In the rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape, professionals like you, seasoned in deploying and managing firewalls, face mounting challenges. A recent report by Forrester forecasts that cybercrime will cost the global economy 12 trillion USD annually. This staggering figure underscores the urgency for advanced skills to defend against increasingly complex threats targeting modern network environments.
While you may already be proficient with traditional firewall management, today’s threat landscape demands more: deeper integrations, smarter configurations, and the ability to scale defenses across hybrid environments. The Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewall Engineer certification is designed to help you bridge that gap, enhancing your capabilities in deploying and managing next-generation firewall solutions that align with real-world enterprise security requirements.
In this article, we will explore the Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewall Engineer certification in depth. You will learn why it is relevant for your career, what the course covers, how to enroll, and what you can expect from the examination and beyond.
Whether you aim to enhance your credentials or sharpen your operational skills, this guide will provide you with all the clarity and direction you need towards this certification.
Why Take the Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewall Engineer Certification?
If you are already managing deployments, configurations, or integrations of Palo Alto Networks’ next-generation firewalls, you understand how complex and demanding network security has become.
But practical experience alone does not always translate to recognition or advancement. This certification helps you gain the credibility, confidence, and clarity to move forward, both professionally and personally.
1. Gain formal recognition for your hands-on expertise
You have already configured interfaces, set up high availability, and deployed secure tunnels. Now you can turn that experience into an industry-recognized certification that proves your capabilities to peers, managers, and hiring committees.
2. Increase your confidence in navigating complex security environments
This certification validates your ability to manage advanced configurations, integrations, and automations, giving you the confidence to take on larger projects and more responsibility without second-guessing your approach.
3. Expand your career potential and market value
Professionals with Palo Alto Networks certifications are often regarded as specialists, rather than generalists. This credential boosts your visibility in a competitive job market and opens doors to roles in enterprise architecture, network security engineering, and cloud security leadership.
4. Achieve personal growth and professional momentum
Completing this certification is more than a resume upgrade; it is a milestone that reflects your dedication to learning and growth. It can reignite your passion for cybersecurity and reinforce your sense of purpose in advancing your career.
This is a high-impact certification for those already in the field. It is designed not just to validate what you know, but to help you grow into the engineer you aspire to be.
Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewall Engineer Certification Overview
Here is the breakdown of the certification details:
| Detail | Description |
| Certification Duration | Self-paced learning; the certification exam itself is 90 minutes in length |
| Delivery Format | Online proctored certification exam available through Pearson VUE |
| Certification Level | Advanced technical level |
| Target Audience | Security professionals responsible for deploying, configuring, integrating, and managing Palo Alto Networks next-generation firewall environments |
| Prerequisites | Experience with Palo Alto Networks NGFWs and infrastructure is essential; familiarity with hybrid deployments, APIs, and centralized management tools is recommended. |
Target Audience
The Palo Alto Networks Next-Gen Firewall Engineer certification is designed for experienced security professionals working directly with network firewall environments. This includes individuals who:
#1. Install, configure, and manage Palo Alto Networks next-generation firewalls across physical, virtual, and cloud platforms.
#2. Secure enterprise networks using high availability, dynamic routing, tunnel configurations, and certificate-based authentication.
#3. Work with advanced identity, logging, and certificate management frameworks within PAN-OS.
#4. Use automation tools, such as APIs, Terraform, and Ansible, for deployment and lifecycle management.
#5. Rely on Panorama and other centralized tools for device grouping, rule configuration, and enterprise-wide policy enforcement.
This certification is best suited for those managing real-world, scalable deployments across enterprise and hybrid infrastructures.
Prerequisites
There are no mandatory prerequisites to take the Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewall Engineer certification exam. However, candidates are expected to have solid real-world experience with Palo Alto Networks NGFW solutions.
Recommended background includes:
A. Hands-on experience with:
- Palo Alto Networks PA-Series, VM-Series, CN-Series, and Cloud NGFW
- Advanced PAN-OS configurations, GlobalProtect, and certificate management
- High availability and dynamic routing configurations
B. Understanding of security technologies such as:
- IPsec and GRE tunneling
- Identity-based policies and integration with on-premises and cloud directories
- Zero Trust principles and decryption mechanisms
C. Operational familiarity with:
- Automation and orchestration using APIs, Terraform, and Ansible
- Using Panorama for managing templates, device groups, and policy rule sets
- Building dashboards and reports with Application Command Center (ACC)
While not required, it is recommended that candidates complete foundational certifications. This includes certifications such as Cybersecurity Apprentice, Cybersecurity Practitioner, and Network Security Generalist, to establish the conceptual foundation needed for this advanced credential.
