CCNP Enterprise
Professional-level Cisco networking cert that validates advanced routing, switching, SD-WAN, and enterprise architecture skills.
- Exam fee
- $400+
- Typical salary
- $110K–$145K
The CCNP Enterprise is a solid investment for senior network engineers seeking to prove expertise in modern enterprise networking. If you lack the required 3‑5 years of experience, a lower‑level Cisco cert may be a better stepping stone.
What CCNP Enterprise covers
Professional-level Cisco networking cert. Validates advanced routing, switching, SD-WAN, and enterprise architecture skills.
Key topics covered: Advanced routing (OSPF, EIGRP, BGP), SD-WAN & SD-Access, Network automation, Security in enterprise networks, QoS & multicast.
Best suited for: Senior network engineers with 3-5 years of enterprise networking experience.
Common career paths: Senior Network Engineer, Network Architect, Principal Network Engineer, Infrastructure Lead.
CCNP Enterprise exam details
Exam domains
- Advanced routing (OSPF, EIGRP, BGP)
- SD-WAN & SD-Access
- Network automation
- Security in enterprise networks
- QoS & multicast
At a glance
- Exam fee
- $400+
How to prepare for CCNP Enterprise
| Stage | What to do | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Understand the official exam outline Review the CCNP Enterprise exam domains and weightings, noting the focus on advanced routing, SD‑WAN, automation, and security. | Week 1-2 |
| 2 | Deep‑dive into core technologies Study each major topic—OSPF/EIGRP/BGP, SD‑WAN & SD‑Access, network automation, security, QoS, and multicast—using Cisco documentation and labs. | Week 3-5 |
| 3 | Hands‑on lab practice Build a lab environment (physical or virtual) to configure routing protocols, SD‑WAN fabrics, automation scripts, and security policies. | Week 6-8 |
| 4 | Integrate and troubleshoot Practice end‑to‑end scenarios that combine multiple domains, focusing on troubleshooting and performance tuning. | Week 9-10 |
| 5 | Timed practice exams Take full‑length practice tests under exam conditions to gauge readiness and identify any weak spots. | Week 11 |
| 6 | Final review and exam day prep Revisit flagged areas, ensure all lab setups are functional, and plan logistics for the exam day. | Week 12 |
Jobs and salary with CCNP Enterprise
People holding this certification commonly report pay around $110K–$145K. Pay depends heavily on role, location and total experience. See the salary breakdown.
Roles this certification supports
CCNP Enterprise questions answered
What is the CCNP Enterprise certification?
Professional-level Cisco networking cert that validates advanced routing, switching, SD-WAN, and enterprise architecture skills. It is issued by Cisco and sits in the Networking field.
Is CCNP Enterprise hard?
CCNP Enterprise is rated Advanced. It usually assumes several years of hands-on work, so most candidates prepare for longer.
How much does the CCNP Enterprise exam cost?
The listed exam fee is $400+. Fees vary by country and change over time, so confirm the current price with Cisco before you book.
What salary can I expect with CCNP Enterprise?
Professionals with CCNP Enterprise commonly report pay in the $110K–$145K range. Actual pay depends on role, location and total experience.
How should I prepare for CCNP Enterprise?
Start with the official exam outline, build hands-on practice for each domain, then finish with timed practice questions. The study plan on this page breaks this into steps.
Alternatives to CCNP Enterprise
| Certification | Vendor | Level |
|---|---|---|
| CompTIA Network+ | CompTIA | Beginner |
| CCNA - Cisco Certified Network Associate | Cisco | Intermediate |
| CCNP Data Center | Cisco | Advanced |
| CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure | Cisco | Advanced |
| JNCIA-Junos (Associate) | Juniper Networks | Beginner |