The Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Security certification is a professional-level credential designed to validate the skills required for security-focused roles in complex enterprise environments. To achieve this certification, a candidate must pass two exams: a mandatory core exam and one concentration exam of their choice. This structure allows professionals to tailor their learning to specific technical interests or job requirements.
The foundation of the certification is the Core Exam (SCOR 350-701), which focuses on implementing and operating Cisco security core technologies. The syllabus for this exam is comprehensive, covering six primary domains. It begins with network security, addressing fundamental concepts like defense-in-depth and the implementation of secure protocols. This is followed by cloud security, which emphasizes protecting cloud-based infrastructures and applications. The core curriculum also includes content security for email and web traffic, as well as endpoint protection and detection. Significant portions of the course are dedicated to secure network access—using tools like the Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE)—and network visibility and enforcement.
Following the core requirement, candidates must select one concentration exam. These specialized modules allow for deeper expertise in specific areas of the security landscape. Options typically include: Securing Networks with Cisco Firepower (SNCF)
Implementing and Configuring Cisco Identity Services Engine (SISE) Securing Email with Cisco Email Security Appliance (SESA) Securing the Web with Cisco Web Security Appliance (SWSA)
Implementing Secure Solutions with Virtual Private Networks (SVPN) Automating and Programming Cisco Security Solutions (SAUTO)
Each of these concentration areas provides practical, hands-on knowledge. For example, the VPN module focuses on site-to-site and remote access solutions, while the automation track introduces Python programming and APIs to streamline security operations.
The CCNP Security course outline is strategically designed to bridge the gap between foundational knowledge and expert-level implementation. By combining a broad core understanding with a specialized elective, Cisco ensures that certified professionals are equipped to handle modern threats, manage complex security architectures, and support the evolving needs of digital enterprises. This dual-exam approach not only validates technical proficiency but also prepares candidates for the CCIE Security lab, should they choose to pursue the expert-level tier.
Master Your Cybersecurity Career: The 2026 CCNP Security Course Outline
In the rapidly evolving world of cybersecurity, the Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Security remains a gold standard for professionals aiming to prove their expertise in securing enterprise environments. Starting in 2026, the certification has been repositioned to focus on digital transformation, emphasizing practical skills in cloud security, automation, and AI-driven defense over rote memorization.
To earn your CCNP Security in 2026, you must pass two exams: the mandatory core exam (SCOR 350-701) and one concentration exam of your choice. 1. The Core: 350-701 SCOR
The Implementing and Operating Cisco Security Core Technologies (SCOR) exam is the foundation of the track. It is a 120-minute test covering six critical domains:
Cisco CCNP Security: What It Is and How It Can Benefit Your Career
A CCNP Security certification validates your ability to deploy, configure, and manage security solutions in a Cisco-based network. CertLibrary.com CCNP Security FAQs - SecureNinja
This outline focuses on the Core exam (SCOR) and the most popular concentration exam, SNCF (Firewall) .
Prerequisites
- Understanding of TCP/IP, routing, switching
- Basic knowledge of network security concepts (firewalls, VPNs)
- Recommended: CCNA or equivalent
Part 4: How to Use This Course Outline for Study
Do not study linearly like a novel. Use this hierarchical approach:
- Week 1-4 (Core) : Focus on Domains 2 (Network Security) and 4 (Secure Connectivity) . Master 802.1X on a switch and build a Site-to-Site VPN.
- Week 5-7 (Core) : Cover Domain 6 (Endpoint & Cloud). Learn how Umbrella filters DNS.
- Week 8-12 (Concentration) : Live inside Firepower. Configure FMC, build a dozen Access Control Policies, and test blocking ransomware file extensions.
- Final 2 Weeks: Practice the infamous "Challenge Labs" – where you are given a broken network (e.g., VPN not coming up due to mismatched IKE lifetime) and must fix it in 15 minutes.
7. Career Impact & Recertification
- Job roles unlocked: Security architect, network security engineer, SOC analyst (Tier 3), security automation specialist.
- Average salary uplift (US, 2025): 15-25% increase over CCNA-level positions; average range $95,000–$135,000.
- Recertification: Every 3 years via continuing education credits, retaking any concentration exam, or passing higher-level CCIE Security.
2. Network Security (20%)
This focuses on the perimeter and infrastructure defense.
- VPNs: Implementing Site-to-Site and Remote Access VPNs (IPsec, SSL).
- Network Devices: Securing Layer 2 switches (Port Security, DHCP Snooping) and routers.
- IPS/IDS: Configuring Intrusion Prevention Systems and understanding signature-based vs. anomaly-based detection.
Option B: 300-715 SISE (Implementing and Configuring Cisco Identity Services Engine)
Best for: Network access control (NAC) specialists.
- What you learn: BYOD onboarding, Profiler services, Guest lifecycle management, and TACACS+ for device administration.
- Key lab skill: Integrating ISE with Active Directory and MDM (Mobile Device Management) solutions.
Materials & resources
- Cisco configuration guides and command references
- Packet capture and analysis tools (Wireshark)
- Virtual lab environment (VMs, Cisco images, GNS3/CSR/FTD/ISE)
- Practice exams and official exam blueprints
The Definitive Guide to the CCNP Security Course Outline (350-701 SCOR & Concentrations)
In the modern enterprise, the perimeter has dissolved. Data lives in the cloud, employees work from home, and attackers are leveraging artificial intelligence. In response, Cisco has revamped its Professional-level certifications to focus on automation, programmability, and hybrid networks.
The Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Security certification is not an entry-level credential; it is a deep dive into the architecture of defense. If you are a network engineer looking to specialize or a security analyst moving into infrastructure, understanding the course outline is your first step.
Unlike the old CCNA Security, which was a single exam, the new CCNP Security requires two exams: one core exam and one concentration exam of your choice.
Here is the complete breakdown of the CCNP Security course outline.