Which is better for networking professionals in 2025 | CCNP ENCOR or CCNP Security?

If you're a mid-level networking professional wondering whether to pursue CCNP ENCOR or CCNP Security in 2025, understanding your career goals is crucial. CCNP ENCOR focuses on enterprise infrastructure like routing, switching, and wireless, ideal for roles in enterprise networking. On the other hand, CCNP Security dives into firewalls, VPNs, and security architecture, making it the right fit for those targeting cybersecurity-focused positions. With rising demand for both secure networks and skilled security engineers, the choice depends on whether you want to specialize in broad infrastructure or network defense. This blog compares both paths, salary expectations, skills needed, and future job opportunities.

  Cisco Certifications   Jul 28, 2025   31  Add to Reading List
Which is better for networking professionals in 2025 | CCNP ENCOR or CCNP Security?

Table of Contents

Why This Matters in 2025

In 2025, cybersecurity threats are rapidly evolving, and enterprise networks are becoming more complex with hybrid cloud and automation technologies. This shift has created two dominant professional Cisco certification paths: CCNP ENCOR (Enterprise Core) and CCNP Security. If you're an intermediate networking professional trying to decide which Cisco certification to pursue, this guide will break down the differences, career paths, tools involved, and salary prospects.

What is CCNP ENCOR?

CCNP ENCOR (350-401) is the core exam for Cisco’s Enterprise certification path. It focuses on advanced enterprise networking, including:

  • Dual-stack IPv4 and IPv6 architecture

  • Virtualization and SD-WAN

  • Infrastructure automation (Ansible, REST APIs)

  • Advanced routing and switching

  • Wireless networking and telemetry

Who Should Choose ENCOR?

If you're aiming for roles such as Enterprise Network Engineer, Wireless Engineer, or Infrastructure Architect, CCNP ENCOR is your foundation. It's ideal for those interested in managing large corporate or hybrid networks across multiple sites.

What is CCNP Security?

CCNP Security focuses on securing networks, applications, and data. Its core exam, SCOR 350-701, includes:

  • Network security and zero trust

  • Next-generation firewalls and VPNs

  • Identity services (ISE, AAA)

  • Secure network access and segmentation

  • Security automation and monitoring

Who Should Choose Security?

If your goal is to become a Security Analyst, Network Security Engineer, or work in Security Operations Centers (SOC), CCNP Security is tailored for you. It covers everything from policy enforcement to threat detection and response.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Feature CCNP ENCOR (Enterprise) CCNP Security
Core Exam Code 350-401 ENCOR 350-701 SCOR
Focus Area Routing, Switching, SD-WAN Network Security, Firewalls
Career Roles Network Engineer, Architect Security Analyst, SOC Engineer
Domains Covered IPv4/IPv6, Automation, Wireless AAA, VPNs, Firewalls, Threat Mgmt
Add-on Specialist Exams ENARSI, Wireless, SD-WAN VPNs, Firepower, ISE, Secure Workload
Tools Cisco DNA, Ansible, RESTCONF Cisco ISE, ASA/FTD, Firepower
Average Salary (2025 India) ₹9–16 LPA ₹10–18 LPA
Job Demand High in Enterprises High in Cybersecurity & SOCs
Best For Enterprise Networking Roles Security-focused Roles

Job Roles You Can Target

After CCNP ENCOR:

  • Network Implementation Engineer

  • Wireless Network Engineer

  • SD-WAN Consultant

  • Network Automation Specialist

After CCNP Security:

  • Security Operations Analyst

  • Network Security Consultant

  • Firewall Administrator

  • Identity Access Engineer

Which Has Better Salary Growth in 2025?

While both certifications open doors to lucrative careers, CCNP Security roles are currently experiencing faster salary growth due to the global shortage of cybersecurity professionals. However, CCNP ENCOR offers strong career stability and scalability, especially in large enterprises and service providers.

Which Should You Choose?

Choose CCNP ENCOR if:

  • You're passionate about routing, switching, SD-WAN, and wireless technologies.

