CISCO EXAM

Exam:

Cisco Certification Exam

Industry:

IT

Country:

Global

Cisco Certifications Overview

Cisco offers a wide range of certifications to validate IT professionals’ skills and knowledge in various technology areas. These certifications are divided into the following levels:

  • Entry
  • Associate
  • Professional
  • Expert
  • Architect

Certification Paths

Cisco provides certifications in several technology tracks:

  • Enterprise
  • DevNet
  • Security
  • Service Provider
  • Collaboration

Popular Certifications

Certification Level Description
CCNA Associate Validates skills in network fundamentals, network access, IP connectivity, IP services, security fundamentals, and automation and programmability.
CCNP Enterprise Professional Demonstrates skills in enterprise networking solutions, including advanced routing, switching, wireless, and infrastructure.
DevNet Associate Associate Validates skills in software development and design, understanding and using APIs, Cisco platforms, application deployment and security, and infrastructure and automation.
CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure Expert Demonstrates expert-level skills in complex enterprise infrastructure solutions, including advanced routing, switching, and troubleshooting.

Certification Preparation

To prepare for Cisco certifications, candidates can:

  • Take training courses through Cisco Learning Network or authorized learning partners
  • Use study materials, such as official cert guides, practice tests, and labs
  • Join study groups or communities to collaborate with peers
  • Gain hands-on experience with Cisco technologies

Exam Information

Cisco certification exams are administered by Pearson VUE, a third-party testing vendor. Exams can be taken at authorized testing centers worldwide or through online proctoring.

Who Should Take Cisco Certification Exams?

Cisco certification exams are suitable for IT professionals who want to:

  • Validate their skills and knowledge in specific technology areas
  • Advance their careers by demonstrating expertise
  • Stay current with the latest technologies and best practices
  • Gain recognition and credibility in the industry

Related Certifications and Credentials

In addition to Cisco certifications, IT professionals may also consider the following related certifications and credentials:

  • CompTIA: Network+, Security+, and other vendor-neutral certifications
  • Juniper Networks: JNCIA, JNCIS, JNCIP, and JNCIE certifications
  • VMware: VCP, VCAP, and VCDX certifications for virtualization and cloud computing
  • Microsoft: MCSA, MCSE, and Azure certifications for networking and cloud technologies

Exam Format and Duration

Cisco certification exams typically consist of the following:

  • Multiple-choice questions
  • Drag-and-drop questions
  • Simulations or performance-based questions

The duration of Cisco certification exams varies depending on the certification level and technology track:

Certification Level Exam Duration
Entry 45-60 minutes
Associate 90-120 minutes
Professional 120-150 minutes
Expert 120-150 minutes (written exam) and 8 hours (lab exam)

Recertification Requirements

Cisco certifications are valid for a specific period, after which candidates must recertify to maintain their credentials. The recertification requirements vary depending on the certification level:

  • Associate: Valid for 3 years, recertify by passing any associate-level exam, professional-level exam, or expert-level exam
  • Professional: Valid for 3 years, recertify by passing any professional-level exam or expert-level exam
  • Expert: Valid for 2 years, recertify by passing any expert-level exam
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