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Cisco Certification Training • CCNP • CCIE • CCDE

Earn Your CCNP, CCIE, or CCDE Through Project 525

A structured, mentorship-led roadmap designed for working professionals. Gain the technical mastery and mindset required to pass the industry’s most rigorous Cisco exams.

Start Your Mentorship-Led Journey

Enquire about our next cohort dates or find the right programme for your career.

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  • Mozambique(+258)
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  • New Caledonia(+687)
  • Niger(+227)
  • Norfolk Island(+672)
  • Nigeria(+234)
  • Nicaragua(+505)
  • Netherlands(+31)
  • Norway(+47)
  • Nepal(+977)
  • Nauru(+674)
  • Niue(+683)
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  • Zimbabwe(+263)
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The Project 525 Method: A Sustainable Path to Expert Status

Traditional bootcamps and self-study often fail senior engineers balancing full-time careers. Project 525 provides a structured, long-term roadmap designed for your real-world lifestyle.

What this approach gives you

Follow a sustainable study plan tailored to your goal: CCNP (11 months), CCIE (12 months), or CCDE (16 months).

Gain direct access to Cisco experts who provide the guidance and discipline needed to stay on track.

Master high-level technical complexity through real-world labs and architectural design scenarios.

We move beyond basic configurations to teach you the mindset and design principles of a true Network Architect.

Balance intensive study with work and family commitments through a pace that ensures long-term retention without burnout.

Choose the Certification Path That Matches Your Experience

Is CCNP right for you?

CCNP is a professional-level Cisco certification designed for experienced engineers who actively build, operate, and troubleshoot production networks.

Available CCNP specialisations:
  • Enterprise InfrastructureDesign, build, and operate modern enterprise networks.
  • SecurityImplement and secure networks against real-world threats.
  • Data CenterWork with complex data centre networking environments.
  • Service ProviderFocus on large-scale carrier and ISP networks.
  • CollaborationDesign and support voice, video, and unified communications systems.

If you’re currently working as a network or infrastructure engineer and want to move into more senior technical roles, CCNP is usually the right next step.

Start Your CCNP Certification

Is CCIE right for you?

CCIE is an expert-level Cisco certification built for senior engineers who already operate at a high technical level and want deep, hands-on mastery.

Available CCIE specialisations:
  • Enterprise InfrastructureExpert-level design and troubleshooting of enterprise networks.
  • SecurityAdvanced mastery of complex network security solutions.
  • Data CenterExpert operation and optimisation of data centre networks.
  • Service ProviderAdvanced routing and switching at carrier scale.

If you’re already handling complex escalations and want to be recognised as an expert in your field, CCIE is the right challenge.

Start Your CCIE Certification

Is CCDE right for you?

CCDE is an expert-level design certification for professionals who focus on network architecture, design decisions, and large-scale technical strategy rather than day-to-day configuration.

This certification emphasises:
  • Architectural decision-making
  • Real-world constraints and trade-offs
  • Designing scalable, resilient networks

If your role involves designing complex networks and guiding technical direction, CCDE aligns with where you’re headed.

Enquire About CCDE (Coming Soon)

Benefits of the Project 525 Programme

Tailor your learning to focus on areas where you need improvement while managing work commitments.

High-impact training sessions designed to solidify your expertise and provide immediate technical feedback.

Repeated practice with real tools and technologies to deeply ingrain your professional skill set.

Receive weekly, collaborative guidance from experts to stay on track and master the architect mindset.

Why Professionals Choose Project 525

We provide more than just technical training; we deliver a specialised environment where senior engineers gain the mastery required for expert-level Cisco success.

Train with the highest level of Cisco accreditation, ensuring your roadmap meets global quality standards.

Receive direct guidance from certified experts throughout your certification journey.

Our structured roadmaps are built to fit the demanding schedules of full-time IT professionals.

Master the technical complexity of large-scale, real-world network environments and architectural designs.

Success Stories:
From Professional to Expert

Join an elite community of IT specialists who have achieved their CCIE certification through Project 525. Watch their journeys to see how official, instructor-led training transformed their career trajectories.

This was not my first time attempting the ca. I tried in 2019. I failed because I didn't have the support. But because of being on the 525 program and having access to those mentorship to peers, support, it was not so lonely anymore. You've got access to mentors that have done this thing that understand exactly of how you feel.

Ruth Mahlangu
Network Engineer

They will show you every path of the way. They will be with you. Where you are weak, the mentor will be there with you to help you. So it's like they will check your strength and your weaknesses. They will work on your weaknesses. 

Everson Mzunza
Senior Network Engineer

What You Need to Know Before You Apply

Are these certifications internationally recognised?

