As the digital transformation of enterprises accelerates, Cisco has overhauled its certification program to better align with modern networking roles and technologies. Effective from 24 February 2020, these changes significantly impact Cisco’s flagship certifications—CCNA, CCNP, and CCIE—and reshape how IT professionals prepare for network and security careers in a software-driven world.

With a sharper focus on automation, software integration, and agile IT methodologies, Cisco has transformed its certification framework from a hardware-centric approach to one that reflects the evolving landscape of enterprise IT. In this article, we explore what’s new, what’s retiring, and how these updates benefit aspiring professionals using platforms like Our site to prepare for success.

A Unified Start: The New CCNA Certification

In an age where enterprise networks are rapidly evolving to support cloud applications, IoT devices, and hybrid infrastructures, the skills required by IT professionals must adapt accordingly. Recognizing this shift, Cisco took a transformative step by restructuring its foundational-level certification—Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA). Previously segmented into multiple discipline-specific certifications, Cisco unified these tracks into a single, comprehensive credential that reflects modern IT job roles and technologies.

This overhaul of the CCNA certification not only simplifies the path for newcomers to the industry but also equips them with a robust skill set aligned with today’s real-world networking environments. For professionals using Our site to prepare for their exams, this new unified CCNA offers a more targeted and efficient learning experience, with access to mock tests, study resources, and real exam simulations.

Why Cisco Redesigned the CCNA Certification

Before the change, the CCNA certification path offered over 10 different specializations, such as CCNA Security, CCNA Cloud, and CCNA Data Center. While these tracks allowed for focused expertise, they often created confusion and siloed knowledge early in a learner’s journey. Candidates had to commit to a particular domain before gaining a holistic understanding of networking fundamentals.

Cisco addressed this issue by introducing the new 200-301 CCNA exam. This certification consolidates the essential knowledge required to manage, configure, and troubleshoot enterprise networks and introduces candidates to in-demand technologies like network automation, software-defined networking (SDN), and cybersecurity fundamentals.

This change reflects the industry’s move toward more cross-functional and agile IT roles, where professionals are expected to work across different domains and leverage both hardware and software tools in managing modern infrastructure.

What the New CCNA Certification Covers

The updated CCNA curriculum is not just broader—it’s more relevant. Cisco has refined the scope of this certification to reflect the convergence of networking, security, and automation.

Here’s what candidates will master through the new CCNA exam:

1. Network Fundamentals

At the core of the certification lies a deep understanding of how data travels across networks. Candidates will study:

• The OSI and TCP/IP models
• Ethernet fundamentals
• Physical cabling types
• IP addressing and subnetting
• MAC addressing and ARP (Address Resolution Protocol)

Understanding these concepts helps candidates configure and manage networks with greater confidence, especially in complex, multi-vendor environments.

2. Network Access and Connectivity

This domain explores how devices connect and communicate within a LAN (Local Area Network). Topics include:

• Switch operations and VLANs
• Inter-VLAN routing
• Spanning Tree Protocol (STP)
• Wireless network architecture and security

With wireless networking becoming ubiquitous in business environments, professionals need to understand how access points, SSIDs, and wireless controllers work together in a secure and scalable deployment.

3. IP Connectivity

The heart of networking lies in how routers interconnect subnets and manage traffic. Candidates are trained to:

• Configure static routing and OSPF (Open Shortest Path First)
• Understand route summarization
• Interpret routing tables and identify path selection

Our site provides interactive labs and quizzes to help candidates visualize routing behaviors and troubleshoot connectivity problems in simulated networks.

4. IP Services

Candidates will also learn about essential IP services such as:

• Network Address Translation (NAT)
• Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP)
• Domain Name System (DNS)
• Quality of Service (QoS) and its role in traffic prioritization

These services play a vital role in ensuring efficient and seamless communication between devices and across networks.

5. Security Fundamentals

With the growing number of threats targeting infrastructure, security is now embedded into every layer of IT. The new CCNA teaches professionals to:

• Understand and configure access control lists (ACLs)
• Recognize common security threats like spoofing and DoS attacks
• Implement port security and network hardening techniques

This domain ensures that even entry-level professionals have a security-first mindset.

6. Automation and Programmability

One of the most significant additions to the CCNA is its inclusion of network automation and programmability, emphasizing:

• The role of REST APIs and JSON in managing devices
• Cisco DNA Center and controller-based networking
• Python scripting basics and automation workflows

This shift acknowledges the increasing demand for engineers who can automate network configuration and monitoring, particularly in large-scale deployments. Our site’s updated CCNA training resources now include automation scenarios and Python examples relevant to the exam.

