well for the exam. If you encounter a difficult question, don’t panic. Move on to the next question and come back to it later if you have time. Remember, the CCNP exam is designed to test your knowledge and skills, so trust in your abilities and stay focused on the task at hand.
How to Maintain Your CCNP Certification Status
Maintaining your CCNP certification status requires recertification every three years. To recertify, you can either retake the CCNP exams or pass a higher-level exam such as the Cisco Certified Design Professional (CCDP) or the Cisco Certified Network Associate Security (CCNA Security). You can also earn continuing education credits by attending online or instructor-led courses or by participating in Cisco Live events.
Importance of Hands-On Experience for CCNP Certification
Hands-on experience is essential for successfully obtaining CCNP certification. It’s important to have experience with the technologies and concepts covered in the exams and to be able to troubleshoot and resolve networking issues in a real-world environment.
Hands-on experience can be gained through practical lab sessions, participating in internships or on-the-job training programs, or setting up your own home lab. By gaining practical experience, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the technologies covered in the CCNP exams, making it easier to pass the exams and succeed in your networking career.
Conclusion
Obtaining a CCNP certification in Parkville, MD can lead to higher salaries, job opportunities, and career advancement. By understanding the concepts and technologies covered in the CCNP exams, preparing with study materials and training courses, and gaining hands-on experience, you can successfully pass the CCNP certification exams on the first attempt and achieve your networking career goals.
