Cisco Systems is a renowned and also the largest company involved in networking and communications services. Cisco offers a wide range of certifications to IT specialists to equip them with the technical knowledge required to manage and maintain Cisco products, technologies and solutions.

Cisco Certification Description

There are five levels of certifications in the Cisco learning program: entry, associate, professional, expert and architect. Each level is tailored to meet the needs of various job roles. Therefore, there are different certifications to be taken in order to achieve your intended career path. The most popular certification that cannot be ignored when Cisco is mentioned are:

• Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT)

This credential recognizes skills in installation, maintenance, and operation of small networks as well as branch networks at an enterprise level. It also involves basic network security implementation. The candidate is required to pass 100-105 ICND1 exam part 1. It is an important credential as it is a green light to other Cisco certification.

• Cisco Certified Networking Associate (CCNA)

One can gain CCNA certification in various fields. It depends on his goal and the field one chooses. So, it’s available in Cloud, Collaboration, Routing and Switching, Security and other categories that a professional can specialize on.

In general, CCNA certifications demonstrate an individual’s essential skills in data network operation; the ability to install, configure, operate and troubleshoot medium-size route and switched networks.

• Cisco Certified Networking Professional (CCNP).

This certification shows a professional's skill set in planning, implementation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of LANs and WANs. Similarly, it is comprised of different certification categories which an individual can advance. It is important to do an exam that is designed for a particular certification like CCNP Security has 300-208 SISAS, 300-206 SENSS, 300-209 SIMOS, and 300-210 SITCS.

• Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE)

This the globally accepted prestigious Cisco certification. It’s the next expert level of certification that follows the professional one. The name of the certification depends on the field one chooses to take the exam or exams. Thus, the candidates in Routing and Switching will gain CCIE: Routing & Switching certification after successful completion of 400-101 exam and a Lab exam. Gaining this certification testifies that the candidates are equipped with the advance knowledge on networking. The CCIE professionals have the ability to configure and troubleshoot complex networked systems. It also has a wide field which one can specialize at.

• Cisco Certified Architect (CCAr)

This is the topmost level of Cisco certification that all the professionals are interested to achieve. The CCAr professionals are responsible for transforming business plans into a technical and evolutionary strategy. Every CCAr certified professional also needs to get recertified after every 5 years.

Job opportunities

• Voice data architect
• Cybersecurity analyst
• Network Administrator

Reasons to get Cisco Certified

• Cisco is an established and recognized service provider. Choosing Cisco certification will put you at an advantage when looking for job opportunities since it’s an entrusted certification program.
• Recertification legitimizes your credentials. Through the constant renewal of your certification after their validity time passes let you stay updated with the evolving trends in the IT industry. Your skill set, therefore, is set to constantly match your role.
• Cisco certifications elevate your professional status and are a good addition to your resume. Through certification, employers are able to pick you out for your achievements and experience.

Cisco certifications are considered to be an advantage for professionals in the networking industry. They will broaden your skill set and enhance your career path to better rewarding roles. Choose a preferred Cisco career specialization to compliment your job role.