Is CCNP Encor Worth It? Career Benefits And Comparisons

The world runs on networks and those who master the intricacies of connecting, securing, and optimizing them are in high demand. Whether you’re a seasoned IT professional looking to upskill or a newcomer eyeing a career in networking, the pursuit of proficiency in this field is nothing short of strategic. In this context, the CCNP Encor certification emerges as a beacon of expertise. And hence, the burning question remains: Is CCNP Encor worth it? 

So, stick around as we dive headfirst into its worth, dissecting its details, career opportunities, real-world applications, and more. As you stand at the threshold of your certification journey, we aim to provide you with the insight you need to make an informed decision. Let’s get started!

What Is the CCNP Encor Certification?

If you’re considering embarking on the path of the Encor certification, it is essential to begin by understanding what this acronym signifies and what it entails. 

CCNP Encor, Implementing Cisco Enterprise Network Core Technologies, is a certification offered by Cisco Systems, a global leader in networking technologies. This certification serves as a testament to your expertise in enterprise networking, a domain that powers the backbone of modern businesses.

The “core” in CCNP Encor refers to the foundational knowledge and skills required to design, implement, operate, and troubleshoot complex enterprise networks. It encompasses a wide array of topics, including network assurance, virtualization, infrastructure security, automation, and more.

Overview Of The Exam

The table below covers all the essential details related to the Cisco CCNP exam:

Exam Name Implementing and Operating Cisco Enterprise Network Core Technologies
Exam Code 350-401 ENCOR
No. Of Questions 90-110
Exam Duration 120 minutes
Passing Score 825 (out of 1000)
Cost $400 USD

Major Exam Domains

Here are the exam domains that will be tested in the exam, accompanied by their respective weightage:

  • Architecture (15%)
  • Virtualization (10%)
  • Infrastructure (30%)
  • Network Assurance (10%)
  • Security (20%)
  • Automation 

Follow up: CCNP Encor Study material to pass Certification

Benefits Of Earning The CCNP Encor Certification

Earning this certification can actually be a game-changer for your IT career but what tangible benefits does it offer? In this section, we’ll delve into the advantages of holding this esteemed certification.

1. Better Career Advancement Opportunities

The CCNP Encor certification is recognized globally as a symbol of expertise in networking technologies/ It opens doors to more advanced job roles, promotions, and increased responsibilities within your organization. Whether you’re eyeing a position as a network engineer, network architect, or a network security specialist, this certification can be your ticket to professional growth and advancement within the job market.

2. Gain A Competitive Edge

In the competitive IT job market, having a CCNP Encor certification on your resume can help set you apart from other candidates. This is because employers often prioritize candidates who have taken the time to get specialized certifications, bringing a higher level of expertise to the table.

3. Improved Adaptability

The CCNP curriculum has been designed in such a way to keep up with the changing trends within the industry. By earning this certification, you demonstrate your commitment to staying current in the field. This adaptability is a valuable trait in the constantly evolving space of IT. 

4. Enhanced Job Security

As organizations are increasingly continuing to rely on robust and secure networks, professionals with CCNP Encor expertise are in high demand.  As a result, this can provide a level of job security even in challenging economic times.

Read more: Cisco Certification worth and benefits

Jobs You Can Land With The CCNP Encor Certification

One of the primary motivations behind pursuing a certification like CCNP Encor is to enhance your career prospects. Now that we have covered the details of the certification and the potential benefits it has to offer to novice and seasoned IT individuals alike, it is time to look at the job roles this certification can help you land.

1. Network Engineer

A CCNP Encor certification is a natural fit for aspiring and experienced network engineers. With this certification, you’re equipped to design, implement, and manage complex enterprise networks, ensuring their efficiency and security.

2. Network Administrator

Network administrators play a crucial role in maintaining day-to-day network operations. A CCNP Encor certification provides the skills needed to troubleshoot network issues, implement security measures, and optimize network performance.

3. Network Consultant

Organizations often seek the guidance of network consultants to assess, plan, and implement network improvements. This CCNP certification can position you as a trusted advisor in such consulting roles.

4. Systems Administrator

Systems administrators often work in tandem with network professionals to ensure the smooth functioning of an organization’s IT infrastructure. The Encor certification complements these responsibilities by providing a deep understanding of network systems.

Read more: Is CCNA Certification Worth it

Real World Applicability

Let’s face it. A certification is only really useful if it can be applied and used to solve real-world issues and problems. Here, we’ll explore the practical applications of this certification’s knowledge in various situations.

