-
Step 1
Meet the prerequisite. You must have your CCNA certification. This three-year certification is for Cisco Certified Networking Associate.
-
Step 2
Decide on self-study or formal classes. Both have advantages. If you decide to go the self-study route, ensure there is a place that you can get hands on practice as well. Information for both paths is on the Cisco website.
-
Step 3
Learn material for the first exam, 642-552 SND Securing Cisco Network Devices (SND). Topics covered on this exam are Security threats facing modern network infrastructures, Using ACLs to mitigate router and network threats, Securing Cisco routers, Implementing basic AAA, Implementing secure management and reporting, Mitigating common Layer 2 attacks, and Implementing Cisco IOS Firewall features, Cisco IOS IPS features, and IPsec VPN features using Cisco Security Device Manager.
-
Step 4
Study for the second exam, 642-532 IPS Implementing Cisco Intrusion Prevention System (IPS). This exam has simulations and tests a candidate's familiarity and ability to explain, configure, verify and administer the Cisco IPS appliance products.
-
Step 5
Locate and register at a local testing center. Cisco partners with Pearson Vue. You can find all testing information at their website.
-
Step 6
Take the exams. The 642-552 SND Securing Cisco Network Devices (SND) is 75 minutes long. The 642-532 IPS Implementing Cisco Intrusion Prevention System (IPS) is ninety minutes long. You do not have to take the exams on the same day.
