In CCNA vs CCNP, CCNA is an IT certification that validates knowledge of fundamental networking concepts required in IT roles. In contrast, CCNP is a Cisco Certified Network Professional certification with at least one year of professional networking and a school diploma.
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In between CCNA vs CCNP certification in IT, CCNA aims to provide entry to mid-level experienced professionals with networking. In contrast, training, whereas CCNP certification provides a deeper understanding of the information technology sector.
There is no entrance required for CCNA certification, while for a CCNP certificate, students must pass two entrance exams. Students must possess an overall knowledge of routing fundamentals and switching for a CCNA certificate while having in-depth knowledge of LANs and WANs for CCNP certification.
What is CCNA?
The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification has become one of the most highly respected entry-level networking certifications in the IT sector. The CCNA certification is geared towards individuals who have 1 to 2 years of experience in web engineering. The most significant advantage of CCNA training is that the CCNA certification is very cheap.
The main purpose of the certification is to deliver an associate-level certification for aspirants and beginners with networking experience. Testing and training on Cisco's medium networking devices are necessary for students interested in the CCNA program. The program also tests and trains students in end-to-end networking troubleshooting and installation.
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What is CCNP?
CCNP is the Cisco Certified Network Professional certification. This certification is known for IT professionals with at least one year of knowledge in professional networking. A high school diploma or equivalent is also a compulsory requirement. The CCNP certification is planned for professionals seeking technical training programs in executing, asserting, and preparing Cisco's wide range of high-end network solution products.
The CCNP certification curriculum consists of multiple different courses which cover the basics of IT networking. Among these are Cisco remote access, Cisco advanced routing, Cisco multilayer switching, and Converged network optimisation. Professionals are trained to troubleshoot, establish, and support both wide area networks (WAN) and local area networks (LAN).
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Differences Between CCNA vs CCNP
Among CCNA vs CCNP, certain differences make them stand out. In between, CCNA vs CCNP CCNA certification is for beginner to mid-level IT professionals for upskilling in their careers, while CCNP is for senior IT professionals with ample market experience to learn in-depth about the IT industry.
Below given are the CCNA vs CCNP highlights.
| Particulars | CCNA | CCNP |
|---|---|---|
| Aims | CCNP certification aims to provide deeper understanding of the IT systems, LANs and WANs in the training.It is available in five tracks that is Service Provider, Data Center, Enterprise, Security, and Collaboration | CCNA certification teaches individuals to build a string network and trains them with testing, troubleshooting, and maintaining troubleshooting of CISCO medium networking devices. |
| Eligibility | No eligibility requirements for CCNA certification | Students must qualify CCNA or CCIE |
| Required Knowledge | CCNA certification requires a test on routing fundamentals & switching. | CCNP certification demands deep understanding & knowledge of LANs and WANs. |
| Skills | CCNA certification helps professionals to build of strong networking base | While CCNP certification equips professionals with a deep knowledge of advanced IT network systems.. |
| Job Opportunities | Helpdesk Engineer, Network support engineer,Network technician, Service desk technician/Engineer, etc. | IT Team Leader, System Engineer, Network Analyst,Network Engineer, Network Specialist, etc. |
| Professional paths | Network Specialist, Systems Engineer, Third Line SupportNetwork Engineer, Network Analyst, IT Team Leader | Helpdesk Engineer, Network Technician, Network Support Engineer, First and Second Line Support Service Desk Engineer |
| Salary (Yearly) | INR 85 Lakhs | INR 62 Lalkhs |
| Exam Type | Core Exam: 350-401 ENCORE Concentration Exam (2 exams) |
One Exam (200-301) |
| Exam fees | Concentration Exam: 24,969 Core Exam: 33,292.66 |
INR 24,969 |
| Recertification | After 3 years | After 3 years |
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Similarities Between CCNA vs CCNP
One of the major similarities between CCNA and CCNP certifications is that it helps to foster professionals in their networking career. Below given are the similarities between CCNA and CCNP certifications.
- CCNA and CCNP are intermediate-level networking certifications requiring a knowledge of CCENT certification. Every student must complete the CCENT certification to understand the content and training of this certification.
- Both CCNA and CCNP certification programs share common features. It consists of exams and 90-minute quizzes with multiple-choice and simulation questions despite having different aims.
- The CCNA and CCNP exams differ in focus, with the former wrapping IP addressing, routing protocols, and security, while the latter mainly focuses on Cisco routers & switches.
- The CCNA is an entry-level certification for networking beginners, surrounding a wider range of topics and requires less experience. At the same time, the CCNP is more suitable for those with years of experience while it focuses on Cisco routers & switches.
- The CCNA and CCNP can enrich networking careers, but choosing the right certification relies on individual requirements. The CCNA is more suitable for beginners, and the CCNP certification is more appropriate for experienced professionals.
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Exam Difficulty Levels for CCNA vs CCNP
For CCNA vs CCNP certification, candidates must pass some exams. The exam difficulty varies depending on the person's level of experience and knowledge. However, the CCNA exam is believed to be easier than the CCNP exam.
- One reason why the CCNA exam may be more comfortable is because it covers fewer topics than the CCNP exam. The CCNP exam covers more refined material like network security and IP routing. Therefore, professionals familiar with these topics may find the CCNA exam to be easier.
- Secondly, the CCNA exam is easier because it allows candidates to utilise a simulator during the exam. This simulator assists learners to familiarise themselves with the Cisco IOS and understand various networking notions. The CCNP exam, on the other hand, does not permit the usage of a simulator.
- Overall, the CCNA and CCNP exams vary in their difficulty level based on the individual's prior knowledge & experience. It may be easier for those who are already familiar with the topics covered in the CCNA exam. Additionally, the usage of a simulator during the CCNA exam can also make it more manageable for some examinees.
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