Are you struggling with whether to pursue CCNP Enterprise certification? Unsure about how to prepare for the exam? Or perhaps hoping to start a side hustle with the certification? Don't worry, this article will answer your questions.

1. What is a CCNP Enterprise certification?

The CCNP Enterprise certification is an advanced, professional-level certification within the Cisco certification program that validates network professionals' skills in core enterprise technologies, focusing on enterprise-grade network architecture and operations, such as SD-WAN. This certification is designed to develop and validate network professionals' skills in designing, implementing, managing, and maintaining complex, enterprise-grade network troubleshooting solutions.

The CCNP Enterprise certification demonstrates not only a deep understanding of network technologies but also expertise in areas such as automation, programming, network security, infrastructure service core, and wireless technologies. Earning this certification requires passing both a core exam and a concentration exam: one covering core enterprise technologies and a concentration exam of your choice, allowing you to tailor the certification to your specific technical area. To earn the certification, candidates must pass all required exams. Passing each exam leads to a specialist certification.

2. What kind of people are suitable for CCNP Enterprise certification?

(1)Best for Experienced Professionals

If you already have networking experience or hold a CCNA certification, the CCNP is a smart choice. It helps you focus on a specific area and enhances your technical expertise. The CCNP is ideal for those already working in the networking field who want to advance their career by gaining a deeper understanding of enterprise-level networking solutions.

(2)Those Seeking More Senior Positions

CCNP certification is often required for mid- to senior-level networking positions within an enterprise, such as network engineers, system administrators, network security specialists, and IT managers. These positions require a higher level of networking expertise, including the ability to design and implement large-scale network solutions. A CCNP certification gives you an advantage over candidates with only entry-level certifications.

(3)Professionals Seeking Career Advancement and Salary Increases

Compared to CCNA holders, CCNP-certified professionals typically earn higher salaries and have more career advancement opportunities. CCNP certifications, with the ability to specialize in areas such as security, enterprise networking, or collaboration, are valuable qualifications for IT professionals seeking leadership positions in networking.

(4) Those who hope to earn additional part-time income by obtaining certification

If you have a primary job but want to enter another industry or start another side job, then the CCNP certification can help you open the door to a side job. By obtaining this certification, you can earn a considerable additional part-time income.

3. CCNP Enterprise certification requirements

As of 2025, CCNP Enterprise has no formal prerequisites. However, Cisco recommends having three to five years of experience implementing enterprise network solutions before taking the exam. CCNP, as with all Cisco certifications, is valid for three years.

4. How to pass CCNP Enterprise exam?

Preparing for the CCNP Enterprise exam is not an easy task. This certification requires high abilities in all aspects of the examinee. Here are some exam preparation tips:

(1) Determine your exam goals and develop a structured study plan. Before preparing for the exam, you need to clearly understand the specific exam subjects, content, and requirements for the CCNP Enterprise certification. Develop a realistic study plan based on the exam date.

(2) Collaborate with other candidates to exchange ideas and support each other's progress. In addition to an effective exam preparation strategy, it is also crucial to find a partner to prepare for the exam. For example, seek out an exam service provider like SPOTO to use existing exam materials and watch video tutorials to deepen your understanding of complex topics.

(3) Configure simulated practice operations to gain practical experience and consolidate your knowledge. During the exam preparation process, you need to analyze real case studies to apply your theoretical knowledge. Take mock exams and practice questions, complete a large number of practice questions to familiarize yourself with the exam format, and review and summarize regularly. Consolidate your knowledge regularly.

Case Study1 : Lisa – Using Commute Time to Study for the CCNP Enterprise Certification

Lisa is a junior network engineer working at a medium-sized outsourcing company, responsible for basic network troubleshooting and equipment inspections. Although her job was stable, she wanted to enhance her technical skills, pursue a higher-level position, and work remotely. After careful consideration, she decided to apply for the CCNP Enterprise exam, considering it a crucial step in her career advancement.

Due to her busy daytime schedule, Lisa focused her study time on her subway commute and weekend mornings. She used her one-hour commute each day to listen to CCNP ENCOR audio courses and practiced configuration commands at home using simulators such as Cisco Packet Tracer and GNS3 in the evenings. She also joined an online study group, where she worked through practice questions and discussed difficult points with other candidates every weekend. To prepare for a systematic study plan, Lisa purchased the CCNP course and question bank from SPOTO and developed a detailed study plan: spending the first three months studying ENCOR and the last two months sprinting towards ENARSI.

She adhered to a rigorous "daily study + weekly review" routine to ensure simultaneous mastery of both theory and practice. After over five months of perseverance, Lisa successfully passed both CCNP Enterprise exams. Despite experiencing stress and anxiety during the process, she said, "Preparing for the exam not only helped me master the technical skills but also restored my self-discipline and professional confidence."

5. What are the benefits of CCNP Enterprise certification?

First, the CCNP Enterprise certification is a prestigious and highly recognized certification. It qualifies you for a variety of roles, such as IT manager; computer and information systems manager; network engineer; computer systems and network administrator; and computer network architect or project engineer, to name a few.

Second, the CCNP Enterprise certification can increase your income, whether in your primary or secondary career. Earning the CCNP Enterprise certification will open up a wide range of job opportunities and higher salaries. According to Cisco research, candidates who have earned the CCNP Enterprise certification earn at least 10% more than candidates in similar positions who don't hold the certification.

Furthermore, for those looking to advance their careers, earning the CCNP Enterprise certification is a way to demonstrate advanced knowledge and skills in computer networking. Earning certification from a reputable company like Cisco means you're recognized for the best training in the industry.

Finally, the CCNP Enterprise certification can offer excellent job opportunities. Earning the CCNP Enterprise certification not only helps you land a great job in the computer networking field, but also opens up opportunities for side hustles and part-time work, putting you at the forefront of promotions and career advancement. If you're looking to change companies, this certification will help you secure a better job without having to start at the entry level and work your way up.

Case Study 2: David – A Full-Time Engineer's Side Hustle

David was a full-time automation engineer at a manufacturing company. While his main job was stable, he had always been interested in networking technology and wanted to earn extra income and broaden his career options. After some research, he decided to use his evenings to study for Cisco's CCNP Enterprise certification, starting his own side hustle.

David spent 1.5 to 2 hours each evening studying online courses on his own, practicing with the lab simulation platform and question bank provided by SPOTO. Within six months, he passed both the ENCOR and ENARSI exams and successfully earned his CCNP Enterprise Networking certification. With his certifications and solid practical skills, David began taking on remote network operations and maintenance tasks for small businesses on the network platform, such as router configuration, switch optimization, and VPN setup.

Through a friend's introduction, he landed a part-time position designing and maintaining the campus network for a local educational institution, working only one evening a week and half a day on weekends. David currently earns an additional $1,500 per month from his side hustle, which not only helps alleviate family expenses but also paves the way for his future transition to a full-time networking career. He plans to pursue the CCIE certification next and gradually develop his side hustle into a second career.