The Cisco Certified Networking Associate Service Provider (CCNA SP) was a specialized certification tailored for networking professionals working with service provider networks. It validated the foundational knowledge required to configure, implement, and troubleshoot Cisco service provider-grade networks. Although Cisco has since retired this certification, understanding its purpose and legacy is still valuable for professionals seeking to work in large-scale or carrier-grade network environments.
The CCNA SP focused on enabling learners to build and support scalable, robust, and secure infrastructures that service providers use to deliver connectivity and services. Professionals who obtained this certification typically moved into roles such as service provider network engineers, network technicians, designers, or architects.
Cisco’s Restructuring of Certification Tracks
Cisco revamped its certification tracks to streamline offerings and better align them with modern job roles. This restructuring led to the retirement of multiple specialized CCNA certifications, including:
- CCNA Cloud
- CCNA Security
- CCNA Collaboration
- CCNA Data Center
- CCNA Wireless
- CCNA Industrial
- CCNA Service Provider
The goal was to create a single, consolidated CCNA certification that covers a broader range of networking fundamentals, helping candidates build a versatile foundation applicable across different IT domains.
Why the CCNA SP Was Relevant
As networks continue evolving to support next-generation services, the need for IT professionals capable of maintaining and troubleshooting carrier-class network infrastructures remains significant. The CCNA SP certification addressed that need by covering both traditional and modern network principles, including routing, switching, and service provider-specific technologies.
Its curriculum included topics such as MPLS, BGP, QoS, and IP addressing, specifically tailored for service provider use cases, providing a valuable knowledge base for those aiming to work with large-scale service delivery platforms.
Structure and Content of the CCNA SP Certification
The CCNA SP certification comprised two exams:
Cisco CCNA Service Provider 640-875 SPNGN1
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Questions: 65-75
- Topics: Building Cisco Service Provider Next-Generation Networks, Part 1
- Question Types: Multiple choice (single/multiple answer), drag and drop, fill-in-the-blank, simulation, testlet, simlet
- Cost: USD 250 (via Pearson VUE)
Cisco CCNA Service Provider 640-878 SPNGN2
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Questions: 65-75
- Topics: Building Cisco Service Provider Next-Generation Networks, Part 2
- Question Types: Multiple choice (single/multiple answer), drag and drop, fill-in-the-blank, simulation, testlet, simlet
- Cost: USD 250 (via Pearson VUE)
These exams were designed to simulate real-world scenarios and challenges encountered in a service provider environment. There were no formal prerequisites for taking the CCNA SP exams, although Cisco recommended that candidates have a solid grasp of networking basics.
Retirement and Its Implications
With the retirement of the CCNA SP, Cisco shifted its focus towards job-centric certification tracks. While this change removed the direct path for service provider specialization at the associate level, it opened new doors for candidates through its restructured certification hierarchy.
Networking professionals must now pursue broader certifications like the unified CCNA and then specialize through professional-level tracks such as the Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Service Provider.
Understanding the Retired Cisco CCNA Service Provider Certification
An Overview of the CCNA SP Certification
The Cisco Certified Networking Associate Service Provider (CCNA SP) was once a respected credential tailored for professionals working within service provider networks. It validated knowledge and skills required to support scalable carrier-grade IP Next-Generation Networks (NGNs). This certification helped networking professionals step into roles involving the configuration, implementation, and troubleshooting of service provider technologies.
Although Cisco has retired the CCNA SP certification, understanding its purpose and content is still valuable. Many professionals who earned it now pursue similar paths via alternative certifications. Knowledge of the original CCNA SP structure can guide your journey if you’re aiming to specialize in service provider networking today.
The CCNA SP provided a focused curriculum that emphasized routing, switching, IP addressing, and service provider-specific architectures. It was designed for network technicians, engineers, and administrators working in a service provider setting, especially those managing infrastructure like MPLS, QoS, and VPN technologies.
