The Cisco Certified Network Professional Wireless (CCNP Wireless) certification is track of CCNP that focuses on wireless networking. A professional level certification, the CCNP Wireless specializes in wireless networking technology using Cisco products. Cisco began offering this certification in September 2009 in response to industry demand. The CCNP Wireless certification formalizes the holder’s knowledge and skills with regard to Cisco wireless networks. All aspects of implementing, designing and operating wireless networks built using Cisco products are covered by this certification. Wireless networking theory and principles are used to build a solid foundation that CCNP Wireless holders use to assess and meet business wireless networking needs. The certification aims to validate the holder’s ability to successfully translate those needs into a practical installation.
Should I take the exams for CCNP Wireless certification?
Wireless networking professionals such as network administrators, network architects and network engineers derive tremendous benefits from holding the CCNP Wireless certification. Individuals seeking these positions can rest assured of ample opportunities in the years ahead. The United States Department of Labor forecasts strong growth between now and 2018. Jobs are projected to increase by more than 20 percent between 2008 and 2018. In fact, the precise percentage of employment growth is expected to be around 30 percent, a phenomenal gain for this field. CCNP Wireless holders will likely find plenty of jobs available for them in the future.
What is the typical salary of someone with CCNP Wireless certification?
CCNP Wireless is a sub-track of the Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) certification. According to the market research firm Payscale, CCNP Wireless holders can command reasonably high salaries. The salary range can be large, as large as a difference of more than $60,000 with some positions, but the highest salaries pay over $100,000 annually. CCNP Wireless holders can leverage their skills to advance their careers in this kind of environment.
What do I need to do to earn CCNP Wireless status?
An individual who wishes to apply for the CCNP Wireless must have one of two prerequisite certifications. He or she must have an unexpired Cisco Certified Network Associate Wireless (CCNA Wireless) or a Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) certification in any track to qualify for the CCNP Wireless.
To obtain the CCNP Wireless, four exams must be passed. These exams are the 642-731 CUWSS, 642-741 IUWVN, 642-746 IUWMS and 642-736 IAUWS. Each exam is 90 minutes long and consists of 50 to 60 questions. The training courses for the exams each last five days. They sequentially train the student in setting up a wireless network, integrating various features such as Voice over Wireless Local Area Network services, mobility services and securing the wireless network against various threats.
How do I renew my CCNP Wireless certification?
All professional certifications from Cisco remain in force for a period of no longer than three years. After the three years are up, the certification expires, and the former holder loses all of the associated professional benefits. He must achieve re-certification to regain his former status. The former holder can choose from four options. Passing any professional level exam before the CCNP Wireless expires will re-certify him, as will passing any of the current CCIE exam offerings. Alternatively, he could pass currently offered Cisco Certified Design Expert (CCDE) practical or written exams. Finally, he could pass the board review and interview requirements for the Cisco Certified Architect (CCAr) certification, which automatically re-certifies the holder for all lower class certifications.