Top 10 Cisco Engineer Certifications

Certifications are very important for Cisco engineers in the job market. They offer a way to demonstrate an engineer’s level of knowledge and expertise when it comes to networking and Cisco technologies. Employers look for certified engineers as they have proven their abilities, giving them an advantage over non-certified engineers when competing for jobs. Certifications also provide a way for engineers to stay up-to-date with the latest technologies, making them more attractive to employers.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the various Cisco certifications available, and how they can help Cisco engineers advance their careers.

What are Cisco Engineer Certifications?

Cisco Engineer Certification is a set of professional certifications offered by Cisco Systems, Inc., a leading provider of networking and communications technology. The certifications are designed to validate the skills and knowledge of network engineers, administrators, and other IT professionals who work with Cisco products. These certifications range from entry-level to expert-level credentials, allowing individuals to demonstrate their proficiency in specific areas.

Having a Cisco engineer certification can help IT professionals advance their careers by providing them with an indication of their expertise in the field. Companies often look for certified engineers when hiring for technical positions. Additionally, having a certification may make an individual more attractive to employers because it demonstrates that they have taken the time to gain specialized knowledge and skills related to working with Cisco products. Furthermore, earning a certification can give an individual access to exclusive resources such as advanced learning materials, industry contacts, and discounts on new equipment or services. Finally, having a certification can also increase job security since certified engineers have a better understanding of the latest technologies and trends in the industry.

Pro Tip: When pursuing a Cisco certification, make sure to study the exam objectives and understand the associated technologies. Additionally, practice using real-world equipment and scenarios to build your skillset and gain hands-on experience.

Related: What does a Cisco Engineer do?

Top 10 Cisco Engineer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Cisco Engineers today.

1. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is an entry-level certification offered by Cisco Systems, Inc. It is designed to validate a person’s knowledge and skills in networking fundamentals, such as IP addressing, routing protocols, switching technologies, network security, and wireless networks.

The CCNA certification requires passing one exam that covers a broad range of topics related to networking. The exam typically takes about 90 minutes to complete and costs around $300 USD. Candidates can take the exam at any Pearson VUE testing center or online through Cisco's website.

To get the CCNA certification, candidates must pass the single exam covering a wide range of topics related to networking. The exam is divided into two parts: ICND1 and ICND2. Candidates must pass both parts in order to receive their certification. Each part typically takes about 90 minutes to complete and costs around $150 USD each.

Candidates can prepare for the CCNA exam by taking courses from Cisco or other training providers, or they can self-study using books or online resources. Additionally, there are practice exams available online that can help candidates prepare for the actual exam.

2. Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)

Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) is a professional-level certification offered by Cisco Systems, Inc. It validates the ability to plan, implement, verify and troubleshoot local and wide area enterprise networks and work collaboratively with specialists on advanced security, voice, wireless and video solutions.

It typically takes around six months to two years to earn the CCNP certification depending on your prior experience and knowledge. You must first pass three exams: ROUTE (300-101), SWITCH (300-115), and TSHOOT (300-135). The cost of each exam varies but can range from $150 - $400 USD per exam. After passing all three exams you will be awarded the CCNP certification.

In addition to passing the exams, there are other requirements for earning the CCNP certification such as having a valid Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification or higher, being at least 18 years of age, having a valid email address and agreeing to the terms of use.

The total cost for obtaining the CCNP certification can range from $450 - $1200 USD depending on how quickly you complete the exams and any additional training courses you may take.

3. Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE)

Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) is a certification offered by Cisco Systems that validates an individual's expertise in designing, building, configuring, and troubleshooting complex network infrastructures. It is one of the most sought-after certifications in the networking industry and is highly valued by employers.

To obtain the CCIE certification, candidates must first pass a written exam followed by a lab exam. The written exam tests knowledge of networking concepts and protocols while the lab exam requires hands-on experience to demonstrate technical skills in configuring networks. The written exam typically takes two hours to complete while the lab exam can take up to eight hours.

In order to be eligible for the CCIE certification, candidates must have at least three years of professional experience working with Cisco products and technologies. Additionally, they must pass both exams within 18 months of each other or their scores will expire.

The cost of obtaining the CCIE certification varies depending on which track you choose (Routing & Switching, Security, Service Provider, Collaboration, Data Center etc.). Generally speaking, it costs around $1,500 USD for the written exam and $1,600 USD for the lab exam.