The 200-301 CCNA Exam Format

The Cisco 200-301 CCNA exam consists of approximately 100 questions and must be completed within 120 minutes. It includes multiple-choice questions, drag-and-drop scenarios, simulations, and performance-based questions. Candidates must demonstrate not only theoretical knowledge but also the ability to apply that knowledge in real-world network scenarios.

Unlike previous certification paths, there are no mandatory prerequisites to attempt the new CCNA. However, Cisco recommends:

• At least 1 year of experience with Cisco solutions
• Basic understanding of IP addressing
• Familiarity with core networking principles

Benefits of the New Unified CCNA Certification

The revamped CCNA offers several advantages over its predecessor:

1. Simplified Certification Path

Candidates no longer need to choose a specialization upfront. This makes the certification more accessible and gives learners a solid networking foundation before pursuing more advanced roles.

2. Future-Proof Skill Set

By including programmability and security fundamentals, the certification ensures that candidates are equipped to work in next-generation networks where automation and SDN play a significant role.

3. Increased Career Opportunities

Employers now seek professionals who are adaptable and well-versed in multiple technologies. The new CCNA aligns with job titles such as:

• Junior Network Administrator
• Systems Support Engineer
• Network Analyst
• Infrastructure Technician

4. Pathway to Specialization

Once certified, professionals can pursue advanced credentials like CCNP Enterprise or Cisco Certified DevNet Associate, depending on their interests. The new CCNA acts as a flexible launchpad into multiple networking disciplines.

How Our site Helps You Prepare

When it comes to CCNA exam preparation, Our site offers an extensive collection of updated study materials, including:

• Realistic exam dumps based on current objectives
• Interactive practice tests and simulations
• Detailed video lectures and walkthroughs
• Customizable quizzes for self-assessment

Candidates can simulate the real exam environment, practice hands-on labs, and identify knowledge gaps using Our site’s targeted tools. This practical approach improves retention and boosts confidence going into the actual exam.

Transition from Old CCNA Certifications

For professionals who had earned any of the legacy CCNA credentials—such as CCNA Security or CCNA Wireless—prior to the 2020 change, Cisco automatically transitioned them to the new unified CCNA on 24 February 2020. This means:

• No additional exams were required
• The new certification remains valid for 3 years
• You can directly pursue a CCNP or DevNet certification thereafter

This smooth transition ensured that existing certification holders did not lose value from their credentials while benefiting from Cisco’s updated approach.

Retired CCNA Specializations: What the Unified CCNA Means for Learners and Professionals

In a decisive move to modernize its certification framework and align with the evolving landscape of IT, Cisco has retired multiple CCNA specializations, consolidating them into a single, comprehensive credential. This change represents a pivotal shift in how networking professionals begin their certification journey, focusing on a more versatile and holistic foundation. While these retired tracks once allowed candidates to tailor their learning, they also fragmented the path, leading to early specialization and potential knowledge gaps.

With this unification, Cisco aims to simplify the learning process, streamline certification goals, and ensure that every entry-level professional acquires a balanced set of core competencies before diving into more specialized domains. For those preparing through platforms like Our site, the updated certification model eliminates confusion and makes exam preparation more straightforward and outcome-focused.

The Previously Available CCNA Tracks That Are Now Retired

Before the certification overhaul, Cisco offered a wide range of domain-specific CCNA credentials. These included:

• CCNA Routing and Switching
• CCNA Security
• CCNA Wireless
• CCNA Cloud
• CCNA Data Center
• CCNA Collaboration
• CCNA Service Provider
• CCNA Cyber Ops
• CCNA Industrial
• CCDA (Cisco Certified Design Associate)

Each of these certifications was crafted to serve specific technological environments and industry roles. However, they often required candidates to commit to a niche early in their learning journey—sometimes before fully understanding the broader networking ecosystem.

Why Cisco Retired These Specializations

The tech world has entered an era where networking is no longer a siloed discipline. IT professionals today are expected to manage security protocols, troubleshoot wireless infrastructures, deploy cloud-based services, and even integrate programmable networking—all within a single role.

To adapt to this shift, Cisco has decided to remove the compartmentalized structure of the CCNA program and build a strong, unified base certification that encompasses key elements from each of the now-retired tracks.