Yes. Project 525 prepares you for CCNP, CCIE, and CCDE certifications. These are issued and governed directly by Cisco, the globally recognised leader in networking technology.

How long does the Project 525 programme take?

The duration is tailored to the technical complexity of your chosen track: CCNP (11 months), CCIE (12 months), or CCDE (16 months). This long-term, sustainable pace is specifically designed to ensure deep knowledge retention for working professionals.

Can I use Cisco Learning Credits (CLCs) for enrolment?

Yes. As a Cisco Platinum Learning Partner, NIL Data accepts Cisco Learning Credits (CLCs) for all Project 525 tracks. This is often the preferred method for corporate-sponsored technical teams.

How does mentorship differ from a standard bootcamp?

Unlike short-term bootcamps that focus on "cramming," Project 525 offers long-term execution support. You receive direct access to certified expert mentors who help you master the "Architect Mindset" and lab readiness over several months.

Can I realistically manage this while working full-time?

Absolutely. The programme’s core philosophy is built around time and lifestyle constraints. The roadmaps are designed to fit into the daily routine of an enterprise engineer, balancing intensive study with professional and family commitments.

Are there specific prerequisites before applying?

Yes. Project 525 is intended for experienced network professionals, typically with 5+ years of industry experience. We conduct a professional assessment during the application process to ensure you are matched with the right certification level.

Take the Next Step Toward Your Cisco Certification

Without structure and mentorship, even the most experienced professionals can remain stuck despite years of field experience. Project 525 provides the clear, guided roadmap you need to finally secure your advanced Cisco Certification.

Start Your Mentorship-Led Journey

Enquire about our next cohort dates or find the right programme for your career.

