Recent industry research reveals that 87% of employers regard IT and cybersecurity certifications as more attractive in hiring new employees, and 35% of those who make hiring decisions believe certified professionals strongly enhance their organization. 

Therefore, CCNP Enterprise certification is an invaluable resource for those wanting or already working as network specialists.

For those wondering whether or not the CCNP Enterprise certification is appropriate for them, this guide will take them through the cost, exam structure, benefits, and career opportunities associated with the certification.

What Is CCNP Enterprise Certification?

The Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) certification verifies an individual in planning, deploying, maintaining, and troubleshooting enterprise-level LAN and WAN networks.

This credential furthers one's technical prowess and adds to long-term career perspectives in the network domain.

Why Go for the CCNP Certification?

Here are the ten most compelling reasons as to why investing in the CCNP certification might do wonders for your career:

1. Comprehensive Technical Knowledge

CCNP training will furnish you with a solid knowledge base on advanced routing, switching, security, automation, and troubleshooting, which are core principles in today's multi-layered, solid network environments.

2. Better Job Mobility

This certification qualifies you for positions such as network engineer, systems administrator, network consultant, or IT manager. Organizations prefer CCNP-certified specialists because of their advanced skills and leadership abilities.

3. Higher Salary Potential

CCNP certification earns more than colleagues without certification- on average, pay is found to be 10% higher due to proven specialized skills.

4. Established Professional Recognition

CCNP is regarded as a reputable mid-level certification. It also shows your commitment to keeping updated with modern technologies and industry best practices.

5. Improved Job Security

With the increased dependence on networks for both stability and security, organizations are ever in pursuit of seasoned networking experts. Those with a CCNP credential become irreplaceable assets.

6. Credible Skillset

The certification verifies that you are competent at designing, implementing, verifying, and troubleshooting enterprise networks-all attributes that employers are keen to find.

7. Keep Updated With New Technology

Networking has advanced rapidly. This certification course assures you'll get to know the latest protocols, new automation tools, and cutting-edge network architecture.

8. Competitive Edge

In the dense job market, having the CCNP certificate sets one apart, demonstrating further specialization.

9. Options for Specialization

You can opt for a concentration exam that suits your interests-such as security, wireless, design, and more-once you finish the core exam.

10. Professional Networking

Becoming CCNP-certified opens you to a worldwide collaboration with Cisco professionals, enhancing your ability to research mentorship and job opportunities.

What is the Cost of CCNP Certification?

A clear understanding of the cost breakdown will help you in budgeting your certification journey.

Exam Fees

• Core Exam - almost $400

• Concentration Exam - almost $300

In total, you are spending about $700 to get your CCNP Enterprise certification, which is earned after passing one core and one concentration exam.

Example: Getting CCNP Enterprise:

Core: 350-401 ENCOR

Concentration: e.g., 300-410 ENARSI

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Additional Costs to Consider

• Study Materials: $50-$500

• Practice Tests/Labs: $50-$200

Area Differences: The costs differ worldwide; for example, in India, all the exams may cost about ₹52,500. 

CCNP Certification: Exam Structuring Overview

To obtain a CCNP Enterprise certification, the following must be obtained:

The CCNP Enterprise certification requires passing:

1. A Core Exam

2. One Concentration Exam

Core Exam – 350-401 ENCOR

This exam tests broad enterprise networking knowledge in areas like:

• Architecture – Enterprise design concepts, SD-WAN, wireless architectures

• Virtualization – Device and network virtualization

• Infrastructure – OSPF, EIGRP, VLANs, STP

• Network Assurance – Monitoring, troubleshooting, telemetry

• Security – Secure network access, VPNs

• Automation – APIs, programmability, automation tools

Passing ENCOR also grants the Cisco Certified Specialist – Enterprise Core designation.

Concentration Exams

Choose one specialization, such as:

• 300-410 ENARSI – Advanced routing and services

Exam Format, Duration & Passing Score

• Duration: ~120 minutes

• Question Types:

  • Multiple-choice

  • Drag-and-drop

  • Fill-in-the-blank

  • Simulation-based labs

• Passing Score: Usually 800–850 / 1000, depending on the specific exam.

Job Prospects & Career Growth with CCNP Certification in India

Below is an India-focused breakdown of the career paths and opportunities that come with earning a CCNP certification:

Is CCNP Worth Pursuing in 2026?

Definitely.

CCNP certification still has some very good value in the IT industry. Here is why.

• The demand for advanced networking skills remains high.

• Certified professionals enjoy much better salary growth.

• CCNP is recognized around the globe and relevant across many industries.

• In-demand specializations like security and cloud networking become available. 

• It sets you up for career advancement in enterprise networking roles in the long run.

What Is the Challenge of the CCNP Exam?

The CCNP exams are considered challenging, especially when judged against the CCNA. This is due to certain factors:

1. Advanced topics covering fairly complex routing, switching, automation, and security

2. Two-exam requirements (one core + one specialization)

3. Hands-on simulations test for real-world configuration and troubleshooting

4. Extensive practical preparation that almost always involves lab work

5. Scenario-based questions that test not only knowledge but also deeper levels of understanding

6. Being able to apply theoretical knowledge in reality-based Network environments.

Final Thoughts

The CCNP enterprise certification continues to be one of the most respected mid-level credentials in networking. For any professional intent on moving into a senior position, to land a project, or even specialize in security or SD-WAN, CCNP provides an excellent route. If you prepare steadily, practice hands-on, and adopt an effective study strategy, you will be successful in the exams and create exciting enterprise networking opportunities.

For learners looking to prepare effectively for CCNP or other networking certifications, Network Kings offers mentor-led online training, hands-on labs, and flexible study options. It’s a reliable platform for strengthening practical skills and building a strong foundation for career growth in the IT networking field.