This consolidation reflects several objectives:

• To eliminate redundancy across certifications
• To prepare candidates for hybrid job roles
• To increase flexibility and scalability in career progression
• To address the growing need for automation and cross-functional expertise

Understanding the Scope of the Retired Certifications

Each retired CCNA track catered to a specific domain. Let’s briefly explore what each one covered and how its critical concepts are now embedded into the new 200-301 CCNA certification:

1. CCNA Routing and Switching

This was the most widely pursued track and the traditional backbone of the CCNA program. It focused on IP addressing, subnetting, LAN/WAN technologies, and routing protocols. These topics now form the core of the unified CCNA curriculum.

2. CCNA Security

Designed for those looking to enter the network security space, this track included access control, VPNs, firewalls, and security policies. Today, the new CCNA includes security fundamentals to ensure every network professional understands essential protection mechanisms.

3. CCNA Wireless

As wireless technologies became essential, this certification covered WLAN design, configuration, and troubleshooting. Now, wireless networking is integrated into the new CCNA, focusing on access points, SSIDs, and wireless controller configurations.

4. CCNA Cloud

This track addressed cloud deployment models, infrastructure management, and Cisco Intercloud Fabric. With businesses increasingly adopting hybrid cloud models, cloud concepts are now introduced in the CCNA, laying the groundwork for advanced certifications like CCNP Enterprise and CCNP Data Center.

5. CCNA Data Center

Focused on physical and virtualized data center networking, this certification dealt with technologies like Cisco UCS, storage networking, and virtualization. The new CCNA touches on data center basics, and candidates interested in in-depth expertise can progress to specialized CCNP paths.

6. CCNA Collaboration

Covering IP telephony and video conferencing, this track was crucial for unified communications roles. Today, collaboration is still a major Cisco domain, but it’s reserved for advanced certifications, while the CCNA ensures a generalist understanding of networking infrastructure.

7. CCNA Service Provider

Geared toward those supporting large-scale service networks, it dealt with QoS, MPLS, and provider-specific routing protocols. While service provider technologies are not emphasized in the CCNA, foundational knowledge is delivered to prepare candidates for CCNP Service Provider.

8. CCNA Cyber Ops

This security operations-focused certification introduced monitoring, threat detection, and incident response techniques. Many of these elements now appear in Cisco’s CyberOps Associate certification, while the unified CCNA includes general cybersecurity awareness.

9. CCNA Industrial

Tailored for OT (Operational Technology) environments, the CCNA Industrial certification bridged the gap between traditional networking and industrial control systems used in manufacturing, energy, and utility sectors. It focused on protocols like PROFINET, Modbus, and EtherNet/IP, along with ruggedized network equipment and environmental considerations in harsh industrial settings. Although this niche certification has been officially retired, its essential concepts live on through the unified CCNA, which now incorporates network automation, programmable infrastructure, and IoT fundamentals. These additions are especially relevant for professionals working in smart factories, IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things), and edge computing environments where security, uptime, and integration are critical.

10. CCDA (Cisco Certified Design Associate)

Though not officially labeled as a CCNA, the Cisco Certified Design Associate (CCDA) was a foundational certification focused on network design, architecture, and best practices in planning scalable, reliable infrastructures. It covered key concepts like hierarchical design models, network topology selection, and addressing and routing protocols in the context of design. As Cisco transitions to a role-based certification framework, many of these principles have been integrated into CCNP-level specializations, particularly in CCNP Enterprise Design (ENSLD). Meanwhile, the new CCNA introduces candidates to essential design thinking, preparing them for advanced certification tracks and real-world implementation of resilient and secure network architectures.

What This Change Means for Career Growth

The transition to a single CCNA certification streamlines learning paths, reduces the financial burden of pursuing multiple certifications, and simplifies career planning. Instead of choosing a narrow focus, candidates now gain a well-rounded networking education, making them more adaptable and marketable.

This shift is particularly useful for individuals preparing with Our site, as the platform provides a unified preparation experience with:

• All-in-one study guides
• Real-world lab simulations
• CCNA 200-301-specific dumps and practice questions
• Performance analytics to track learning progress

Learners can now devote their energy to mastering a diverse yet cohesive skill set, laying a strong foundation for any Cisco certification path that follows.

