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PyNet Labs- Network Automation Specialists

A Guide to Cisco Certification Updates

Author : PyNet Labs
Last Modified: March 5, 2024 
Cisco Certification Updates Featured Image

Introduction

Recently, Cisco unveiled a new certification roadmap that would be reviewed on a rotating schedule. Cisco has instituted a new exam review system in which they will analyse and update Official Cert Guides and other certification titles yearly. So, in this blog we will take a look at all the Cisco Certification Updates.

Cisco updates its exams to ensure that the certification program stays updated with the latest technology and industry trends. Additionally, updating the exams helps to maintain the integrity and value of the Cisco certifications by ensuring that certified individuals have the most current knowledge and skills.

Cisco Certification Updates

The exam review process is laid out in detail in Cisco’s roadmap:

  1. To ensure that tests reflect the most up-to-date Cisco technologies, Cisco reviews each technology on the same quarterly timetable each year.
    • Cisco typically announces revisions to the blueprint, updates test subjects, and releases notes three to six months in advance.
  2. Cisco Press has announced future Official Cert Guide and test preparation product updates.
    • Test updates are published by Cisco 3 to 6 months following the first publication of the exam blueprint.
  3. If necessary, Cisco Press will publish a new version of the Official Cert Guide and related study materials soon after Cisco releases revised certification exams.

OrangeReview certification exams

GreenAnnounce blueprint changes

BluePublish updated exam

Cisco Certification Updates Roadmap
Image Source – Cisco Learning Network

It’s worth noting that in the above picture, all the update cycles mentions in the Cisco roadmap calendar. Here Q1, Q2, Q3, and Q4 are used to refer to the four quarters of a year.

  • Q1 refers to the first quarter of the year, typically including August, September, and October.
  • Q2 refers to the second quarter of the year, typically consisting of November, December, and January.
  • Q3 refers to the third quarter of the year, typically including the months of February, March, and April.
  • Q4 refers to the fourth quarter of the year, which typically consists of May, June, and July.

Note:  Dot releases are the term used for minor updates. A minor revision of a blueprint is one in which the number of changes is less than 20%, as in versions 2.1 and 2.2 (dot releases), whereas a major revision is one in which the number of changes is more than 20%, as in version 3.0.

Upcoming Exam Changes with exam topics –

Upcoming Exam Changes with exam topics are as follows:

Exam Blueprint v1.0 (Old exam topics)Exam Blueprint v1.1 (New Exam Topics)
CCNA (Any updates in the exam will be posted as soon as Cisco will announce)Available Q3 2023*
Cisco Collaboration Exams

CCNP Core Exam
1. 350-801 CLCOR v1.0

CCNP Concentration Exam
1. 300-810 CLICA v1.0
2. 300-815 CLACCM v1.0
3. 300-820 CLCEI v1.0
4. 300-835 CLAUTO v1.0

CCIE Collaboration 
CCIE Collaboration v3.0 Practical Exam
Cisco Collaboration Exams
(April 20, 2023)
CCNP Core Exam Updates
1. 350-801 CLCOR v1.1

CCNP Concentration Exam Updates
1. 300-810 CLICA v1.1
2. 300-815 CLACCM v1.1
3. 300-820 CLCEI v1.1
4. 300-835 CLAUTO v1.1

CCIE Practical Exam Updates
(July 20, 2023)
CCIE Collaboration v3.1 Practical Exam
Cisco Data Centers Exams

CCNP Core Exam
1. 350-601 DCCOR v1.0

CCNP Concentration Exam
1. 300-610 DCID v1.0
2. 300-615 DCIT v1.0
3. 300-620 DCACI v1.0
4. 300-630 DCACIA v1.0
5. 300-635 DCAUTO v1.0

CCIE Practical Exam
CCIE Data Center v3.0 Practical Exam
Cisco Data Centers Exams
(April 20, 2023)
CCNP Core Exam Updates
1. 350-601 DCCOR v1.1

CCNP Concentration Exam Update
1. 300-610 DCID v1.1
2. 300-615 DCIT v1.1        
3. 300-620 DCACI v1.1         
4. 300-630 DCACIA v1.1
5. 300-635 DCAUTO v1.1

CCIE Practical Exam Updates
(Scheduled for revision in FY24Q2)

Cisco regularly updates its course offerings and certifications, which can result in some courses and certifications being retired. If an individual holds a retired certification, it is still considered valid, and they can still list it on their resume or CV.

You can also checkout – CCNP ENCOR Syllabus Updated

However, they will not be able to retake the exam or renew the certification. Suppose an individual is currently studying for a retired certification. In that case, they should be able to complete the certification before it is retired. Still, it is essential to know the retirement date to take advantage of the opportunity. Apart from the above update, some of the courses retire too. These are:

CCNP Concentration Exam EOLsLast date to test
300-825 CLCNF v1.0April 19, 2023
300-625 DCSAN v1.0April 19, 2023

Even if a particular certification or course is no longer offered, the knowledge and skills learned from it may still be valuable and transferable to other areas, and the person may be able to use them in their current job or a job they will get in the future.

Some of the updates to the Cisco Certification courses have yet to be announced, and the exam topics for some of the courses still need to be made public. These are:

CCNA Certification Updates Blueprint
Image Source – Cisco Learning Network
CCNP Enterprise Updates Blueprint
Image Source – Cisco Learning Network
CCNP Certification Updates Blueprint
Image Source – Cisco Learning Network

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1 – Is CCNA still worth it in 2023?

Yes, CCNA is still worth pursuing in 2023. While the specific knowledge and skills required in the networking field may evolve over time, the CCNA certification provides a strong foundation in networking fundamentals that remains valuable.

Q2 – What is the latest version for CCNA certification?

The latest version of the CCNA certification is the CCNA 200-301. This version was introduced in February 2020 and consolidated various tracks of the previous CCNA certifications into a single comprehensive certification.

Q3 – How do I update my CCNA certification?

There are 2 ways to update your CCNA Certification. The first one is to go for CCNA Exam again and earn your CCNA certification again. The second one is to go for an advanced certification such as CCNP, etc. which will automatically update your CCNA Certification.

Q4 – Is CCNP worth it 2023?

Yes, CCNP is definitely worth it in 2023 and for many more years to come. CCNP is an advanced certification that builds upon the foundational knowledge of CCNA and demonstrates a higher level of expertise in network technologies and solutions. CCNP certification is highly regarded in the industry and can enhance career prospects for network professionals.

Conclusion

It is always good to keep an eye on Cisco’s website or to check with the Cisco Learning Partner, such as PyNet Labs, for the latest updates on the course and certification retirement dates. This will help the person keep their knowledge and skills up-to-date so they can take advantage of new opportunities in their field. PyNet Labs has provided you with a summary of the updates to the Cisco roadmap via this blog, which will help you make an informed decision when selecting courses.

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