Validates knowledge of network fundamentals, routing, switching, IP services, security and automation for managing connected systems.
300IntermediateNo prerequisites
Best Cisco Certifications in 2026
Cisco is a networking hardware and software company whose certifications cover enterprise networking, from associate-level CCNA through professional CCNP to expert-level CCIE, plus security.
Validates hands-on expertise in designing, deploying and optimizing enterprise networks, including routing, SD-WAN, security, services and automation.
2,000AdvancedNo prerequisites
Validates knowledge of enterprise network architecture, virtualization, infrastructure, assurance, security and automation for designing and troubleshooting networks.
700IntermediateNo prerequisites
Validates knowledge of security operations work, including security concepts, monitoring, host-based analysis, network intrusion analysis and security procedures.
300EntryNo prerequisites
How Cisco certifications work
- Validity
- 3 years
- Renewal
- Before expiry, earn continuing education credits (30 Associate, 80 Professional, 120 CCIE) or pass qualifying exams
- Structure
- Associate: one exam · Professional: core exam plus one concentration exam · CCIE: the same core exam plus an 8-hour lab
- Delivery
- Written exams: Pearson VUE test center or online · CCIE lab: Cisco lab locations only
Cisco certifications by level
Choosing the right Cisco certification
Where to start
- Networking foundations: CCNA. Cisco's associate-level exam covering core networking, routing, switching and troubleshooting. Cisco lists no prerequisite for its exams.
- Security operations: CCNA Cybersecurity. Cisco's associate-level exam for SOC analysts and security monitoring, previously called CyberOps Associate. There is no prerequisite, though basic networking knowledge helps.
- Professional-level networking: CCNP Enterprise. Cisco's Professional level, after Associate. It requires a core exam (ENCOR) and one concentration exam of your choice.
- Expert-level networking: CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure. Cisco's Expert level, made up of a core exam and a hands-on lab. The ENCOR exam counts as both the CCNP Enterprise core exam and the CCIE qualifying exam.