Introduction to Cisco Certifications

Roguetadhg

There's a lot of cisco certifications out there. It's increasingly difficult for us newbies to get into the hang of what's really going on. Each certification has their own requirements, recommendations, tricks and costs. This thread is devoted to cut through the multitude of websites in a simplified no BS presentation.

Cisco Certification Overview: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/community/certifications?view=overview
Cisco Certification Introduction: http://www.cisco.com/web/learning/le3/learning_career_certifications_and_learning_paths_home.html

All costs have been calculated with no failed exams.
I have not included any exams that are publicly listed as Retiring.

Continuing Education: Note: I've tried to keep the context of Certification and Exam correct throughout this explanation to avoid confusing. Every Exam does not reward a new certificate.

Furthering your education is extremely important. Cisco recognizes this to a degree. But also cisco realizes that what you know will become obselete. This is the reason that I can think of, why to have certification tracks designed as they are. I'm going to go over the basics with continuing education. So before planning which track you want to spend you time earning, take a glance at the basic rules.

1. There are currently 5 Levels of exams: Entry, Associate, Professional, Expert and Architect.

2. Pass an exam (Not a certification) in X difficulty and you will refresh any X difficult-level certifications. It will refresh any Y Lower-Tiered Certifications. It will not refresh any Z Higher-tiered Certifications.
Example 1: You have the CCENT, CCNA, CCNP, and the CCIE:R&S.
You're working on the CCNA:Security. Passing a CCNA:Security exam will refresh your CCENT & CCNA certification. It will not refresh your CCNP, or CCIE:R&S
Example 2: You have the CCENT, CCNA, CCNA:Security, CCNP, and the CCIE:R&S.
You're working on the CCNP:Security. Passing a CCNP:Security exam will refresh your CCNP certification as well as your CCENT,CCNA,CCNA:Security. It will not refresh your CCIE:R&S.

3. Pass any exam that's required for a certification and you'll have X Months/years to pass the next exam. There are no exam-time refreshing.
Example: You have upto 3 years to earn CCNP:Wireless. 3 years total time to pass all exams from the day you pass the first exam on that certification.

4. Most certifications list pre-requisite certifications. To earn the higher-tier certification, you must hold a valid pre-required certificate.


Brief Summary of the 8 main (career) tracks:
1. Design - CCDA, CCDP, CCDE, CCAr::
Designing layouts. You know what is possible with the equipment and commands. You know how to build it right, on a budget and all meeting the requirements of the company. It's a big job, and you're the go to person to do it!

2. Routing & Switching - CCENT, CCNA, CCNP, CCIE:RS::
The Routers and Switches are your world. Command-Line programming comes second nature. You have complete control over knowing the ins and outs. You troubleshoot the most essential part of getting all applications to the users - The network.

3. Storage Networking - CCIE:SAN::
Information needs to get to point A to point B. Boring? Sounds like it, But it's not. Banks, Gas stations, military... They need someplace to store data. And It will be traveling a long distance.

4. Service Provider - CCENT, CCNA, CCNA:SP, CCNP:SP, CCIE:SP::
Large-scale maintence, troubleshooting and application support. Build and maintain service provider infastructures that Fortune 500 businesses rely on. Just another day at the office.

Cisco Concentration Tracks:
5. Security - CCENT, CCNA:S, CCNP:S, CCIE:S::
White hats and Black hats. It's an fierce battlefield out there to protect your users, sensitive data and computers from people outside the network as well as damage control for attacks from inside.

6. SP (Service Provider) Operations - CCENT, CCNA:SP Ops, CCNP: SP Ops, CCIE:SP Ops::
Operations and maintence of IP NGN networks in IOS and IOS-XR. Next Generation Networks, running on the highest-end routers.

7. Voice - CCENT, CCNA, CCNA:V, CCNP:V, CCIE:V::
Voice over IP. Yeah. Make phone calls using the same Ethernet plug that you've already got in your computer. Sounds like Voodoo? It's the Voodoo that you'll do here. Did I mention it's cheaper than the old phone system? Talk about Return of Investment!

8. Wireless - CCENT, CCNA:W, CCNP:W, CCIE:W::
Wire Freedom. You may not be able to get rid of the power cable. But atleast you'd be able to arrange your office as you want to, as much as you want to. Implement wireless security, infastructures.


Total Exam Cost per track: (Preparation material have not been included with any costs)
The Minimal Amount: tests were taken out, as the test was assumed earned in another track. IE: SWITCH,.... Also, Some tests may have been combined as with each other.
The Maximum Amount: Calculations take into account cisco Recommendations and no required tests were earned in a previous track.
a. Every test is assumed passed.
b. Expert and Architect level exams do not count travel and lodging expenses.
C. Materials, Equpment, Classes, and other expenses to learn the material is not accounted.