  • You want to work in enterprise environments or consult on infrastructure design.

Choose CCNP Security if:

  • You're more inclined toward securing networks and data.

  • You want to work in SOCs, cybersecurity consulting, or regulatory compliance environments.

Career Tip for 2025

In today’s world, combining both networking and security skills can offer a hybrid advantage. Many professionals complete CCNP ENCOR and then go for SCOR to build cross-functional expertise. This hybrid skillset is highly valued in DevSecOps, cloud networking, and zero trust architecture projects.

Conclusion

Both CCNP ENCOR and CCNP Security are valuable in 2025. Your decision should depend on your interests, career goals, and the kind of problems you enjoy solving. Enterprise networking will never go away, but security is growing rapidly. For maximum career mobility, consider starting with ENCOR and advancing into SCOR or vice versa.

Stay ahead in your career. Choose smart. Learn both, if possible.
Cisco’s modular certifications now make it easier than ever to combine enterprise and security skillsets.

FAQs

What is the main difference between CCNP ENCOR and CCNP Security?

CCNP ENCOR focuses on enterprise networking infrastructure, while CCNP Security emphasizes network security, including firewalls, VPNs, and threat detection.

Which certification is better for cybersecurity roles?

CCNP Security is more aligned with cybersecurity roles like Security Analyst, SOC Engineer, and Network Security Engineer.

What are the job roles after CCNP ENCOR?

Job roles include Network Engineer, Wireless Engineer, and Infrastructure Specialist.

Is CCNP ENCOR required for CCIE?

Yes, CCNP ENCOR is the core exam required for both CCIE Enterprise Infrastructure and CCIE Enterprise Wireless.

What’s the average salary for CCNP Security professionals in 2025?

As of 2025, CCNP Security certified professionals earn between ₹8–18 LPA in India depending on experience and role.

Can I switch from ENCOR to Security later?

Yes, since both are part of the CCNP track, you can switch paths by preparing for security-focused concentration exams.

Which exam is tougher: CCNP ENCOR or CCNP Security?

Both exams are challenging. ENCOR tests broad enterprise concepts, while Security involves deep knowledge of firewalls, VPNs, and threat prevention.

Is CCNP Security good for SOC jobs?

Yes, CCNP Security prepares you for Security Operations Center (SOC) roles, especially if combined with hands-on experience.

Does ENCOR include any security topics?

Yes, ENCOR includes basic security concepts, but it's not as in-depth as the dedicated Security certification.

What tools should I learn for CCNP Security?

Important tools include Cisco ASA, Firepower, VPN configurations, ISE (Identity Services Engine), and AAA protocols.

Is CCNP Security vendor-specific?

Yes, it focuses on Cisco security solutions, though the knowledge gained can be applied to other platforms with similar concepts.

Can freshers go directly for CCNP Security?

It’s recommended to have some networking foundation like CCNA before attempting CCNP Security.

Which certification has more job openings in 2025?

Both have strong demand, but security roles are growing faster due to rising threats and compliance needs.

How long does it take to prepare for CCNP ENCOR?

Typically 3–6 months of consistent study with hands-on practice is needed.

What’s the exam code for CCNP ENCOR and CCNP Security?

CCNP ENCOR: 350-401 ENCOR
CCNP Security core: 350-701 SCOR

Can I give CCNP exams without CCNA?

Yes, Cisco removed prerequisites. However, understanding CCNA concepts is still important.

Is CCNP ENCOR cloud-focused?

ENCOR includes cloud-based networking concepts, but not as in-depth as Cisco’s dedicated cloud certifications.

Are these certifications valid globally?

Yes, Cisco certifications are globally recognized and respected in IT industries worldwide.

Does CCNP Security cover Zero Trust architecture?

Yes, modern versions of CCNP Security include Zero Trust and advanced threat protection frameworks.

Should I choose ENCOR if I want a generalist IT role?

Yes, ENCOR is ideal for professionals wanting a broader infrastructure role across networking and wireless technologies.

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