CCNP Security Certification: Complete Guide 2025
350-701
The CCNP Security certification is built around Cisco exam 350-701 SCOR, a 120-minute professional-level test for IT professionals who design, implement, and operate modern security controls. If you are aiming for roles like Security Engineer, Network Security Architect, or Security Consultant, this ccnp security path validates practical knowledge across Security Concepts (25%), Network Security (20%), cloud and content security, endpoint protection, secure access, and enforcement. HydraNode.ai supports your ccnp security course prep with free AI-generated practice tests, study tools, and focused exam readiness resources.
Exam Details
Resources
Everything you need to pass
Comprehensive preparation materials for your Cisco Certified Network Professional Security exam
Exam Content
Exam Domains & Topics
Master these 6 domains to pass your exam
Security Concepts
Network Security
Securing the Cloud and Content
Endpoint Protection and Detection
Secure Network Access
Visibility and Enforcement
Who Should Take This Exam?
- IT professionals seeking Cisco expertise
- Cybersecurity practitioners
- Cloud architects and engineers
- DevOps and infrastructure specialists
- Technical leads and solution architects
- Career changers entering cloud computing
Study Timeline
8-12 weeks
Recommended duration
Foundation · Weeks 1-2
Review exam objectives & core concepts
Deep Dive · Weeks 3-6
Study each domain with hands-on labs
Practice & Review · Weeks 7-8
Take practice exams & target weak areas
Career
Career Opportunities
Roles and salary potential for Cisco Certified Network Professional Security certified professionals
Related Job Titles
$125,000
Average Annual Salary
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Prerequisites
There are no strict formal prerequisites for the Cisco Certified Network Professional Security certification. However, Cisco recommends having foundational knowledge of cybersecurity concepts and some hands-on experience before attempting the exam. Candidates who invest time in study materials and practice exams typically perform best.
Cisco Certified Network Professional Security FAQs
Common questions about the 350-701 certification exam
The Cisco Certified Network Professional Security is a professional certification offered by Cisco that validates your expertise in the relevant technology domain. The exam code is 350-701. This certification demonstrates your ability to design, implement, and manage solutions using Cisco technologies.
The Cisco Certified Network Professional Security exam typically contains 90-110 questions. These questions are a mix of multiple-choice and scenario-based questions designed to test both theoretical knowledge and practical application.
The passing score for the Cisco Certified Network Professional Security exam is 825/1000. Note that Cisco uses a scaled scoring system, so focus on understanding all exam domains thoroughly rather than just achieving the minimum score.
The Cisco Certified Network Professional Security exam duration is 120 minutes (2 hours). This includes time for reviewing your answers. We recommend practicing with timed mock exams to manage your time effectively.
The Cisco Certified Network Professional Security exam costs $400. Prices may vary by region and are subject to change. Cisco occasionally offers discounts or voucher programs for certification exams.
The Cisco Certified Network Professional Security certification is valid for 3 years. To maintain your certification, you'll need to recertify before it expires, either by passing the current exam version or through Cisco's continuing education program.
While Cisco doesn't always require formal prerequisites, we recommend having hands-on experience with the relevant technologies. Familiarity with core concepts and practical experience will significantly improve your chances of passing the exam.
Yes, the Cisco Certified Network Professional Security exam is proctored and can be taken either at a testing center or online through remote proctoring. Online proctoring allows you to take the exam from home while being monitored via webcam. Ensure you have a quiet, private space with a stable internet connection if choosing the online option.
If you don't pass the Cisco Certified Network Professional Security exam on your first attempt, you can retake it. Cisco typically has a waiting period between attempts (usually 14 days for the first retake). Use this time to review the areas where you struggled and take additional practice exams.
To prepare for the Cisco Certified Network Professional Security exam, we recommend: 1) Review the official exam guide and objectives, 2) Gain hands-on experience with the technologies, 3) Use practice exams to identify knowledge gaps, 4) Study each exam domain thoroughly, and 5) Join study groups or forums to discuss challenging topics with other candidates.
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About the Cisco Certified Network Professional Security Certification
The Cisco Certified Network Professional Security (350-701) is a professional-level certification offered by Cisco. This certification validates your expertise in cybersecurity and is recognized globally by employers seeking qualified professionals. The exam consists of 90-110 questions to be completed in 120 minutes, with a passing score of 825/1000. The exam fee is $400, and the certification is valid for 3 years.
Why Get Cisco Certified Network Professional Security Certified?
- Career Advancement: Certified professionals earn an average of $125,000 per year. Cisco-certified professionals are among the most sought-after in the cybersecurity industry.
- Industry Recognition: Cisco certifications are respected worldwide by employers, demonstrating verified competency in cybersecurity technologies and practices.
- Skill Validation: The Cisco Certified Network Professional Security exam rigorously tests your knowledge across 6 domains, ensuring you have the practical skills employers demand.
Cisco Certified Network Professional Security Exam Format & Details
The 350-701 exam is designed to test both theoretical knowledge and practical application. Candidates are given 120 minutes to complete the exam, which contains approximately 90-110 questions. A score of 825/1000 is required to pass. As a professional-level exam, it requires significant hands-on experience and deep technical knowledge.
Exam Domains & Topics
The Cisco Certified Network Professional Security exam covers 6 key domains. Understanding the weight of each domain helps you allocate your study time effectively:
- Security Concepts (25% of exam)
- Network Security (20% of exam)
- Securing the Cloud and Content (15% of exam)
- Endpoint Protection and Detection (15% of exam)
- Secure Network Access (15% of exam)
- Visibility and Enforcement (10% of exam)
Who Should Take the Cisco Certified Network Professional Security Exam?
This certification is designed for professionals in the following roles:
- IT professionals seeking Cisco expertise
- Cybersecurity practitioners looking to validate their skills
- Professionals preparing for a career in cybersecurity
- Technical specialists aiming to advance their career with an industry-recognized credential
- Team leads and managers who need to understand cybersecurity concepts
Career Opportunities & Salary
Earning the Cisco Certified Network Professional Security certification opens doors to roles such as Security Engineer, Network Security Architect, Security Consultant. Certified professionals earn an average salary of $125,000 per year, reflecting the high demand for cybersecurity skills in today's job market.
Recertification & Renewal
The Cisco Certified Network Professional Security certification is valid for 3 years. To maintain your credential, you will need to meet Cisco's renewal requirements before your certification expires. This may include earning continuing education credits, passing a recertification exam, or earning a higher-level certification.
Exam Registration & Cost
The 350-701 exam costs $400. You can register through Cisco's official website or an authorized testing center. Most candidates choose between in-person testing at a Pearson VUE or PSI center and online proctored exams taken from home. Be sure to review the exam policies, including identification requirements and prohibited items, before your test date.
How to Prepare for 350-701
Most candidates need 4-8 weeks of dedicated study to prepare for the Cisco Certified Network Professional Security exam. Start by reviewing the official exam objectives, then work through each domain systematically. Regular practice with exam-style questions is essential for building confidence and identifying weak areas. Combine reading with hands-on practice to develop both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Hydranode offers comprehensive preparation materials including practice exams, study guides, and free practice tests to help you pass on your first attempt. Our AI-powered practice questions are designed to match the format and difficulty of the actual 350-701 exam, giving you realistic preparation and instant feedback on your performance.