1. Design (Min): 16850 = DESGN > ARCH > CCDE Written > CCDE Practical > CCAr Board Exams
1. Design (Max): 17950 = ICND1 > ICND2 > SWITCH > DESGN > ROUTE > ARCH > CCDE Written > CCDE Practical > CCAr Board Exam

2. R+S (Min): 2345 = CCNA Composite > TSHOOT > CCIE:RS Written > CCIE:RS Lab
2. R+S (Max): 2750 = ICND1 > ICND2 > SWITCH > ROUTE > TSHOOT > CCIE:RS Written > CCIE:RS Lab

3. Security (Min): 3195 = CCNA Composite > IINS > SECURE > IPS > FIREWALL > VPN > CCIE:S Written > CCIE:S Lab
3. Security (Max): 3200 = ICND1 > ICND2 > IINS > SECURE > IPS > FIREWALL > VPN > CCIE:S Written > CCIE:S Lab

4. Service Provider (Min): 2950 = ICND1 > ICND2 > SPROUTE > SPADVROUTE > SPCORE > SPEDGE > CCIE:SP Written > CCIE:SP Lab
4. Service Provider (Min): 2950 = ICND1 > ICND2 > SPROUTE > SPADVROUTE > SPCORE > SPEDGE > CCIE:SP Written > CCIE:SP Lab

5. SP Ops (Min): 3195 = CCNA Composite > SSPO > OFCN > MSPRP > MSPVM > MSPQS > CCIE:SP Ops Written > CCIE:SP Ops Lab
5. SP Ops (Max): 3200 = ICND1 > ICND2 > SSPO > OFCN > MSPRP > MSPVM > PSPQS > CCIE:SP Ops Wirtten > CCIE:SP Ops Lab

6. Storage Networking (Min): 1850 = CCIE:SAN Written > CCIE:SAN Lab
6. Storage Networking (Max): --

7. Voice (Min): 3395 = CCNA Composite > ICOMM > CVOICE > CIPT1 > CIPT2 > TVOICE > CAPPS > CCIE:V Written > CCIE:V Lab
7. Voice (Max): 3400 = ICND1 > ICND2 > ICOMM > CVOICE > CIPT1 > CIPT2 > TVOICE > CAPPS > CCIE:V Written > CCIE:V Lab

8. Wireless (Min): 3195 = CCNA Composite > IUWNE > CUWSS > IUWVN > IUWMS > IAUWS > CCIE:W Written > CCIE:W Lab
8. Wireless (Max): 3200 = ICND1 > ICND2 > IUWNE > CUWSS > IUWVN > IUWMS > IAUWS > CCIE:W Written > CCIE:W Lab

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Entry Certifications Overview

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CCT: Cisco Certified Technician. Total Exam Cost: 375
3 Tests: RSTECH (640-692), DCTECH (640-893), TPTECH (640-792).
RSTECH: 90 Minutes, 60 - 70 Questions. 125 USD. CCT Routing and Switching
DCTECH: 90 Minutes, 60 - 70 Questions. 125 USD. CCT Data Center
TPTECH: 90 Minutes, 60 - 70 Questions. 125 USD. CCT TelePresence
Test Notes: Required to pass RSTECH before the other two exams.
Test Notes: Other exams can be taken in any order.
Associated with Certifications: None
Not a requirement for any other exams.
Information overlaps with ICND2 material.
Books$: No Books Available.
Valid: No information
Recertification (Meet 1 requirement.): Pass Current: CCT Exam, ICND1, ICND2, CCNA, CCDA, CCNA Concentration, 642-xxx Professional, Cisco Specialist (Not covered here), CCIE Written, CCDE Written, CCDE Practical, CCAr Interview and Board Review
Cisco Url: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/community/certifications/cct


CCENT: Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician. Total Exam Cost: 150
1 Test: ICND1.
ICND1: 90 Minutes, 40 - 50 Questions. 150 USD. Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices - Part 1
Associated with Certifications: CCENT, CCNA, CCNA: SP Ops
Information overlaps with CCT material.
Books$: 20-40
Valid: 3 Years
Recertification (Meet 1 requirement.): Pass Current: ICND1, ICND2, CCNA, CCDA, CCNA Concentration, 642-xxx Professional Level, Cisco Specialist Exams (Excluding: Sales Specialist Exams, or MeetingPlace Specialist, Implementing Cisco Telepresense Installations, Cisco Leading Virtual Classroom Instruction, 650 Online), CCIE Written, CCDE Written, CCDE Practical, CCAr Interview and Board Review
Cisco Url: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/community/certifications/ccent

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Associate Certifications Overview

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CCDA: Cisco Certified Design Associate. Total Exam Cost: 200 USD
1 Test: DESGN (640-864)
DESGN: 75 Mins, 50 - 60 Questions. 200 USD. Designing for Cisco Internetwork Solutions
No valid certifications are required.
Test Notes: Cisco assumes candidates have CCNA and SWITCH (642-813) level knowledge for this certification.
Test Notes: Required for CCDP
Associated with Certifications: None
Books$: 35-60
Valid: 3 Years
Recertification (Meet 1 requirement.): Pass Current: CCNA Concentration, CCDA DESGN, 642-xxx Professional-Level, Cisco Specialist Exams (Excluding: Sales Specialist Exams, or MeetingPlace Specialist, Implementing Cisco Telepresense Installations, Cisco Leading Virtual Classroom Instruction, 650 Online), CCIE Written, CCDE Written, CCDE Practical, CCAr Interview and CCAr Board Review
Cisco Url: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/community/certifications/ccda