Enrolling in the Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewall Engineer Certification
Getting started with the Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewall Engineer Certification is straightforward. You can register through Pearson VUE or enhance your preparation with a trusted Authorized Training Partner such as Datacipher Education Services. Datacipher offers comprehensive training programs, expert-led instruction, and hands-on practice designed around the exam blueprint.
Step-by-Step Enrollment Process
#1. Visit the certification page or Datacipher website: Begin by exploring the Palo Alto Networks certification portal or heading to Datacipher’s site. As an Authorized Training Partner, Datacipher provides guided learning experiences tailored to the engineer certification objectives, including access to labs and real-world scenarios.
Source: Palo Alto Networks
#2. Select the NGFW Engineer certification track: Choose the Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewall Engineer certification from the list of available credentials. Review the exam structure, domain weightings, and recommended preparation resources to get a clear understanding of what is required.
#3. Register for your certification exam: Once you are confident in your preparation, log in to the Pearson VUE platform to schedule your exam. If you are working with Datacipher, their team can support you through the registration steps and ensure all requirements are met.
#4. Book your exam date and complete payment: Pick the exam time and date that suits your schedule. The NGFW Engineer certification exam is offered online with secure remote proctoring, providing you with flexibility to take the test from a suitable location. Complete your registration by paying the applicable certification fee. Depending on your location or employer, you may be eligible for discounts or offers.
Source: Datacipher
Datacipher Education Services delivers expert-led training and certification preparation specifically aligned with Palo Alto Networks’ standards. Our expert-led training programs combine technical depth, interactive labs, and strategic exam insights to provide a comprehensive learning experience. Whether you are aiming to advance your career or formalize existing expertise, Datacipher equips you with the tools to succeed, both in the exam and in operational environments.
A Breakdown of the Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewall Engineer Certification Modules
The Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewall Engineer certification exam focuses on three comprehensive technical domains. Each module addresses essential competencies for securing and optimizing next-generation firewall deployments in diverse enterprise environments.
The certification training covers the following modules:
- PAN-OS Networking Configuration
- PAN-OS Device Setting Configuration
- Integration and Automation
By the end of this certification, you will be able to:
#1. Configure and optimize PAN-OS networking components
Gain hands-on skills in setting up interfaces, zones, routing protocols, high availability, and VPN tunnels, including IPsec and GRE.
#2. Implement advanced device configurations and security policies
Learn how to manage certificates, authentication profiles, logging mechanisms, virtual systems, and identity-based access using the Cloud Identity Engine.
#3. Automate deployments and streamline management workflows
Leverage REST APIs, Terraform, and Ansible to deploy and manage NGFWs at scale. Understand integration with Kubernetes, CSPs, and Panorama.
#4. Build centralized dashboards and enforce enterprise-wide policies
Use Panorama and the Application Command Center to design policies, manage device groups, and produce actionable security reports.
For a full breakdown of the modules and skills covered, refer to the official certification datasheet.
Next Steps
After earning the Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewall Engineer certification, professionals can further advance by pursuing these advanced certifications:
Palo Alto Networks Security Service Edge Engineer: to specialize in securing cloud-delivered environments, or
XSIAM Engineer certification: to deepen expertise in security operations and analytics.
These advanced paths help build domain authority in cloud security and autonomous SOC workflows.
How to Prepare for the Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewall Engineer Certification Exam?
Preparing for the Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewall Engineer certification requires a focused approach aligned with the real-world use of PAN-OS and advanced firewall configurations. Here is a detailed guide to help you get started:
| Feature | Details |
| Type | Multiple-choice and multiple-select, online proctored |
| Duration | 90 minutes (plus a 30-minute ESL extension for eligible non-English speaking regions) |
| Passing Score | Not publicly disclosed (Palo Alto Networks uses scaled scoring with a standardized scale of 300 to 1000; passing typically requires a scaled score of 860) |
| Language | English |
| Delivery | Online via Pearson VUE |
| Cost | 250 United States dollars (regional taxes may apply) |
Recommended Study Materials and Resources
To prepare effectively for the Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewall Engineer exam, make use of the following official resources:
Certification Handbook: A comprehensive guide that outlines exam domains, policies, scoring, and exam development practices. You can download the Certification Handbook here.
Certification Program FAQ: Answers to common queries related to exam registration, retakes, accommodations, and more. You can access the Certification FAQ here.
Palo Alto Networks TechDocs and Knowledge Base: Detailed technical references on configuration, integrations, routing, tunneling, and PAN-OS features. Explore TechDocs and Knowledge Base here.
