How to Become a Cisco Information Security Specialist

Security is a valid concern in business today. With all the high technology used, it is important for companies to have trained personnel dealing with security issues. Becoming a Cisco Information Security Specialist may give a boast to your resume or that raise you are looking for.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Obtain your Cisco Certified Networking Associate, CCNA, certification. This is a prerequisite for the Information Security Specialist. It demonstrates proficiency in installing and maintaining LAN, WAN or dialup access for small networks. CCNA certification is valid for three years.

2. Locate a Cisco training resource on the Cisco website. Taking classes and getting hands on practice will help you with the exam.

3. Study the Securing Network Devices (SND) course material. Cisco has set up this standard. Study the 4011 training standards. These are national standards set up to provide guidelines for securing networks.

4. Register for the 642-552 SND exam. Exams are given through Pearson Vue. They are Cisco testing and certification partners.

5. Take the exam. If you have taken training and studied the material, you are ready to take the exam. The test is approximately seventy-five minutes.

6. Spread the word. Once you have passed your certification be sure your employer or potential employer knows of your certification.

Tips & Warnings

• The Cisco Firewall Specialist exam is a paid exam. Be sure you are ready before taking it as there are no refunds, and you only get one chance.

Resources

• Cisco
• CNSS has 4011 training standards.
• Visit the Vue to register for testing.