Cisco’s Restructuring of Certification Tracks
In 2020, Cisco made one of the most significant changes in the history of its certification program. This transformation aimed to simplify and modernize the Cisco certification landscape, responding to evolving technology trends and the changing demands of IT professionals. The restructuring affected all levels of Cisco’s certification hierarchy—Associate, Professional, and Expert—and had a particularly profound impact at the associate level with the retirement of multiple specialized CCNA tracks.
The Shift from Specialization to Broad-Based Learning
Previously, Cisco offered several CCNA certifications, each tailored to specific technology domains such as Security, Wireless, Collaboration, Data Center, and the Service Provider space. These specialized CCNAs allowed learners to dive deep into a single area of networking from the beginning of their certification journey.
However, Cisco found that this siloed approach was no longer sustainable. Many networking roles today require a broad understanding of multiple domains—from cloud and security to automation and programmability. To address this, Cisco introduced a single, unified CCNA certification (exam code 200-301) that serves as the new foundational credential.
This consolidated CCNA includes essential topics across networking fundamentals, security basics, IP services, automation, and programmability. It’s designed to equip candidates with a well-rounded skillset that is relevant to a wide array of networking roles.
Retirement of Specialized CCNAs
As part of the restructuring, Cisco officially retired the following specialized CCNA certifications:
- CCNA Cloud
- CCNA Collaboration
- CCNA Cyber Ops
- CCNA Data Center
- CCNA Industrial
- CCNA Security
- CCNA Service Provider
- CCNA Wireless
These certifications are no longer available, but their core concepts have been integrated into more advanced professional-level certifications, where learners can now specialize after mastering the basics.
Introduction of Role-Focused, Modular Learning Paths
In the new framework, after completing the foundational CCNA, professionals can pursue specialized skills through Cisco Certified Specialist certifications and CCNP tracks. This modular structure enables more flexibility. For example, a candidate interested in service provider technologies can earn the Cisco Certified Specialist – Service Provider Core certification and continue toward the CCNP Service Provider.
Each professional-level path consists of one core exam and one or more concentration exams, allowing candidates to tailor their learning to specific job roles or technologies. This approach acknowledges that the modern networking professional often wears many hats and must adapt quickly to new tools and systems.
Modernization to Reflect Industry Trends
The restructuring also reflects the changing landscape of networking. With the growing importance of software-defined networking (SDN), automation, and cloud-native environments, Cisco’s updated certifications now incorporate modern technologies. Topics like Python scripting, REST APIs, and controller-based architectures are now included even in associate-level training, preparing professionals for today’s hybrid, automated networks.
Cisco’s restructuring marks a major evolution in how network certifications are approached. While some may miss the granularity of the older CCNA tracks, the new streamlined path reduces confusion, increases flexibility, and keeps professionals aligned with current industry demands. The focus has shifted from narrow specialization early on to building a strong foundation, then layering on role-specific expertise as careers progress.
Objectives and Skills Validated by the CCNA SP
The certification validated core technical competencies across several areas of networking, including:
- Understanding and implementing network infrastructures using Cisco equipment
- Building scalable service provider networks
- Managing WAN technologies
- Configuring and verifying IPv4 and IPv6 routing
- Deploying carrier-grade infrastructure
Professionals holding the CCNA SP demonstrated readiness to support high-performance networks typically used by ISPs and large enterprises. It served as a stepping stone to more advanced certifications like the CCNP Service Provider and CCIE Service Provider.
Structure of the CCNA SP Certification
To earn the CCNA SP certification, candidates had to pass two separate exams:
1. Cisco 640-875 SPNGN1: Building Cisco Service Provider Next-Generation Networks, Part 1
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Number of Questions: 65 to 75
- Question Types: Multiple-choice (single and multiple answer), drag-and-drop, fill-in-the-blank, simulations, testlets, and simlets
- Delivery Platform: Pearson VUE
- Cost: Approximately USD 250 per exam
This exam focused on basic networking knowledge and foundational skills. Topics included:
- IP addressing and subnetting
- Routing concepts
- WAN technologies
- Network device configuration and verification
- Network protocols like PPP, HDLC, and Frame Relay
2. Cisco 640-878 SPNGN2: Building Cisco Service Provider Next-Generation Networks, Part 2
- Duration: 90 minutes
- Number of Questions: 65 to 75
- Question Types: Same as SPNGN1
- Delivery Platform: Pearson VUE
- Cost: Approximately USD 250
This follow-up exam went deeper into operational and implementation details such as:
- Interior Gateway Protocols (OSPF, EIGRP)
- Exterior Gateway Protocols (BGP)
- QoS (Quality of Service)
- Network management and monitoring tools
- MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching)
Benefits of the CCNA SP
The CCNA SP was highly beneficial for:
- Professionals working with ISPs and telecommunication providers
- Engineers manage high-bandwidth routing environments.