CCNA: Cisco Certified Networking Associate. Total Exam Cost: 300 or 295 USD
2 Test: ICND1, ICND2
ICND1: 90 Minutes, 40 - 50 Questions. 150 USD. Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices - Part 1
ICND2: 90 Minutes, 40 - 50 Questions. 150 USD. Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices - Part 2
1 Test: CCNA Composite
CCNA Composite: 90 Minutes, 45 - 55 Questions. 295 USD. CCNA Exam
No valid certifications are required.
Test Notes: Passing the CCNA Composite exam will not reward a CCENT Certification.
Test Notes: Required for CCNP, CCIP, CCNA: Security, CCNA: Voice, CCNA: Wireless
Associated with Certifications: CCENT, CCNA
Books$: 20-60
Valid: 3 Years
Recertification (Meet 1 requirement.): Pass Current: ICND2, CCNA, CCDA DESGN, CCNA Concentration, 642-xxx Professional-Level, Cisco Specialist Exam (Excluding: Sales Specialist Exams, or MeetingPlace Specialist, Implementing Cisco Telepresense Installations, Cisco Leading Virtual Classroom Instruction, 650 Online), CCIE Written, CCDE Written, CCDE Practical, CCAr Interview and CCAr Board Review
Cisco Url: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/community/certifications/ccna

CCNA: Security: Cisco Certified Networking Associate Security. Total Exam Cost: 250 USD
1 Test: IINS (640-553)
IINS: 90 Mins, 55 - 65 Questions. 250 USD. Implementing Cisco IOS Network Security
Requires valid CCNA, any CCIE
Test Notes: Required for CCNP: Security
Associated with Certifications: None
Books$: 24-55
Valid: 3 Years
Recertification (Meet 1 requirement.): Pass Current: CCNA Centration, 642-xxx Professional-Level, Cisco Specialist Exam (Excluding: Sales Specialist Exams, or MeetingPlace Specialist, Implementing Cisco Telepresense Installations, Cisco Leading Virtual Classroom Instruction, 650 Online), CCIE Written, CCDE Written, CCDE Practical, CCAr Interview and CCAR Board Review.
Cisco Url: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/community/certifications/security_ccna

CCNA: Service Provider: Cisco Certified Networking Associate Service Provider. Total Exam Cost: 500 USD
2 Tests: SPNGN1 (640-875), SPNGN2 (640-878 )
SPNGN1: 90 Mins, 65 - 75 Questions. 250 USD. Building Cisco Service Provider Next-Generation Networks, Part 1
SPNGN2: 90 Mins, 65 - 75 Questions. 250 USD. Building Cisco Service Provider Next-Generation Networks, Part 2
Requires valid CCNA
Test Notes: Not required for CCNP: Service Provider
Associated with Certifications:
Books$:
Valid: No Information
Recertification (Meet 1 requirement.): No Information
Cisco Url: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/community/certifications/ccna_service_provider

CCNA: SP Ops: Cisco Certified Networking Associate Service Provider Operations. Total Exam Cost: 250 USD
2 Test: SSPO (640-760), ICND1 (640-822)
2 Test: SSPO (640-760), CCNA Composite (640-802)
SSPO: 75 Mins, 55 - 65 Questions. 250 USD. Supporting Cisco Service Provider IP NGN Operations
ICND1: 90 Minutes, 40 - 50 Questions. 150 USD. Interconnecting Cisco Networking Devices - Part 1
CCNA Composite: 90 Minutes, 45 - 55 Questions. 295 USD. CCNA Exam
Requires a valid CCENT, CCNA, any CCIE
Test Notes: Required for CCNP: SP Ops
Associated with Certifications: None
Books$: None are available for "SSPO".
Valid: 3 Years
Recertification (Meet 1 requirement.): Pass Current: CCNA Centration, 642-xxx Professional-Level, Cisco Specialist Exam (Excluding: Sales Specialist Exams, or MeetingPlace Specialist, Implementing Cisco Telepresense Installations, Cisco Leading Virtual Classroom Instruction, 650 Online), CCIE Written, CCDE Written, CCDE Practical, CCAr Interview and CCAR Board Review.
Cisco Url: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/community/certifications/ccna_sp_operations


CCNA: Voice: Cisco Certified Networking Associate Voice. Total Exam Cost: 250 USD
1 Test: ICOMM (640-461)
ICOMM: 90 Mins, 60 - 70 Questions. 250 USD. Introducing Cisco Voice and UNified COmmunications Administration
Requires a valid CCNA, any CCIE
Test Notes: Required for CCNP: Voice
Associated with Certifications: None
Books$: 25 - 55
Valid: 3 Years
Recertification (Meet 1 requirement.): Pass Current: CCNA Centration, 642-xxx Professional-Level, Cisco Specialist Exam (Excluding: Sales Specialist Exams, or MeetingPlace Specialist, Implementing Cisco Telepresense Installations, Cisco Leading Virtual Classroom Instruction, 650 Online), CCIE Written, CCDE Written, CCDE Practical, CCAr Interview and CCAR Board Review.
Cisco Url: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/community/certifications/voice_ccna


