Cisco Certified Architect is the highest level of certification achievable within the Cisco Accreditation program. This prestigious credential recognises the expertise of network designers who can support the architecture of increasingly complex networks of organisations and effectively translate business strategies into complex technical strategies.

Cisco Certified Architect Prerequisites

Candidates wishing to apply to become a Cisco Certified Architect must also hold a valid Cisco Certified Design (CCDE) certification, demonstrating their expert level design and business level skill set.

There are no formal training programs available for the Cisco Certified Architect certification. However, candidates wishing to attain their Cisco Certified Architect certification must meet before an in-person board made of Cisco-appointed exam committee members during which the candidate defends their proposed network solution.

Responsibilities of the Cisco Certified Architect

• Lead creation and evolution of architecture
• Analyze technology and industry market trends
• Establish governing principles for networks
• Selection of technology and products
• Identification of organization resource needs
• Lead the development of communication and education plan for network architecture

Candidates wishing to apply to become a Cisco Certified Architect must also hold a valid Cisco Certified Design (CCDE) certification, validating their expert level design and business level skill set.

Defining the Cisco Certified Architect

A Cisco Certified Architect gathers the business requirements and objectives necessary to produce a blueprint for an integrated, large-scale, complex, global network. They can translate business parameters and objectives into functional requirements for a network design. In addition, Cisco Certified Architects can clearly communicate and advocate proposed Cisco network architectures.

CCAr Recertification

The Cisco Certified Architect Certification is valid for 5 years. Cisco Certified Architects will remain certified as long as they continue to contribute to maintaning the Architect Certification program by evaluating candidate applications or serving on the Board Review team. A valid CCAr will automatically recertify all other Cisco Certifications.