- IT technicians seeking specialization beyond generic enterprise networking
- Individuals planning to pursue the CCNP or CCIE Service Provider tracks
Its role-focused nature ensured that the content was directly applicable to day-to-day job functions in service provider environments.
Prerequisites and Exam Conditions
The CCNA SP certification had no formal prerequisites, allowing even entry-level networking professionals to pursue it. However, a solid grasp of networking basics was essential to succeed. Practical experience working with routers, switches, and Cisco IOS helped significantly.
Exam preparation often included hands-on labs, study guides, and video tutorials. At the time, learners frequently used platforms like ExamLabs to access practice exams, video courses, and downloadable lab setups to reinforce their understanding.
The Retirement of CCNA SP and Cisco’s New Direction
Cisco began restructuring its certification portfolio in 2020. The aim was to simplify the learning path and provide a more role-focused and scalable approach to certifications. As part of this change, many specialized certifications were retired, including:
- CCNA Service Provider
- CCNA Collaboration
- CCNA Cloud
- CCNA Security
They were replaced by a single, unified CCNA certification that covers core networking concepts broadly. Advanced specialization now occurs at the professional level with certifications like CCNP and Cisco Certified Specialist paths.
Why the Change?
Cisco’s reasoning behind this shift included:
- Aligning certifications with modern networking trends, such as automation, security, and software-defined networking
- Creating a more streamlined learning journey for professionals
- Allowing for modular skill development through specialist certifications
This change means fewer entry-level certifications but a more flexible and stackable system for intermediate and advanced learners.
Modern Replacements for CCNA SP
If you were planning to pursue the CCNA SP, you now have several alternatives to build a similar skillset.
1. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
The new CCNA (exam code 200-301) provides a broad foundation in networking fundamentals. Topics include:
- Network access and IP connectivity
- IP services (DHCP, NAT, QoS)
- Security fundamentals
- Automation and programmability
Although it does not specialize in service provider topics, it serves as the first step for any Cisco certification path and sets the groundwork for further specialization.
2. Cisco Certified Specialist – Service Provider Core
This specialist certification is part of the professional-level CCNP Service Provider track. It focuses on:
- Core routing technologies used in service provider environments
- MPLS, Segment Routing, and QoS
- High-availability architectures
It is ideal for those who already hold the CCNA and want to advance in the service provider domain.
3. Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Service Provider
The CCNP SP certification is the most direct successor to the CCNA SP. It’s designed for advanced professionals and includes:
- Core exam: Implementing and Operating Cisco Service Provider Network Core Technologies (SPCOR 350-501)
- Concentration exams like service provider advanced routing, VPN services, and automation
This certification demands in-depth knowledge and is more suited for engineers with real-world experience.
4. CompTIA Network+
For learners seeking a vendor-neutral alternative, CompTIA Network+ is an excellent choice. It covers:
- Network infrastructure
- Network operations
- Troubleshooting and security
While not specific to service providers, it provides a strong base for networking careers and is respected across industries.
5. ExamLabs as a Study Platform
ExamLabs has become a widely used resource for exam prep across IT certifications. Their training solutions include:
- Video tutorials
- Practice exams
- Flashcards and study notes
- Lab exercises for hands-on experience
Learners can prepare for the new CCNA, CCNP SP, and related certifications using up-to-date materials from ExamLabs.