CCNA: Wireless: Cisco Certified Networking Associate Wireless. Total Exam Cost: 250 USD
1 Test: IUWNE (640-722)
IUWNE: 90 Mins, 60 - 70 Questions. 250 USD. Implementing Cisco Unified Wireless Networking Essentials
Requires a valid CCNA, any CCIE
Test Notes: Required for CCNP: Wireless
Associated with Certifications: None
Books$: 25 - 55
Valid: 3 Years
Recertification (Meet 1 requirement.): Pass Current: CCNA Centration, 642-xxx Professional-Level, Cisco Specialist Exam (Excluding: Sales Specialist Exams, or MeetingPlace Specialist, Implementing Cisco Telepresense Installations, Cisco Leading Virtual Classroom Instruction, 650 Online), CCIE Written, CCDE Written, CCDE Practical, CCAr Interview and CCAR Board Review.
Cisco Url: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/community/certifications/wireless_ccna

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Professional Certifications Overview

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CCDP Cisco Certified Design Professional. Total Exam Cost: 600 USD
3 Tests: SWITCH (640-813), ROUTE (642-902), ARCH (642-874)
SWITCH: 120 Mins, 35 - 45 Questions. 200 USD. Implementing Cisco IP Switching Networks
ROUTE: 120 Mins, 45 - 55 Questions. 200 USD. Implementing Cisco IP Routing
ARCH: 75 Mins, 50 - 60 Questions. 200 USD. Designing Cisco Network Service Architectures
Requires a valid CCDA
Test Notes: Required for CCDE
Test Notes: Passing and keeping valid SWITCH and ROUTE exams will also qualify for other tracks as well. Like Routing and Switching.
Associated with Certifications: CCNP, CCIP.
Books$:
Valid: 3 Years
Recertification (Meet 1 requirement.): Pass Current: 642-xxx Professional-Level, CCIE Written, CCDE Written, CCDE Practical, CCAr Interview and CCAR Board Review.
Cisco Url: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/community/certifications/ccdp

CCNP Cisco Certified Networking Professional. Total Exam Cost: 600 USD
3 Tests: SWITCH (640-813), ROUTE (642-902), TSHOOT (642-832)
SWITCH: 120 Mins, 35 - 45 Questions. 200 USD. Implementing Cisco IP Switching Networks
ROUTE: 120 Mins, 45 - 55 Questions. 200 USD. Implementing Cisco IP Routing
TSHOOT: 135 Mins, 35 - 40 Questions. 200 USD. Troubleshooting and Maintaining Cisco IP Networks
Requires a valid CCNA
Test Notes: Required for CCIE: RS
Test Notes: Passing and keeping valid SWITCH and ROUTE exams will also qualify for other tracks as well. Like Design.
Test Notes: Cisco Recommends passing SWITCH first, ROUTE Second, TSHOOT last.
Associated with Certifications: CCDP, CCIP.
Books$:
Valid: 3 Years
Recertification (Meet 1 requirement.): Pass Current: 642-xxx Professional-Level, CCIE Written, CCDE Written, CCDE Practical, CCAr Interview and CCAR Board Review.
Cisco Url: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/community/certifications/ccnp
Cisco Exam Tool:: http://www.cisco.com/web/learning/le3/le2/le37/le10/ccnp_exam_combo_tool.html

CCNP: Security Cisco Certified Networking Professional Security. Total Exam Cost: 800 USD
4 Tests: SECURE (642-637), IPS (642-627), FIREWALL (642-617), VPN (642-647)
SECURE: 90 Mins, 60 - 70 Questions. 200 USD. Securing Networks with Cisco Routers and Switches
IPS: 90 Mins, 60 - 70 Questions. 200 USD. Implementing Cisco Intrusion Prevention System
FIREWALL: 90 Mins, 60 - 70 Questions. 200 USD. Deploying Cisco ASA Firewall Solutions
VPN: 90 Mins, 60 - 70 Questions. 200 USD. Deploying Cisco ASA VPN Solutions
Requires a valid CCNA: Security
Test Notes: Required for CCIE: Security
Test Notes: Most of these tests follow along with cisco specialist certifications. ie: IPS for "IPS Specialist"
Associated with Certifications:
Books$:
Valid: 3 Years
Recertification (Meet 1 requirement.): Pass Current: 642-xxx Professional-Level, CCIE Written, CCDE Written, CCDE Practical, CCAr Interview and CCAR Board Review.
Cisco Url: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/community/certifications/ccnpsecurity

