Cisco Ccnp Certifications - The Next Step Up
Since Cisco Systems was founded by Len Bosack and Sandy Lerner in 1984, the company has become one of the most successful global companies offering the widest range of products and services to individuals, homes and offices, as well as enterprises, businesses and service providers. Cisco later on made some acquisitions which turned it into a corporation, and now the certifications issued by Cisco Systems, Incorporated when it comes to network systems have been globally recognized. Not only does a Cisco certification add value to one's credentials, but it also increases the chances of being promoted from a current position to being a Cisco certified network administrator.
CCIE or the Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert certification used to be the only certification issued by the company to deserving IT professionals. However, as the company grows and the demand for a certification for lower levels has been recognized, Cisco added two other levels of certification. The first one is the 'Associate' level, which is the entry-level for the Cisco certifications in networking. The leeway between the associate and the expert level is the 'Professional' level.
'Cisco Certified Network Professional'
Known as the middle ground among the technical certifications issued by Cisco Systems, Incorporated, the CCNP or the Cisco Certified Network Professional certification is a good preparation for the expert Cisco certification level. A CCNP certified IT professional is authorized to install, configure, operate and troubleshoot a medium-scale network which consists of about 100 to 500 units or end devices in a Local Area Network or a Wide Area Network. The technology applied by a CCNP certified individual is the Quality of Service or QoS, broadband technology, security features and Virtual Private Networks. The CCNP certification will also enable the individual to demonstrate skills in managing Cisco routers and switches in a converged network, as well as apply the latest in voice, security and wireless technology. To obtain a Cisco Certified Network Professional certification, there are four tests that you need to undergo. Unlike the CCIE which does not have a prerequisite, the CCNA or the Cisco Certified Network Associate is a prerequisite for the CCNP certification. This means that the candidate should first pass the CCNA before being qualified for the CCNP. The CCNP is a more advanced level among the technical certifications issued by Cisco. To acquire a CCNP certification, you need to undergo four types of tests, after which you can either take another certification exam for the same level, or move on to the higher CCIE level. A CCNP certification is valid for three years. The Cisco Certified Network Professional certification is a must if you wish to achieve a higher level of learning and move on to the expert level among the technical certifications issued by Cisco.
Cisco Certification
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