4. Cisco Certified Design Associate (CCDA)

Cisco Certified Design Associate (CCDA) is a certification that validates an individual's knowledge of designing routed and switched network infrastructures and services involving LAN, WAN, and broadband access for businesses. It is intended for entry-level network design engineers, technicians, and support engineers who have 1-3 years of experience in networking technologies.

To get the CCDA certification, you must first pass the 200-301 DESGN exam. This exam tests your knowledge of network design concepts such as security, scalability, availability, manageability, quality of service (QoS), virtualization technologies, and more. The exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and costs $300 USD.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your CCDA certification. The certification is valid for three years from the date it was issued. After three years you will need to retake the 200-301 DESGN exam to renew your certification.

5. Cisco Certified Design Professional (CCDP)

Cisco Certified Design Professional (CCDP) is a certification program from Cisco Systems that validates the skills and knowledge of IT professionals in designing, building, and managing networks. The CCDP certification requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to design routed and switched networks, services involving network security, voice, wireless, and video solutions.

The CCDP certification is valid for three years. To get the CCDP certification, candidates must pass two exams: the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) exam and the Cisco Certified Design Professional (CCDP) exam. Candidates must also have at least three years of professional experience in networking design.

The cost of the CCDP certification varies depending on which country you are taking the exam in. In the United States, the cost of both exams is $300 each. In other countries, it may be more or less expensive depending on local taxes and fees.

6. Cisco Certified Voice Professional (CCVP)

Cisco Certified Voice Professional (CCVP) is a certification program from Cisco Systems, Inc. that validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in the design, implementation, and troubleshooting of complex voice networks. The CCVP certification is designed for network engineers who are responsible for the end-to-end delivery of voice solutions over IP networks.

To get the CCVP certification, individuals must pass five exams: Implementing Cisco Voice Communications and QoS (CVOICE), Implementing Cisco Unified Communications Manager Part 1 (CIPT1), Implementing Cisco Unified Communications Manager Part 2 (CIPT2), Troubleshooting Cisco Unified Communications Manager and Unity Connection (TVOICE), and Implementing Cisco Unified Video Advantage (CAPPS). These exams must be taken in order to achieve the CCVP certification.

The cost of the CCVP certification varies depending on the country you live in. Generally, each exam costs around $200 USD. Therefore, it would cost around $1000 USD to get the CCVP certification in total.

It usually takes about 6 months to complete all five exams required for the CCVP certification if you have prior experience with voice technologies. However, if you are new to this field, it may take up to 12 months or more to complete all five exams.

7. Cisco Certified Security Professional (CCSP)

Cisco Certified Security Professional (CCSP) is a certification program offered by Cisco Systems, Inc. to demonstrate proficiency in the implementation and management of secure networks using Cisco products and technologies. The CCSP certification is designed to validate an individual's knowledge and experience in designing, implementing, and administering secure network infrastructures.

The CCSP certification requires five years of professional experience in IT security or networking as well as passing four exams: Implementing Cisco IOS Network Security (IINS), Secure Virtual Private Networks (SVPN), Implementing Cisco Secure Access Solutions (SAS), and Troubleshooting and Maintaining Cisco IP Networks (TSHOOT). Candidates must also pass an additional exam on the principles of network security design.

The cost for the exams varies depending on the country you are taking them in, but typically ranges from $300-$500 USD per exam. The total cost for all five exams can range from $1,500-$2,500 USD.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete all five exams required for the CCSP certification.

8. Cisco Cybersecurity Specialist Certification

The Cisco Cybersecurity Specialist Certification is an advanced certification program designed to help IT professionals develop the skills and knowledge necessary to protect networks from cyber threats. It is a vendor-neutral certification that focuses on the fundamentals of cybersecurity, including network security, endpoint protection, cloud security, and more.

It typically takes about six months to complete the certification program, depending on your experience level and how much time you are able to dedicate to studying. To get started, you will need to pass two exams: one focused on network security fundamentals and another focused on cyber threat defense. Both exams are offered by Pearson VUE and cost $300 USD each.

Once you have passed both exams, you will receive your Cisco Cybersecurity Specialist Certification. This certificate will demonstrate that you have a comprehensive understanding of cybersecurity fundamentals and can apply them in real-world scenarios.

