What should I do for Cisco Security Certifications?

[YelniPeto]

So I posted a question last week with some questions about Cisco routers and VPN's. I already have my CCNA in routing and switching, but I'm starting to work with more VPN's. I've set up an IPSec tunnel between two devices before, but as I'm starting to try and figure out what is needed for larger networks, potentially having a headend router with 500 devices connecting back over public static IP's, I realize I'm a bit undereducated.

My boss gave me to go ahead and told me he'd pay for any tests, classes, materials, etc. I figured the CCNA Security certification would be the best place to start and I already have the prerequisites.

My question is what do you guys suggest? Is the CCNA in Security the best place to start if I'll be working with Cisco headends? Where should I go from there if I want to know more about VPN's?

Also, most importantly, what is involved in getting the CCNA in Security? I went through 4 classes and text books for my CCNA in routing and switching, so how many official Cisco books are there for security? About how long did it take most of you to get the cert from starting to study to actually taking the test?

[Rob Ingram]

@YelniPeto 

There is no CCNA Security any more, it was retired last year. If you want Cisco VPN training, then you only options is 300-730 SVPN Exam: Implementing Secure Solutions with Virtual Private Networks, which covers all Cisco VPNs. Taking that exam will give you a Cisco Specialist certification in VPNs.

Training link:-

https://learningnetworkstore.cisco.com/ccnp-security/implementing-secure-solutions-with-virtual-private-networks-svpn-v1-0-elt-svpn-v1-024111

VPNs are complex it'll take you a while to learn the concepts and understand how to deploy and maintain the solutions, it won't be quick as it's CCNP level.

[balaji.bandi]

Also consider basic training https://www.comptia.org/certifications/security

and move to CCNA /NP so on