  • Andorra(+376)
  • United Arab Emirates(+971)
  • Afghanistan(+93)
  • Antigua & Barbuda(+1 268)
  • Anguilla(+1 264)
  • Albania(+355)
  • Armenia(+374)
  • Angola(+244)
  • Antarctica(+8)
  • Argentina(+54)
  • Samoa (American)(+1 684)
  • Austria(+43)
  • Australia(+61)
  • Aruba(+297)
  • Åland Islands(+358 18)
  • Azerbaijan(+994)
  • Bosnia & Herzegovina(+387)
  • Barbados(+1 246)
  • Bangladesh(+880)
  • Belgium(+32)
  • Burkina Faso(+226)
  • Bulgaria(+359)
  • Bahrain(+973)
  • Burundi(+257)
  • Benin(+229)
  • St Barthelemy(+590)
  • Bermuda(+1 441)
  • Brunei(+673)
  • Bolivia(+591)
  • Caribbean NL(+599)
  • Brazil(+55)
  • Bahamas(+1 242)
  • Bhutan(+975)
  • Botswana(+267)
  • Belarus(+375)
  • Belize(+501)
  • Canada(+1)
  • Cocos (Keeling) Islands(+61)
  • Congo (Dem. Rep.)(+243)
  • Central African Rep.(+236)
  • Congo (Rep.)(+242)
  • Switzerland(+41)
  • Côte d'Ivoire(+225)
  • Cook Islands(+682)
  • Chile(+56)
  • Cameroon(+237)
  • China(+86)
  • Colombia(+57)
  • Costa Rica(+506)
  • Cuba(+53)
  • Cape Verde(+238)
  • Curaçao(+599)
  • Christmas Island(+61)
  • Cyprus(+357)
  • Czech Republic(+420)
  • Germany(+49)
  • Djibouti(+253)
  • Denmark(+45)
  • Dominica(+1 767)
  • Dominican Republic(+1 809)
  • Algeria(+213)
  • Ecuador(+593)
  • Estonia(+372)
  • Egypt(+20)
  • Western Sahara(+212)
  • Eritrea(+291)
  • Spain(+34)
  • Ethiopia(+251)
  • Finland(+358)
  • Fiji(+679)
  • Falkland Islands(+500)
  • Micronesia(+691)
  • Faroe Islands(+298)
  • France(+33)
  • Gabon(+241)
  • Britain (UK)(+44)
  • Grenada(+1 473)
  • Georgia(+995)
  • French Guiana(+594)
  • Guernsey(+44 1481)
  • Ghana(+233)
  • Gibraltar(+350)
  • Greenland(+299)
  • Gambia(+220)
  • Guinea(+224)
  • Guadeloupe(+590)
  • Equatorial Guinea(+240)
  • Greece(+30)
  • South Georgia & the South Sandwich Islands(+99)
  • Guatemala(+502)
  • Guam(+1 671)
  • Guinea-Bissau(+245)
  • Guyana(+592)
  • Hong Kong(+852)
  • Honduras(+504)
  • Croatia(+385)
  • Haiti(+509)
  • Hungary(+36)
  • Indonesia(+62)
  • Ireland(+353)
  • Israel(+972)
  • Isle of Man(+44 1624)
  • India(+91)
  • British Indian Ocean Territory(+246)
  • Iraq(+964)
  • Iran(+98)
  • Iceland(+354)
  • Italy(+39)
  • Jersey(+44 1534)
  • Jamaica(+1 876)
  • Jordan(+962)
  • Japan(+81)
  • Kenya(+254)
  • Kyrgyzstan(+996)
  • Cambodia(+855)
  • Kiribati(+686)
  • Comoros(+269)
  • St Kitts & Nevis(+1 869)
  • Korea (North)(+850)
  • Korea (South)(+82)
  • Kuwait(+965)
  • Cayman Islands(+1 345)
  • Kazakhstan(+7)
  • Laos(+856)
  • Lebanon(+961)
  • St Lucia(+1 758)
  • Liechtenstein(+423)
  • Sri Lanka(+94)
  • Liberia(+231)
  • Lesotho(+266)
  • Lithuania(+370)
  • Luxembourg(+352)
  • Latvia(+371)
  • Libya(+218)
  • Morocco(+212)
  • Monaco(+377)
  • Moldova(+373)
  • Montenegro(+382)
  • St Martin (French)(+590)
  • Madagascar(+261)
  • Marshall Islands(+692)
  • North Macedonia(+389)
  • Mali(+223)
  • Myanmar (Burma)(+95)
  • Mongolia(+976)
  • Macau(+853)
  • Northern Mariana Islands(+ 1 670)
  • Martinique(+596)
  • Mauritania(+222)
  • Montserrat(+1 664)
  • Malta(+356)
  • Mauritius(+230)
  • Maldives(+960)
  • Malawi(+265)
  • Mexico(+52)
  • Malaysia(+60)
  • Mozambique(+258)
  • Namibia(+264)
  • New Caledonia(+687)
  • Niger(+227)
  • Norfolk Island(+672)
  • Nigeria(+234)
  • Nicaragua(+505)
  • Netherlands(+31)
  • Norway(+47)
  • Nepal(+977)
  • Nauru(+674)
  • Niue(+683)
  • New Zealand(+64)
  • Oman(+968)
  • Panama(+507)
  • Peru(+51)
  • French Polynesia(+689)
  • Papua New Guinea(+675)
  • Philippines(+63)
  • Pakistan(+92)
  • Poland(+48)
  • St Pierre & Miquelon(+508)
  • Pitcairn(+870)
  • Puerto Rico(+1 787)
  • Palestine(+970)
  • Portugal(+351)
  • Palau(+680)
  • Paraguay(+595)
  • Qatar(+974)
  • Réunion(+262)
  • Romania(+40)
  • Serbia(+381)
  • Russia(+7)
  • Rwanda(+250)
  • Saudi Arabia(+966)
  • Solomon Islands(+677)
  • Seychelles(+248)
  • Sudan(+249)
  • Sweden(+46)
  • Singapore(+65)
  • St Helena(+290)
  • Slovenia(+386)
  • Svalbard & Jan Mayen(+47)
  • Slovakia(+421)
  • Sierra Leone(+232)
  • San Marino(+378)
  • Senegal(+221)
  • Somalia(+252)
  • Suriname(+597)
  • South Sudan(+211)
  • Sao Tome & Principe(+239)
  • El Salvador(+503)
  • St Maarten (Dutch)(+599)
  • Syria(+963)
  • Eswatini (Swaziland)(+268)
  • Turks & Caicos Is(+1 649)
  • Chad(+235)
  • French Southern Territories(+99)
  • Togo(+228)
  • Thailand(+66)
  • Tajikistan(+992)
  • Tokelau(+690)
  • East Timor(+670)
  • Turkmenistan(+993)
  • Tunisia(+216)
  • Tonga(+676)
  • Turkey(+90)
  • Trinidad & Tobago(+1 868)
  • Tuvalu(+688)
  • Taiwan(+886)
  • Tanzania(+255)
  • Ukraine(+380)
  • Uganda(+256)
  • US minor outlying islands(+1)
  • United States(+1)
  • Uruguay(+598)
  • Uzbekistan(+998)
  • Vatican City(+379)
  • St Vincent(+1 784)
  • Venezuela(+58)
  • Virgin Islands (UK)(+1 284)
  • Virgin Islands (US)(+1 340)
  • Vietnam(+84)
  • Vanuatu(+678)
  • Wallis & Futuna(+681)
  • Samoa (western)(+685)
  • Yemen(+967)
  • Mayotte(+262)
  • South Africa(+27)
  • Zambia(+260)
  • Zimbabwe(+263)
Please fill all the required fields!
Please accept terms and conditions to proceed

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