• Exam Breakdown
  • Domain Breakdown
  • Access Breakdown

Exam Format

  • Exam Code: 312-38 CND
  • Certification Level: Professional Level
  •  Exam Duration: 4 hours (240 minutes)
  •  Passing Score: 70% (subject to EC-Council policy updates)
  •  Unscored Content: No publicly documented unscored questions

Exam Details

  • Question Types: Multiple choice questions
  • Number of Questions: 100 questions
  •  Hands-On Questions: Focuses on defensive security concepts and network protection techniques (no direct lab-based tasks)

Exam Policies

  • Rescheduling Policy: Must be rescheduled or canceled according to EC-Council policy (typically 24 hours prior)
  • Retake Policy: EC-Council retake policy applies; waiting period required after failed attempt
  • Retake Fee: Full exam fee required for each retake

Certification Validity and Renewal

  • Validity: 3 years
  • Renewal Options: Earn EC-Council Continuing Education (ECE) credits or pass the latest certification exam

Exam Fee

  • Base Fee: $550 USD (may vary by region or training partner)
  • Taxes: Country-specific taxes may apply
  •  Example: In India, 18% tax applies, making total $649 USD ($550 + $99 tax)

Prerequisites

  • No mandatory prerequisites.
  • Recommended: Either completion of official EC-Council training (iLearn/iClass/ATC), OR at least 2 years of network security experience with an eligibility application.

Exam Topics

Key knowledge domains include:
  1. Network Security Fundamentals
  2. Network Security Threats, Attacks, and Vulnerabilities
  3. Network Security Controls, Protocols, and Perimeter Defense
  4. Network Security Policies, Procedures, and Risk Management
  5. Endpoint and Application Security
  6. Secure Network Traffic and Monitoring
  7. Incident Detection, Response, and Forensics Basics
  8. Cloud, Virtualization, and Wireless Security
  9. Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery

Intended Audience

The CND certification is designed for:
  • Network Administrators
  • Security Administrators
  • Network Engineers
  • Cybersecurity Analysts (Blue Team)
  • IT Managers and System Administrators involved in securing networks

Career Impact

Jobs You Can Get:
  • Network Security Engineer, SOC Analyst, Network Defender, Incident Response Specialist
Average Salary:
  • Certified professionals often earn between $85,000 – $125,000+ USD/year, depending on role and experience
Why It’s Valuable:
  • CND is ANSI-accredited, DoD 8570/8140 compliant, and aligns with the NICE Cybersecurity Workforce Framework, making it globally recognized

Exam Mode

The exam is proctored and can be taken either:
• Online through EC-Council remote proctoring
• At authorized testing centers (depending on exam provider)

Exam Booking Link

Book your CND Exam via EC-Council — Click here https://www.eccouncil.org/programs/certified-network-defender-cnd/

Once you pass the exam

  • Download your digital certificate from EC-Council Aspen Portal
  • Processing Time: Certificate available within 7 to 10 business days after passing
  • Log in to EC-Council certification portal
  • Navigate to Certifications section
  • Download certificate (PDF format)

Offers

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    Top Reasons to Choose
    Certified Network Defender

    Strong Network Defense and Security Skills

    Develop practical skills in monitoring network traffic, detecting threats, configuring security controls, and responding to incidents. Certification validates ability to protect enterprise networks and infrastructure against evolving cybersecurity threats.

     
    High Demand for Defensive Security Professionals

    Organizations require professionals skilled in network defense to prevent cyberattacks and protect critical systems. This certification prepares professionals to implement security measures, manage risks, and support security operations teams effectively.

     
    Career Growth and Industry Recognition

    Globally recognized EC-Council certification demonstrating expertise in network security operations. It enhances professional credibility, supports career advancement, and validates defensive cybersecurity skills required for enterprise security and network protection roles worldwide.

     

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    FAQ

    • Who should take the Certified Network Defender exam?

      The Certified Network Defender exam is suitable for network administrators, security analysts, system administrators, and cybersecurity professionals responsible for protecting enterprise networks. It is ideal for individuals seeking to develop skills in network defense, threat detection, incident response, and implementing security controls to secure organizational infrastructure effectively.

    • How difficult is the Certified Network Defender exam?
    • Why do organizations value the Certified Network Defender certification?
    • What resources can be used to prepare for the Certified Network Defender exam?

      Candidates can prepare using EC-Council official training programs, network security courseware, cybersecurity labs, and practice exams. Preparation includes studying network defense techniques, intrusion detection systems, firewall configuration, incident response procedures, and gaining hands-on experience monitoring and securing enterprise network environments and infrastructure systems.

    • Is the Certified Network Defender certification still valuable in 2026?