How to Get a CCNP Certification

The computer and network developer Cisco Systems markets complicated technologies which allow a business to build a network which is specific to its needs. For instance, a network may have to be built that can accommodate several satellite branches of the same business and allow them to interact freely. To educate computer networking professionals on the best practices for use with Cisco technologies, multiple professional certifications have been established which indicate a professional has gained a certain level of proficiency in networking. The Cisco Certified Network Profession (CCNP) certification is the second level of Cisco certification.

• 1

  Obtain certification as a Cisco Certified Network Associate, or CCNA. A CCNA certification signals your ability to understand how to install, operate and troubleshoot advanced networks that utilize medium-route or switched connections.To earn your CCNA certification, you must pass the CCNA examination, which tests a student's knowledge on how to service the network. Cisco offers a two-part training course in networking devices for students who need to study more before taking the examination. A CCNA certificate is good for three years.

• 2

  Register for any of the Cisco training courses which prepare you for testing and certification as a CCNP. Cisco offers three preparatory courses for CCNP certification: Implementing Cisco IP Routing; Implementing Cisco IP Switched Networks; and Troubleshooting and Maintaining Cisco IP Networks. Cisco recommends that applicants for CCNP certification earn at least one year of networking experience on top of the recommended training courses.

• 3

  Register to take each of the three required exams for CCNP certification with Pearson VUE, the test vendor for Cisco examinations. Contact Pearson VUE and indicate whether you want to take the routing test (642-902 ROUTE), the switched networks test (642-813 SWITCH) or the troubleshooting test (642-832 TSHOOT). You will also need to provide Pearson VUE with your name, your company's name, your Cisco certification identification number and a valid e-mail address. Each exam will take about two hours, or 120 minutes, to complete.