CCNP: Service Provider Cisco Certified Network Professional Service Provider. Total Exam Cost: 800 USD
4 Tests: SPROUTE (642-883), SPADVROUTE (642-885), SPCORE (642-887), SPEDGE (642-889)
SPROUTE: 90 Mins, 65 - 75 Questions. 200 USD. Deploying Cisco Service Provider Network Routing
SPADVROUTE: 90 Mins, 65 - 75 Questions. 200 USD. Deploying Cisco Service provider Advanced Network Routing
SPCORE: 90 Mins, 65 - 75 Questions. 200 USD. Implementing Cisco Service Provider Next-Generation Core Network Services
SPEDGE: 90 Mins, 65 - 75 Questions. 200 USD. Implementing Cisco Service Provider Next-Generation Edge Network Services
Requires: Valid CCNA Service Provider, valid CCNA (R&S) + 1 CCIP exam (QOS,BGP,MPLS,BGP+MPLS,ROUTE,BSCI), valid CCIP, Any valid CCIE Certification.
Books$:
Valid: 3 Years
Recertification (Meet 1 requirement.): Pass Current: 642-xxx Professional-Level, CCIE Written, CCDE Written, CCDE Practical, CCAr Interview and CCAR Board Review.
Cisco Url: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/community/certifications/ccnp_service_provider

CCNP: SP Ops Cisco Certified Network Professional Service Provider Operations. Total Exam Cost: 800 USD
4 Tests: OFCN (642-770), MSPRP (642-775), MSPVM (642-780), MSPQS (642-785)
OFCN: 75 Mins, 60 - 70 Questions. 200 USD. Operational Foundations for Cisco Service Provider Core Networks
MSPRP: 75 Mins, 65 - 75 Questions. 200 USD. Maintaining Cisco Service Provider Routing Protocols
MSPVM: 75 Mins, 60 - 70 Questions. 200 USD. Maintaining Cisco Service Provider VPNs and MPLS Networks
MSPQS: 75 Mins, 60 - 70 Questions. 200 USD. Maintaining Cisco Service Provider Quality of Service
Requires a valid CCNA: SP Ops, any CCIE
Test Notes: Required for CCIE: SP Ops
OFCN Test Notes: Cisco Recommends passing OFCN before the others.
MSPRP Test Notes: Cisco Recommends completing quick modules: OSPF, IS-IS, BGP.
Books$:
Valid: 3 Years
Recertification (Meet 1 requirement.): Pass Current: 642-xxx Professional-Level, CCIE Written, CCDE Written, CCDE Practical, CCAr Interview and CCAR Board Review.
Cisco Url: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/community/certifications/ccnpspops

CCNP: Voice Cisco Certified Network Professional Voice. Total Exam Cost: 1,000 USD
5 Tests: OFCN (642-770), MSPRP (642-775), MSPVM (642-780), MSPQS (642-785)
CVOICE: 90 Mins, 60 - 70 Questions. 200 USD. Implementing Cisco Unified Communications Voice over IP and QoS
CIPT1: 90 Mins, 60 - 70 Questions. 200 USD. Implementing Cisco Unified Communications Manager, Part 1
CIPT2: 105 Mins, 60 - 70 Questions. 200 USD. Implementing Cisco Unified Communications Manager, Part 2
TVOICE: 90 Mins, 60 - 70 Questions. 200 USD. Troubleshooting Cisco Unified Communications
CAPPS: 75 Mins, 60 - 70 Questions. 200 USD. Integrating Cisco Unified Communications Applications
Requires a valid CCNA: Voice
Test Notes: Required for CCIE: Voice
Books$:
Valid: 3 Years
Recertification (Meet 1 requirement.): Pass Current: 642-xxx Professional-Level, CCIE Written, CCDE Written, CCDE Practical, CCAr Interview and CCAR Board Review.
Cisco Url: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/community/certifications/ccvp

CCNP: Wireless Cisco Certified Network Professional Wireless. Total Exam Cost: 800 USD
5 Tests: CUWSS (642-732), IUWVN (642-742), IUWMS (642-747), IAUWS (642-737)
CUWSS: 90 Mins, 50 - 60 Questions. 200 USD. Conducting Cisco Unified Wireless Site Survey
IUWVN: 90 Mins, 50 - 60 Questions. 200 USD. Implementing Cisco Unified Wireless Voice Networks
IUWMS: 90 Mins, 50 - 60 Questions. 200 USD. Implementing Cisco Unified Wireless Mobility Services
IAUWS: 90 Mins, 50 - 60 Questions. 200 USD. Implementing Advanced Cisco Unified Wireless Security
Requires a valid CCNA: Wireless
Test Notes: Required for CCIE: Wireless
Books$:
Valid: 3 Years
Recertification (Meet 1 requirement.): Pass Current: 642-xxx Professional-Level, CCIE Written, CCDE Written, CCDE Practical, CCAr Interview and CCAR Board Review.
Cisco Url: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/community/certifications/ccnp_wireless

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Expert Certifications Overview