Choosing the Right Certification Path Based on Career Goals
Aligning Certifications with Your Career Objectives
Selecting the right certification depends on your long-term career vision. Are you aiming for a specialized role within a service provider network? Do you want to remain vendor-neutral and flexible across multiple technologies? Or are you seeking leadership roles in network architecture or operations?
Here’s how to align certification choices with your specific goals:
1. If You’re Starting in Networking
Start with:
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
Offers a solid foundation in core networking, making it the most practical entry point. It’s recognized globally and provides exposure to real-world networking concepts. - CompTIA Network+
Best for individuals new to IT. Its vendor-neutral focus can be beneficial if you’re exploring different technology vendors or unsure of long-term specialization.
Recommendation: Start with CCNA if you’re aiming for Cisco-based roles. Choose Network+ if you’re still exploring.
2. If You Want to Specialize in Service Provider Networks
Advance to:
- Cisco Certified Specialist – Service Provider Core
Ideal for those looking to support ISP infrastructures. It provides hands-on knowledge of SP-specific technologies like MPLS, Segment Routing, and BGP. - Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Service Provider
The go-to for engineers aiming to lead service provider operations or manage large-scale IP/MPLS backbones.
Recommendation: After CCNA, go straight to the CCNP SP path if you’re serious about carrier-grade networking.
3. If You’re Seeking Flexibility Across Vendors
Consider:
- CompTIA Network+ and CompTIA Security+
These certifications provide a solid, vendor-neutral foundation in networking and security. - Juniper Networks Certifications (e.g., JNCIA-Junos)
Offers specialization with another leading service provider vendor. Ideal for roles that include Juniper environments or multi-vendor operations.
Recommendation: Combine CompTIA and Juniper if you want diverse exposure or are in a multi-vendor organization.
4. If You’re Eyeing Senior or Architect Roles
Pursue:
- Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) Service Provider
Recognized as one of the most prestigious certifications in networking. It demands extensive real-world expertise and validates design and troubleshooting skills at the highest level. - Cisco DevNet Certifications
If you’re transitioning into automation, DevOps, or cloud orchestration, DevNet certs offer a strong complement to traditional networking paths.
Recommendation: Pair CCNP with DevNet or begin CCIE preparation to elevate into strategic leadership roles.
Certification Strategy Tips
- Stack Your Certifications: Start with general knowledge, then specialize.
- Mix Vendor-Specific with Vendor-Neutral: This provides flexibility and career resilience.
- Plan for Recertification: Keep track of expiration dates and continuing education options.
- Use Practice Labs: Hands-on experience is essential—tools like Packet Tracer, GNS3, and EVE-NG are valuable.
- Join Professional Communities: Platforms like Cisco Learning Network, Reddit’s r/networking, or NetworkChuck’s community offer support and resources.
Study Strategies, Tools, and Timelines for Certification Prep
Creating a Structured Study Plan
Achieving success in networking certifications requires a disciplined and strategic study approach. Here are the key components to crafting an effective study plan:
1. Define Your Timeline
- Short-Term Goal (0–3 months): Suitable for those with prior networking knowledge aiming to review and pass a certification quickly.
- Medium-Term Goal (3–6 months): Ideal for learners balancing work or school while preparing for certification.
- Long-Term Goal (6+ months): Best for beginners starting from scratch, especially when pairing multiple certifications.
2. Break Down the Exam Objectives
- Visit the certification’s official exam blueprint (e.g., Cisco’s or CompTIA’s website).
- Create weekly study targets based on domain weights (e.g., 20% IP connectivity, 15% automation).
