The Juniper Networks Technical Certification Program (JNTCP) is Juniper Networks’ in-house, platform specific certification program for their products. Like Microsoft’s certification framework and Cisco’s certification framework, Juniper’s program is specific to Juniper’s products.

There are four different levels of certifications – Associate level, Specialist level, Professional level, and Expert Level. In each level, there are several certification tracks available focused on a different aspect of networking. For example, in the Associate level there are four track – Enterprise Routing, Junos Security, Enterprise Switching, and Firewall/VPN. At the Specialist level, there are only three – Enterprise Routing, Junos Security, and Firewall/VPN. At the Expert level, there is only Enterprise Routing. Each track is designed to demonstrate competence with a particular technology. The Enterprise Routing track focuses on Juniper Networks Junos-based routers and their use at the enterprise level. The Junos Security track focuses on both Junos Security software and J-series routing platforms.

In addition to the four tracks mentioned above, there are five more with only Specialist and Associate levels: IDP, SSL, WS, DX, and Unified Access Control. Each one of those focuses on a particular platform. WX refers to the WAN Acceleration platform. SSL is Secure Sockets Layer certification. DX has to do with Juniper Networks DX Application Acceleration platform.

Certification

To be certified, you need to take the requisite exams for that level and track. Exams are typically 90 minutes of 60 multiple-choice questions, passing requires 70% or better. Each exam has a listed recommended training course. At the Expert and Professional level, you will be expected to take a lab exam, rather than a written exam, at a Juniper Networks facility.

The exams are not cheap. Associate level exams cost $100, Specialist level exams cost $200, and Professional/Expert level exams cost $1,400.

How valuable is a Juniper Networks certification? If you’re interested in a job working with Juniper Networks technology, getting a relevant certification would certainly put you near the top of the list. In some cases, a certification is required. Most job listings will indicate a “preference” towards certified candidates but many also recognize that training will be necessary for most people.