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CCDE: Cisco Certified Design Expert. Total Exam Cost: 1,850 USD
2 Tests: Written (352-001), Practical (352-011)
Written: 120 Mins, 90 - 110 Questions. 350 USD. Cisco Certified Design Expert Qualification Exam
Practical: 480 Mins, 1,500 USD. Cisco Certified Design Expert Practical Exam
No valid certifications required
Test Notes: Required for CCAr
Test Notes: Costs do not include travel and lodging.
"Practical" Format: Does not require configuration or manipulation of networking devices.
Books$:
Valid: 2 Years. (Afterwards: Suspended)
Suspended: 1 Year. (Afterwards: Inactive)
Recertification (Valid Status): Pass Current: CCIE Written, CCIE lab, CCDE Written, CCDE Practical, CCAr Interview and CCAr Board Review
Recertification (Suspended Status Per Cisco Syllabus): Pass Current: CCIE Written and CCIE Lab, CCDE Written and CCDE Practical.
Recertification (Suspended Status Per Cisco Recertification): Pass Current: CCIE Written or CCIE Lab, CCDE Written or CCDE Practical.
Cisco Url: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/community/certifications/ccde

CCIE: RS Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert - Routing and Switching. Total Exam Cost: 1,850 USD
2 Tests: Written (350-001), Lab (352-011)
Written: 120 Mins, 90 - 110 Questions. 350 USD. CCIE R&S Written Exam
Lab: 480 Mins. 1,500 USD. CCIE R&S Lab Exam
No valid certifications required
Test Notes: Costs do not include travel and lodging.
Lab Format: 120 Min Troubleshooting, 360 Min Configuration.
Books$:
Valid: 2 Years. (Afterwards: Suspended)
Suspended: 1 Year. (Afterwards: Inactive)
Recertification (Valid Status): Pass Current: CCIE Written, CCIE lab, CCDE Written, CCDE Practical, CCAr Interview and CCAr Board Review
Recertification (Suspended Status Per Cisco Syllabus): Pass Current: CCIE Written and CCIE Lab, CCDE Written and CCDE Practical.
Recertification (Suspended Status Per Cisco Recertification): Pass Current: CCIE Written or CCIE Lab, CCDE Written or CCDE Practical.
Cisco Url: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/community/certifications/ccie_routing_switching

CCIE: Security Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert - Security. Total Exam Cost: 1,850 USD
2 Tests: Written (350-018 ), Lab (352-011)
Written: 120 Mins, 90 - 110 Questions. 350 USD. CCIE Security Written Exam
Lab: 480 Mins. 1,500 USD. CCIE Security Lab Exam
No valid certifications required
Test Notes: Costs do not include travel and lodging.
Lab Format: Unknown
Books$:
Valid: 2 Years. (Afterwards: Suspended)
Suspended: 1 Year. (Afterwards: Inactive)
Recertification (Valid Status): Pass Current: CCIE Written, CCIE lab, CCDE Written, CCDE Practical, CCAr Interview and CCAr Board Review
Recertification (Suspended Status Per Cisco Syllabus): Pass Current: CCIE Written and CCIE Lab, CCDE Written and CCDE Practical.
Recertification (Suspended Status Per Cisco Recertification): Pass Current: CCIE Written or CCIE Lab, CCDE Written or CCDE Practical.
Cisco Url: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/community/certifications/ccie_security

CCIE: Service Provider Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert - Service Provider. Total Exam Cost: 1,850 USD
2 Tests: Written (350-029), Lab (352-011)
Written: 120 Mins, 90 - 110 Questions. 350 USD. CCIE Service Provider Written Exam Beta
Lab: 480 Mins. 1,500 USD. CCIE Service Provider Exam
No valid certifications required
Test Notes: Costs do not include travel and lodging.
Lab Format: Unknown
Books$:
Valid: 2 Years. (Afterwards: Suspended)
Suspended: 1 Year. (Afterwards: Inactive)
Recertification (Valid Status): Pass Current: CCIE Written, CCIE lab, CCDE Written, CCDE Practical, CCAr Interview and CCAr Board Review
Recertification (Suspended Status Per Cisco Syllabus): Pass Current: CCIE Written and CCIE Lab, CCDE Written and CCDE Practical.
Recertification (Suspended Status Per Cisco Recertification): Pass Current: CCIE Written or CCIE Lab, CCDE Written or CCDE Practical.
Cisco Url: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/community/certifications/ccie_service_provider

CCIE: SP Operations Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert - Service Provider Operations. Total Exam Cost: 1,850 USD
2 Tests: Written (350-060), Lab (352-011)
Written: 120 Mins, 90 - 110 Questions. 350 USD. CCIE SP Operations Written Exam
Lab: 480 Mins. 1,500 USD. CCIE SP Operations Lab Exam
No valid certifications required
Test Notes: Costs do not include travel and lodging.
Lab Format: Unknown
Books$:
Valid: 2 Years. (Afterwards: Suspended)
Suspended: 1 Year. (Afterwards: Inactive)
Recertification (Valid Status): Pass Current: CCIE Written, CCIE lab, CCDE Written, CCDE Practical, CCAr Interview and CCAr Board Review
Recertification (Suspended Status Per Cisco Syllabus): No Information
Recertification (Suspended Status Per Cisco Recertification): Pass Current: CCIE Written or CCIE Lab, CCDE Written or CCDE Practical.
Cisco Url: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/community/certifications/ccie_sp_operations

