Should You Go for the CCNP After the CCNA? Here’s What to Know

Once people earn their CCNA and gain real networking experience, the next big question appears. Is it worth moving on to the CCNP after CCNA? With ENCOR, ENARSI, automation topics, and enterprise-level networking concepts, the CCNP can feel like a huge step up. The amount of study resources available can also feel overwhelming.

If you're trying to decide whether to pursue the CCNP and how to start preparing, here’s a clear breakdown.

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1. Why the CCNP After CCNA Makes Sense When You Already Have Some Experience

The CCNA covers the fundamentals.

The CCNP builds on real-world networking.

The CCNP is a strong choice for people who:

• Work as network engineers, NOC technicians, sysadmins, or in hybrid cloud/networking roles
• Have hands-on experience with routing, switching, VLANs, or firewalls
• Want to grow into senior, enterprise, or architecture roles
• Want deeper knowledge for cloud networking, automation, or security

If you’re already working with networks regularly, the CCNP is a natural next step.

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2. ENCOR Is Challenging — But Manageable with Structure

ENCOR (350-401) introduces higher-level concepts such as:

• Advanced routing
• Switching design
• SD-WAN fundamentals
• Wireless basics
• Security and segmentation
• Virtualization
• Automation and programmability

It’s less about memorizing commands and more about understanding how enterprise networks operate.

With consistent weekly study, many people finish ENCOR in a few months.

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3. A Good CCNP Study Plan Is Simple, Not Complicated

There are countless recommendations online, but the most effective CCNP plan usually looks like this:

1. Primary Course (choose one platform)

• INE
• CBT Nuggets
• Pluralsight
• David Bombal
• O’Reilly learning paths

Stick with one source for structure.

2. One Good Book

You only need one:

• Cisco Press CCNP ENCOR Official Cert Guide
• Or any trusted ENCOR-focused study guide

Books help reinforce concepts with diagrams and explanations.

3. Labs (mandatory for CCNP)

Use tools such as:

• Cisco Modeling Labs (CML)
• EVE-NG
• GNS3
• INE labs
• Home lab gear

CCNP material only “clicks” when you configure it yourself.

4. Boson ExSim for Final Preparation

Boson is widely considered the most accurate representation of CCNP exam difficulty.
Use it when you’re close to exam readiness, not at the beginning.

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4. Should You Take ENARSI After ENCOR?

Most CCNP Enterprise candidates take ENARSI next because it focuses on:

• OSPF
• EIGRP
• BGP
• Redistribution
• VPNs
• Troubleshooting
• Advanced IPv6

ENCOR builds the foundation.
ENARSI gives the deep routing skills.

Together, they earn the full CCNP Enterprise certification.

If someone prefers cloud networking or SD-WAN, alternate concentration exams are available — but ENARSI remains the most popular choice.

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5. Consistency Matters More Than Study Hours

Most people preparing for CCNP balance studying with work, family, or school. You don’t need to study full-time.

A realistic plan:

• 10–12 hours a week
• 4–6 months of steady learning
• Regular labs and practice exams

The CCNP is challenging, but absolutely achievable with consistency.

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Need Extra Help?

If you want structured practice, check out our CCNA and CCNP Real Exam Questions PDFs. They are designed to sharpen your knowledge and boost exam confidence.

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Final Thoughts

The CCNP is a valuable next step after the CCNA. It is especially useful for those already working with networking or aiming for senior roles. With the right study plan, consistent practice, and a focus on labs, earning the CCNP is challenging but possible.

If you’re ready to deepen your networking skills and stand out in the industry, consider the CCNP. It is one of the best certifications you can pursue.