1. Network Design and Optimization

CCNP Encor-certified professionals possess the skills to design network architectures that meet specific organizational requirements. Whether it’s creating a scalable and redundant network for a multinational corporation or ensuring optimal network performance for a small business, your expertise can make a significant difference

2. Troubleshooting and Problem Resolution

Network issues can disrupt business operations and lead to productivity losses. CCNP Encor equips you with the ability to diagnose and resolve complex network problems efficiently, minimizing downtime and ensuring smooth operations

3. Security Enhancement

In today’s cyber threat landscape, network security is paramount. CCNP Encor-certified individuals can implement robust security measures, protecting sensitive data and thwarting potential threats, including malware, ransomware, and unauthorized access.

4. Automation and Efficiency

Automation is a game-changer in network management. With CCNP Encor knowledge, you can automate routine network tasks, reducing the potential for human error and freeing up time for more strategic initiatives.

5. Cloud Integration

Many organizations are adopting cloud technologies. CCNP Encor-certified professionals are well-equipped to integrate on-premises networks with cloud environments, ensuring a seamless and secure hybrid network architecture.

6. Vendor-Agnostic Knowledge

CCNP Encor certification provides you with a vendor-agnostic understanding of networking concepts. This means you can work with a variety of networking equipment and technologies, not limited to a specific vendor’s products.

Read more: Cisco Certification Path

CCNP Encor vs. Other Cisco Certifications

As you navigate the world of Cisco certifications, you’ll likely encounter several options. In this section, we’ll compare CCNP Encor with other notable Cisco certifications to help you make an informed decision about which one aligns best with your career goals.

CCNA vs. CCNP Encor

The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification is an entry-level certification, whereas CCNP Encor is at the professional level. CCNA provides foundational networking knowledge, making it suitable for those just starting in networking roles. In contrast, the Encor certification delves deeper into enterprise networking technologies and is ideal for those seeking advanced networking positions.

CCIE vs. CCNP Encor

The Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) is the highest-level certification offered by Cisco, and it is considered an expert-level certification. CCIE is for professionals with extensive experience and expertise in networking. CCNP Encor, on the other hand, is a professional-level certification suitable for those with moderate experience and expertise.

CCNP Security vs. CCNP Encor

CCNP Security focuses specifically on network security, whereas CCNP Encor covers a broader range of enterprise networking topics. If your career aspirations are primarily in the field of network security, CCNP Security may be the better choice. However, if you want a well-rounded enterprise networking certification, CCNP Encor is the way to go.

Read more: How to pass the CCNP Security 350-701 Exam

CCIE Wireless vs. CCNP Encor

CCNP Wireless is designed for professionals who are looking to specialize in complex enterprise wireless solutions. If your career goals involve wireless technologies, CCNP Wireless is the right choice. However, if you seek a certification with a broader scope, CCNP is more suitable.

CCNP Encor: Salary Prospects

Certifications can often become the basis for negotiating a better salary package. Here is an analysis of the potential pay you may be able to land with this certification varying on the basis of your location.

Location Annual Salary
Richmond, CA $141,545
Bellevue, WA $141,062
Federal Way, WA $134,178
Stamford, CT $133,093
San Francisco, CA $132,513
Santa Clara, CA $132,320
Pasadena, CA $131,904
Portland, OR $130,419

Verdict: Is CCNP Encor Worth It?

The CCNP Encor is a valuable asset for those looking to pursue advanced roles in enterprise networking. It offers career advancement, real-world applicability, and a competitive edge in the market.

However, the decision to pursue this certification should align with your career goals, interests, and commitment level. And if all of these factors go cohesively together: pursuing this certification is definitely worth it!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

The Cisco Certified Network Professional Enterprise Core is a certification that signifies expertise in enterprise marketing.

Cisco provides resources and study materials to aid candidates who are self-studying to appear in the exam. This includes study materials and training videos. In addition, since practice is a core part of the preparation process, you can use our CCNP Encor dumps to amp up your practice and in turn have an all-rounded preparation.

Earning this certification can enhance your career, expand your knowledge base, and provide a competitive edge in the job market. It opens doors to roles like network engineer, administrator, architect, and security specialist.

The CCNP Encor training on average is expected to cost you between $1,000 and $3,000.

The CCNP Encor certification exam is considered to be tough. However, with proper and thorough preparation, you may find the exam not only easier to attempt but to pass as well.

Your CCNP Encor is valid for 3 years.

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