Our site’s Role in Adapting to the Changes

When Cisco restructured its certification landscape, platforms like Our site adapted quickly to provide updated, role-relevant learning resources. Candidates no longer need to worry about outdated tracks or scattered exam codes. Instead, they can access:

• The latest CCNA 200-301 training material
• Practical labs for automation, security, and connectivity
• Updated questions reflecting the current Cisco exam blueprint
• Instructor-led video tutorials for every CCNA domain

By preparing on Our site, candidates are not just studying—they’re gaining experience-based readiness aligned with Cisco’s updated vision for the future of networking.

The Impact on Employers and IT Teams

For hiring managers and IT leaders, the unified CCNA simplifies the evaluation of entry-level talent. Instead of sorting through varied specialization titles, they can now look for one standardized certification that ensures candidates are skilled in the essential pillars of modern networking.

This consistency in credentials:

• Reduces hiring complexity
• Ensures a higher baseline of competency
• Prepares employees for cross-functional team dynamics
• Supports workforce scalability in hybrid IT environments

Looking Forward: From Unified CCNA to Specialized Expertise

While the retirement of the specialized CCNA tracks may seem like a loss at first glance, Cisco has actually strengthened the certification path. Now, professionals begin with a broad base and can progress toward deep specialization through CCNP, DevNet, or CyberOps certifications.

This stepwise model supports long-term career development while making certification more accessible, modular, and skill-relevant. With Our site’s curated exam prep resources, learners have everything they need to succeed from the first exam through advanced stages of their Cisco journey.

CCNP Redefined: Core and Concentration Model for Career-Focused IT Professionals

In response to the dynamic demands of modern enterprise infrastructure and the increasing specialization of networking roles, Cisco has significantly transformed its Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) certification program. The latest iteration of CCNP no longer requires prior certification at the associate level, such as the CCNA, removing barriers for professionals who are ready to leap directly into intermediate and advanced specialization.

This update is a crucial milestone for the Cisco certification framework, as it introduces a modular, streamlined model that aligns with current job roles and technologies. It also allows ambitious professionals to progress through Cisco’s certification tiers more efficiently while tailoring their learning path to the needs of the industry and their personal aspirations.

For learners preparing through platforms like Our site, this change represents a more flexible and personalized approach to skill-building—one that can be matched to real-world projects, organizational goals, and emerging tech trends.

Breaking Free from Prerequisites: A More Inclusive CCNP

Historically, earning a CCNP certification required candidates to first achieve the corresponding Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) credential. While this approach had its benefits, it also restricted experienced professionals or specialists in specific domains from pursuing the CCNP directly.

With the revised model, Cisco has eliminated these mandatory prerequisites. This means that individuals with sufficient experience or knowledge can now:

• Skip the associate-level exam if already proficient
• Focus immediately on the areas most relevant to their roles
• Accelerate their professional development without redundant assessments

This adjustment has made Cisco’s mid-tier certifications more accessible, especially to those with hands-on experience but no formal certification. Our site supports this approach by offering tailored study paths and resources that cater to learners at different skill levels, from foundational to expert.

The New CCNP Structure: Core + Concentration

The new CCNP design splits the certification journey into two pivotal components:

1. The Core Exam

The core exam serves as the technical foundation for the selected CCNP track. It validates a candidate’s grasp of essential technologies, protocols, and concepts relevant to that specific domain. Each CCNP certification track has one designated core exam.

Key features of the core exam:

• Covers broad concepts, including implementation, troubleshooting, architecture, and security
• Serves as the required exam for CCNP and a prerequisite for the corresponding CCIE lab exam
• Focuses on core enterprise or service provider capabilities depending on the track

For example, the ENCORE 350-401 is the core exam for CCNP Enterprise. It encompasses dual-stack (IPv4 and IPv6) architecture, virtualization, infrastructure, network assurance, security, and automation.

Our site offers updated core exam dumps, interactive labs, and video tutorials designed to reflect the real exam environment and current Cisco blueprint.

2. The Concentration Exam(s)

After passing the core exam, candidates must select and pass one concentration exam from a list of topic-specific tests under their chosen track. These exams focus on more specialized knowledge and skills.

Examples of concentration exam topics include:

• Advanced routing and services
• SD-WAN solutions
• Wireless design and implementation
• Network automation
• Cloud connectivity and security
• Collaboration protocols

The modular structure means that learners can customize their certification according to job requirements, industry demands, or future goals. Choosing a different concentration later allows professionals to pivot or diversify their skills without restarting the certification process.

