CCNP ENCOR and CCNA represent professional and associate levels of Cisco networking certification. CCNA covers networking fundamentals, while CCNP ENCOR tests advanced enterprise networking in architecture, virtualization, infrastructure, assurance, security, and automation.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Cisco CCNP ENCOR | Cisco CCNA | |
|---|---|---|
| Vendor | Cisco | Cisco |
| Exam Code | 350-401 | 200-301 |
| Level | Advanced | Entry-level to Intermediate |
| Cost | $400 | $330 |
| Duration | 120 min | 120 min |
| Questions | 90–110 | 100–120 |
| Passing Score | 825/1000 (approximate) | 825/1000 (approximate; Cisco does not publish exact passing scores) |
| Renewal | 3 years | 3 years |
| Prerequisites | None required; 3-5 years of enterprise networking experience and CCNA recommended | None required; one or more years of experience implementing and administering Cisco solutions recommended |
| Avg Salary Range | $95,000–$140,000 | $65,000–$100,000 |
Focus Areas
Cisco CCNP ENCOR
Enterprise network architecture, virtualization, infrastructure, network assurance, security, and automation at a professional level
Cisco CCNA
Network fundamentals, network access, IP connectivity, IP services, security fundamentals, and automation and programmability for enterprise networks
Who Should Get Which?
Get Cisco CCNP ENCOR if...
Experienced network engineers with 3-5 years of enterprise networking experience who want to validate advanced skills and move into senior networking roles
Get Cisco CCNA if...
IT professionals starting in networking, help desk technicians moving into network support, or anyone who needs to demonstrate foundational networking competency
Recommended Order
Get CCNA first. CCNP ENCOR assumes mastery of all CCNA topics and builds significantly upon them. Most candidates spend 1-3 years working with Cisco networking between the two exams.
Study Tips
CCNP ENCOR covers CCNA topics at a much deeper level plus advanced topics like SD-WAN, LISP, VXLAN, and network programmability. Focus on areas not covered in CCNA: network automation with Python, wireless architecture, and advanced routing protocols like BGP and EIGRP optimization.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Cisco CCNP ENCOR and Cisco CCNA?
CCNP ENCOR and CCNA represent professional and associate levels of Cisco networking certification. CCNA covers networking fundamentals, while CCNP ENCOR tests advanced enterprise networking in architecture, virtualization, infrastructure, assurance, security, and automation.
Should I get Cisco CCNP ENCOR or Cisco CCNA first?
Get CCNA first. CCNP ENCOR assumes mastery of all CCNA topics and builds significantly upon them. Most candidates spend 1-3 years working with Cisco networking between the two exams.
Who should get Cisco CCNP ENCOR?
Experienced network engineers with 3-5 years of enterprise networking experience who want to validate advanced skills and move into senior networking roles
Who should get Cisco CCNA?
IT professionals starting in networking, help desk technicians moving into network support, or anyone who needs to demonstrate foundational networking competency
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