Cisco's expert service provider track
CCIE Service Provider is the closest cross-vendor expert-level credential for carrier networking, spanning MPLS, segment routing, and VPN services through a written stage and a lab.
Who it suits
Senior service provider and carrier network engineers comparing expert-level lab credentials across vendors, who are comfortable with a practical, hands-on assessment.
Key differences
- Its published scope names segment routing, VPN services, and automation, whereas the Juniper exam is framed around core technologies, edge services, and monitoring.
- A written qualifying stage precedes the lab, which gives a two-part structure the Juniper lab-based exam does not describe.
- Skills center on Cisco's service provider platforms, so the choice usually follows whichever vendor's routers dominate your employer's or customers' networks.
- Level
- Expert
- Assessment
- Written
- Study time
- 360-650h
- Listed from
- $400