Introduction
The Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) certification is a globally recognized, professional-level credential designed to validate advanced networking skills. It demonstrates an individual’s ability to plan, implement, troubleshoot, and maintain enterprise-level networks using Cisco technologies.
Cisco structures the CCNP Enterprise certification around a core exam plus one concentration (specialization) exam. Earning both qualifies you for the CCNP credential, while the concentration exam also awards a Cisco Specialist certification in that specific domain.
Core and Concentration Exams
Core Exam (ENCOR 350-401)
The core exam focuses on enterprise infrastructure and networking technologies.
Main Areas Covered:
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Dual-stack (IPv4 and IPv6) architecture
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Virtualization and infrastructure management
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Network assurance and performance monitoring
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Security and automation
Exam Format:
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Duration: 120 minutes
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Number of Questions: Approximately 100
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Language: English, Japanese
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Passing Score: 825/1000
Exam Domains (Weightage):
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Architecture – 15%
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Virtualization – 10%
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Infrastructure – 30%
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Network Assurance – 10%
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Security – 20%
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Automation – 15%
Concentration Exam (Example: ENARSI 300-410)
The ENARSI (Implementing Cisco Enterprise Advanced Routing and Services) exam is one of the most popular concentration choices for CCNP Enterprise candidates. It focuses on advanced routing, VPN configuration, infrastructure security, and network services.
Exam Format:
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Duration: 90 minutes
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Number of Questions: 55–65
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Language: English
Exam Domains (Weightage):
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Layer 3 Technologies – 35%
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VPN Technologies – 20%
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Infrastructure Security – 20%
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Infrastructure Services – 25%
Passing both ENCOR 350-401 and one concentration exam (like ENARSI 300-410) grants you the CCNP Enterprise certification.
Preparation Tips and Resources
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Review Cisco’s official exam blueprints and training modules.
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Build hands-on experience with Cisco routers, switches, and network tools.
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Practice with lab simulators to understand real-world scenarios.
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Use Cram Notes and Practice Tests to reinforce key concepts.
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Focus on automation and security topics, as they are increasingly emphasized in the latest exam versions.
Career Opportunities
The CCNP certification opens the door to a variety of mid- to senior-level networking roles, including:
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Network Engineer
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Systems Engineer
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Network Analyst
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IT Infrastructure Manager
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Enterprise Architect
Professionals with CCNP certification are highly sought after in enterprise IT environments, telecoms, and managed service providers due to their expertise in scalable network design and troubleshooting.
Certification Validity and Renewal
The CCNP certification is valid for three years from the date of achievement.
To maintain your certification, you can:
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Pass the current CCNP exam again, or
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Earn higher-level Cisco certifications, or
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Complete Continuing Education (CE) activities through Cisco’s recertification program.
Conclusion
The Cisco CCNP Enterprise Certification represents a major step forward for networking professionals who wish to specialize in enterprise networking, routing, and automation. It bridges theoretical knowledge with practical skills, ensuring that certified professionals can manage complex networks efficiently. With the growing demand for secure, automated, and scalable networks, CCNP remains one of the most valuable credentials in the IT industry.
Author Bio
Anand Software and Training specializes in IT certification training and exam preparation. The company provides industry-leading practice tests, network simulators, and e-learning solutions for certifications such as Cisco CCNA™, CCNP™, CompTIA A+™, Network+™, and Juniper JNCIA™. With over two decades of experience in IT education, the team is dedicated to helping learners achieve their career goals through quality, practical learning resources.