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CCNP Data Center

CCNP Data Center vs 3 alternatives compared

Exam fee, level, duration, validity and salary side by side. Blank cells mean we do not have verified data yet.

CCNP Data CenterCompTIA Network+CCNA - Cisco Certified Network AssociateCCNP Enterprise
VendorCiscoCompTIACiscoCisco
LevelAdvancedBeginnerIntermediateAdvanced
Exam fee$400+$358$330$400+
Duration—90 minutes——
Passing score—720 (on a scale of 100-900)——
Valid for—3 years——
Typical salary$115K–$150K$65K–$85K$80K–$110K$110K–$145K
Prerequisites—CompTIA A+ certification with 9‑12 months of hands‑on experience as a junior network admi…——

Which should you choose?

Should I take CCNP Data Center or CompTIA Network+ first?

CompTIA Network+ is the lower-level certification (Beginner vs Advanced), so it is usually the better first step.

Should I take CCNP Data Center or CCNA - Cisco Certified Network Associate first?

CCNA - Cisco Certified Network Associate is the lower-level certification (Intermediate vs Advanced), so it is usually the better first step.

Should I take CCNP Data Center or CCNP Enterprise first?

Both are rated Advanced. Pick the one whose exam domains match the job you want, and check which one employers in your area ask for.