What Is CCNA and CCNP?

CCNA and CCNP are certifications offered by Cisco Systems, a networking and communications technology and services firm.

Reason for Certifications

Cisco certifications validate an information technology professional's ability to use their products. Certification is required by most employers to ensure a candidate or employee is capable of performing required job functions involving Cisco products and services.

CCNA

CCNA means Cisco-certified network administrator, and is the second-level certification for Cisco network-related job functions. CCNA certification has no prerequisites.

CCNP

CCNP is a Cisco-certified network professional, and is the third level certification for Cisco network-related job functions. CCNP certification requires a valid CCNA or any CCIE (Cisco-certified internetwork expert) certifications.

Differences

CCNA includes training for medium-size route and switched networks, as well as connections to remote sites in a WAN (wide-area network). CCNP includes training for converged local and wide-area networks with 100 to 500 or more nodes.

Significance

Because Cisco products and services are complex, certification ensures an information technology professional's ability to install, configure, operate and troubleshoot Cisco networks. Proper function of these networks are crucial for an organization to run securely and efficiently.

References

• CCNA; Cisco Systems
• CCNP; Cisco Systems
• Cisco Certifications