How to Become a Cisco Security Solutions and Design Specialist

A Cisco Security Solutions and Design Specialist is someone who can assess a customers needs, design and sell Cisco SDN (Self Defending Networks) that will reduce costs, protect assets and advance productivity. It is a certification designed for Channel partners.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

1. Acquire the CCDA prerequisite. CCDA is Cisco Certified Design Associate. It is the foundation for network design. Information for this certification is on the Cisco website.

2. Determine how you will prepare for the course. There are many online classes as well as traditional classes. These classes are very intensive and cover most of the material that will be on the exam.

3. Study for the 640 642-565 SSSE Security Solutions for Systems Engineers Exam. Use the information from your class and the study guides online. Topics will include Cisco Security Appliance (ASA), Security Management, IDS/IPS, VPN, CS-MARS, PIX Firewall and NAC Appliance.

4. Register for the exam. Cisco partners with Pearson Vue for testing and certification. View their website for exam times, places and fees.

5. Take the exam. It is 75 minutes and consists of 70 questions. Be prepared to take the exam when you arrive.

6. Inform your employer that you have passed the exam. Be sure to include it on your resume.

Tips & Warnings

• Cisco exams are very intensive. Give yourself plenty of time to prepare for the exam.
• This is a paid exam. If you have to retake the test, you will need to pay the fee again. Ensure you are ready to do well the first time.
• When looking for schools to take training, ensure they are certified. There is a list on the Cisco site for certified schools.

Resources

• Pearson Vue
• Cisco has all the latest certification info.
• Netcom offers Cisco training.