3. Set Realistic Weekly Goals
- Example:
- Week 1–2: Networking fundamentals (OSI model, subnetting)
- Week 3–4: IP routing and services (NAT, DHCP)
- Week 5–6: Security and wireless basics
- Week 7–8: Practice exams and simulations
Recommended Study Resources
Online Training Platforms
- Cisco Learning Network – Official Cisco videos, webinars, and community forums
- ExamLabs – Practice exams, video lessons, flashcards, and lab simulations
- CBT Nuggets – In-depth, instructor-led videos
- INE – Offers Cisco-centric technical courses, especially useful for CCNP and CCIE prep
- Udemy – Budget-friendly beginner to intermediate courses
Books
- 31 Days Before Your CCNA Exam – A focused last-minute review tool
- Cisco Press Official Cert Guide Series – Comprehensive and aligned with exam objectives
- CompTIA Network+ All-in-One Exam Guide by Mike Meyers – Vendor-neutral, beginner-friendly
Lab Environments
- Cisco Packet Tracer – Free simulation tool ideal for CCNA-level learners
- GNS3 / EVE-NG – Advanced simulation tools used to build real-world topologies
- Boson NetSim – Commercial simulator offering practice labs and exams
Daily Study Techniques
- Pomodoro Method: Study in 25-minute focused blocks followed by 5-minute breaks.
- Note-Taking: Summarize concepts in your own words—especially protocols, commands, and diagrams.
- Flashcards: Use platforms like Anki to reinforce key terms and commands.
- Practice Labs: Allocate at least 40% of your study time to hands-on configuration and troubleshooting.
Practice Exam Strategy
- Take an initial mock exam to assess your current level.
- Focus on your weak areas when reviewing the results.
- Complete at least 2–3 full-length timed practice exams before sitting for the real one.
Final Preparation Tips
- Stay Consistent: Regular, steady study beats cramming.
- Join Study Groups: Engage with others on Reddit, Discord, or the Cisco Learning Network.
- Simulate the Real Exam Environment: Practice under timed conditions to reduce test-day anxiety.
- Don’t Skip Lab Practice: Even theory-heavy exams test hands-on understanding through simulations.
Final Thoughts
The retirement of the CCNA Service Provider certification marked a pivotal shift in Cisco’s approach to networking education. While some may view the loss of this specialization as a limitation, it reflects a broader, more strategic realignment of Cisco’s certification offerings to match evolving industry demands. The modern networking landscape is no longer bound solely to traditional configurations and routing protocols. Instead, it now demands professionals who are adaptable, automation-aware, and capable of managing both on-premise and cloud-based infrastructures.
For many, the CCNA SP served as a clear, specialized pathway into service provider roles, helping aspiring engineers focus on the skills most relevant to telecom and ISP environments. The curriculum was rigorous and highly targeted, covering vital technologies like MPLS, QoS, and BGP that remain foundational to modern high-performance networks. Professionals who earned this certification acquired a strong mix of theoretical knowledge and hands-on technical ability, positioning themselves well within an important sector of the IT industry.
The transition away from role-specific associate certifications to a more consolidated approach might appear to dilute specialization at the entry level. However, Cisco has restructured its path in a way that expands opportunities for focused growth through its Specialist and CCNP certifications. Now, learners can build a robust foundational knowledge base through the unified CCNA and choose a specialization that matches their career goals at the professional level—be it enterprise, security, DevNet, or service provider. This model encourages continuous learning and allows for more modular and stackable credentials that align with today’s fluid job roles.
Moreover, the rise of vendor-neutral alternatives such as CompTIA Network+ adds valuable flexibility to the certification journey. Candidates can build a well-rounded understanding of networking concepts without committing to one specific vendor too early in their career. Paired with the availability of online learning platforms like ExamLabs, aspiring professionals now have unprecedented access to resources, practice labs, and simulated environments that were once costly and difficult to obtain.
Ultimately, while the CCNA Service Provider certification may be retired, its spirit lives on in the form of advanced, specialized credentials that are better suited for today’s agile, software-defined networks. Networking professionals who understand the value of the CCNA SP’s teachings—and who are willing to adapt to Cisco’s new learning structure—will continue to find success in service provider roles and beyond. The key lies in embracing lifelong learning, staying current with technological advances, and building skills that blend core networking knowledge with emerging trends like automation, SD-WAN, and cloud networking.
In this evolving industry, certifications are not endpoints—they’re stepping stones. Whether you’re starting with the new CCNA, pursuing a CCNP in Service Provider technologies, or exploring vendor-neutral options, the journey is still as rewarding and impactful as it was during the CCNA SP era.