CCIE: SAN Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert - Storage Networking. Total Exam Cost: 1,850 USD
2 Tests: Written (350-040), Lab (352-011)
Written: 120 Mins, 90 - 110 Questions. 350 USD. CCIE Storage Networking Written Exam
Lab: 480 Mins. 1,500 USD. CCIE Storage Networking Lab Exam
No valid certifications required
Test Notes: Costs do not include travel and lodging.
Lab Format: Unknown
Books$:
Valid: 2 Years. (Afterwards: Suspended)
Suspended: 1 Year. (Afterwards: Inactive)
Recertification (Valid Status): Pass Current: CCIE Written, CCIE lab, CCDE Written, CCDE Practical, CCAr Interview and CCAr Board Review
Recertification (Suspended Status Per Cisco Syllabus): Pass Current: CCIE Written and CCIE Lab, CCDE Written and CCDE Practical.
Recertification (Suspended Status Per Cisco Recertification): Pass Current: CCIE Written or CCIE Lab, CCDE Written or CCDE Practical.
Cisco Url: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/community/certifications/ccie_storage_networking

CCIE: Voice Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert - Voice. Total Exam Cost: 1,850 USD
2 Tests: Written (350-030), Lab (352-011)
Written: 120 Mins, 90 - 110 Questions. 350 USD. CCIE Voice Written Exam
Lab: 480 Mins. 1,500 USD. CCIE Voice Lab Exam
No valid certifications required
Test Notes: Costs do not include travel and lodging.
Lab Format: Unknown
Books$:
Valid: 2 Years. (Afterwards: Suspended)
Suspended: 1 Year. (Afterwards: Inactive)
Recertification (Valid Status): Pass Current: CCIE Written, CCIE lab, CCDE Written, CCDE Practical, CCAr Interview and CCAr Board Review
Recertification (Suspended Status Per Cisco Syllabus): Pass Current: CCIE Written and CCIE Lab, CCDE Written and CCDE Practical.
Recertification (Suspended Status Per Cisco Recertification): Pass Current: CCIE Written or CCIE Lab, CCDE Written or CCDE Practical.
Cisco Url: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/community/certifications/ccie_voice

CCIE: Wireless Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert - Wireless. Total Exam Cost: 1,850 USD
2 Tests: Written (350-050), Lab (352-011)
Written: 120 Mins, 90 - 110 Questions. 350 USD. CCIE Wireless Written Exam
Lab: 480 Mins. 1,500 USD. CCIE Wireless Lab Exam
No valid certifications required
Test Notes: Costs do not include travel and lodging.
Lab Format: Unknown
Books$:
Valid: 2 Years. (Afterwards: Suspended)
Suspended: 1 Year. (Afterwards: Inactive)
Recertification (Valid Status): Pass Current: CCIE Written, CCIE lab, CCDE Written, CCDE Practical, CCAr Interview and CCAr Board Review
Recertification (Suspended Status Per Cisco Syllabus): Pass Current: CCIE Written and CCIE Lab, CCDE Written and CCDE Practical.
Recertification (Suspended Status Per Cisco Recertification): Pass Current: CCIE Written or CCIE Lab, CCDE Written or CCDE Practical.
Cisco Url: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/community/certifications/ccie_wireless

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Architect Certifications Overview

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CCAr Cisco Certified Architect. Total Exam Cost: 15,000 USD
1 Tests: Board Review
2 Unofficial Tests: Phone Interview, Board Review
Phone Interview: 3,750 USD.
Board Review: 11,250 USD.
Requires a valid CCDE
Test Notes: Costs do not include travel and lodging.
Test Notes: The Board Exam consists of two stages: 1) Application and I]Phone[/I Interview. 2) Board Review
Test Notes: Not ever applicant will make it past Part 1 of the Board Review.
Timeline: 5 Months between Registration and Pass/Fail notification.
Part 1 Date Range: 2 Months
% Past Stage 1: Unknown
Part 2 Date Range: 3 Months.
Lab Format: Unknown
Books$:
Recertification: Evaluate CCAr Candidates or Serving on the CCAr Board Review.
Cisco Url: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/community/certifications/cisco_certified_architect

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Specialist Certifications Overview

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I will not cover any further information concerning specialist certifications. Specialist Certifications List

Advanced Routing & Switching:
- Field Specialist
- Sales Specialist
- Soluitions Specialist

Collaboration - IP Telephony Specialists:
- Advanced IP Communication Sales
- IP Communications Express Sales
- IP Communications Express
- IP Telephony Design
- Rich Media Communications

Collaboration - Voicemail and Messaging Specialist:
- Unity Design
- Unity Support
- Unified Presence

Collaboration - Contract Center Specialist:
- IP Contact Center Express

Collaboration - Web Conferencing Specialist:
- MeetingPlace Design
- MeetingPlace Sales
- MeetingPlace Support

