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Palo Alto Networks Certified Next-Generation Firewall Engineer Quick Facts
Embarking on the journey to become a Palo Alto Networks Certified Next-Generation Firewall Engineer opens the door to a world of advanced network protection and seamless security automation. This overview equips you with all the essentials you need to plan confidently, study efficiently, and excel in your certification goals.
Why earn the Palo Alto Networks Certified NGFW Engineer Certification?
The Palo Alto Networks Certified Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW) Engineer certification validates your expertise in deploying, configuring, and managing Palo Alto Networks firewalls across diverse environments. It demonstrates your ability to design secure, automated, and scalable network defenses using PAN‑OS technologies, positioning you as a trusted expert in organizational cybersecurity. From routing and high availability to dynamic integrations with cloud and automation frameworks, this credential showcases your proficiency in securing complex infrastructures while optimizing performance and operations.
Who Should Earn the Palo Alto Networks Certified Next-Generation Firewall Engineer Certification?
The Palo Alto Networks Certified Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW) Engineer certification is designed for professionals responsible for securing modern networks through advanced firewall deployment and management. It’s perfect for:
- Network and security engineers seeking to demonstrate hands-on NGFW expertise
- Firewall administrators and consultants who design or maintain PAN-OS firewalls
- IT professionals looking to grow into specialized cybersecurity roles
Whether you’re an experienced engineer or aiming to advance your career into next-generation network security, this certification showcases your ability to configure, integrate, and manage Palo Alto Networks firewalls across enterprise environments.
What Career Opportunities Can You Pursue After This Certification?
Achieving the NGFW Engineer certification opens pathways to several in-demand roles focused on network defense and secure infrastructure design. Some common positions include:
- Security Engineer
- Firewall Engineer or Administrator
- Network Security Analyst
- Cybersecurity Consultant
- Cloud Security Engineer
Many organizations look for Palo Alto Networks–certified professionals to build and manage secure networks. This credential signals to employers that you’re job-ready and qualified to protect critical infrastructure from modern threats.
What Is the Exam Format and Code for the Palo Alto Networks NGFW Engineer Exam?
The exam code for this certification is Next-Generation Firewall Engineer. It follows a specialist-level format designed to test your understanding of both firewall fundamentals and advanced configurations.
The test consists of multiple-choice and multi-select questions that measure your real-world proficiency in network and firewall administration, automation, and integration across Palo Alto Networks systems.
How Long Is the Exam and How Many Questions Should You Expect?
You will have 90 minutes to complete the NGFW Engineer exam. It contains a total of 75 questions.
Because the exam covers many configuration topics, pacing is key. Plan to spend about a minute per question to ensure you have time to review your answers at the end.
What’s the Minimum Passing Score?
To earn the certification, you’ll need to achieve a passing score of 70%.
Each question contributes toward your overall score, so a strong understanding of each domain’s key concepts is important. There’s no penalty for guessing, so it’s best to attempt every question.
How Much Does the Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewall Engineer Exam Cost?
The cost of the certification exam is $175 USD.
This investment not only validates your skills in Palo Alto Networks’ core security technologies but also enhances your professional value in the cybersecurity marketplace. Some organizations may reimburse exam fees, so check with your employer or training sponsor for potential benefits.
What Languages Is the Exam Offered In?
The Palo Alto Networks NGFW Engineer exam is administered in English. For candidates testing in non-English-speaking countries, an automatic 30-minute time extension is granted to support fairness and accessibility worldwide.
What Experience and Skills Should You Have Before Taking the Exam?
Palo Alto Networks recommends 2 to 3 years of IT security experience, including at least 2 years working with Palo Alto Networks NGFW solutions.
You should be comfortable with:
- Network security concepts and TCP/IP fundamentals
- PAN-OS features and firewall configurations
- Basic automation and scripting with Python, PowerShell, or similar languages
- Security frameworks such as Zero Trust and defense-in-depth
This background will ensure you can confidently apply your knowledge during the exam and in real-world environments.
What Are the Main Domains Covered and Their Weightings?
The exam blueprint emphasizes mastery across three primary domains, each representing critical skill sets for Palo Alto Networks' technologies:
- PAN-OS Networking Configuration – 40%
- PAN-OS Device Setting Configuration – 40%
- Integration and Automation – 20%
Are There Any Recommended Prerequisites or Certifications First?
While there are no formal prerequisites, it is helpful to hold related Palo Alto Networks credentials such as:
- Palo Alto Networks Network Security Professional
- Palo Alto Networks Certified Network Security Analyst
These provide a solid foundation for grasping advanced NGFW configurations and strengthen your progression through Palo Alto Networks’ certification portfolio.
What Type of Jobs Can This Palo Alto Certification Help You Land?
