Self-Assessment

A CCNP in the Real World

In the next section, I describe an ideal CCNP candidate, knowing full well that only a few certification candidates meet this ideal. In fact, my description of that ideal candidate might seem downright scary. But take heart; although the requirements to obtain a CCNP certification may seem formidable, they are by no means impossible to meet. However, you should be keenly aware that it does take time, requires some expense, and calls for a substantial effort.

You can get all the real-world motivation you need from knowing that many others have gone before you. You can follow in their footsteps. If you're willing to tackle the process seriously and do what it takes to gain the necessary experience and knowledge, you can take and pass the certification tests. In fact, the Exam Crams and the companion CCNP Exam Preps are designed to make it as easy as possible for you to prepare for these exams, but prepare you must!

The same, of course, for other Cisco career certifications, including

• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), which certifies candidates in the basics of networking, Cisco component configuration, and Cisco network troubleshooting.

• Cisco Certified Design Associate (CCDA), which is a basic certification for those who design high-level networks.

• Cisco Certified Design Professional (CCDP), which is the equivalent of a CCNP certification for those who design advanced and complex networks. Some of the exams needed for the CCNP exam are the same needed for the CCDP certification.

• Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE), which is known as the black belt in networking today. This exam is famous for its difficulty; those who obtain this certification easily find employment in the industry today.