CCSP without CCNA

07GH

Hi,
I am new to the Cisco certification ladder. Want to write the CCSP(SND) exams soon. In as much as I know its advisable to start from CCNA, I want to know if it is mandatory.

astorrs

Yes it is a prerequisite.

http://www.cisco.com/web/learning/le3/le2/le37/le54/learning_certification_type_home.html

mikej412

No -- it's not mandatory that you take (and pass) the CCNA exam(s) before you take any other Cisco Certificaiton exam. It's a good idea, and it makes sense, but it's not required.

You can take the SND exam now, but you won't get the Cisco Information Security Specialist Certification until you meet the CCNA prerequisite. The same goes for the rest of the CCSP Exams -- no Specialist or CCSP Certification until you have the prerequisites.

astorrs

Okay, I'll give you that one Mike.

I would ask myself if there was any point in not taking it first though?

07GH

Hey guys,

Thanks a lot. Your responses were very much useful

mikej412

astorrs wrote:

I would ask myself if there was any point in not taking it first though?

I've seen people who did training years ago and have been doing the job -- but never took the certification exams -- jump into a new track. Usually they need the new knowledge now for something work related, and plan to do the exams for the "old stuff" later to get the certification (and maybe meet a new Manager/Executive certification/bonus/promotion suggestion/requirement/mandate)

But since you don't get the CCSP unless/until you have a valid CCNA -- it does feel "backwards"

astorrs

mikej412 wrote:

Usually they need the new knowledge now for something work related, and plan to do the exams for the "old stuff" later to get the certification (and maybe meet a new Manager/Executive certification/bonus/promotion suggestion/requirement/mandate)

Valid points. Thanks.