Are you a desktop support engineer or helpdesk technician? If you’re feeling stuck in such roles then it’s surely time to upgrade. The best path, if you may ask? It is to become a Network Engineer. If this role resonates with you, make sure that you keep reading. 

The network engineer, especially the network specialist role is in extreme demand currently. Even if you’ve CCNA certification, oftentimes it gets difficult to get a job as a Network Engineer due to lack of specialization or experience. 

This blog lays out the exact guide to become a Network Automation/Security Engineer! Therefore, you are going to get the exact certification pathway for the same, followed by exam details, and many more.

Without further ado, let’s get started!

Why is CCNA Certification Just Not Enough?

Whenever an aspiring network engineer goes out to apply for jobs as a network engineer, the job description does not only ask for certification coverage like CCNA and/or CCNP but these job descriptions also ask for advanced skills like firewall configuration and network automation.

If you want to stay average, you may stick to just CCNA and CCNP. However, if you want to attract 2x better package than a conventional Network Engineer, you must go ahead with advanced skills like firewall and network automation.

When we talk about Firewall, we majorly talk about the industry leaders like Palo Alto, Fortigate and Checkpoint firewalls. In addition, it is also good to have F5 LTM load balancer skills under your belt.

On the other hand when we talk about network automation, it is important to understand the concepts of SD-WAN. SD-WAN refers to a software-defined wide area network. It replaces the traditional WAN architecture with software-defined networking.

Introducing Network Specialist Master’s Program

If you don’t want to be an average network engineer then you must choose the Network Specialist Master’s Program by Network Kings. It is a special program created specially by top 1% network engineers. 

Even companies like Microsoft are no longer looking for candidates with just CCNA certification. This is especially why we created our Network Specialist training with certification. 

Just take a look at the image below to understand what is covered in this course.

What Modules are Covered in the Network Specialist Training Program?

The Network Specialist Master's Program is designed to transform you from a basic network professional into a highly sought-after specialist. Here's what makes this program comprehensive and industry-relevant:

1. CCNP ENCOR (Implementing and Operating Cisco Enterprise Network Core Technologies)

• This module forms the foundation of your enterprise networking knowledge. 

• CCNP ENCOR covers advanced routing and switching concepts, wireless networking, network assurance, and security fundamentals. 

• You'll dive deep into topics like:

1. dual-stack architecture (IPv4 and IPv6) 

2. virtualization

3. infrastructure automation

4. network programmability

This certification validates your ability to implement core enterprise network technologies and prepares you for real-world challenges in enterprise environments.

2. CCNP ENARSI (Implementing Cisco Enterprise Advanced Routing and Security)

• Building upon ENCOR, the ENARSI module takes your routing skills to the next level. 

• You will master the following technologies:

1. Advanced  routing protocols including OSPF, EIGRP, and BGP

2. VPN technologies

3. Infrastructure security

4. Troubleshooting complex enterprise networks

This module is crucial because most network engineering roles require you to configure, troubleshoot, and optimize routing protocols in large-scale environments.

3. Palo Alto Firewall

• Security is no longer optional in today's network landscape.

•  The Palo Alto Firewall module equips you with expertise in one of the most powerful next-generation firewalls in the industry. 

• You'll learn about the following technologies and concepts:

1. security policies

2. NAT configurations

3. VPN setup

4. threat prevention

5. URL filtering

6. user identification. 

Palo Alto certifications are highly valued because these firewalls are deployed across Fortune 500 companies and government organizations worldwide. Mastering this technology opens doors to security-focused network roles with premium compensation.

4. SD-WAN (Software-Defined Wide Area Network)

• Traditional WAN architectures are becoming obsolete as organizations move toward cloud-first strategies. 

• The SD-WAN module teaches you how to design, implement, and manage software-defined networks that provide better performance, cost efficiency, and flexibility. 

• You'll understand the following:

1. overlay networks

2. zero-touch provisioning

3. application-aware routing

4. policy-based traffic management

SD-WAN skills are particularly valuable as companies undergo digital transformation and require professionals who can bridge traditional networking with modern software-defined approaches.

What Makes This Program Stand Out?

The Network Specialist Master's Program isn't just about collecting certifications. It's about building real skills that employers actually need. Here's what sets it apart:

Hands-On Learning That Matters

Forget boring lectures and theory-only courses. This program puts you in front of real networking equipment and enterprise-grade firewalls. You'll configure actual routers, switches, and Palo Alto devices in lab environments that simulate real company networks.

Skills That Pay More

Let's be honest—money matters. The combination of CCNP certifications with Palo Alto firewall and SD-WAN expertise isn't random. These are the exact skills mentioned in high-paying job descriptions. Network specialists with this skill set earn significantly more than regular network engineers. We're talking about roles that pay 50-100% more than basic networking positions.

A Clear Path Forward

Stuck in helpdesk? This program is your exit strategy. It bridges the gap between entry-level IT roles and specialized network engineering positions. You'll gain the expertise needed for roles like Senior Network Engineer, Network Security Specialist, or SD-WAN Architect—titles that command respect and better compensation.

Globally Recognized Credentials

The certifications you'll earn aren't just fancy acronyms for your resume. CCNP certifications from Cisco are the gold standard in enterprise networking worldwide. Palo Alto skills open doors because these firewalls protect some of the world's largest organizations. These credentials carry weight whether you're job hunting in New York, London, or Singapore.

Future-Ready Technology

Networking isn't what it used to be. Companies are moving to cloud, automation, and software-defined everything. This program doesn't teach outdated technology—it prepares you for where the industry is heading. SD-WAN and network automation aren't buzzwords; they're the foundation of modern enterprise networks.

Who Should Take This?

If you're a desktop support engineer, system administrator, helpdesk technician, or junior network engineer feeling stuck, this program is for you. Already have CCNA? Perfect. You're ready to level up and transform your career from ordinary to exceptional.

FAQs:

1. How long does it take to complete the Network Specialist Master's Program?

Most students finish in 6-12 months, depending on how much time they can dedicate. If you already have CCNA knowledge, expect around 8-10 months with consistent effort. The program is flexible, so you can study while working full-time.

2. Do I need CCNA certification before enrolling?

CCNA is recommended but not mandatory. If you have solid IT fundamentals and networking exposure from helpdesk or desktop support roles, you can start directly. However, CCNA makes the learning smoother, especially for CCNP modules.

3. What job roles can I apply for after completion?

You'll qualify for Senior Network Engineer, Network Security Engineer, SD-WAN Engineer, Firewall Administrator, and Network Architect positions. These roles typically pay $70,000-$120,000+ annually.

4. Are these certifications globally recognized?

Yes. CCNP and Palo Alto certifications are respected worldwide and valued by employers across all industries.

5. What's the difference between a network engineer and network specialist?

Network engineers handle routine tasks. Network specialists solve complex problems, design architectures, and implement advanced technologies—earning significantly higher salaries.