Once certified, you’ll be qualified to take on roles where advanced firewall management and automation are essential. Potential job titles include:
- Firewall Administrator
- Network Security Engineer
- Managed Security Services Engineer
- Technical Consultant for Palo Alto Networks integrations
Employers across industries—from finance and telecommunications to government—value this certification as proof of your ability to protect enterprise systems using cutting-edge firewall technology.
How Should You Prepare for the NGFW Engineer Exam?
A structured study plan can make a big difference. Palo Alto Networks recommends:
- Reviewing the official NGFW Engineer exam datasheet for domain details
- Following the digital learning path at Palo Alto Networks Learning Portal
- Completing instructor-led courses such as:
- EDU-210: Firewall Essentials – Configuration and Management
- Panorama: NGFW Management
- Practicing with real devices or virtual firewalls to build hands-on familiarity
You can also strengthen your readiness with realistic Palo Alto Networks NGFW Engineer practice tests that mirror the exam’s style and content for a more confident test experience.
Does the Exam Include Practical or Case Study Questions?
While the current exam primarily features multiple-choice and multi-select items, many questions are scenario-based, challenging you to apply your configuration and problem-solving skills. These scenarios reflect real administration tasks and help validate that you can deploy and manage NGFWs effectively.
What Study Materials Are Available Through Palo Alto Networks?
Palo Alto Networks offers a variety of learning resources, including:
- Official certification datasheets and guides
- Digital learning modules and self-paced labs
- Instructor-led courses for deeper technical understanding
- Panorama and PAN-OS Documentation for hands-on references
These resources are designed by subject matter experts and align directly with exam objectives.
How Long Is the Palo Alto Networks NGFW Engineer Certification Valid?
Your NGFW Engineer certification remains valid for 3 years from the date you pass the exam.
To maintain active status, you can recertify by passing the latest version of the same exam or by achieving an advanced-level Palo Alto Networks certification. Regular recertification keeps your skills aligned with evolving cybersecurity technologies.
Where Can You Take the Exam?
You can take the exam in two convenient ways:
- Online via Pearson VUE using remote proctoring
- In-person at a Pearson VUE testing center
Both methods require valid identification and a secure testing environment. You’ll choose your preferred option when scheduling.
How Do You Register for the Exam?
To register:
- Visit the Pearson VUE Palo Alto Networks testing portal
- Create or sign in to your Palo Alto Networks account
- Select the Next-Generation Firewall Engineer exam
- Choose your testing method and schedule your session
- Complete your payment and receive your exam confirmation
Scheduling early ensures you get your preferred date and time.
What Makes the NGFW Engineer Certification Valuable in Cybersecurity?
This certification proves you can administer and optimize Palo Alto Networks’ next-generation firewall technology effectively. It combines deep technical insight with practical, automation-focused skills that employers value highly in security operations and architecture teams.
For professionals in network defense or infrastructure roles, it’s a strong differentiator in the competitive cybersecurity job market.
Are There Special Accommodations for Non-Native English Test Takers?
Yes. Palo Alto Networks automatically provides an additional 30-minute time extension for candidates testing in non-English-speaking countries. This ensures fairness and allows all candidates adequate time to read and respond thoughtfully to each question.
How Can You Keep Growing After Earning the NGFW Engineer Certification?
Once you earn this certification, you can continue your learning path through Palo Alto Networks’ advanced credentials. Consider building your skills toward:
- Palo Alto Networks Certified Network Security Engineer (PCNSE)
- Cloud Security Certifications that expand your expertise across hybrid environments
- Participation in Palo Alto Networks’ hands-on training and threat intelligence programs
These next steps deepen your technical profile and prepare you for future leadership roles in enterprise cybersecurity.
How Does the Palo Alto Networks NGFW Engineer Certification Compare to Other Vendor Exams?
While many firewall certifications focus solely on traditional network protection, Palo Alto Networks emphasizes automation, AI integration, and Zero Trust architecture. This certification blends those technologies, making it ideal for professionals eager to stay current with the future of network security and automation-based defense strategies.
What’s the Best Way to Stay Current After Passing?
To remain up to date:
- Follow Palo Alto Networks’ official blog and learning community
- Join cybersecurity forums and LinkedIn groups for ongoing discussions
- Stay familiar with PAN-OS software updates and new firewall features
Continual learning ensures your NGFW expertise keeps pace with evolving cybersecurity trends.
Where Can You Find Official Details About the NGFW Engineer Certification?
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit the official Palo Alto Networks Certified Next-Generation Firewall Engineer certification page. It includes resources, course recommendations, policies, and registration details.
The Palo Alto Networks Certified Next-Generation Firewall Engineer certification validates your ability to secure network environments using world-class technology. With preparation, practice, and a passion for cybersecurity, you’ll not only pass the exam but also position yourself as a trusted expert in next-generation network protection.