Benefits of the Core + Concentration Model

Cisco’s updated structure introduces a wealth of benefits for learners, hiring managers, and training providers:

Personalized Learning Paths

The flexibility of choosing from various concentration exams means candidates can specialize in areas that directly impact their roles. Whether you’re working on automating workflows or designing scalable wireless networks, you can now align your certification path to real job functions.

Stackable Credentials

Every time a candidate passes a concentration exam, they also earn a Cisco Certified Specialist designation. These stackable credentials act as micro-certifications, enabling professionals to showcase verified, role-specific expertise—ideal for resumes, performance reviews, or promotions.

With the growing popularity of skills-based hiring, these specialist titles become a powerful tool for career advancement. Learners on Our site can focus on passing specific concentrations to build a diversified portfolio of technical capabilities.

Unified Entry to CCIE

The core exam doesn’t just unlock the CCNP—it also acts as a gateway to Cisco’s expert-level CCIE certifications. After completing the core, you are eligible to schedule the corresponding eight-hour CCIE lab, streamlining the path for those aiming to reach Cisco’s highest certification tier.

This seamless progression encourages professionals to develop deeper expertise without retaking overlapping exams or switching learning tracks. For example, passing ENCORE 350-401 prepares you for both CCNP Enterprise and the CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure Lab.

Reduced Time and Cost

The updated format reduces the number of exams required to achieve certification, lowering the overall time and financial investment. Instead of taking multiple associate-level exams before reaching professional status, candidates can now focus directly on the content that matters most.

Platforms like Our site enhance this time-saving benefit by offering on-demand, exam-specific resources that eliminate unnecessary study and accelerate success.

CCNP Tracks Available Under the New Model

Cisco’s revised CCNP program includes several role-aligned certification tracks. Each has one core exam and a range of concentration exams to choose from:

1. CCNP Enterprise

• Core Exam: 350-401 ENCOR
• Concentration Options: SD-WAN, advanced routing, wireless design, automation

2. CCNP Security

• Core Exam: 350-701 SCOR
• Concentration Options: Firepower, VPNs, identity management, secure networks

3. CCNP Collaboration

• Core Exam: 350-801 CLCOR
• Concentration Options: call control, QoS, video infrastructure, Cisco Unity

4. CCNP Data Center

• Core Exam: 350-601 DCCOR
• Concentration Options: ACI, storage networking, compute, automation

5. CCNP Service Provider

• Core Exam: 350-501 SPCOR
• Concentration Options: advanced routing, QoS, automation, VPN technologies

6. Cisco Certified DevNet Professional

• Core Exam: 350-901 DEVCOR
• Concentration Options: enterprise automation, cloud integration, network APIs

Each of these tracks is designed to match a specific career specialization, from cloud automation engineer to unified communications architect.

Preparing for CCNP with Our site

Achieving a CCNP certification requires a deep understanding of the exam objectives and the ability to apply that knowledge in real-world scenarios. Our site offers a complete learning ecosystem tailored to each CCNP track, including:

• Updated exam dumps and real-world scenarios for core and concentration exams
• Interactive labs for hands-on practice across Cisco devices and simulated topologies
• Video lectures by certified instructors breaking down complex topics
• Custom quizzes and analytics to track progress and identify weak areas

Our site ensures that every learner—whether they’re transitioning from a different IT role or leveling up their Cisco knowledge—can find the resources they need for exam success.

Who Should Consider the New CCNP?

The modern CCNP is ideal for:

• Network engineers managing large-scale enterprise infrastructure
• Security professionals implementing firewalls, identity systems, and VPNs
• Collaboration specialists handling VoIP and video solutions
• Data center admins deploying virtualization and storage networks
• Developers integrating automation and APIs into network operations

Whether you’re working in enterprise IT, service provider environments, or DevOps ecosystems, there’s a CCNP path tailored to your role. The new format recognizes that networking today is interdisciplinary, and the certification mirrors that reality.

New CCNP Tracks Available: Choosing the Right Cisco Professional Path for Your Career

As technology continues to evolve, networking professionals are expected to develop domain-specific skills that go beyond foundational routing and switching. To meet this growing demand, Cisco has redesigned its Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) program to provide targeted certification tracks tailored to today’s most critical IT specializations.

Each track is built around a core and concentration exam model, giving candidates the flexibility to focus on the areas most relevant to their roles. Whether you’re planning to master enterprise networks, enhance cybersecurity defenses, manage data centers, or develop infrastructure automation, there’s a specialized CCNP certification track that can help you stand out in the market.