Cyberpedia and Resource Center: Interactive learning assets, visual explainers, and expert content across platform capabilities. Access Cyberpedia and Resource Center here. Explore the digital learning paths here.
Tips to Crack the Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewall Engineer Certification Exam
Based on the certification blueprint and domain weightings, here are focused tips to help you prepare effectively:
1. Focus on PAN-OS Networking Configuration (38%)
Deepen your knowledge of Layer 2 and Layer 3 interfaces, tunnel configurations, routing protocols, and high availability modes. Be prepared to work with GlobalProtect, GRE, and IPsec tunnel setups. Understanding interface types and routing logic is key.
2. Strengthen Device Configuration and Identity Management (38%)
Study virtual systems, logging setups, certificate management, and software update workflows. Pay special attention to Cloud Identity Engine integrations and configuring PAN-OS proxy settings. Knowing how to manage authentication roles and profiles will help cover this high-weight domain.
3. Prepare for Integration and Automation Scenarios (24%)
Get familiar with deploying PA-Series, VM-Series, CN-Series, and Cloud NGFWs. Learn how to automate using APIs, Terraform, and Ansible. Study centralized management practices with Panorama, and how to use templates, pre- and post-rules, and custom reports in ACC.
To maximize your readiness:
#1. Utilize Palo Alto Networks’ official resources, such as TechDocs, Cyberpedia, and the Certification Handbook, for structured study.
#2. Practice with configuration walkthroughs, topology diagrams, and scenario-based problem solving.
#3. Train with Datacipher Education Services, an Authorized Training Partner, for access to lab-driven learning and real-time instructor guidance tailored to certification success.
Become a Next-Generation Firewall Engineer with Datacipher Education Services
Source: Datacipher
Datacipher Education Services is a trusted Palo Alto Networks Authorized Training Partner known for delivering high-quality, industry-aligned certification training. As a leader in network security education, Datacipher combines deep technical expertise with proven training methodologies to support your professional growth.
Here’s why you should train with Datacipher:
Expert-led instruction and lab environments: Our programs are led by certified instructors who bring years of enterprise experience. You will learn through interactive sessions and real-world labs that mirror the challenges professionals face in the field.
Certification-focused learning paths: Each training course is aligned with Palo Alto Networks’ certification objectives and exam blueprint, helping you focus your efforts and gain confidence ahead of the exam.
For many engineers, the biggest takeaway from Datacipher’s NGFW certification training isn’t just passing the exam. It’s the confidence to handle high-stakes deployments at scale.
“Datacipher’s NGFW Engineer program filled in the gaps between what I knew and what I needed to lead complex deployments. The labs were enterprise-grade, and the instructor insights on automation and Panorama were invaluable.”
— Rajeev S., Network Security Lead, NTT
Whether you are validating existing experience or preparing to lead advanced firewall deployments, Datacipher equips you with the tools, knowledge, and support to succeed. Take the next step in your cybersecurity journey with Datacipher by your side.
Frequently Asked Questions
#1. How does the Palo Alto Networks Next-Generation Firewall Engineer certification differ from the Network Security Generalist certification?
The Network Security Generalist certification covers a broader mix of products across the Palo Alto Networks portfolio at a foundational level. The NGFW Engineer certification, however, goes deeper into advanced firewall configuration, integration, and deployment techniques. It is designed for professionals already proficient with PAN-OS and firewall operations.
#2. How does this certification validate my skills for cloud-based and hybrid firewall deployments?
This certification covers the deployment of firewalls across physical, virtual, and cloud platforms, including CN-Series, VM-Series, and Cloud NGFW. You will also learn to integrate with container environments and cloud service providers. This ensures you’re equipped to manage security in dynamic, hybrid infrastructures.
3. What are the most in-demand job roles that require or recommend this certification?
Common roles include Network Security Engineer, Firewall Engineer, Security Infrastructure Specialist, and Cloud Security Engineer. Employers value this certification as proof of expertise in deploying and managing Palo Alto Networks firewalls in enterprise environments. It’s often listed as a preferred or required credential in job postings.
4. Can this certification help me transition from traditional network engineering to a security-focused role?
Yes, it builds directly on networking fundamentals while adding security-layered competencies, such as policy enforcement, VPNs, and automation. It is an ideal next step for network engineers aiming to pivot into security roles. The certification bridges technical gaps between networking and security operations.
5. How does the certification address automation and infrastructure-as-code tools, such as Terraform and Ansible?
Automation is a key domain in the NGFW Engineer blueprint. It includes using APIs, Terraform, and Ansible to deploy and manage firewalls. This ensures you gain the skills to support scalable, automated security operations in modern DevOps and cloud-native environments.
