Which Exam Is More Difficult: Huawei HCIP or Cisco CCNP?
Update time:2025-03-24
In the field of networking technology, both Huawei HCIP and Cisco CCNP are highly valuable intermediate-level certifications that significantly contribute to career development. Many candidates struggle to decide which exam is more difficult. To make an informed choice, it's essential to understand their differences in knowledge coverage, exam format, and difficulty level.

Knowledge Coverage
Huawei HCIP covers a wide range of technical fields, including routing and switching, wireless networks, cloud computing, big data, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things (IoT). Each specialization focuses on specific scenarios, testing candidates on professional knowledge and skills within that domain. For example, HCIP-Datacom focuses on enterprise network planning, deployment, and maintenance, covering core topics such as routing protocols, switching technologies, and network security. HCIP-Cloud Computing, on the other hand, deals with cloud platform setup, management, maintenance, and cloud service applications. Overall, Huawei HCIP aims to equip candidates with a broad and diversified knowledge base.
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Cisco CCNP is equally comprehensive, covering routing and switching, security, wireless networking, and more. Taking the CCNP Routing and Switching track as an example, candidates must master complex networking technologies and protocols such as IP routing, VLAN segmentation, STP (Spanning Tree Protocol), OSPF (Open Shortest Path First), and BGP (Border Gateway Protocol). While both certifications cover a wide range of knowledge, Huawei HCIP focuses more on multiple disciplines, whereas Cisco CCNP emphasizes the depth and complexity of networking technologies.
Exam Format
The Huawei HCIP certification exam generally consists of two parts: a theoretical exam and a practical exam. The theoretical exam tests candidates on fundamental concepts, principles, and protocols, while the practical exam assesses their ability to apply knowledge to real-world scenarios. The HCIP exam is typically conducted in a written format and lasts 90 minutes.
Cisco CCNP, however, has a more diverse exam format. In addition to theoretical knowledge, it places significant emphasis on hands-on skills and troubleshooting capabilities. The exam usually includes both written and lab components, requiring candidates to solve real-world problems in a simulated environment. The question types vary, including multiple-choice questions, drag-and-drop questions, and troubleshooting tasks. This diversified exam structure places higher demands on candidates’ overall abilities.
Difficulty Level and Passing Rate
Huawei HCIP is considered moderately challenging—more complex than the entry-level HCIA but significantly easier than the expert-level HCIE. With thorough preparation and consistent practice, passing the HCIP exam is achievable.
Cisco CCNP, on the other hand, is relatively more difficult. One of the main challenges for many candidates is that the exam is entirely in English, which can be a barrier for non-native speakers.
Which One Should You Choose?
Overall, both certifications are of similar difficulty, but the assessment varies based on individual experience. If you plan to study or work abroad, Cisco CCNP is a great choice due to its global recognition. If you prefer to develop your career in China, Huawei HCIP might be more suitable.

Knowledge Coverage
Huawei HCIP covers a wide range of technical fields, including routing and switching, wireless networks, cloud computing, big data, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things (IoT). Each specialization focuses on specific scenarios, testing candidates on professional knowledge and skills within that domain. For example, HCIP-Datacom focuses on enterprise network planning, deployment, and maintenance, covering core topics such as routing protocols, switching technologies, and network security. HCIP-Cloud Computing, on the other hand, deals with cloud platform setup, management, maintenance, and cloud service applications. Overall, Huawei HCIP aims to equip candidates with a broad and diversified knowledge base.
Contact me immediately to get the golden key helping you fast express your certificate.
Cisco CCNP is equally comprehensive, covering routing and switching, security, wireless networking, and more. Taking the CCNP Routing and Switching track as an example, candidates must master complex networking technologies and protocols such as IP routing, VLAN segmentation, STP (Spanning Tree Protocol), OSPF (Open Shortest Path First), and BGP (Border Gateway Protocol). While both certifications cover a wide range of knowledge, Huawei HCIP focuses more on multiple disciplines, whereas Cisco CCNP emphasizes the depth and complexity of networking technologies.
Exam Format
The Huawei HCIP certification exam generally consists of two parts: a theoretical exam and a practical exam. The theoretical exam tests candidates on fundamental concepts, principles, and protocols, while the practical exam assesses their ability to apply knowledge to real-world scenarios. The HCIP exam is typically conducted in a written format and lasts 90 minutes.
Cisco CCNP, however, has a more diverse exam format. In addition to theoretical knowledge, it places significant emphasis on hands-on skills and troubleshooting capabilities. The exam usually includes both written and lab components, requiring candidates to solve real-world problems in a simulated environment. The question types vary, including multiple-choice questions, drag-and-drop questions, and troubleshooting tasks. This diversified exam structure places higher demands on candidates’ overall abilities.
Difficulty Level and Passing Rate
Huawei HCIP is considered moderately challenging—more complex than the entry-level HCIA but significantly easier than the expert-level HCIE. With thorough preparation and consistent practice, passing the HCIP exam is achievable.
Cisco CCNP, on the other hand, is relatively more difficult. One of the main challenges for many candidates is that the exam is entirely in English, which can be a barrier for non-native speakers.
Which One Should You Choose?
Overall, both certifications are of similar difficulty, but the assessment varies based on individual experience. If you plan to study or work abroad, Cisco CCNP is a great choice due to its global recognition. If you prefer to develop your career in China, Huawei HCIP might be more suitable.
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