This structure not only helps professionals build deep technical skills but also aligns seamlessly with real-world job functions. Those preparing through Our site benefit from tailored resources and exam-specific materials that boost confidence and readiness for every CCNP domain.

Why Cisco Introduced Specialized CCNP Tracks

The earlier model of CCNP certification included siloed options like CCNP Routing and Switching, CCNP Security, and CCNP Voice. While effective for their time, these paths often lacked the adaptability needed for modern hybrid job roles.

To better reflect today’s diverse IT environments, Cisco introduced modular, role-based CCNP tracks, each covering a wide range of technologies under a specific umbrella. This evolution allows professionals to:

• Develop job-aligned expertise
• Specialize without being locked into a narrow focus
• Progress efficiently to CCIE-level certification
• Earn industry-respected Cisco Specialist credentials as they advance

Each track begins with a core exam that establishes technical proficiency across foundational areas, followed by one or more concentration exams that dive into focused topics.

Let’s explore each of the newly available CCNP tracks in detail.

1. CCNP Enterprise

The CCNP Enterprise track is the evolution of the former CCNP Routing and Switching. It includes a comprehensive overview of core networking concepts like dual-stack architecture, routing protocols, wireless infrastructure, and software-defined networking (SDN).

Core Exam:

350-401 ENCOR – Implementing Cisco Enterprise Network Core Technologies

Concentration Exams Include:

• 300-410 ENARSI – Advanced Routing and Services
• 300-415 ENSDWI – SD-WAN Solutions
• 300-420 ENSLD – Enterprise Design
• 300-425 ENWLSD – Wireless Design
• 300-435 ENAUTO – Enterprise Automation

This track is ideal for:

• Network engineers
• Wireless specialists
• Enterprise architects
• Infrastructure operations teams

The CCNP Enterprise prepares you to build and secure scalable enterprise networks. Study materials from Our site include hands-on labs, real exam dumps, and simulation-based questions to reinforce routing, switching, and automation concepts.

2. CCNP Security

With cyber threats growing in scale and complexity, the CCNP Security track is designed for professionals who safeguard enterprise environments. It focuses on technologies that help detect, prevent, and mitigate intrusions and breaches.

Core Exam:

350-701 SCOR – Implementing and Operating Cisco Security Core Technologies

Concentration Exams Include:

• 300-710 SNCF – Cisco Firepower Threat Defense
• 300-715 SISE – Identity Services Engine (ISE)
• 300-720 SESA – Secure Email Gateway
• 300-725 SWSA – Secure Web Gateway
• 300-730 SVPN – VPNs
• 300-735 SAUTO – Security Automation

This track is ideal for:

• Network security engineers
• SOC analysts
• Information security officers
• Professionals working with Cisco firewall and VPN solutions

Our site’s exam prep content helps learners navigate complex topics like IPsec, AAA protocols, and zero-trust architectures using real-life examples and in-depth question banks.

3. CCNP Collaboration

As global workforces embrace hybrid and remote work environments, unified communications (UC) has become essential. The CCNP Collaboration track equips professionals with the skills to implement and manage voice, video, messaging, and contact center solutions.

Core Exam:

350-801 CLCOR – Implementing Cisco Collaboration Core Technologies

Concentration Exams Include:

300-810 CLICA – Call Control and Mobility Services

300-815 CLACCM – Advanced Call Control and Media Resources

300-820 CLCEI – Implementing Cisco Collaboration Cloud and Edge Solutions

300-825 CLCNF – Cisco Collaboration Conferencing

This track is ideal for:

Collaboration engineers

UC deployment specialists

VoIP technicians

Telepresence engineers

Study materials on Our site for the collaboration track include Cisco Unified Communications Manager (CUCM) labs, voice gateway configuration, and real-time simulation exercises for conferencing technologies.

4. CCNP Data Center

The CCNP Data Center certification track focuses on building and managing resilient data center architectures using Cisco UCS, Nexus switches, and application-centric infrastructure (ACI).

Core Exam:

350-601 DCCOR – Implementing and Operating Cisco Data Center Core Technologies

Concentration Exams Include:

300-610 DCID – Data Center Infrastructure Design

300-615 DCIT – Troubleshooting Data Center Infrastructure

300-620 DCACI – ACI Implementation

300-625 DCSAN – Storage Area Networking

300-635 DCAUTO – Automation for Data Center Solutions

This track is ideal for:

Data center engineers

Virtualization specialists

Server infrastructure professionals

ACI administrators

Our site’s advanced simulations and UCS configuration practice labs ensure that learners understand both traditional and software-defined data center principles.