9. Cisco Data Center Unified Computing Support Specialist Certification

Cisco Data Center Unified Computing Support Specialist Certification is a professional-level certification designed to validate advanced skills in the installation, configuration and troubleshooting of Cisco Unified Computing System (UCS) solutions. This certification is ideal for IT professionals who are responsible for deploying and managing UCS systems in data centers.

The exam required to obtain this certification is the 300-175 DCUCI – Data Center Unified Computing Infrastructure exam. The exam consists of 65-75 questions that must be completed within 90 minutes. The cost of the exam is $300 USD.

In order to become certified, you must pass the 300-175 DCUCI exam and have a valid Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) or higher level certification or equivalent knowledge. You should also have at least one year of experience with Cisco UCS solutions and be familiar with networking technologies such as virtualization, storage, and security.

Once you have passed the 300-175 DCUCI exam, you will receive your Cisco Data Center Unified Computing Support Specialist Certification. This certification is valid for three years from the date it was earned and can be renewed by passing another qualifying exam or earning additional certifications from Cisco.

10. Cisco Video Infrastructure Design Certification

Cisco Video Infrastructure Design Certification is a certification program offered by Cisco Systems that validates the skills and knowledge of IT professionals who design, deploy, and maintain video infrastructure solutions. This certification is ideal for those who are looking to become certified in video infrastructure design and implementation.

The Cisco Video Infrastructure Design Certification requires passing one exam: the 350-701 SCOR (Implementing and Operating Cisco Security Core Technologies). This exam tests an individual's knowledge of implementing secure access solutions, secure network infrastructure, secure connectivity solutions, secure applications, and security operations. The exam covers topics such as network security fundamentals, secure access solutions, secure connectivity solutions, secure applications, security operations, and troubleshooting.

It takes approximately two to four months to complete the certification process. During this time frame, individuals must pass the 350-701 SCOR exam and complete any additional requirements set forth by Cisco Systems. To prepare for the exam, individuals should review the official study guide from Cisco Systems or take a course from an authorized training provider.

The cost of obtaining a Cisco Video Infrastructure Design Certification varies depending on the training provider chosen. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $200 - $2,000 USD depending on the course length and type of material covered. Additionally some providers may also offer discounts or special offers to help reduce costs.

Do You Really Need a Cisco Engineer Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your career goals and objectives. If you are looking to advance in the field of Cisco engineering, then a Cisco engineer certificate may be a good option for you. A Cisco engineer certificate can provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to become a successful network engineer. It also provides an opportunity to demonstrate your professional level of competence in areas such as routing, switching, security, and wireless networking.

A Cisco engineer certificate can be beneficial for those who want to work in the IT industry as well. It can show potential employers that you have the necessary qualifications and experience to succeed in their organization. Additionally, having a Cisco engineer certificate can open up more job opportunities and increase your chances of landing higher paying jobs.

Overall, whether or not you need a Cisco engineer certificate is ultimately up to you. Consider your current position in the IT industry and what type of job opportunities are available to you before making any decisions about whether or not it is right for you.

Related: Cisco Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Cisco Engineer Certifications

1. What certifications are available for Cisco engineers?

Answer: Cisco offers a range of certifications for engineers, including the CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate), CCNP (Cisco Certified Network Professional), and CCIE (Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert).

2. How do I become certified as a Cisco engineer?

Answer: To become certified as a Cisco engineer, you must pass one or more exams. These exams cover topics such as networking fundamentals, routing and switching, security, wireless networking, and more.

3. What is the best way to prepare for Cisco certification exams?

Answer: The best way to prepare for Cisco certification exams is to take online courses or attend instructor-led training programs that cover the topics on the exam. Additionally, studying official study guides or practice tests can help you gain familiarity with the exam format and content.

4. How long do I have to complete my certification?

Answer: The amount of time you have to complete your certification depends on the type of certification you are pursuing. Generally speaking, certifications are valid for three years from the date of completion; however, some certifications require that you retake an exam every two years in order to remain certified.

5. Does having a Cisco certification guarantee me a job?

Answer: A Cisco certification does not guarantee you a job; however, having a certification can give you an edge over other candidates who do not have one when applying for jobs in the IT field. Additionally, having a certification may make it easier to find employment in certain positions or fields where employers prefer candidates with specific certifications in order to meet their requirements.