Collaboration - Virtual Classroom Specialist:
- Virtual Classroom Instruction

Data Center - Unified Computing:
- Design
- Support

Data Center - Networking Infrastructure:
- Design
- Support
- Sales

Data Center - Application Services:
- Design
- Support

Data Center - Storage Networking:
- Design
- Support
- Sales

Foundation for Channel Partners:
- Cisco Express Design
- Cisco Express Field
- Cisco Express Foundation

Security:
- ASA
- Firewall
- IPS
- IOS
- Network Admission Control
- Security Solutions and Design
- Security Sales
- VPN Security

Video:
- Rich Media Communications
- TelePresence Solutions
- TelePrecence Installations

Wireless LANs Certifications:
- Advanced Wireless LAN Design
- Advanced Wireless LAN Field
- Advanced Wireless LAN Sales

ChooseLife

This is a great undertaking and a candidate for a sticky!

Roguetadhg

I got what I could done today. I'm trying to not Lab, and Study before my test monday

Fiance wants to get out of the house, probably do a Wal-mart run.

...I'll sneak out early tomorrow to do my last day of small labbing. Ohh, i can feel the anxiety setting in. It's almost too much. I guess it's been 9 years of needing to pass this test. I hate leaving things unfinished. It haunts me with regret at night.

lrb

Great post for all the people looking to kick of their Cisco studies - nice work

Oscedumir

+1 nicely laid out and intuitive. thanks for your efforts

dcren21

This is a great list. Thanks for the work you put in for it. I always wanted to know all the tracks but was just too lazy to do so. Thanks again.

JamesFigueroa

Good work on this man! The website got confusing at times, especially for voice...thanks for the no bs approach!

PC509

Very good post. That is very simple to understand yet detailed enough to give all the information you need. Great post, definitely sticky worthy!

Roguetadhg

I added descriptions for the tracks. I tried to sum up of what you should expect in the tracks, and how its important.

I missed CCNA: SP. I have no information on my spread sheet about this program, and there is no Syllabus available.
Two exams: SPNGN1, SPNGN2.
Cisco Link: https://learningnetwork.cisco.com/community/certifications/ccna_service_provider

I'll go about adding information relating to this certification and Exam on Monday.

Zartanasaurus

When you lay out the cost to achieve a CCIE and compare it to what a Master's degree would cost, the ROI seems so much better with the former.

Roguetadhg

The cost i have listed is if you've passed all the tests, each time. Don't forget purchasing equipment, Lab studies, books, and failed exams. I would say it's safer to bump up the cost by a half of what I have listed for room for the other stuff and retakes.

Roguetadhg

I've stuck in a few more important points. Years Valid, Recertification Requirements, Specialist Certifications Overview, CCNA:SP.

Does anyone know for sure the recertification requirements for Expert-Level certifications? I've went off Cisco's websites, but it's conflicting.

Zartanasaurus

Roguetadhg wrote: »

The cost i have listed is if you've passed all the tests, each time. Don't forget purchasing equipment, Lab studies, books, and failed exams. I would say it's safer to bump up the cost by a half of what I have listed for room for the other stuff and retakes.

You have to factor in the cost of your time, books, travel (or proctoring fees if doing it online) and failed classes when doing a Master's degree. Possibly student loan interest as well.

Roguetadhg

Zartanasaurus wrote: »

You have to factor in the cost of your time, books, travel (or proctoring fees if doing it online) and failed classes when doing a Master's degree. Possibly student loan interest as well.

That would be something you'd need to weigh.

If you already have equipment, or if your employer is paying for the tests, or you have air plane miles to use... things of that nature is something I could not put into costs. All I can do is tell you how much it would take to pay for the tests, out of pocket. For example, I failed my first CCNA test... but I had a voucher. Then I failed my second time, 9 years later (man, if I had kept up with it...), but I had to pay out of pocket. The next time I test, I'll also be paying - whether I pass or fail.

My workplace doesn't pay for any certifications, doesn't have any equipment they'll lend, and doesn't have any incentives to keep current with technology. So the costs to study, as well as to fail tests hurts extra hard for me.

whatthehell

Great post and resource! +1 for you!

mgmguy1

This is a Great Post and a candidate for a sticky!
My two cents

klokwyze

Great post! Looking to start my Cisco certifcation path... Thanks!

Roguetadhg

CCIP retired.
CCNP:SP added.

str8outtajerzy

Nice information, thanks!

sharkezo

Great post , thanks!

AWetzel1025

Such an intuitive layout. Thanks.

Params7

Very informative thread

Holdendazz

Fantastic Resource. I am looking at a change of career into the IT networking field and this has helped understand the many levels of Certification. Great work

thierry08

Hallo,

I am not sure about CCNA, can I start with CCNAX (200-120) exam? I had a CCNA cert 7 years before and now I registered for an CCNAX (200-120) exam. But I am not sure, can I do CCNAX instaed of ICND1 and ICND2? It should include both and I do not need any valid certs to do this CCNAX exam?

thanks,
Henry

craterman

need to update information. prices, exam codes all this is out of date