Cisco Syllabus: CCNA, CCNP ENCOR, and CCNP ENARSI
Sep 12, 2025
Computers and networks are utilized everywhere now in the world—at home, in the office, in schools, and even in hospitals. In order to connect all these systems and get them to work well, we require strong and secure computer networks. One of the largest companies that offers the tools and training to create and manage these networks is Cisco.
Cisco is not only a hardware firm. It also provides globally renowned IT certifications to enable individuals to learn networking, security, cloud, and automation.
Entry Level
Associate Level (like CCNA)
Professional Level (like CCNP ENCOR and CCNP ENARSI)
Expert Level (like CCIE)
In this blog, we will explain three major Cisco certifications:
CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate)
CCNP ENCOR (Enterprise Core)
CCNP ENARSI (Enterprise Advanced Routing and Services)
We will also tell you how you can learn these courses online with skills for everyone
Cisco Certification Path: From CCNA to CCNP Enterprise
The world of IT networking is changing rapidly, so gaining the appropriate certifications can lead to fulfilling careers. Here's a clear, concise guide to take you through your Cisco certification process, in the style of top networking websites.
Levels of Cisco Certifications
Cisco certifications are organized by expertise level:
Associate (CCNA)
Professional (CCNP Enterprise)
1. CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) — Your First Step in Networking
What you'll learn:
Core networking foundations (IP addressing, OSI/TCP‑IP models, devices)
VLANs, Ethernet, switching
Routing basics and protocols like OSPF
Services like NAT, DHCP, DNS, and SNMP
Fundamental security (ACLs, VPN, firewall concepts)
Introduction to automation using Python and APIs
Why it matters:
Industry-recognized credential for starting a network engineering career
Equips you with essential hands-on networking skills
Exam & Other Essentials
Exam Code: 200‑301
Duration: 120 minutes (MCQs + Labs)
Passing Score: ~825/1000
Fee: ~$300
Languages: English
Who this is for:
Beginners or students eyeing entry into IT networking
Career roles post-CCNA:
Network Engineer (Level 1)
Help Desk or Support Technician
Systems or Network Administrator
2. CCNP Enterprise – Corporate-Level Expertise
Once you’ve cleared CCNA, level up with CCNP Enterprise, consisting of two paths:
a) ENCOR (Enterprise Core)
Covers enterprise architecture, virtualization (including SD-WAN), infrastructure (OSPF, BGP, VLANs), network assurance, security, and automation.
Includes practical topics like Cisco DNA and Python scripting.
b) ENARSI (Enterprise Advanced Routing & Services)
A deep dive into advanced routing—OSPF, EIGRP, BGP, and redistribution
VPN technologies (GRE, IPsec, DMVPN)
Network services (HSRP, VRRP, NTP, SNMP)
Security (ACLs, filtering, policing) and troubleshooting tools
Why they're critical:
Validate your expertise to handle large, complex networks
ENCOR is also the foundation exam for the CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure path
Exam Details:
Certificate | Exam Code | Duration | Format | Fee | Language |
CCNP ENCOR | 350‑401 | 120 min | MCQs + Simulations | ~$400 | English, |
CCNP ENARSI | 300‑410 | 90 min | MCQs + Simulations | ~$300 | English, |
Prerequisites:
CCNP ENCOR: CCNA-level knowledge
CCNP ENARSI: ENCOR-level understanding
Career roles unlocked:
Senior Network Engineer
Network or SD-WAN Engineer
NOC/TAC Engineer
Network Security Engineer
Summary Snapshot — Course Comparison
Certification | Focus Areas | Exam Code | Why Pursue It? |
CCNA | Networking basics, security, automation | 200‑301 | Start your IT networking journey |
CCNP ENCOR | Enterprise infrastructure & automation | 350‑401 | Advances in design and network management |
CCNP ENARSI | Advanced routing, VPNs, services & security | 300‑410 | Specialize in enterprise-level routing and troubleshooting |
Why Follow This Path?
Build Strong Foundations – CCNA provides a reliable base in networking essentials.
Level Up to Enterprise Standards – CCNP ENCOR broadens your skillset to modern enterprise tech.
Become a Specialist – CCNP ENARSI helps you stand out as a routing & services expert.
Career Momentum – Each certification targets roles with higher responsibility—and pay.
Ready to Start?
Start with CCNA and move progressively to CCNP ENCOR and CCNP ENARSI, matching your advancement with progressively complex networking abilities. Need this in a format for your website or blog? I can customize it to HTML, WordPress, or simple visuals!
Career Opportunities After Cisco Courses
Here are the job roles you can aim for after each certification:
After CCNA:
Network Support Engineer
Technical Support Engineer
NOC (Network Operations Center) Engineer
System Administrator (Junior Level)
After CCNP ENCOR:
Network Engineer
Enterprise Network Specialist
Network Consultant
Infrastructure Engineer
After CCNP ENARSI:
Network Operations Engineer
Network Security Engineer
Routing and Switching Engineer
Senior Network Support Engineer
Who Should Take Cisco Courses?
If you are new to networking, the CCNA course is best for you. It helps beginners, students, and helpdesk workers learn the basics of networking and get entry-level jobs. If you already know some networking or have passed CCNA, the CCNP ENCOR course is good for network engineers and IT workers who want to learn more about big networks, automation, and security. The CCNP ENARSI course is for people who want to become experts in routing, switching, and fixing problems in advanced networks.
How to Start?
Starting your Cisco journey is easy with SkillsForEveryone:
Visit our website
Register for a free demo class
Choose your course: CCNA, CCNP ENCOR, or CCNP ENARSI
Learn from the best trainers in the industry
Get certified and start applying for jobs!
Learning Cisco networking is not only useful but also necessary in the modern world. Whether you are building your career or upgrading your skills, certifications like CCNA, CCNP ENCOR, and CCNP ENARSI can give you the right knowledge and confidence.
With Skills for everyone, you don’t just prepare for an exam—you prepare for a career.