Certification Overview
Cisco CCNA Service Provider certification is for those who want to work in challenging environments related to network engineering. The certification helps in building the skills and expertise of candidates related to core network technologies within an organization. Industries are gradually becoming digitalized and this is opening up opportunities for individuals with strong desire and interest in the field of network engineering to build a solid foundation. The certification is divided into two parts and candidates need to appear for two papers before getting certified.
Who can do this certification?
Network professionals having the strong passion, dedication and willpower to succeed in rigorous work environments related to networking are recommended to complete this certified course.
Benefits
A CCNA Service provider certification means that the individual has the knowledge depth to successfully work with the infrastructures in service provider organizations. A certified professional will see an increase in his wages and greater recognition and valuation in the job market.
Associated Exam
Students need to appear for two papers before getting certified. The exams are named: Cisco Service Provider Next-Generation Networks, Part 1 and Cisco Service Provider Next-Generation Networks, Part 2
Prerequisites
There are no prerequisites.
Examination Overview
Before appearing in the exam, students must get access to the study materials required for an adequate preparation. CCNA service provider book is provided by training institutions which outlines the necessary steps needed to be taken before appearing in the examination.
The exam is divided into two parts. The course content for Building Cisco Service Provider Next-Generation Networks, Part 1 is given below:
- IP Fundamentals
- Basic LAN Switching
- Basic IP Routing
- Connectivity Technologies
IP Fundamentals deal with the basics of networking. This usually involves the different protocols and layers to communicate over networks. Theories related to network security are also discussed in this part of the syllabus.
The Basic LAN Switching gives an overview about Switches and LAN. Detailed mechanism involving switches are also discussed in this section. This includes Switch troubleshooting, ensuring switch security and relation of LAN and switch. Configuring and Performing Switch Network optimizations are also discussed in detail in this particular segment of the curriculum.
The Basic IP Routing explores in detail the functionality of routers. They look in detail about the roles played by a router in successfully establishing connections between two mediums and converting networks. Detailed tools in configuring and troubleshooting routers are also discussed in this section.
Connectivity technologies is concerned with connecting technological devices and networks with each other. They look at the different type of network technologies. VPN, WAN and access technologies are also a part of this section.
The course content for Building Cisco Service Provider Next-Generation Networks, Part 2 is given below:
- IP NGN Architecture
- Switched Network Technologies 2
- Routed Network Technologies 2
- Cisco Operating Systems and Platforms
The IP NGN Architecture successfully links the candidates with the components necessary in meeting the requirements of a modern day network information system. This includes troubleshooting of network problems, describing different types of service providers, emphasis on NGN architecture and IP address related issues.
The Switched Network Technologies 2 looks into enhanced switching technologies like RSTP, MST. They focus on the functionality of Cisco IOS switches. Other contents include: Configuring VLAN, Configuring REP on Cisco IOS switches and Configuring QinQ on Cisco IOS Switches.
The Router Network Technologies 2 also looks into enhanced routing technologies and the additional forms of routing. The concepts of BGP Routing, address family, IPv6 transitioning technologies, router redundancy protocol, ACL, Carrier Grade NAT, MPLS functions and LDP are introduced in this section of the syllabus.
The Cisco Operating systems and platforms section deals with Managing IOS XR configurations of an organization. Further sections include: IOS XE Software packaging and Cisco SP router platforms with knowledge about their operating system and placement in the SP IP NGN.
Validity of the certification
The certificate is valid for three years and the following steps are needed to be followed for keeping the validity of the certification:
- Passing another associate level exam
- Passing a current professional level exam
- Passing a current Cisco Specialist exam
- Passing a current CCIE Written exam
- Passing a current CCDE Written exam or CCDE Practical exam
- Passing the Cisco certified architect exam
Expert Review
Cisco is looking forward to maintain the quality of the certification by ensuring the candidates go through a rigorous study process. The course outlines are constantly being updated to meet the needs of the current industry to make sure that the professionals are suited to the structure of the organization.
Jeanne Beliveau
Dunn, vice president and general manager
NYC, USA