5. CCNP Service Provider

The CCNP Service Provider track prepares professionals to support robust, high-availability infrastructure for ISPs and telecommunication networks. It addresses the unique routing, security, and QoS challenges that come with managing service provider environments.

Core Exam:

350-501 SPCOR – Implementing and Operating Cisco Service Provider Network Core Technologies

Concentration Exams Include:

300-510 SPRI – Advanced Routing

300-515 SPVI – VPN Implementation

300-535 SPAUTO – Automation for Service Providers

300-520 SPNGN2 – Next-Gen Networks, Part 2

This track is ideal for:

• Service provider network engineers
• MPLS and BGP experts
• Core network design professionals

With Our site’s practice tests and SP lab guides, candidates can master topics like segment routing, multicast, carrier-grade NAT, and high-availability architectures.

6. Cisco Certified DevNet Professional

The Cisco DevNet Professional certification was introduced as part of Cisco’s commitment to network automation and infrastructure programmability. This track is designed for software developers and network engineers who write code to manage network operations, cloud deployments, and CI/CD pipelines.

Core Exam:

350-901 DEVCOR – Developing Applications Using Cisco Core Platforms and APIs

Concentration Exams Include:

300-910 DEVOPS – DevOps Automation

300-915 DEVIOT – IoT Application Development

300-920 DEVWBX – Webex Solutions

300-925 DEVASC – Developing Applications for Automation

300-930 DEVNETX – Network Programmability for Enterprise

This track is ideal for:

Network automation engineers

Infrastructure developers

DevOps practitioners

Cloud-native networking experts

Our site provides hands-on labs for REST API integration, Python scripting, Git workflows, and network SDKs, helping learners gain real-world automation skills that extend beyond traditional CLI-based configurations.

Exam Preparation Strategy with ExamSnap

Every CCNP certification requires comprehensive preparation due to the depth and specificity of the topics. ExamSnap supports learners through:

Realistic exam dumps based on live feedback and Cisco blueprints

Video tutorials for conceptual clarity and practical labs

Simulation-based assessments for time management

Concentration-focused question sets

Downloadable PDFs for offline revision

Whether you’re aiming for CCNP Security or DevNet Professional, ExamSnap’s up-to-date resources make it easier to prepare effectively, even with a busy schedule.

Final Thoughts: Pick the Right Track for Your Goals

The recent restructuring of Cisco’s certification program is more than just a curriculum update—it reflects a bold step toward aligning IT credentials with the realities of modern enterprise environments. With the rise of software-defined networking, cloud infrastructure, automation, and hybrid job roles, Cisco’s move to a more modular and streamlined certification path ensures professionals are equipped to meet today’s dynamic business needs.

From the unified CCNA to the role-specific CCNP tracks and the software-driven DevNet certifications, Cisco has created a pathway that encourages both flexibility and specialization. Whether you’re starting out in networking or advancing toward the expert-level CCIE, this new framework allows you to tailor your certification journey according to your career goals, technical strengths, and evolving industry demands.

By eliminating unnecessary prerequisites and integrating emerging technologies like programmability and automation into the curriculum, Cisco certifications now provide more value than ever. Candidates can now focus on acquiring practical, job-ready skills without redundant learning curves.

If you earned a certification before the 2020 transition, rest assured—your credentials remain valid and respected. Cisco’s migration tools ensure your existing accomplishments translate seamlessly into the new system, offering continued recognition and a bridge to further advancement.

Preparing for Cisco certifications has also become more accessible and effective thanks to platforms like ExamSnap. With real exam dumps, performance-based labs, and up-to-date training materials, ExamSnap empowers professionals to prepare efficiently and pass with confidence across all certification levels—from CCNA to CCNP, DevNet, and CCIE.

In a world where technology shifts rapidly, Cisco remains a trusted benchmark for networking excellence. Whether you’re aiming to break into IT support, become a network security specialist, or lead infrastructure automation initiatives, Cisco’s modernized certifications—backed by ExamSnap’s trusted resources—can help you achieve it.

Now is the ideal time to embrace this new era of Cisco certification. Define your path, elevate your expertise, and stay competitive in the ever-evolving landscape of networking and cybersecurity.