Is CCNP Security Worth it in 2024?

Introduction

It is well-known that having the right tech certification is the key to a successful career. But you must be curious about which one to choose. Among the many options available, Cisco Certifications stands out. The reason behind this is Cisco’s dominance in the networking Industry. It covers around 85% of global networks and is required by major organizations, making it a benchmark for IT professionals and a must-have for career advancement. This blog will talk specifically about CCNP security and help you understand the most asked question: “Is CCNP security worth it?”

Let us start by first understanding what CCNP Security really is.

What is CCNP Security?

Cisco came up with the CCNP Security certification to meet the demands of a secured network. Given the escalating risks of cyber threats to networks, this certification enables a professional in IT to design measures that will enhance the security of organizations’ information and systems. You can check out CCNP Security Core Training to learn more about it.

CCNP Security is offered at the professional level. Through CCNP security certification, you will acquire skills and knowledge in the implementation, configuration, and even solving of Cisco security solutions. It concentrates on Next-Gen Security features and security technologies such as SDN, encryption, and the Firewall architecture. Also, with CCNP security, you will get ample job opportunities in the IT domain.

In this case, one must pass the core exam for the new CCNP Security, SCOR-350-701, Implementing and Operating Cisco Security Core Technologies. This exam covers a wide array of security infrastructure topics, including:

• Security Concepts
• Network security
• Cloud Security
• Securing content in enterprise settings
• Endpoint Protection and Detection
• Policy enforcement, Visibility, and Network resource access.

Now that we have covered CCNP Security and how to obtain it, let’s discuss: “Is CCNP Security Worth it?”.

Is CCNP Security Worth it in 2024?

Yes, CCNP Security is worth it for IT professionals aiming to specialize in cyber security with Cisco. A CCNP Security Certification can provide you with industry-recognized credentials, better job opportunities, and higher pay. However, the answer to the question: “Is CCNP Security Worth it?”, changes from one person to another.

If you are an IT Professional who is passionate about security, then this certification or training can be a valuable asset for your growth. While it requires a lot of effort, time, and financial investment, the career rewards make it worthwhile. However, if you are not fully committed to a security career and are just following the trend, you should explore other Cisco Certifications.

Now, let’s discuss why CCNP Security is Worth it?

Why is CCNP Security Worth It?

As we know, security is a top priority for every company globally, with no regard to its size. The world of technological evolution and a growing number of threats related to cyber-attacks have placed a high demand for highly qualified specialists in the field of network protection. Rather than questioning, “Is CCNP Security worth it?” it is better to explore the numerous benefits and reasons why CCNP Security is worth it and how it can elevate your career in the field of network security.

Below, we have discussed some of the key points that will show the CCNP security worth.

High Demand for Network Security Professionals

Amid the growing cyber threats that are widespread now, job openings for Network security specialists are on the rise. As can be seen from various industry reports, there has never been a greater demand for network security professionals with pertinent skill sets. Businesses of all sizes are spending more on security to safeguard their data and networks.

Choose from different Specialization in CCNP security

Once you pass the core exam, i.e., the SCOR (350-701) exam, you can further specialize in your chosen area of interest by selecting concentration exams. There’s a variety of paths you can take:

• 300-710 SNCF v1.1: Securing Networks with Cisco Firepower.
• 300-715 SISE v1.1: Implementing and Configuring Cisco Identity Services Engine.
• 300-720 SESA v1.1: Securing Email Security Appliances.
• 300-725 SWSA v1.1: Securing Web Security Appliances
• 300-730 SVPN v1.1: Implementing Secure Access via VPN
• 300-735 SAUTO v1.1: Automating Cisco Security Solutions
• 300-740 SCAZT v1.0: Automating and Securing Cisco Security Architectures

These concentration exams allow you to tailor your knowledge based on your career goals and the specific areas of security you find most interesting or relevant to your job.

CCNP Security Leads Network Security Expert

You can become a Network Security Expert by taking three major courses. These are:

• CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate)
• CCNP Security Core (SCOR – Implementing and Operating Cisco Security Core Technologies)
• FTD (Firepower Threat Defense)

Upon completing these courses, you will have a deep understanding of network security fundamentals, Cisco Security core technologies, and threat defense. PyNet Labs offers these three courses in their 100% job guarantee course. This means they will help you in getting a job, ensuring a seamless transition into a successful network security career.

Higher Job Roles & Promotion

Having CCNP Security, there is a possibility to increase the probability of promotion. Getting professional certifications proves to the employer that you are serious about your professional career progression and that you are capable of handling other responsibilities.

It can help you move into roles such as:

• Firewall Engineer
• Network Security Engineer
• Senior Network Security Engineer
• Network Security Architects, and many more.

The above mentioned job roles come with higher salaries and greater responsibilities.

With promotions and higher job roles, you can easily get higher salary packages. The salary range for a person who has done CCNP security is somewhere between 5 LPA to 8LPA. In general, the CCNP salary in India for freshers per month is between 40k to 50K.

It is important to note that you can also go for higher certifications i.e., CCIE Security.

Now that you have the answer to the question: “Is CCNP Security Worth it?”, let’s see who should consider this training or certification.

Who Should Consider CCNP Security?

CCNP Security is an ideal choice for:

• Network Engineers – If you are a network engineer with CCNA knowledge, CCNP Security is the ideal step to move ahead in your career. It’s perfect for you if you want to transform your career towards network security.
• Those interested in Network Security – One of the unique aspects of CCNP Security is the ability to choose among concentration exams, allowing you to specialize in specific security domains like VPNs, firewalls, or automation. This is perfect for professionals looking to deepen their expertise in a particular area of network security.

Challenges to Consider Before Choosing CCNP Security

While CCNP Security is worth it and offers many benefits, it is also essential to weigh the challenges before choosing it. Some of the challenges are:

• Cost of Certification – The cost of CCNP Security Certification isn’t cheap. The core exam costs USD 400 + Taxes, while the concentration exam costs USD 300 + Taxes. Additionally, there is the cost of travelling, training, and practice exams.
• Recertification – Just like other Cisco Certifications, CCNP Security also expires after 3 years. So, you need to recertify after 3 years.
• Difficulty Level – CCNP Security is an advanced-level certification exam and can be challenging for someone without prior experience in the networking field.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Is CCNP security difficult?

CCNP Security can be challenging, but with dedication, the right training, and strong basics, it’s definitely achievable, helping you develop in-depth security knowledge and expertise.

Q2. What is the scope of CCNP security?

The scope of CCNP Security is vast, offering career opportunities as a Network Security Engineer, Security Consultant, and Firewall Engineer, with average salaries ranging from 5.0 LPA to 8.0 LPA.

Q3. Which CCNP is most in demand?

Among the CCNP certifications, CCNP Enterprise is one of the most in-demand, and after that, CCNP Security.

Q4. What is the pass rate for CCNP security?

The average pass rate for the CCNP Security exam is around 75%.

Conclusion

Is CCNP Security worth it? The answer is yes! Having the right certifications can set you apart from the crowd. CCNP Security can provide you with the knowledge to help you get a high salary in the network security domain and open doors to promotion.

Therefore, if you have thought about having a certification that completes your career and distinguishes you in the competitive market, CCNP Security is very valuable to go for. The reason behind this is the growing need for security professionals on the market at the present time.